Accessibility Quick Tips

Make Content Accessible

  • Media

    If the images are integral to your content, describe them using alternative text. Caption and transcribe all videos, so blind and deaf users are able to use your media. Read more about making images accessible. Read about video.

  • Structure

    Provide structure to the document with headings. All users will benefit from visual and logical structure, but it’s crucial for assistive tech. Read more about giving structure to documents.

  • Tables

    Give the table structure: provide headings for your columns; add a table caption and summary. All users will benefit from these best practices. Read more on how to give tables good structure.

  • Links

    Create your links with concise, unique and descriptive text. Users of assistive technology rely on this to navigate documents. Read more about how to make good links.

  • Color and Contrast

    Provide high color contrast between background and foreground. Make sure that color is not the only source of information or emphasis. Users with some visual impairments will not perceive the difference. Read more about contrast and color.

  • Lists

    Create a list as a list, instead of lines. Avoid using tabs or indents for spacing, users of assistive technology will benefit from this logical structure. Read more about lists.

Creating PDFs

Accessible MS Word and Google docs will tend to produce accessible PDFs when Saved As PDF. See Create accessible PDFs for detailed instructions.

Check Accessibility

  • MS Word: Review > Check Accessibility
  • Canvas: Use the Check Accessibility button
  • Acrobat: Accessibility > Full Check