Why

Accessible pdf's are really important to people who use assistive technologies. Individual who use screen readers, text-to-speech programs, Braille displays, and more won't be able to read a standard pdf but would be able to read an accessible pdf.

How

This is really easy to do.

In this first example you have a document already written and saved containing headings and alt texts.

screen grab of a word document

Then you need to select "Save A Copy"

screen grab of a word document selecting save a copy from the pull down menu

This will give you an option to select PDF

screen grab of a word document showing select pdf

Then you get another option to export as either:

  • Best for printing
  • Best for electronic distribution and accessibility (uses Microsofts online service)

Choose electronic distribution.

And click Export.

Below is an example of that document in an accessible pdf format.

DOWNLOAD A PDF