Accessible Excel (implementation guide)
The implementation aid Excel barrier-free serves as support for the Excel barrier-free checklist. The order of the aspects and the structure according to categories are the same.
Under the heading "What is meant by this? " you will find a detailed description of the aspect to be ticked off. The section "Why is it important?" describes which barriers you are removing with the respective aspect and for which groups of people this is essential. Finally, under the heading "How can I implement/check this?" you will find detailed instructions on how to implement or check the respective aspect.
6. Text
6.2. Highlighting
Emphasis using capital letters, italics, bold, underlining or text effects (colour gradient as colour fill, glow effects, text outline) are used sparingly.
What does that mean?
The highlighting of text passages using capital letters or text effects such as colour gradients, glow effects or text contours should be used sparingly. In addition to capital letters, such highlighting can also include italicised and bold text, underlined text and text effects, as well as shadows, soft edges, reflections or a glowing appearance. These emphasisations should be limited to individual words at most so as not to disrupt the flow of reading and to ensure a clear structure. It is important to ensure that the font is sans serif and not too thick or too thin (see 6.1).
Why is it important?
Highlighting with capital letters or eye-catching text effects can disrupt the reading flow and impair the readability of the text. If, for example, important information is highlighted with various text effects such as glow effects, colour gradients and other highlights, this can distract readers from the actual content. However, a clear structure and easy readability are particularly important for recipients who have difficulty following the flow of the text or recognising/reading it. Many effects and highlighting can also have an overstimulating effect.
How can I implement/check it?
To check the text for highlighting, proceed as follows:
- Take a look at your spreadsheet.
- Search for cells that have been highlighted in bold, italics or coloured markings.
- Consider whether the means used actually offer added value for understanding the content.
- If in doubt, remove the highlighting via the menu by selecting the text to be changed and clicking on the corresponding formatting again under Font.