Word Accessibility Fundamentals

This session focuses on the standards, requirements, and concepts behind accessible Microsoft Word documents. Participants learn how Section 508 and WCAG apply to Word files and why structure and semantics matter for assistive technology users. The session covers headings, lists, tables, links, color contrast, and alternative text at a conceptual level. Participants learn common failure patterns, how accessibility issues are identified, and what compliant Word documents look like. The session includes an overview of Word features that support accessibility, without hands-on remediation.

Topics Covered

• How Section 508 and WCAG apply to Word documents
• Why structure and semantics matter for assistive technology
• Headings and document structure (conceptual)
• Lists and tables (conceptual)
• Links and descriptive link text
• Color contrast and color meaning
• Alternative text for images and visuals
• Common Word accessibility failure patterns
• How accessibility issues are identified
• What a compliant Word document looks like
• Overview of Word features that support accessibility

Takeaways

• Understand how Section 508 and WCAG apply to Word documents
• Recognize why structure and semantics matter for assistive tech
• Identify common accessibility failure patterns in Word
• Know what a compliant Word document looks like
• Be familiar with the built-in Word features that support accessibility

FAQ

• Is this a hands-on session? No. This is a conceptual fundamentals session with no hands-on remediation. For hands-on practice, see our Microsoft Word Accessibility Applied workshop.
• Do I need prior accessibility experience? No. It’s designed for new users.
• Do I need special software to attend? No, you can simply watch and learn.
• Do I get any materials? Yes, attendees receive a topic-specific Word accessibility cheat sheet.
• Will a recording be available? The recording isn’t included, but it can be purchased separately for a fee.

Certification: Certificate of Completion issued to attendees who complete the full session

Location: Online via Zoom
Duration: 60 min