Writing Descriptive Transcripts for Visual Information
Writing Descriptive Transcripts for Visual Information records a distinct W3C-supported accessibility writing task while keeping implementation mechanics and unsupported house-style rules outside the guidance.
A descriptive transcript includes the visual information needed to understand the video in addition to the necessary speech and non-speech audio information.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
Do not describe every visible detail; include visual information needed to understand the content, and avoid duplicating information already clear in the transcript.
Further guidance
Content
Add important visual information that a reader would otherwise miss, including relevant action, text, or speaker information when it is needed for understanding.
Practical Application
Add visual information only where it contributes meaning: identify relevant speakers, actions, on-screen text, or scene changes that a text-only reader would otherwise miss.
Purpose
The transcript can provide a complete text alternative for people who cannot get the needed information from the audio or video presentation.
Reader Check
If the visual note were removed, would the reader lose information needed to understand the sequence, action, speaker, or conclusion?
Worked Example
After a spoken instruction, add “[On screen: the cursor selects Settings > Privacy]” when that action is necessary to follow the procedure; omit unrelated background details.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Transcripts — W3C Web Accessibility Initiative (opens in a new tab)W3C Web Accessibility Initiative · W3C WAI guidance on descriptive transcripts, transcript structure, navigation, clarifications, speaker presentation, and selective timestamps.