Use appropriate colour contrast (e.g. black and white);
Make sure that all information conveyed with colour can also be conveyed without colour;
For print documents use a matte/non-glossy finish.
Spacing
To start a new page use the Insert tab then Page Break. Don’t press Enter repeatedly to start a new page;
Adjust spacing through the Paragraph formatting menu;
Space between the lines should be at least 25 to 30% of the point size.
Images
Set wrapping style of non-text elements as “In line with text”;
Add alternative text to graphics and images;
Avoid text boxes, Word Art, and watermarks as they’re inaccessible to screen readers;
Avoid using watermarks and background images as they can make documents illegible.
Columns
To properly insert a column use Page Layout tab then Columns.
Avoid using spaces and tabs, it will not be recognized as a column by assistive technology.
Tables
Use the Insert tab then Table to properly insert
Use proper Table Headings and check the Header Row check box
If a table is longer than a page; Heading Rows must be repeated at the top of the table on each of the following pages.
Hyperlinks
Ensure that the Hyperlink has context and describes where it leads
Avoid using “Click here” or “More info” as a link title
Graphs and Charts
Add a short caption preceding the chart or graph that describes their content.
Provide an alternative presentation of any findings. For many charts, the best alternative format in which to present data is a table with the original figures.
Headers & Footers
Do not manually type the page numbers. Use the Insert tab then Page Number.
Human Rights & Equity Office