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When creating a table in any software, the main purpose is to show off data as easily and as simply as possible. To achieve this, you need to place each piece of data into a data cell or header cell.
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Examples like the one above are usually made by using the tab key. Though it may look organized, this is not a real table. If a person were to use a screen reader on this, it would be very hard to navigate.  |
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All of the tables data is inside its own data cell or header cell. We also have our data inside a real table and the tab key was not used.  |
Section 6.4: Organized Tables
When you create tables in Word, you must not use the Draw Table Tool. Drawing a table creates a graphic instead of a real table. When you have your table made and filled with information, you should make sure that your font is easy to read, each data cell or header cell has its content fit inside, and that the color contrast ratio is high.
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This table is an absolute mess. The font is hard to read, and the text does not fit in its cell. Avoid making these mistakes. There is also no title, and the overall look is very poor. This will confuse readers.  |
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This table is very organized. No data is overlapping other data, and it is easily readable with a good font. |
Section 6.5: Charts
Charts are another way to display your data for viewers. There are many types of charts, including pie charts, bar graphs, line charts, and more.
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Go to the Insert Tab.
In the Illustrated Section, select the Chart Button and choose the chart you want.
A chart will appear along with an Excel spreadsheet. This spreadsheet will allow you to manipulate the data anyway you want. To keep the chart fully accessible, change the font on the table to Times New Roman and at Size 12 for the normal text and size 18 for the title. Now click on the plus symbol for your chart and add data labels for the columns.
Make sure the chart is inline with the text. To do so, click on the chart, then click the Layout Options button. Then select “Inline with Text”.
Now you must add Alt Text to the chart. To do so, right click the chart and select Edit Alt Text. In the Alt Text Side Bar, explain your chart in less than 150 characters.
Finally, consider adding a long description. Long descriptions are detailed explanations that tell the reader, in lots of details, what is on a page or graph or chart. Another way to do it is by creating a small table with the same data.
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The long description describes the bar graph down to the last detail. No information is left out and is easily readable for screen readers and will not confuse the reader.  |
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This bar graph has a link to a long description beneath it. When clicked, the reader will be taken to the page where the long description will be.  |
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The small table below the bar graph shows readers and screen readers the exact same information as the bar graph, the only difference is the formatting. It is much easier to read and easily accessible to everyone.  |
Section 6.6: Complex Tables
Complex Tables should be avoided because they are very difficult for screen readers to read. A table must not contain nested tables, split cells or merged cells. Create a table with a simple format.
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This table is very complex and has many issues. The headings cells are merged, the amount of spacing for answers is too small. In addition, it looks like an unbalanced table. This is completely inaccessible.  |
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This table has the same information as the complex table above. The only difference is that it has been split into three tables. These tables are much more organized. They have color to help differentiate the tables. Finally, all three tables have adequate space for giving answers.  |
Section 6.7: Can I make a Layout Table Accessible?
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