Working with Graphics
MS Word provides multiple ways to include graphics and other non-textual content into the document. The images can be inserted in a drawing canvas, which is a floating element and can be placed anywhere on the page, or inline with the text.
- Use software-based drawing tools to draw lines and shapes. Each line or shape is a separate image and is automatically created in a drawing canvas.
- Use WordArt feature to create text using fancy fonts, styles and color. These are automatically created in a text box
- Use Diagrams feature to create diagrams and organization charts etc. These are also created in a drawing canvas
- Insert an image from a file. This can be inserted inline with the text or inserted into a drawing canvas.
Good Accessibility Practices for including Graphics
- Use standard graphics file formats
- Group multiple images into a single image
- Vector graphics like charts break out into multiple graphic and text elements. Combine them into one image and insert from file
- Word processing drawing tools create a separate image within a drawing canvas for each line and shape. Select and group them into a single image
- Always include alternative text descriptors for images and non-textual objects that provide information. Do not provide text-descriptors for decorative elements.
Steps for Inserting an Image
- Select Insert Picture from Menubar [Alt I, P]
- Select from file [F]. Do not use AutoShapes, WordArt, and Charts etc.
Steps for Entering Alternative Text
- Select image
- Right click and select format picture
- Select the Web tab
- Enter text description to convey the meaning of the image
- Press OK button
