Using the ALT attribute for pictures is a way to describe it in text in case a particular browser can't display the graphic. 

• Many users use Lynx or a similar text-based program to surf the Web. 
• Others use graphical browser but choose not to auto-load graphics.

Because these users can't see the picture, you need to put in some ALT text so they'll know what they're missing. 

In addition, even those users who are using graphics will see the ALT text appear while the image is loading, so they'll know what to expect - and it also shows when they hold their mouse over it.  Just hold your mouse over this picture and you'll see what I mean - you should see the words Computer - Family Tree:

The ALT attribute works this way in HTML - added after the code identifying the picture:

<IMG SRC="image.gif" ALT="Description of graphic">

You just replace the italicized words with your own description of the graphic.

NOTE:  If you use an image map (a large picture with clickable sections taking you to various other places), you should also provide the same links as text at some point on the page, for the same reason you should use the ALT tags.

FrontPage users:  You can set the ALT attribute by typing in HTML view OR you can right-click on the image in Normal view and choose "Picture properties".  Then on the General tab, fill in the "Text" box to set the ALT attribute.

 

Links to other sites and information on using the ALT tag on images:
RootsWeb - Using Alternate Text on graphics	Use of ALT texts in images
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