How to Add Alt Text in Microsoft on a Mac

What is Alt Text

Alternative (alt) text is a brief description of an image that allows people using screen readers to understand its content and purpose. It is read aloud by screen readers and displayed if an image does not load, helping make visual information accessible to users with visual impairments.  

This guide explains how to add alt text to images in Microsoft tools on a Mac. 

Step 1: Select the Image and Open the Alt Text Pane

1. Open your file in Microsoft (Office, PowerPoint, etc.) for Mac.
2. Click once on the image you want to describe. 
3. Hold Control and click the image (or right-click if enabled).
4. Select View Alt Text from the menu.
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5. The Alt Text pane will open on the right side of the screen. 

Step 2: Add the Alt Text or Mark as Decorative

1. In the Description field, type a short, meaningful description of the image. In the description, focus on the purpose of the image rather than visual details alone.
   1. Tip! No need to type "image of" or "picture of." The screen reader already recognizes that it is an image.
   2. Optional: By choosing "Generate alt text for me," Microsoft can generate alt text for you. Be sure to review auto-generated alt text for accuracy and edits as needed to convey meaning. 
2. If the image is purely decorative and does not add information, toggle the field Mark as decorative at the bottom of the Alt Text pane. 
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