Quiz maker with image alternative text compliance

Whether you are a government entity, educator or a corporate compliance officer, accessibility isn't just a "nice-to-have"-it is a legal requirement. Under WCAG 2.1 AA standards, every non-text element (like an image) must have a text alternative. For government entities, this ensures that citizens or employees using screen readers can access the same information as everyone else.

If you're using ClassMarker.com to host exams, adding these "Alt tags" is a straightforward process once you know where the setting is hidden. Here is how to ensure your exams are fully compliant.

1. Why Alt Tags Matter for WCAG 2.1 AA

Screen readers translate what is on a screen into speech or braille. When a screen reader encounters an image without an Alt tag, it might simply say "Image" or read out a cryptic file name like IMG_5921.jpg.

WCAG 2.1 AA (Success Criterion 1.1.1) requires that all non-text content has a text alternative that serves the equivalent purpose. In a testing environment, this is critical: if a person can't "see" a diagram in a question, they can't answer it.

2. How to Add Alt Tags in ClassMarker

ClassMarker uses a WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) editor for questions, answers, and feedback. Here is the step-by-step to adding Alt text:

Step 1: Insert or Select Your Image

• Navigate to the an existing question or feedback and click Edit, or add new text with images anywhere in ClassMarker

• Click the Image Icon in the toolbar to upload a new image or select one from your "Files" area.

• If the image is already in the question, click the image.

Step 2: Enter the "Alternative Text"

A input box will appear so you can add your alternative image text.

• Type a concise, descriptive summary of the image.

• Click OK.

Pro Tip: Avoid starting with "Image of..." or "Picture of..." Screen readers already announce that it is an image. Jump straight to the description: "Graph showing a 10% increase in annual revenue from 2024 to 2025."

3. Best practice for writing ALT TAG image descriptions

Screen reader users often listen to high-speed audio. They want the information quickly. Aim for one or two short sentences at most.

• Don't say: "An image of a red fire hydrant on a city street."

• Do say: "A red fire hydrant on a sidewalk."

• Avoid starting with "Image of..." or "Picture of..." Screen readers already announce that it is an image. Jump straight to the description: "Graph showing a 10% increase in annual revenue from 2024 to 2025."

Sign up and get started with ClassMarker Today.

Review Related Online Testing Blogs and Tutorials

How Do I Give online exams?
How do I create quizzes with Random Questions?
How to Create Online Tests with Timers?
Create online surveys and forms.
Exam Proctoring.