Summary
How to run the Microsoft Accessibility Checker in Word, PowerPoint, Excel, OneNote, and Outlook, interpret its Errors, Warnings, and Tips, apply recommended fixes, and keep it running while you work. Applies to faculty, staff, and students using Microsoft 365.
Body
Questions
- How do I check a document for accessibility problems?
- Where is the Accessibility Checker in Word, PowerPoint, Excel, or Outlook?
- What do the Errors, Warnings, and Tips mean?
- How do I fix the issues the checker finds?
- How do I keep checking accessibility while I work?
Environment
This article applies to Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students using Microsoft 365 apps that include the Accessibility Checker — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook — on Windows, macOS, and the web.
Resolution
Run the Accessibility Checker
- Open the Review tab.
- Select Check Accessibility. The Accessibility pane opens on the right.
- Review the results, grouped as Errors, Warnings, and Tips.
- Select any item to see the affected content and a Recommended Actions menu, then apply a fix.
Understand the results
- Errors — content that is very hard or impossible for people with disabilities to use (for example, an image with no alt text). Fix these first.
- Warnings — content that is difficult to use for many people (for example, low contrast or a non-descriptive link).
- Tips — content that could be better organized or presented (for example, slide reading order).
Keep checking as you work
Select Keep accessibility checker running while I work so a status indicator appears on the status bar and flags issues as you create content.
Note: The checker catches many issues automatically, but some things — such as whether your alt text is actually meaningful, or whether color alone conveys information — still need a human review.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
Additional Resources