Accessible PDFs from
Microsoft Word
Word is the most reliable route to a tagged PDF. Structure the document, run the checker, export with tags.
Before you export
- Use Heading 1, Heading 2, Heading 3 styles in order — not big bold text.
- Use real bullet and numbered lists, and real tables with a header row set.
- Add alt text to figures; mark decorative visuals as decorative.
- Run Review › Check Accessibility and fix errors and warnings.
- Give the file a meaningful title under File › Info › Properties › Title.
Export a tagged PDF (Windows)
- Choose File › Export › Create PDF/XPS Document › Create PDF/XPS (or Save As and choose PDF).
- Select Options.
- Enable “Document structure tags for accessibility.” Keep document properties on, and turn on bookmarks from headings.
- Publish, then open the PDF and verify it — or upload it to the PDF checker below.
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.