Accessible Maths with Microsoft Equation Editor

Published on: 03/10/2023 · Last updated on: 04/06/2026

What to do

• Use the Microsoft Equation editor for all equations and chemical symbols
• Do not use the character map to insert symbols or an image of an equation.

Why do it?

The Microsoft Equation environment must be used for all maths input to make it accessible to screen readers.

This includes including inline maths entry with any maths content: for example:  π, sin(x), 2⁸, CH₄ and H⁺ must be written using the Insert Equation option.

You should not use Insert a Symbol from the character map, using text super/subscripts, or add an image of an equation – as this will not be accessible.

Please follow the instructions to insert an equation into Microsoft Office products.

Efficient use of the Equation Editor in Word

Math Centre have a detailed tutorials using the keyboard (rather than the graphical interface) for effective entry of equations in Word: see Getting started with effective entry of equations in Word | MASH.

Writing equations in Word – YouTube

Useful tips:

• Press Alt =  Word or Powerpoint to insert a new equation.
• Align multi-line equations at the equals sign: select the equations, right click and select “Align at =” or use the \eqarray and & notation
• You can use LaTeX type entry in Word

Creating Accessible Tables in Microsoft Office

• Always set column and/or row headers
• Avoid merged or split cells, nested tables, and blank rows or columns
• Add a caption to describe what the table shows
• Use tables for data only, not for layout

Follow the instructions on creating accessible tables.

Use these video and written instruction guides:

• instructions for creating accessible Excel tables
• instructions for creating accessible tables in Word