Concept 2: Using Built-in Tools to Create Structure

Importance of Using Built-in Tools

• Lists and columns are used to break up and simplify content.
• Screen readers cannot infer meaning just from formatting, such as using a dash as a way to create a bullet, or using spacing and tabs to create columns.
• Using built-in tools to create structure allows the screen reader to identify these features and convey such information to the reader.

 

Creating accessible lists

1. Position the cursor where you want to create the list.
2. Select the Home tab.
3. In the Paragraph group, select the Bullets button or the Numbering button.
4. Type each bulleted or numbered item in the list.

Click here to see how a screen reader indicates accessible lists

 

Creating accessible columns

1. Select the content you want to make into columns.
2. Click the Layout tab.
3. Click the Columns button.
4. Click on the icon representing the number of columns you want.

Click here to see how a screen reader navigates accessible columns

 

Go to Concept 3: Making Graphics and Images Accessible

Go Back to Concept 1: Creating Logically Structured Headings