How to Fix “Text Objects Not Tagged” Error in PDFs | PAC 2024

Today’s post explores solutions to fix the “text objects not tagged” error that often arises when testing PDFs using the PAC 2024 tool. This issue frequently occurs when text elements within graphics imported from Microsoft Word are not properly tagged. We will cover two primary methods: manual tagging within the PDF and using the snipping tool to simplify the process.

Video Guide

Understanding the Issue

The “text objects not tagged” error indicates that certain text elements in the PDF are not tagged, making them inaccessible to screen readers and other assistive technologies. This is crucial for ensuring that all users, including those with disabilities, can access and understand the content.

Manual Tagging Method

Open Tags Panel

• Open the PDF in your preferred editor (e.g., Adobe Acrobat).
• Navigate to the “Tags” panel to inspect the current tagging structure.

Tag the Graphic

• Identify the graphic that contains untagged text.
• Select the graphic, open “Prepare for Accessibility,” and choose “Fix Reading Order.”

Create Figure Tag

• Highlight the entire graphic and select “Figure” to tag it correctly.
• Confirm the creation of the figure tag in the tags panel.

Add Alt Text

• Right-click on the newly created figure tag and select “Properties.”
• Add descriptive alt text, detailing all the data points (e.g., “Pie chart for sales with data points A, B, and C”).
• Save the changes.

Test the PDF

• Save the PDF and run it through the Pack 2024 tool to check if the error persists.

Advanced Manual Tagging

Accessibility Options

• With the figure tag selected, click on the “Accessibility Options” button.
• Choose the “Find” button and select “Unmarked Content.”

Tag Unmarked Elements

• Search the page for unmarked elements and select “Tag Elements” for each one.
• If text elements are still untagged, highlight them individually and create tags from the selection.

Adjust Nested Tags

• If text elements are nested incorrectly inside the figure tag, right-click and change their tag to “Artifact.”
• This adjustment ensures proper reading order.

Save and Re-test

• Save the PDF and test again using the Pack 2024 tool to confirm the resolution of the error.

Snipping Tool Method

Capture the Graphic

• Open your original Word document.
• Use the snipping tool to capture the graphic as an image.

Insert the Image

• Delete the original graphic from the Word document.
• Paste the captured image back into the document.

Convert to PDF

• Convert the updated Word document to PDF using Adobe Acrobat or another PDF converter.

Test the New PDF

• Test the new PDF with the PAC 2024 tool.
• This method often bypasses the tagging issues, as the entire graphic is treated as a single, properly tagged object.

Download the Free Section 508 Checklist for PDF Accessibility:

Comparison of Methods

Manual Tagging

• Pros: Maintains the original vector graphic quality; ensures detailed alt text.
• Cons: Time-consuming; may not resolve all errors if not done meticulously.

Snipping Tool

• Pros: Quick and straightforward; bypasses complex tagging issues.
• Cons: Reduces graphic to a raster image, potentially impacting quality; less detailed accessibility information.

Both methods offer viable solutions to the “text objects not tagged” error in PDFs. Manual tagging provides more control and preserves graphic quality, while using the snipping tool offers a quicker, simpler alternative. Depending on your needs and the complexity of the document, you can choose the most suitable method to ensure your PDF is accessible and error-free.

Let me be your champion for inclusion. I offer tailored solutions (and self-paced courses!) to ensure your documents meet and exceed compliance expectations. For more detailed insights, tutorials, and in-depth discussions on accessibility and related topics, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel: The Accessibility Guy on YouTube. Subscribe for regular updates!