Accessible Tables, Graphs, and Charts in PowerPoint

Updated on Sep 21, 2023

Charts, graphs, tables, and maps use visuals to convey complex images to users. But since they are images, they can provide accessibility issues to colorblind users and users of screen readers.

Creating content that portrays information to the viewer must be accessible to reach the largest audience possible. Charts, graphs, tables, and maps follow many of the same best practices. Use texture, differences in style, text in graphs, or shades of color to improve accessibility for colorblind users. Charts should be readable in black and white. Adding data labels to your charts, graphs, tables, and maps is a great way to make the information easier for users to understand.

Creating a Table

A table can be classified as a data table whenever you need to specify a row or column with header information about that row/column. Screen readers present information linearly (i.e., table cell by table cell). It is generally easier to parse tables when they are set up as simple tables.

The Microsoft word home ribbon with "Insert" box in

Select the option labeled “Table” and create your size. In this example, I'll be making a 3x3 table.

The drop-down menu and selecting 3 by 3 squares to create a table.

Your table will now appear in the slide you selected.

Creating A Graph

Select the 'Insert' tab at the top of your screen and select 'Chart'

The Microsoft word home ribbon with the "Insert" section open and the "Chart" button boxed.

Select what type of chart you need, so in this example, we will select a Bar Graph to create, so select 'Bar' under the 'All Charts' tab and select 'OK.'