Accessible PDF

Accessible PDF

An Accessible PDF (Portable Document Format) is designed to be usable by people with various disabilities, including visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive, language, learning, and neurological disabilities.  Below are the key characteristics that qualify a PDF as accessible:

1. Tagged Structure

The document includes tags to define the logical reading order and structure, such as headings, lists, tables, and other elements.

2. Alternative Text for Images

All images, graphics, and non-text content have alternative text (alt text) that provides a description or context for users who cannot see them.

3. Proper Use of Headings

Headings are used to organize content logically and are marked with appropriate heading tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.).

4. Readable Text

Text can be read by screen readers, and is not embedded as images or in a way that screen readers cannot interpret.
 Hyperlinks are clear and descriptive, making it easy for users to navigate through the document.

6. Form Fields

 Interactive form fields are accessible and include labels, tooltips, and tab order for easy navigation.

7. Consistent and Logical Structure

 The document structure is consistent and logical, making it easy to navigate and understand.

8. Metadata

The document includes metadata, such as the document title, language, and other pertinent information.

9. Colour Contrast

Text and background colour contrast meet accessibility standards, ensuring readability for users with visual impairments.

10. Language Specification

The primary language of the document is specified so that screen readers can accurately interpret the text.

11. No Use of Colour Alone

 Colour is not the only means of conveying information, so users who cannot distinguish colours can still understand the content.

12. Tables

 Tables are properly tagged with headers, ensuring that data is read correctly by screen readers.


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