Effective methods for providing alternative text for simple <canvas> elements include:

Using the aria-label attribute on the element is an effective method for providing alternative text because it allows developers to explicitly define a text label that can be read by assistive technologies. This is crucial for accessibility, particularly for users who rely on screen readers to understand the content and purpose of non-text elements like a . By applying aria-label, you ensure that the information conveyed by the canvas is communicated effectively, even if the canvas itself does not have any inherent textual content.

In contrast, the other options do not adequately support accessibility for elements. The alt attribute is not applicable to since it is intended for images like elements, while providing a description and referencing it with aria-labelledby might be an effective alternative for more complex scenarios but may not directly label the canvas itself in a straightforward manner. Lastly, limiting text to only inside the element does not help users who cannot access or understand the graphical content, as it does not enhance accessibility for assistive technologies.