Theme: Getting PDFs right from the start
Tip 9 - Accessible PDFs Start at the Source
Core skill: Create accessible source documents before exporting to PDF for accessibility.
Why it matters
PDF accessibility depends almost entirely on how the original Word, Google Doc, or PowerPoint file is structured. Fixing accessibility after export is significantly harder and less reliable.
What to do (5-minute action)
Before exporting to PDF, confirm that your source document includes:
- Proper headings
- True lists
- Descriptive links
- Alt text on images
- Simple, logical reading order
Then export using “Save as PDF” or “Export to PDF (tagged)”—never print to PDF.
Learn more
- Siteimprove Learning Hub: Accessibility for PDFs
- University of Minnesota ODA: Documents and PDFs
- UCOP: Creating Accessible PDFs
- LinkedIn Learning: Creating Accessible PDFs (request your LinkedIn Learning account by contacting UC ANR IT at help@ucanr.edu)