7 core practices that benefit all students

What can you do? For starters, focus on seven simple steps.

Create Inclusive Documents
in 7 little steps

1. Headings

Structure documents and web pages using built-in headings based on the organizational hierarchy of the document.

Notes:

Bonus! If I use headings then I can change font & size & what-not, and it will update all of them automatically!

2. Images

Describe the purpose or content conveyed by an image using alternative text, imagining what text you’d have used if not using the image.

Notes:

Screen readers need text to describe an image for those who can't see it.

Notes:

Screen readers only hear the link text - "Click Here" is like asking someone to walk down a dark alley.

4. Color

Use text colors that strongly contrast with the background. Don’t use color as the only way to identify something.

Notes:

Strong contrast makes it easier on everyone's eyes.

5. Lists

Format numbered or bulleted lists using built-in list formats.

Notes:

Wow! By using built-in numbering, the computer will reorder things for me when I make changes. Thank you list-faeries!

6. Tables

Use the built-in table tool only for formatting tabular data (not for page layout), and include meaningful column and/or row headers to describe the data.

Notes:

Tables for data & the column tool for columns.

7. Video/Audio

Ensure all videos are accurately captioned, and provide transcripts for audio-only files.

Notes:

"Monkey brains" instead of "Monday pains!?" What are the captioning robots claiming I said?

Free training resources

Note: There's also a free, self-paced IU Expand course that walks you through the 7 simple steps. And you can find a range of accessibility training resources on IU's accessibility website.

On April 24, 2026, all digital course materials, including content in the Canvas learning management system, must comply with new federal rules around accessibility. Review the "Minimum digital accessibility guidelines for IU courses" IU Knowledge Base article to ensure your materials meet the new requirements.

Need help? Reach out to your local teaching center, or schedule a consultation with IU's Assistive Technology and Accessibility Centers.