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\uD83D\uDCD8 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.

Inaccessible Math Formula Area of a circle equals pi times r squared. Equation covers 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.

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

    Area of a circle equals pi r squared now has a text version.

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

    Change Color Button in Excel.Mathematic Equation for the Area of a Circle covers multiple cells.

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

The equation Area of a Circle equals pi r squared now fits in one cell.

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.

Simple Interest Formula and Compound Interest Formula written in their standard format.

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.

Simple Interest and Compound Interest formulas are written in individual cells.

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 table of mathematical formulas written as equations.

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 table of mathematical formulas written in full 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, put a text name and abbreviation of the formula directly above the cell that contains the value output.

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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