Images & Documents

In this module, you’ll learn how to upload and manage media, add images to your content, write effective alternative text, link to documents accessibly, and understand how media slugs help manage document URLs.

Learning Objectives

After completing this module, you will be able to:

• Upload images and documents to the Media Library
• Add images to pages and posts
• Write effective alternative text
• Link to documents using descriptive link text
• Understand the basics of media slugs

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Working with Images

Images can enhance content, support key messages, and improve the user experience when used appropriately.

When selecting images:

• Use high-quality images.
• Ensure the image supports the content.
• Avoid decorative images that do not add value.
• Select images that are relevant to the surrounding content.

Tip: Images should support the content on the page, not replace it.

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Uploading Images

Images can be uploaded through the WordPress Media Library or directly from supported blocks within the editor.

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Updating Existing Documents

When updating an existing document, use the Replace Media Files tool whenever possible. This preserves existing file URLs and helps prevent broken links throughout your website.

Benefits

• Prevents broken document links\
• Preserves existing URLs
• Simplifies document maintenance
• Ensures visitors access the most current version

Tip: Before replacing a document, verify that the updated file has been reviewed and approved for publishing.

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Alternative Text

Alternative text (alt text) describes the content or purpose of an image for visitors using screen readers and other assistive technologies.

Alternative text should clearly communicate the purpose of the image in the context of the page.

Important: MTSU websites use an accessibility tool that requires alternative text for meaningful images before they can be published. For more information about how the tool works and how to write effective alternative text, refer to the ServiceNow Knowledge Base article.

Writing Effective Alternative Text

• Describe the image’s purpose or content.
• Keep descriptions concise and meaningful.
• Do not begin with “Image of” or “Picture of.”
• Consider how the image supports the surrounding content.

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Working with Documents

Documents such as PDFs, Word files, and spreadsheets can be uploaded to the Media Library and linked throughout your website.

Common document types include:

• PDF files
• Word documents
• Excel spreadsheets
• PowerPoint presentations

Uploading a Document

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Linking Documents

When linking to documents, use descriptive link text that helps visitors understand what they are about to open or download.

Linking Best Practices

• Clearly identify the document being linked.
• Include the file type when appropriate (PDF, Word document, spreadsheet, etc.).
• Avoid vague phrases such as “Click here” or “Read more.”
• Verify the document opens correctly after publishing.

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Before Moving On

Before continuing, make sure you can:

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Next Module: Accessibility Essentials

Learn how to:

• Structure content using headings
• Write descriptive link text
• Create accessible lists and tables
• Identify common accessibility issues
• Improve the experience for all website visitors

→ Continue to Accessibility Essentials