Create the Google Slides Presentation
The Slide View
- Create a new slide by choosing Slide then New Slide.
- From Layout, choose any one of the slide templates except the Blank one.
- Tab through the slide to see the reading order.
- To change the reading order, click on Arrange > Order
- Send Backward will raise the element to a higher reading order (ex., from 3 to 2)
- Bring Forward will lower the element to a lower reading order (ex., from 3 to 4)
- Test the reading order with the Tab key again.
- To change the reading order, click on Arrange > Order
Images and Graphics
Provide alternative text for images and graphics
Alternative text descriptions of images (alt text) allows screen reader users to benefit from the information being conveyed by an image.
- To add alt text, right-click on the image and choose Alt text...
- Enter alt text in the Description field, not the Title field.
- Appropriate alt text is a succinct description of why you are including the image.
- If the image requires more explanation than can be covered in alt text, refer to How to Make Complex Images Accessible.
Lists
Format lists using formatting tools
Formatting tags, such as lists, headings and links, are read aloud by screen readers so the content can be understood in context.
- Click on Format > Bullets & Numbering
- Choose Numbered list if a sequential order is important to the list
- Choose Bulleted list if all items are equal value
Links
Write meaningful link text that indicates link's destination
Links are a major method of navigating for everyone, but especially screen reader users. If the links are embedded into meaningful text, they are much more useful.
- Type out text that describes the destination of the text (for example, Lone Star College website).
- Select the text, right click, and choose Link...
- Enter the hyperlink.
- Click the Apply button to save the link.
Tables
Ensure a proper reading order in tables
Screen readers read tables from right to left, top to bottom, one cell at a time (no repeats). If cells are split or merged, the reading order can be thrown off. To test the reading order of your table, place your cursor in the first cell of the table and press the Tab key repeatedly to navigate through the table. This will be the reading order that assistive technologies will use.
Merged, nested, and split cells change the reading order of tables. Make sure you construct your table in a way that accommodates the proper reading order.
Color
Don't use color alone to convey meaning
Don't use color alone to make a distinction, to make a comparison, or to set something apart from the rest of the document. If you categorize something by color alone, those who are color blind or have other visual disabilities will not be able to benefit from that information.
Use sufficient color contrast
Make sure there is enough contrast between the font color and the background color. If you print your presentation on a black and white printer, would it be understandable? Without sufficient color contrast, people who are color blind or have other visual disabilities will not be able to benefit from that information.
Video & Audio
Caption video and transcribe audio
It is better to link out to media rather than embed it in your presentation. Layers of technology make it difficult for assistive technologies to navigate.
Math and Science
Math and science equations and formulas cannot be written to be accessible in Google Slides.