Table of Contents
- Checking Instagram’s Alt Text Field Before Posting
- Writing a Useful Alt Text for Informational Images
- Where to Find the Alt Text Option on Mobile and Desktop
- Verifying Alt Text Before Publishing
- FAQ
Checking Instagram’s Alt Text Field Before Posting
When you upload an important informational image, the alt text field is where you describe what the image contains. Instagram places this option right before the final share step, so it is easy to miss if you tap through quickly. On the last editing screen, just before you tap Share, look for the label that says Write Alt Text or Add Alt Text.
Tapping that label opens a text box where you can type a clear, factual description. For an informational image, include the key text, the main data point, or the purpose of the graphic. Vague phrases like “image of a chart” miss the point; instead write something like “bar chart showing a 15 percent increase in sales from March to June.”
Writing a Useful Alt Text for Informational Images
When writing alt text, it’s easy to fall into the habit of describing what you see. In many cases, though, that’s not what helps someone using a screen reader. If the image was created to communicate information, the alt text should explain that information rather than simply describe the layout.
For example, imagine you’ve shared an image containing a policy update, a set of instructions, a chart, or an important quote. Instead of writing something like “screenshot of a policy notice” or “infographic about account security,” explain the message the image is trying to deliver. If the image announces a rule change, briefly describe the change. If it contains a statistic, mention the statistic. If it’s a comparison chart, summarize the conclusion someone should take away after looking at it.
You don’t have to repeat every word that appears in the image. The goal is to give someone who can’t see the image the same understanding that a sighted person would get after looking at it. If the graphic contains several sections, focus on the part that’s most important instead of trying to describe everything. Keeping the text concise is still a good idea, but making the information understandable is always more important than hitting a specific character count.
Where to Find the Alt Text Option on Mobile and Desktop
Adding alt text only takes a moment, but many people miss the option simply because they don’t know where Instagram places it. The location is slightly different depending on whether you’re posting from the mobile app or a desktop browser, but it’s available in both.
On the Instagram app, go through the normal posting process first. Choose your photo, make any edits you want, and continue until you reach the final screen where you write your caption. Before tapping Share, scroll further down the page. Depending on the version of the app you’re using, you’ll find Advanced Settings, Accessibility, or a similar option. Open it, and you’ll see the field where you can add your own alt text.
If you’re posting from a desktop browser, upload your image as usual and continue to the editing screen. As you move through the available settings, look for the Accessibility section. The option to add alt text is usually located below the caption and location settings, so you may need to scroll a little before it becomes visible.
If you can’t find the feature on your phone, the first thing to check is whether the Instagram app is up to date. Older versions sometimes place the setting in a different location, while very outdated versions may not display it at all. Once you’ve added alt text and published the post, Instagram keeps that information with the image, so you won’t need to enter it again unless you decide to change it later.
Verifying Alt Text Before Publishing
After typing the alt text, tap the checkmark or Done button to save it. Then look at the post preview screen one more time. The alt text label should now show the first few words of your description. A label that still says Add Alt Text means you have not saved it yet. Tap back into the field and confirm your text is there before tapping Share. Another way to verify is to ask someone using a screen reader to test the post, or use your device’s screen reader yourself before publishing.
On an iPhone, turn on VoiceOver in Accessibility settings and swipe to the image to hear what alt text is read. On Android, use TalkBack. A screen reader that skips the image or reads only the filename indicates the alt text was not saved. In that case, delete the draft and start the upload again, making sure to save the alt text before sharing.
FAQ
Question: Can I add alt text to an Instagram post after it is published?
Answer: Yes, you can edit alt text after posting. Open the post, tap the three dots in the top right, choose Edit, scroll to the bottom, and tap Edit Alt Text. Save the changes and the new description will replace the old one.
Question: Does Instagram automatically generate alt text for informational images?
Answer: Instagram uses automatic alt text, but it is often too general for informational images. It may say “image may contain text” instead of reading the actual text. Always write your own alt text to ensure the information is accurate and complete.
Question: What should I do if the alt text field does not appear on my Instagram app?
Answer: Update the Instagram app to the latest version from your app store. A field that still does not appear after updating requires restarting the app or reinstalling it. On older versions, the alt text option is inside the Advanced Settings menu, not on the main editing screen.