HTML Essentials
Images
Add informative images with text alternatives.
The img element embeds an image. The alt attribute communicates its purpose when the image cannot be seen.
Important definitions
- Alternative text
- A concise text replacement for an image.
Syntax
Use this general pattern as a reference:
HTML
<img src="photo.jpg" alt="description">Examples
Images worked example
EXAMPLE 1
<img src="mountain.jpg" alt="Sunrise over a mountain">ResultA mountain image, or its alternative text.
COMPLETE EXAMPLE
<img src="mountain.jpg" alt="Sunrise over a mountain">Expected output
A mountain image, or its alternative text.
Note
Decorative images can use an empty alt value.
Tip
Include width and height when known to reduce layout movement.
Common mistakes
- Omitting alt.
- Writing alt text that starts with image of.