Making Adobe Reader Accessibility Settings Work for You: Tips and Tricks

Adobe Reader is an essential tool for anyone who works with PDF files, but even the most experienced users can struggle to make sense of its accessibility settings. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Adobe Reader's Reading Order tool, exploring its capabilities and limitations, and providing tips on how to get the most out of it.

Firstly, it's worth noting that the Reading Order tool is designed to help you organize and structure your PDF files by assigning tags to various elements such as headings, paragraphs, images, and tables. This can be particularly useful for individuals with visual impairments or those who rely on assistive technology to navigate digital content.

So, how do you get started? The process begins by selecting the area of interest within your PDF file using the crosshairs tool (). Once you've drawn a box around the desired content, you'll be presented with a range of tag options in the Reading Order window. Simply choose the appropriate tag for your selection, and Adobe Reader will assign it accordingly.

One of the most common tasks when working with the Reading Order tool is merging cells that have been incorrectly split. To do this, select the image and adjacent text, and then use the crosshairs tool to draw a box around both elements. The image will be tagged as a figure, while the text will be tagged as its caption.

Another crucial aspect of the Reading Order tool is assigning headings and rows. Acrobat attempts to automatically assign these elements, but you may need to intervene if the results are not accurate. To do this, select the area in question and then choose from a range of heading levels or row options in the Reading Order window.

It's worth noting that the Reading Order tool can be a bit finicky at times, and it may take some trial and error to get everything just right. If you're having trouble selecting the exact area you want to tag, try drawing a box that is slightly larger than the content. This can help you achieve more accurate results.

Finally, keep in mind that changes made with the Reading Order tool cannot be undone. It's essential to carefully consider each selection before making it final, as this can affect the overall structure and organization of your PDF file.

In conclusion, Adobe Reader's Reading Order tool is a powerful tool for improving accessibility and structuring your PDF files. By understanding its capabilities and limitations, you can use it to create more accessible and user-friendly documents that benefit everyone. With these tips and tricks under your belt, you'll be well on your way to unlocking the full potential of this valuable feature.

Adobe reader accessibility settings