STEM in Microsoft PowerPoint

Overview

PowerPoint supports a widespread standard for linking and embedding objects called OLE (Object Linking and Embedding). Since MathType equations are natively OLE objects, this means that MathType and PowerPoint work well together.

• Never use PowerPoint's "Insert/Symbol" or Microsoft's equation editor "Equation."
• MathType should not be used as a text editor.
• Math objects need alt text for assistive tech that does not understand MathML.
• Do not enlarge the MathType object box by dragging a corner within the PowerPoint slide (it will blur).

Equations should be on their own line or within a single list item of a list object; "inline" equations should generally be avoided. Math OLEs are separate objects from text placeholders; thus, visually inserting an equation over spaces within a sentence will cause the reading order to be first all the text, then the math equation. There are two ways to keep the reading order correct in an "inline" equation: either put all of the sentences, including equation, inside a Math object (not recommended), or use separate placeholders for the beginning text, the equation, and the rest of the text, overlapped to appear visually seamless.

Goal: After reviewing this page, participants will be able to implement accessible math into MS PowerPoint.

Special note

• NVDA can access the MathML within PowerPoint. 
• JAWS does not read MathML in PowerPoint, so that equations will need alternate text.

Review creating accessible PowerPoint files from Microsoft Links to an external site.for additional information.

WIRIS offers MathType: Tips to use with Microsoft PowerPoint Links to an external site..