Cal Poly Center for Teaching and Learning

How to use this template to update your previous syllabus

Step 1: Download the Word 2003 file

The first step in updating your Syllabus in Microsoft Word 2003 to be accessible is by downloading this template:

• Click Here to Download Template

Step 2: Save the file onto your computer

The next step in creating ADA-compliant syllabi is by choosing the Save File option when asked what to do with your download. Then open the file on your computer. You will want to save the file in the following folder:

Local Disk > Documents and Settings > Username > Application Data > Microsoft > Templates

Step 3: Open the template

Click on File > New so that the New Document window opens up on the right. From the New Document window, click on On my computer under the Templates section. Then select the file you just downloaded. There are two simple methods to create your new accessible syllabus with this template.

Step 4: Fill out the syllabus

Direct Input Method

• Highlight the text that you want to change and type directly over it. Text in the template will be replaced

Copy and Paste Method

You can transfer text from your previous syllabus to the template with the Copy and Paste functions in Word.

• Open both your previous syllabus and this template in Word
• In your previous syllabus, copy the text that you want to transfer
• In the template, highlight the text fields that you want to replace
• Paste your copied text over the highlighted text in the new template

A Paste function icon will appear next to the copied text.

Click on the downward arrow in this icon and choose the “Match Destination Formatting” option in the pop down list.

The Style and Formatting of the pasted text will confirm to the template's.

Additional Resources

Acrobat Accessibility Resources
Creating Accessible PDF Documents with Adobe Acrobat 7.0