Creating Accessible Spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets
Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets are popular applications used to create spreadsheets.
- Give every sheet in the workbook a unique title and remove blank sheets.
- Add the sheet title or informational text to cell A1.
- Add alternative text to visuals such as images and charts.
- Designate a header row for each table.
- Avoid leaving blank cells, columns, and rows.
- Do not merge or split cells in tables.
- Use meaningful and descriptive hyperlink text instead of “click here” or “more info”.
- Ensure that color is not the only means of conveying information.
Check Your Document for Accessibility
- Excel has a built-in accessibility checker.
- The Grackle accessibility add-on is available when logged in to Google Sheets with your Highline credentials.
For Microsoft Excel, learn best practices and how to make your spreadsheets accessible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Office Online.
Learn about creating accessible Microsoft Excel spreadsheets.