Set PDF Metadata: Title, Subject, Author & Keywords | Section 508 for PDF

Ensuring that a PDF document meets accessibility standards is crucial for compliance with Section 508 and WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). One of the key requirements is properly setting metadata, including the title, subject, author, and keywords. This guide will walk you through the process step by step.

Video Guide

Why Metadata Matters in PDFs

Metadata provides important information about a document, helping:

• Screen readers interpret content more accurately.
• Search engines improve document discoverability.
• Users understand the purpose and origin of the file.
• Compliance with accessibility laws such as Section 508 and WCAG 2.1.

Steps to Set Metadata in a PDF

1️⃣ Open Document Properties

• Click on the menu button in your PDF editor (e.g., Adobe Acrobat).
• Select Document Properties from the menu.

2️⃣ Edit Metadata in the Description Tab

• Navigate to the Description tab and fill in the following fields:
  • Title: Use the H1 heading of your document (e.g., “WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 Checklist for PDFs”).
  • Author: Enter the document creator (e.g., “The Accessibility Guide”).
  • Subject: Describe the document’s purpose (e.g., “PDF checklist for WCAG and Section 508”).
  • Keywords: Use relevant terms (e.g., “WCAG, Section 508, PDF accessibility, compliance”).

3️⃣ Set the Language

• Go to the Advanced tab > Reading Options.
• Ensure the correct language is selected (e.g., “English”).
• This step is important for screen readers and other assistive technologies.

4️⃣ Add Additional Metadata (Optional)

• Click on Additional Metadata for more customization.
• However, for basic compliance, ensuring the main metadata fields are filled is sufficient.

5️⃣ Save Your PDF

• Click OK to confirm changes.
• Save your file to ensure the metadata is embedded.

Setting metadata in your PDF is a simple yet essential step toward making your documents accessible. By correctly defining titles, subjects, keywords, and language settings, you ensure compliance with accessibility laws and enhance the usability of your document for all users.

Download the Free Section 508 Checklist for PDF Accessibility:

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!