PDF Documents

If you have the source document

Both Google Docs and Microsoft Word have the option to export a document as a PDF. If you have access to the original document, you can check it for accessibility (and add the footer required by Policy 720, Procedure 720.1A) before exporting.

If you do not have the source document

If you don't have access to the source document for a PDF, you can use Adobe Acrobat Pro to check the accessibility of the document. If you do not have access to Adobe Acrobat Pro yet, please open an IT ticket to get your license activated before you begin. In the case that the document does not pass Adobe's Accessibility Checker, you can fix the PDF in Adobe Acrobat (and add the footer required by Policy 720, Procedure 720.1A). A detailed example of PDF remediation in Adobe Acrobat Pro can be found below:

In the video above, I follow the How to Remediate a complex PDF with Adobe Acrobat Pro written guide.

The State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) provides a useful Canvas module on creating accessible PDF documents. Please note that this tutorial relies on Adobe Acrobat Pro. 

Still Have Questions?

Accessibility is constantly evolving to keep up with emerging technologies, and the information herein is not comprehensive. If you still have questions, please fill out our form. We recommend completing the Canvas training "Accessibility Training: How to Create Content that Works for Everyone" first!