2. Create Accessible Equations and Formulas

Formulas aren’t just strings of mathematical symbols; they’re the power players in documents—be it academic papers, financial reports, or scientific articles. It’s not enough for them to exist; they need to be accessible to everyone. When incorporating formulas from external resources, consider factors such as clear labelling, and compatibility with assistive technologies.

Mindful of the Font:

• Opt for a font size that accommodates all readers, ensuring it’s easily readable.
• Prioritize a colour scheme that provides ample contrast between text and background, enhancing visibility.

For more instructions on formatting the text for accessibility, please refer to our dedicated chapter here: Chapter: How do I Format Text for Accessibility

Variable Labels:

• When labelling variables, ensure that the purpose and role of each variable are unambiguous, allowing readers to grasp the formula’s logic effortlessly.
• This practice is particularly crucial when dealing with complex equations or when formulas are repeated across a document.
• Think of these labels as signposts, guiding your audience through the formulaic landscape.

Access the Equation Editor:

If you are working in Microsoft Word, you could utilize Word’s equation editor for creating formulas. It’s a purpose-built tool within the Insert tab that ensures your formulas are accessible.

How to do it:

• Navigate to the “Insert” tab. Click on “Equation” to open the editor.
• Use the editor’s features to write your formula clearly and concisely.
• The equation editor is specifically designed to maintain accessibility standards, ensuring that your formulas are easily understood.
• Make sure to also select the “Linear format”

Please don’t hesitate to contact us with suggestions and updates using this: email link for updates(opens in external site/application)

Reference: University of Bath Centre for Learning and Teaching.