Create accessible tables in Microsoft PowerPoint

Tables are powerful tools for organizing and presenting data, but without proper structure and formatting, they can pose significant barriers to people with disabilities.

Why?

Accessible tables ensure that all users, including those using screen readers or keyboard navigation, can understand and interact with the information.

How?

In addition to the General Principles of Table Accessibility, follow these best practices for creating accessible tables in Microsoft PowerPoint.

• Use PowerPoint’s table tool. Insert tables using the built-in option. From the Insert tab on the ribbon select Insert Table and configure the table size by selecting the desired number of columns and rows.
  • Avoid creating tables by drawing shapes or lines, or using tabs or spaces.
• Set the Headers. Choose the Header Row and First Column options in the Table Style Options to match actual table headers.
• Provide alternative text. In the Review Tab, select “Check Accessibility”, open the Alt Text pane from the Screen Reader Group, select the table and enter a summary of the data.
• Include a descriptive title or caption. Ensure the slide title or text immediately before the table describes what the data represents.
• Keep tables simple. Avoid complex or highly nested tables, as these are difficult to navigate with assistive technologies.
• Check accessibility including reading order. Ensure that slide content follows a logical order for screen readers using the “Reading Order Pane.”

Learn more

Find Authoring Guides from Section 508.

Learn more specific details about creating accessible tables in:

• Microsoft Word,
• D2L Brightspace,
• and on the web (HTML).