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# Images - describing charts

## Question

We were wondering which approach to go with for charts. We have a couple of options, e.g. longdesc that we use currently, figcaption, or aria-describedby to reference the text explaining the chart. Following this, I’m thinking we could put the data table in an accordion.

## Answer

Let’s assume that long descriptions will go in accordions (using details/summary implementation). If, in addition to a long description, the image also has a caption, then let’s also use figure/figcaption:

\<figure>

\<img…alt=“short description” longdesc=“fig1-desc”>

\<figcaption>Figure 1. Caption text\</figcaption>

\</figure>

\<details>

\<summary id=“fig1-desc”>Raw data for Figure 1.\</summary>

\<table>…\</table>

\</details>

See the second and third graphics at <https://webtoolkit.govt.nz/blog/2017/05/analytics-in-government-where-were-at/> for other examples.

If the image has no caption, then just an image with details/summary:

\<img…alt=“Jason’s great big smile” longdesc=“fig2-desc”>

\<details>

\<summary id=“fig1-desc”>Text description of Jason’s smile\</summary>

\<table>…\</table>

\</details>


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