Accessible PDFs from
Microsoft Excel
Simple sheets export fine. Complex workbooks rarely make good PDFs — share the workbook or an HTML table instead.
Before you export
- Format data as real tables (Insert › Table) with clear header rows.
- Avoid merged and split cells — they confuse screen readers.
- Give sheets meaningful tab names and set a defined print area.
- Add alt text to charts and images.
- Run Review › Check Accessibility.
Export a tagged PDF
- Choose File › Export › Create PDF/XPS Document (or Save As › PDF).
- Select Options and enable “Document structure tags for accessibility.”
- Publish, then check that tables kept their header structure in the PDF.
Then verify the result
Upload the exported PDF to our Tagged PDF Builder for an instant accessibility preflight — tags, alt text, and structure — and fix anything it flags.