Using Lists Correctly

In Module 5 of the How to Author and Test Microsoft PowerPoint Presentations for Accessibility video series, discover how to use lists to organize and structure content so that assistive technology can identify that information is contained in a group and convey the relationship between each item within the list.

Source: US Section 508 — Training: Presentations.

Accessible Lists: Use built-in bullets/numbering (not manually typed symbols).

Using Columns Correctly

In Module 4 of the How to Author and Test Microsoft PowerPoint Presentations for Accessibility video series, understand that when modifying a slide’s layout, it may be necessary to structure content into columns. Learn how to ensure that content is read in the proper reading order by using the column tool.

Source: US Section 508 — Training: Presentations.

Columns (macOS)

screenshot of Columns options in Page Setup panel

Always use true columns. Don’t create columns with Tab.

Select the Layout tab on the ribbon.
Select Columns in the Page Setup group.
Choose the number of columns.

Source: NCDAE Cheatsheets ©NCDAE

Columns (Windows)

screenshot of Columns options in Page Setup panel

Always use true columns. Don’t create columns with Tab.

Select the Layout tab on the ribbon.
Select Columns in the Page Setup group.
Choose the number of columns.

Source: NCDAE Cheatsheets ©NCDAE

Sources

Secton508.Gov. "Module 2: Use Styles to Create Headings." Training. Accessed May 22, 2024. Section508.

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National Center on Disability and Access to Education. “Creating Accessible Microsoft Word 2016 Documents (Mac).” NCDAE Cheatsheets. Accessed February 2, 2026. NCDAE Cheatsheets.

National Center on Disability and Access to Education. “Creating Accessible Microsoft Word 2016 Documents (Windows).” NCDAE Cheatsheets. Accessed February 2, 2026. NCDAE Cheatsheets.

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