Creating accessible PDFs is essential to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access and understand the information contained in your documents. Accessibility features in PDFs make content readable by screen readers and other assistive technologies.

Here's a comprehensive checklist to guide you through the process of making your PDFs accessible:

1. Document Structure:

· Use proper heading styles (Heading 1, Heading 2, etc.) for a logical document structure.

· Use lists for ordered and unordered items.

2. Images and Graphics:

· Add meaningful alternative text (alt text) to describe images and graphics.

· If an image is purely decorative, mark it as such using null alt text.

3. Hyperlinks:

· Use descriptive link text that provides context for the link's purpose.

· Avoid generic terms like "click here" or "read more."

· Ensure that the link text is unique and meaningful when read out of context.

4. Tables:

· Use table headers (th) to identify row and column headers.

· Avoid using tables for layout purposes.

· Keep tables simple and organized.

5. Document Language:

·  Specify the document language to assist screen readers in pronunciation and language switching.

6. Text Formatting:

· Use built-in styles for formatting (bold, italic, etc.) rather than manual formatting.

· Avoid using color as the sole means of conveying information.

7. Fonts and Readability:

· Choose readable, sans-serif fonts.

· Ensure sufficient contrast between text and background.

8. Document Properties:

· Set document metadata, including title, author, and subject.

· Add keywords to improve searchability.

9. Logical Reading Order:

· Ensure the reading order of content is logical when using assistive technologies.

· Use the reading order tool in your PDF Accessibility authoring software to check and adjust the order.

10. Forms:

· Create accessible form fields with descriptive labels.

·  Use form field properties to provide additional information for screen readers.

11. Document Security:

· Avoid password protection or encryption that prevents accessibility features.

12. Document Navigation:

· Include bookmarks for easy navigation.

· Test the document's navigation using a keyboard alone.

13. Testing and Validation:

· Use accessibility checkers, such as the one built into Adobe Acrobat or other third-party tools, to identify and fix accessibility issues.

· Test the document with screen readers to ensure proper reading order and content comprehension.

14. Document Size:

·  Keep the document size reasonable to facilitate quicker downloads and loading times.

15. PDF/A Compliance:

· Consider saving your document as PDF/A, an ISO-standardized version of PDF designed for long-term preservation.

16. Document Updates:

· Update the accessible PDF if there are changes or additions to the content. Creating accessible

PDFs is an ongoing process, and staying informed about best practices and updates in accessibility standards is crucial. Regularly testing and updating your documents will help ensure continued accessibility for all users.