More than 1 in 4 U.S. adults has a disability. A few posting habits make your content work for them, and usually make it clearer for everyone.
In this guide
- Write alt text that describes what matters in each image.
- Caption every video and check automatic captions for mistakes.
- Capitalize each word in multi-word hashtags and use emojis sparingly.
- Don’t put important information only inside an image.
According to the CDC, more than 1 in 4 adults in the United States has some type of disability, including vision, hearing, cognitive and mobility disabilities. Accessible posts reach more of your customers, and the habits are quick to learn.
Alt text for images
Screen readers read alt text aloud to people who can’t see the image. Describe what matters in the post:
- Weak: “photo”
- Better: “A golden pumpkin loaf sliced on a wooden board, with steam rising.”
Keep it short, and don’t start with “image of.” If the image contains words, such as an event poster, include them in the alt text or the caption.
Captions for video
Add captions to every video. Automatic captions save time but make mistakes, especially with names and prices, so check them. If a video relies on visuals with no speech, consider a short description in the caption. Our guide to short video has more tips.
Hashtags and emojis
- Capitalize each word in multi-word hashtags: #SmallBusinessSaturday, not #smallbusinesssaturday. Screen readers and people both read them more easily.
- Use emojis sparingly. Screen readers read each emoji’s name aloud, so a row of ten becomes a long interruption.
- Put hashtags and emojis at the end rather than in the middle of sentences.
Pro move: Avoid fancy “font” generators that turn text into special characters. They often can’t be read by screen readers at all.
Text on images
- Keep important details such as dates, prices and addresses in the caption as well as on the image.
- Use strong contrast between text and background.
- Avoid placing text over busy parts of a photo.
Links
Say where a link goes: “Book a table on our website” is clearer than “Click here.”
These habits also make posts easier to scan for everyone. Pair them with the tips in writing social posts people stop to read.
FAQ
Where do I add alt text?
Most major platforms have an alt text or image description option when you upload a photo, often under advanced or accessibility settings.
What makes good alt text?
A short, specific description of what the image shows and why it’s in the post, such as "Three loaves of sourdough cooling on a wire rack." Skip "image of."
Do captions help people without hearing loss?
Yes. Many people watch videos with the sound off, in noisy places or in a second language.
General information for U.S. businesses, not legal advice. Platform features and rules change often, so check the FTC’s guidance and each platform’s current policies before you act.
