Question: What is image alt keyword stuffing in SEO and how can it be avoided?

Keyword stuffing is a search engine optimization (SEO) technique where a webpage is loaded with keywords in the meta tags or in content. This includes the 'alt' attribute of an image tag, which is meant to describe the contents of the image for search engines and assistive technologies. 'Image alt keyword stuffing' refers to the practice of overloading the alt text of images with keywords in a manipulative manner.

In the early days of SEO, keyword stuffing was used to trick search engines into ranking a page higher for those keywords. However, modern search algorithms are smarter and see this practice as a red flag, often leading to penalties that lower the webpage's ranking or even remove it from search results altogether.

To avoid image alt keyword stuffing:

1. Use relevant descriptions: The alt text should accurately describe the image content, helping visually impaired users understand the image context.

<img src='puppies.jpg' alt='Three brown puppies playing in a park'>

2. Do not overload with keywords: While it's good to include relevant keywords in your alt text, don't overload. Remember that user experience is key - for both humans and search engine bots.

<!-- Don't do this -->
<img src='puppies.jpg' alt='puppies, brown puppies, cute puppies, puppies in park, playful puppies'>

<!-- Do this instead -->
<img src='puppies.jpg' alt='Three brown puppies playing in a park'>

3. Keep it concise: Alt text should be brief and to the point. Most screen readers cut off alt text at around 125 characters, so it's best to keep your descriptions within this limit.

By maintaining a user-focused approach and avoiding manipulative tactics such as keyword stuffing, you can optimize your website for both search engine performance and user accessibility.