How to Add Alt Text to Images in WordPress (Step-by-Step Guide)
Alt text (alternative text) is a short description added to images that helps search engines understand what the image is about and improves website accessibility for visually impaired users using screen readers. Adding proper alt text is an important part of SEO and makes your WordPress website more user-friendly and search-engine friendly. WordPress allows you to add alt text to images in multiple easy ways.
Below are all methods explained step by step.
Method 1: Add Alt Text While Uploading an Image
Step 1: Open Media Upload
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Go to WordPress Dashboard
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Open any Post or Page in edit mode
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Click Add Block (+) → Image or Media Library
Step 2: Select or Upload Image
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Upload a new image or select an existing one
Step 3: Add Alt Text
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On the right sidebar, find the Alt Text (Alternative Text) field
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Enter a short, clear description of the image
Example:Digital marketing strategy dashboard on laptop screen
Step 4: Insert Image
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Click Select or Insert into page
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Publish or update the page
Best practice: Always add alt text before inserting the image.
Method 2: Add or Edit Alt Text from Media Library
Step 1: Open Media Library
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Go to Dashboard → Media → Library
Step 2: Select Image
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Click on the image you want to edit
Step 3: Edit Alt Text
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In the attachment details panel, enter or update the Alt Text field
Step 4: Save Changes
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Alt text is saved automatically
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The updated alt text will apply wherever the image is used
Best for: Updating old images without editing pages one by one
Method 3: Add Alt Text Using Gutenberg Image Block
Step 1: Edit Page or Post
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Open the page or post in Block Editor
Step 2: Select Image
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Click on the image inside the content
Step 3: Open Block Settings
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In the right sidebar, locate Alt Text field
Step 4: Enter Description
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Add a meaningful description
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Update or publish the page
Method 4: Add Alt Text Using Classic Editor
Step 1: Open Post/Page
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Edit your content using Classic Editor
Step 2: Click on Image
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Click the image and select Edit (pencil icon)
Step 3: Add Alt Text
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Enter text in the Alternative Text field
Step 4: Save
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Click Update
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Save or update the post
Method 5: Bulk Add or Manage Alt Text Using Plugins
Recommended Plugins
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Media Cloud
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Auto Image Attributes
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SEO Friendly Images
Steps (General)
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Install and activate the plugin
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Go to plugin settings
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Configure rules for auto-generating alt text (from image name, post title, etc.)
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Apply changes or scan existing images
Note: Automatically generated alt text should be reviewed for accuracy.