A big part of writing Alt-text is being as direct and concise as possible. The words we use have a big role in how this is accomplished. You can learn more about being direct and concise on the General Guidelines page.

On this page you will find a list of terms to use for describing trickier parts of images, including, but not limited to, facial expressions, culturally specific clothing, buildings, etc..

• Grins (smile that shows teeth)
• Grins widely
• Smiles (smile that does not show teeth)
• Smiles widely
• Crooked smile
• Smirk
• Frown
• Opens mouth in conversation
• Opens mouth to sing
• Laughs
• Walks
• Runs
• Steps
• Reaches
• Stretches
• Lunges
• Swats
• Stands
• Leans
• Tilts head to the Side
• Tilts head forward

• Coniferous Tree(s): use pine tree, evergreen tree
• Neutral expression
• Open mouth
• Only describe mouth if it is a clear expression that gives meaning to the image