When writing professional or academic reports, both Microsoft Word and Google Docs contain helpful tools and features. From using styles to create a table of contents to correctly aligning images, the following content will show you how to create attractive documents that are accessible to all.
This course will cover formatting reports in both the desktop version of Microsoft Word and Google Docs. While most of these features are available in both programs, there are slight variations in interface and terminology. These differences will be described as necessary throughout the course.
NOTE: Occasionally there are differences between the Windows and MacOS versions of Microsoft Word. In these instances, the steps will be separately described.
Considering inclusive design
When working with documents, there are several things we can do to make our work easier for readers to read and understand. By thinking ahead, we can create a document that is not only accessible to users with impairments but also to users who may not have a reliable internet connection or access to a color printer.
Before starting your document, consider the following:
- Will the document have defined sections?
- If the document is printed, will it be in color or black and white?
- Will users will be viewing the document on a screen?
- Will the document be able to be read by screen reading software?
- Are images and graphics necessary for understanding the content of the document?
While these questions may seem daunting, the solutions can be simple. As we work through the following sections, inclusive design will be discussed as needed.
