Is it correct to use alt tag for an anchor link?

Diving deeper: Exploring the appropriate attributes

Just like in the ocean, every creature (attribute) has its own role in the ecosystem of HTML. Let's snorkel through some applicable ones:

title attribute for Link Descriptions

The title attribute provides additional information about a link, especially when the link text isn't self-explanatory:

<a href="https://www.example.com/report.pdf" title="Download Q1 Financial Report">
  Quarterly Reports // Wait, what quarter? Oh, it's Q1 finance...thanks `title`! 😅
</a>


aria-label for the Non-Visual Voyage

Non-image elements, such as textless buttons or links, would benefit from aria-label. This attribute helps with accessibility, allowing screen readers to narrate:

<a href="https://twitter.com/example" aria-label="Follow us on Twitter">
  <img src="twitter-icon.png" alt="Twitter">
</a> // "Here, birdie birdie...wait, that's Twitter's logo!" 🐦


rel for Link Relations

The rel attribute states the relationship between the current document and the linked resource. It's not about descriptions, it's about the link type:

<a href="https://example.com" rel="author">John Doe</a> // A piece by Mr. Doe, I presume?
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To signify reverse relationships, HTML5.1 reintroduced the rev attribute. But remember, the spotlight is not on them for text descriptions.

Importance of Accessibility

Improvement in the accessibility and user experience lies in using the correct attributes. The title and aria-label attributes provide essential help for all users, especially those with assistive technologies (e.g., screen readers).

Broadening Accessibility and Usability Horizons

Using correct attributes ensures better accessibility and user experience. There's more to explore:

Careful Use of title

A title attribute provides extra information about the link, but remember:

• Descriptive link text: Always the best practice.
• Content cues: Give your link context, don't make it sail alone.

Powering up Links with ARIA

If the link text doesn't cut the mustard, you have aria-label or aria-labelledby on your side.

• aria-label provides a text label for the element it's on.
• aria-labelledby identifies another element that can label your current one.

Validation Checkpoints

Validate your HTML code to ensure it's in shipshape:

• W3C Markup Validator: Making sure your ship doesn't have holes.
• WebAIM's WAVE tool: Capable of catching any stray pirates (accessibility errors).

Living with Fast-Paced HTML Standards

The world of HTML is always changing. Make the W3C's "HTML Current Status" page your faithful compass to stay on track with the latest specifications.