Accessibility: Outlook-Alternative Text for Images

Overview

Alternative text (alt text) ensures users who cannot see images understand their purpose and context.

Considerations

• Keep alt text brief (1–2 sentences, ~150 characters).
• Describe the image’s purpose, not just its appearance.
• Avoid repeating nearby text or captions.
• Use proper punctuation.
• Provide long descriptions for complex images (charts, graphs, diagrams).
• Long descriptions can be included in the surrounding text or linked in an appendix.

Steps

Windows (PC App)

1. Right-click the image.
2. Select Add Alternative Text.
3. Enter a concise description.

Outlook 365 (Web)

1. Right-click the image.
2. Select Add alternate text.
3. Enter the description.

macOS / iOS

1. Right-click the image.
2. Select Edit alt text.
3. Enter the description.