How to use the accessibility checker in Microsoft Word

The accessibility checker is a great tool to use AFTER you have already implemented accessibility principles into your MS Word document. For a refresh on that – review the Microsoft Word Accessibility page.

The accessibility checker in Microsoft Word is a great tool for identifying color contrast errors, finding images that do not have alternate text, and applying table headers.

Do not rely on the accessibility checker for compliance. Use it as a tool to verify your work.

The Accessibility Guy

Video overview of how to use the accessibility checker in Microsoft Word

Text Directions of using the accessibility checker in Microsoft Word

  1. Select the Review tab
  2. Select Check accessibility
  3. Review the errors and fix
Select Review

Select Check accessibility

Review the errors and fix

Common pitfalls of the accessibility checker in Microsoft Word

The accessibility checker cannot determine the following elements on its own:

  • Document that has headings applied
  • Unformatted links
  • Use of footnotes
  • Improper use of alternate text

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How to use the accessibility checker in Canvas

Canvas has a built-in checker that allows the user to run an automated check on the canvas page. This check does guarantee full accessibility and should always be used in addition to other methods found in this course.

The accessibility checker in Canvas can be a useful tool for checking color contrast, and apply table headers to content! Be sure to always manually check your Canvas page for accessibility requirements as they are easy to overlook. Remember, every Canvas page should have the following items applied:

Video overview of using the accessibility checker in Canvas

Instructional Guide – Run the accessibility checker

The accessibility checker in Canvas will move from one object to the next in a pop up window. Fix each issue in the checker.

Step 1: Ensure you are in edit mode

Ensure you are in edit mode

Step 2: Select the Check Accessibility button in the bottom right corner

Step 2: Select the Check Accessibility button in the bottom right corner

Step 3: Follow the on-screen steps and fix elements that appear

Be sure to next through the errors and select apply after each fix!

Step 3: Follow the on-screen steps and fix elements that appear
Canvas LMS
How do I make my Canvas page accessible?

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