This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Dev Ieffe
Don’t have to use . at the end of ALT and META descriptions especially if:
- It’s a short, or sentence fragment.
- You want to keep it punchy and search–friendly.
Examples:
“Discover vintage computers like the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64.”
“Discover vintage computers like the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64”
Why?
Meta descriptions often appear as snippets in search engine results. A period can feel abrupt or unnecessary unless it’s part of a complete, formal sentence.
ALT Text (Image alt attribute):
Not using . unless it’s a full sentence.
Examples:
- alt=”ZX Spectrum main menu with pixel graphics and black background”
- alt=”The ZX Spectrum was released in 1982.” (if full sentence, period is OK)
- alt=”ZX Spectrum menu.” ← Avoid period on fragments
Why?
Screen readers pause slightly at punctuation. Adding unnecessary periods may create unnatural rhythm or confusion for visually impaired users.
Bonus
Do not use . at the end of a header or title. This applies to: website headings, article/blog titles, slide decks, UX/UI microcopy, technical documents.
This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Dev Ieffe