Microsoft has several built-in tools to make creating accessible documents easy.
Their support site provides directions and best practices on nearly all aspects of accessibility in Microsoft documents. Topics include using the Accessibility Checker, how to add alt text to images, correcting the usage of fonts and colors, tables, and much more. Follow the links below for full details.
To manually launch the Accessibility Checker, select Review > Check Accessibility. The Accessibility pane opens, and you can now review and fix accessibility issues.
Word
You can visit the overall page, “,” or use the links to specific topics below.
PowerPoint
You can visit the overall page, “,” or use the links to specific topics below.
Excel
You can visit the overall page, “,” or use the links to specific topics below.
Tips for Creating Accessible Content
Follow these basics when making any file:
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Use headings for structure. These will also be tagged when you create the PDF and allow a user to navigate the file by section.聽
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Use good color contrast. Use the to verify your colors are accessible (i.e., if you have text with a colored background).
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Add alt text for images.
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Use simple layouts that are easy to navigate and understand.
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Use descriptive link text. For example, 鈥渃omprehensive 2024 sales report鈥 vs. 鈥渓earn more.鈥澛
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Use legible fonts and font sizes.
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Use plain, simple language. Avoid using too much jargon or acronyms.聽
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Make sure color isn鈥檛 the only way you are conveying information.
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Keep important information in the body of the document, vs. the header or footer.
Note: The more complex the content, the more potentially complex making it accessible will be, i.e. images of charts, complex tables, interactive elements, and more. These are a guideline and may not be applicable to all content or content types.