How to Create Accessible Microsoft Word Documents

You know it is important to create documents accessible to all users, but where do you begin? What tools should you use? Creating accessible documents may seem overwhelming, but fortunately there are small changes you can make, including the use of built-in features, so your materials will be more accessible. Check out our quick tips below!

Use the Built-in Accessibility Checker

  • Checks the document against a set of rules that identify issues in the document
  • Provides step-by-step instructions for how to correct each issue

Provide Meaningful Headers and Use the Built-in Headers

  • Gives the reader a quick summary of the main ideas and organization of the document
  • Improves the screen reader’s ability to accurately capture the structure and hierarchy of the document

Include Alternative-text for Graphics

  • Provides a non-visual description of the content and function of the graphic
  • Allows a screen reader to read a description of the graphic

Use Descriptive Links

  • Describes the content to which it is linked
  • Provides a description of the link

Use Color Sparingly and Deliberately

  • Creates visual challenges if the document lacks sufficient contrast
  • Convey meaning with words; avoid relying soley on color

Use Sans Serif Fonts

  • Ensures documents are more readable for all users 
  • Avoid font sizes smaller than 11

For more information on each of these topics, download the full tutorial.

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