How to Fix the Table Summary Error in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC

Today’s post addresses a common issue in Adobe Acrobat’s accessibility checker: the “summary failed” error, which arises when a table lacks a summary, an essential feature for screen readers to accurately convey content to visually impaired users.

Video Guide

Why a Table Summary Matters

Table summaries are essential for making documents accessible to all users. When you include a table in a PDF, especially one containing complex data, screen readers may struggle to interpret the content without additional context. A table summary provides a brief overview of the table’s content, allowing users to understand the purpose before diving into the details. This improves the user experience and ensures your document complies with accessibility standards.

Understanding the “Summary Failed” Error

The “summary failed” error is a specific issue flagged by Adobe Acrobat Pro DC during an accessibility check. This error indicates that a table in the document does not have an associated summary, making it less accessible. Without a summary, the table may be challenging or impossible for users who rely on screen readers to navigate and understand.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Table Summary

1. Open the Document in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC

Begin by opening the PDF document you want to edit in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC. Ensure you have access to the necessary tools for editing and enhancing the document’s accessibility.

2. Prepare for Accessibility

Next, navigate to the “Prepare for Accessibility” option. This feature offers a set of tools designed to help you identify and fix common accessibility issues in your document. You can find this option in the “Tools” section of Adobe Acrobat Pro DC.

3. Select “Fix Reading Order”

After selecting “Prepare for Accessibility,” choose the “Fix Reading Order” option. This tool lets you adjust the order in which content is read by screen readers, ensuring a logical sequence.

4. Right-click on the Table

Locate the table in your document that needs a summary, and right-click on it to open a context menu with various options.

5. Choose “Edit Table Summary”

Select the “Edit Table Summary” option from the context menu. A dialog box will appear where you can enter the table’s summary.

6. Enter a Descriptive Summary

Type a brief but descriptive summary of the table’s content in the dialog box. In our video example, we used “Overview of Services and Costs.” This summary should provide enough context to help users understand the table’s purpose without reading every cell.

7. Confirm and Save

After entering the summary, click “OK” to confirm your changes. Adobe Acrobat Pro DC will now associate the summary with the table, resolving the “summary failed” error.

8. Run an Accessibility Check

Run another accessibility check on your document to ensure the issue has been resolved. Adobe Acrobat Pro DC will analyze the document and confirm that all accessibility issues, including the “summary failed” error, have been addressed.

9. Finalize Your Document

Save your document after resolving the accessibility issues. Your PDF is now more accessible to all users, including those who rely on assistive technologies.

By following these steps, you can add a table summary in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, address the “summary failed” error, and enhance your document’s accessibility. Ensuring that all elements of your PDF are accessible is best practice for creating inclusive content for all users.

Download the Free Section 508 Checklist for PDF Accessibility:

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