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Export a Word Doc as a Tagged PDF
Ensure that your Word Doc stays accessible when converting to PDF
Although keeping your documents as a .doc or .docx file is the best way to ensure the document remains
accessible, many instructors prefer to export their Word docs as PDF. When exporting as PDF, it is important
that you check your export settings to make sure that the PDF will be tagged, as this will make sure the
document is easy to navigate with a screen reader.
Scenario: You upload an untagged PDF of your syllabus
You created your syllabus in a Word doc,
exported it as PDF, and added it to your
course. A red Ally indicator appears next to
your file, and informs you that your PDF is
untagged.
A tagged document provides readers with
improved navigation, helps keep texts
organized, and is essential for students who
use a screen reader. You can upload the Word
file to maintain accessibility, or your Word doc
as a PDF with the correct settings.
All Ally screenshots provided by Ally. Retrieved from Ally Communication Toolkit. CC-BY license.
To export a Word document as a tagged
PDF, go to “File,” select “Save As” then select
PDF from the drop-down. You will notice
a dialogue box, check “Best for electronic
distribution and accessibility.” Then upload
your newly tagged PDF to Ally.
For Office 365, go to “File,” select “Save As”
then select PDF from the drop-down. Click
Options, make sure the Document structure
tags for accessibility check box is selected,
and then click OK.
