Blackboard Ultra (Faculty) Accessibility/Ally: Add and Modify Headings in a Microsoft Word Document

Add Headings to a Word Document

Proper use of headings in a Microsoft Word document is crucial for document structure and accessibility, especially when the document is used within Blackboard Ultra with Ally. Headings allow screen readers to easily navigate and understand the document's layout.

Using Styles for Headings

The most effective way to add headings is by using the built-in Styles in Microsoft Word:

1. Open the Microsoft Word document you want to edit.
2. Select the text you want to format as a heading.
3. In the Home tab, in the Styles group, click on the desired heading style (e.g., Heading 1, Heading 2, etc.). The Styles Gallery may be expanded by clicking the down arrow.
   
   
   
   
4. The selected text will now be formatted as the chosen heading level.

Modify Existing Headings

If you need to change the style or level of an existing heading:

1. Select the heading you want to modify.
2. In the Home tab, in the Styles group, click on the desired heading style.
3. To further customize a heading style (e.g., font, size, color):
   1. Right-click on the heading style in the Styles gallery.
   2. Select Modify.
   3. In the Modify Style dialog box, make the desired changes (e.g., font, size, color, alignment).
   4. Click OK to save the changes.

Best Practices for Headings

• Use headings in a logical, hierarchical order (e.g., Heading 1, Heading 2, Heading 3).
• Do not skip heading levels (e.g., going from Heading 1 directly to Heading 3).
• Keep headings concise and descriptive.
• Use headings to break up long sections of text and improve readability.
• Avoid using headings solely for visual formatting (e.g., making text bold or larger without applying a heading style).

Ally and Headings

Ally uses the headings in your Word document to generate alternative formats and provide feedback on the document's accessibility. Properly formatted headings ensure that Ally can accurately assess and improve the document's structure.

Need Additional Support?

This guide aims to provide useful information, but as technology changes, interfaces or steps might vary. Please use the Comment button to let us know if anything differs from your experience. Your feedback helps us keep this information accurate. Thank you!