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Instructions

Most formulas and math equations come as floating objects. Such objects cannot be read by a screen reader and are therefore, inaccessible. To avoid inaccessible content being sent, we must find a more accessible solution for how to write our formulas.

A formula for Batting Average shown as a floating object over multiple cells

This equation is a floating object and spreads out over multiple cells. This is inaccessible, and overall does not look presentable.

Section 8.1: How to make a Floating Object with an Alt Text

When you create your formulas, you always want to be sure you have a text alternative in Cell A1. This will make it easier for screen readers to read the information. Also, make sure you do not use any symbols for the alternative text and only use words. This is because screen readers can only read a few symbols.

  1. Type of formula in Cell A1. Only use regular text and no symbols.

    A written formula for Batting Average in Cell A1.

  2. Now change the Font Color to white to match the background.

    Change Color Button in Excel.The written formula has disappeared from Cell A1.

  3. Resize cell A1 and fit your formula inside it. Now you have a formula with a hidden text alternative, but will still be read by a screen reader.

    Cell A1 fits around the formula for batting averages.

Note: You can use this method for many formulas, including expressions.

One more rule to follow is to make sure your individual formulas are in one cell.

Baseball statistical formulas names in column A, the formulas are in column B.

The formulas are typed in one cell and interferes with the cell next to it. This would be very hard for a person using a screen reader to understand.

Four Baseball formulas in each formula in one cell.

The formula is now in one cell and all of the information is given with a text description.

Section 8.2: Math Equations without Floating Objects

The best way to create an equation that is accessible is to type out the whole equation without symbols.

A list of baseball statistical formulas written with symbols

These equations are written out in the traditional way. Screen readers would not be able to read the equations the way they are written. This table is therefore, inaccessible to many readers.

A list of baseball statistical formulas written in text.

These formulas are all written in text form. Now screen readers can read the information to the reader without too much risk of errors.

Section 8.3: Excel Functions

Most Excel functions are accessible for readers, and can be read by both JAWS and NVDA. However, the software will only read the formula character by character. This process can take a long time to complete and can be very time consuming for the students. To avoid this issue, type in the name of the formula and an abbreviation above the cell containing the results.

A list of numbers without a function visible

This example shows a function calculating the sample standard deviation for some data. Though this is accessible, it does not contain the name of the function or abbreviation.

Example of Sample Standard Deviation data with an indicator.

This example shows a function with a name and abbreviation. This is the best way to display functions.

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