Documents
Export and Verify a Tagged PDF from Word
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
Purpose and preparation
Treat PDF export as a separate quality checkpoint after repairing the Word source. Record the source version and export settings so future updates can reproduce the result. Verify the PDF users will actually receive.
A practical example
A structured application guide is exported for download after its headings, links and figures have been reviewed in Word.
How to check it
- Run Word's accessibility review and resolve source problems that affect structure or alternatives. Save the editable source as the maintained master.
- Use an export or save option that preserves accessibility tags for your Word version. Record the selected settings rather than relying on a print-to-PDF workflow.
- Open the resulting PDF and inspect tags, reading order, links, language and image alternatives. Test a representative reading and navigation task with assistive technology.
What can be missed
A tagged export can still contain incorrect structure. Fix recurring problems in the source or export process so the next edition does not silently restore them.
Record your test
Use this worksheet to record what you actually checked. Notes stay on this device when you choose Save; they are not sent to us. Avoid personal or confidential information on shared devices.
These are your observations, not automated results or a conformance certificate. A complete evaluation needs appropriate scope, supported technologies, all applicable criteria and relevant page states.
Primary sources and scope
This is independent implementation guidance with original examples. The linked standard contains the full definitions, exceptions and conformance requirements. A criterion or checklist alone does not establish legal applicability or whole-site conformance.