What does Google say about this?
Posted: Sun Apr 06, 2025 6:05 am
Google emphasizes the important role alt text plays in image recognition in Google Image Search. In the Google Search Central " Search Engine Optimization Starter Guide " you will find a section in the Google documentation where Google discusses the use of Alt text.
"Google uses alt text along with computer vision nurse database algorithms and page content to understand the subject of an image. Alt text for images is also useful as anchor text if you decide to use the image as a link." In this way, Google supports the original content creators by helping to maintain value and authority at the original source, while also allowing the content to be shared through partner sites without negatively impacting the SEO of the original source.
While Google does not state that Alt text will improve your rankings, it does warn website owners that improper use can damage a website.
"When writing Alt text, focus on creating useful, information-rich content that uses keywords appropriately and is in context with the page content.
Avoid stuffing Alt text with keywords (a prohibited practice also known as "keyword stuffing") as this leads to a negative user experience and can cause your site to be considered spam.
"Google uses alt text along with computer vision nurse database algorithms and page content to understand the subject of an image. Alt text for images is also useful as anchor text if you decide to use the image as a link." In this way, Google supports the original content creators by helping to maintain value and authority at the original source, while also allowing the content to be shared through partner sites without negatively impacting the SEO of the original source.
While Google does not state that Alt text will improve your rankings, it does warn website owners that improper use can damage a website.
"When writing Alt text, focus on creating useful, information-rich content that uses keywords appropriately and is in context with the page content.
Avoid stuffing Alt text with keywords (a prohibited practice also known as "keyword stuffing") as this leads to a negative user experience and can cause your site to be considered spam.