Quick Start Accessibility by Content Type

Graphs & Charts

Charts should support the data, not replace it. Keep the underlying table in Excel, Google Sheets, or another worksheet, label the chart clearly, and explain the main takeaway in text so non-visual users get the same meaning.

Open Print Version (8.5 x 11)

Quick Focus

Keep the source data available in an accessible table or worksheet.
Use direct labels, clear titles, and labeled axes with units.
Summarize the insight in alt text or surrounding copy instead of dumping every value.

Core Guidance

Do This First

Start with the data table. Make sure the values exist in a readable table in Excel, Google Sheets, or another worksheet before you build the chart or graph.
Label the visual clearly. Add a descriptive title, category labels, axis titles, and units so users do not need to guess what the chart shows.
Add a text summary. State the trend, highest and lowest values, or the action point in nearby text or alt text.

Essential Checks

Data and Summary

Treat the chart as a visual summary and the data table as the full source.
Write alt text that explains the pattern or takeaway, not a generic label such as 'sales graph.'
For complex visuals, provide a longer note describing structure and conclusions.

Visual Differentiation

Use labels, patterns, shapes, or direct annotations in addition to color.
Keep contrast strong between data marks, labels, and the background.
Prefer simple bar, line, or column charts over decorative 3D styles.

Complex Data

Break dense dashboards into smaller sections with short written summaries.
Explain filters, legends, or status categories in text.
Use an alternate table or narrative summary for heatmaps and other dense visuals.

Common Problems to Catch

Using color-only legends with no direct labels or patterns.
Leaving axes unlabeled or omitting units.
Packing too many pie slices or data series into one figure.
Relying on the chart image when the exact values are not available elsewhere.

Key WCAG 2.1 AA Checkpoints

High-value checkpoints for graphs & charts work
Success Criterion	What to confirm
SC 1.1.1 Non-text Content	Provide a text alternative for every meaningful chart or graph.
SC 1.3.1 Info and Relationships	Keep the underlying table clear so the values stay readable to assistive technology.
SC 1.4.1 Use of Color	Do not use color as the only way to separate categories or status.
SC 1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum)	Labels and text annotations need sufficient contrast.
SC 2.4.6 Headings and Labels	Titles and labels should identify the topic, period, and units clearly.