Look at the image and consider what extra idea or point it’s contributing.įor example, if you’re using an envelope icon to show that it needs to include a stamp, the alt text might say “Envelope with first class postage stamp” or “Be sure to put a stamp on the envelope before you mail it.” Instead, your alt text should explain the purpose behind the image, or it can indicate what’s happening in the image. When writing alt text, it’s tempting to just describe what the image looks like. How do you write good alt text? What should your alt text say? The image folders in these collections come with suggested alt text in the file, but you may want to alter it or add additional alt text.
If you’re using an image that contributes additional meaning and isn’t purely decorative, make sure to include helpful alt text. Using alt text to communicate your icon’s purpose 
If the image is included as part of a link, make sure there’s only one link - not one link for the image and a separate one for the accompanying text. Here are some guidelines to help you make your civic icons more accessible: Managing links with icons Through thoughtful placement and textual aids, you can make sure that your icons are useful even to everyone, regardless of ability. Ask members of your staff to give their reaction to the way you’re positioning icons to ensure that readers are responding to them as you intend.Īs visual tools, icons and images can be quite helpful to sighted people, but what about for people who can’t see them?Įven though people with disabilities may not be able to actually see your icons, they should still be able to access the meaning and purpose of each icon. 
When deciding where and how to place your images, make it a group effort. At the same time, to be the most useful, your icon may need to be in close proximity to the relevant content. Empty space, or white space, helps keep your document clean and will help call attention to your icon.
Proximity is achieved by grouping things together that are related to one another. It makes sense to align your icons to give your document a sense of order. Alignment is connecting every element via an invisible line. Using icons consistently can contribute to a clean, uniform appearance and make it easier for readers to use your content. Repetition is achieved by repeating elements throughout a document. You can use contrast by differentiating your icons from each other or from other elements in your document. Keep in mind these basic design principles when considering where and how to position civic icons in your materials: To be as effective as possible, your images need to be carefully positioned in your document.
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