Guide
Alt Text on X (Twitter): A Quick, Practical Guide
Alt text is the written description attached to an image. On X it takes a few seconds to add and makes your images usable for people who can't see them.
Twit'n'Go · · 2-minute read
Short answer
On X, tap an attached image in the composer and choose the option to add a description; write what someone needs to understand the image, up to 1,000 characters, leading with its point and including any text in it.
Key takeaways
- Every image in a post can have its own description, up to 1,000 characters.
- Lead with the point of the image; skip 'image of'.
- Include text that appears in the image, especially in screenshots and quote cards.
- Hashtags, handles and links don't belong in alt text.
Jump to a section
How do I add alt text on X?
Attach your image in the composer, tap it or its ALT label, type the description and save. Do this for each image before you post. X's Help Center has the steps for each app under "How to make images accessible for people".
What should I write?
Write what someone would need to know if they couldn't see the image, in the order that matters. A few patterns:
| Image type | What to include |
|---|---|
| Photo | Who or what, doing what, where, and the mood if it matters |
| Screenshot of a post or message | The text, and who wrote it if relevant |
| Chart | The type, the trend and the key numbers |
| Quote card or poster | The words, then a brief note on the design |
| Meme or reaction GIF | The scene and the joke |
What should I leave out?
- "Image of" or "picture of": screen readers already say it's an image.
- Hashtags and handles: read out awkwardly, not clickable.
- Links: not clickable either; put them in the post.
- Details that don't help, like the exact shade of a background, unless they're the point.
How long should it be?
Usually one to three sentences. X allows up to 1,000 characters, which is plenty for a transcript of a screenshot. For photos, shorter is usually better. The alt text helper counts as you type and flags the habits above.
FAQ
Who uses alt text?
People using screen readers, people on slow connections where images don't load, and people who simply want to check a detail. Search and AI tools can also read it.
Can I add alt text after posting?
Descriptions are added while composing. If you forgot, the usual fix is to delete and repost, or reply with the description.
What about images of text, like a long statement?
Include the text in full if it fits in 1,000 characters. If it's longer, summarise it in the alt text and put the full text in the post or a reply.