Forms and Surveys
This page provides best practices for creating accessible digital and web-based forms and surveys. For instructions specific to your form authoring tool, please see the resources below.
Overview
Digital forms and web-based forms are a more accessible alternative to paper forms, which can be challenging for individuals who are blind, have low vision, or are unable to write. Digital and web-based forms offer improved accessibility for people using screen readers, keyboard navigation, and other assistive technologies.
Digital Forms vs. Web Forms
Digital forms: These are forms that can be filled out electronically, usually in formats like PDF or Word. Users complete these forms on their computer and submit them via email or print them out.
Web forms: These are forms that can be completed online through a web browser. They are typically created using third-party services like Microsoft Forms, Constant Contact, SurveyMonkey, and others. Web forms built with HTML are generally more accessible by default, as they offer better integration with screen readers and keyboard navigation.
Form Best Practices
Regardless of whether your form is digital (e.g., PDF or Word) or web-based (e.g., HTML), it must be designed to be accessible. This means it must be usable by people who rely on screen readers or keyboard navigation.
- A user should be able to complete the form using only a keyboard, including interacting with dialog boxes.
- All form fields must be fillable and have clear, descriptive labels.
- The tab order should be logical.
Resources for Creating Accessible Forms and Surveys
Microsoft Forms
- Microsoft Support: Microsoft Forms help & learning
- Microsoft Support: Create a form in Microsoft Forms
- Video: Create a new form
Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Support: Create a form in Microsoft Word
- Video: How to design a form in Microsoft Word for PDF
Adobe Acrobat
- WebAIM: Creating Accessible Forms in Acrobat
- Video: How to make a PDF Form Accessible in Adobe Acrobat Pro
- Video Series: Working with PDF Forms
Constant Contact
- Constant Contact: Creating a Survey
SurveyMonkey
- SurveyMonkey Support: Creating Accessible Forms
- SurveyMonkey Support: Creating Accessible Surveys