Microsoft Excel

Structure and Layout

• Name worksheets so they are unique and easy to understand.
• Remove unused worksheets.
• Start all sheets at cell A1 with a description, summary, or title of the worksheet.

Rows and Columns

• Avoid blank rows or columns.
• Avoid hiding rows or columns.
• Avoid freezing rows or columns.

Cells

• Blank data cells should be marked with “No Data”
• Use cell A1 to orient users.
• Ensure all text is visible without having to adjust cell height or width.
• Avoid merging or splitting cells.

Objects, Graphs, and Equations

• Describe objects, graphs, and equations in a corresponding cell, not just in the alt text.
• Include instructions for opening embedded files in a cell.
• Write out math equations in plain text in a cell.

Tables

• Start all tables with a title.
• Place each table in a separate worksheet.
• For multiple tables on the same worksheet, separate each by a single blank row.
• Always start each table in column A.

Macros

• Include text descriptions of what they do and how to use them within the cell layer.
• Assign keyboard shortcuts to each macro.

Check Accessibility

• Use the built-in Review > Check Accessibility checker.
• Keep in mind that the accessibility checker is not perfect. Use your own judgment to ensure that your document is accessible.