📄 Document Conversion & Accessibility

Complete Guide for Creating Accessible Documents
📝 PDF to Word Conversion Process
Converting PDF to Editable Word Document
1
Open Word Document

Start with a blank Word document and navigate to File → Open

2
Select PDF File

Choose the PDF you want to convert from the file browser

3
Confirm Conversion

Click "OK" when the conversion dialog box appears

4
Enable Editing

Click "Enable Editing" from the yellow Protected View bar

5
Final Confirmation

Click "OK" when prompted about PDF conversion to Word

💾 Word to PDF Conversion Process
Saving Word Document as PDF
1
Access File Menu

Click "File" button in your Word document

2
Choose Save As

Select "Save As" and then click "More Options"

3
Change File Type

In "Save as type" dropdown, select "PDF" format

4
Save Document

Choose location and click "Save" to create your PDF

Document Accessibility Guidelines

Structure & Headings Use proper heading hierarchy (H1, H2, H3) for navigation
Alternative Text Provide descriptive alt text for all images and graphics
Color & Contrast Ensure sufficient color contrast and don't rely solely on color
Readable Fonts Use clear, simple fonts with appropriate sizing (12pt minimum)
Table Structure Use proper table headers and avoid complex table layouts
Link Descriptions Make link text descriptive and meaningful

Best Practices for Accessible Documents

Create documents with accessibility in mind from the start
Use built-in styles and formatting tools rather than manual formatting
Test documents with screen readers before distribution
Provide multiple format options when possible (Word, PDF, HTML)
Include document structure and navigation aids
Use clear, plain language and avoid jargon
Ensure all interactive elements are keyboard accessible

Important Conversion Notes

PDF to Word: Complex layouts, images, and formatting may not convert perfectly. Always review and edit the converted document for accuracy and accessibility.

Word to PDF: Use Word's built-in PDF export feature to maintain accessibility features like tags and structure.

Accessibility Testing Tools

Word Accessibility Checker Built-in tool for checking accessibility
Adobe Acrobat Pro Professional PDF accessibility features
WAVE Web Accessibility Online accessibility evaluation
Screen Readers NVDA, JAWS, or VoiceOver for testing

📋 Quick Accessibility Checklist

✓ Proper heading structure used
✓ Alt text added to images
✓ Tables have headers defined
✓ Links are descriptive
✓ Color contrast is sufficient
✓ Document is keyboard navigable
✓ Language is clear and simple
✓ Document structure is logical
Remember: Creating accessible documents benefits all users and is often required by law. Always prioritize accessibility in your document creation process.

Based on Clayton University CELT Guidelines

Center for Excellence in Learning & Teaching • WebAIM Standards • Updated 5/14/2024

For technical support: CELT@clayton.edu

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