Key points at a glance
- Use heading styles and logical document structure.
- Describe informative figures and use proper tables.
- Inspect tags, reading order and selectable text in the PDF.
Build real structure in the source
Apply heading styles rather than merely enlarging bold text. Keep chapters and subsections in a logical sequence, and use actual list formatting. This gives the PDF export a meaningful structure for navigation.
Explain figures and structure tables
Give informative images alternative text that communicates their purpose in context. Decorative elements do not need duplicate description. Tables need clear headers and should not be used merely to position text on a page.
Inspect the exported PDF
Enable document structure or tagging in export settings where available. Check that text can be selected, headings appear in navigation and reading order makes sense. Automated accessibility tools help, but a manual check remains necessary.
Reconcile submission and print rules
If your programme asks for PDF/A, specific fonts or a print copy, verify that the chosen export meets those requirements. Where separate versions are allowed, name them clearly and keep the assessed content identical.
Final submission context
Formal details can feel like a separate writing task, but they matter just as much for a printed submission. Anything missing, misplaced or inconsistently formatted in the document will also appear in the bound copy.
Use this guide together with your cover page, table of contents, page numbers, source notes and appendices. Prepare the final PDF for printing and binding only after the complete file has been checked.
Practical check before PDF export
- Do headings, chapter structure and page numbers match?
- Are sources, figures and tables included completely?
- Are required elements such as declarations, appendices or the cover page included where required?
- Did you open and check the final PDF after exporting it?
Checklist
- Heading styles used.
- Figures and tables reviewed.
- Tags and reading order tested.
- Submission format checked against local rules.
Common mistakes
- Formatting headings only visually.
- Submitting page images instead of selectable text.
- Relying solely on an automatic checker.
Prepare the finished thesis for submission
Once the content and university requirements are checked, review your PDF and the available printing and binding options.
Review printing optionsRelated content
Explore related guidance on thesis structure, sources, formatting and final submission.
Frequently asked questions
Is searchable text enough for accessibility?
No. Structure, image descriptions and reading order matter too.
Does every picture need alt text?
Informative images need an equivalent description; decorative ones can be handled differently.
Can PDF/A also be accessible?
Yes, with suitable creation and validation; follow your local specifications.