The way your thesis or dissertation is constructed can make a big difference in how easily readers can access and engage with your work. As the University of Iowa Graduate College transitions to updated readability standards in Fall 2026, keep these five tips in mind as you prepare your final manuscript.
1. Format text so that it’s readable and consistent
Use a readable font size and style. Avoid excessive use of italics, all caps, and multiple font styles. Left-align paragraph text and use either 1.5 or double spacing. When links are included, create descriptive hyperlinks that tell readers where they lead.
Quick check: Open your document and look for places where font size, spacing, alignment, or margins change unexpectedly.
2. Build your document with heading styles
If you are using Microsoft Word, format headings and subheadings using heading styles. Follow a logical heading structure: Heading 1, then Heading 2, then Heading 3 as needed. Don’t skip heading levels.
Quick check: Use Word's Navigation Pane to see whether your thesis has a clear and logical heading structure.
3. Make tables and figures accessible
Include alt text for figures, and keep tables as simple as possible. When constructing tables, remember that color should not be the only way information is communicated. If you are using Microsoft Word, generate table and figure captions using Word’s caption tool.
Quick check: Ask yourself whether a reader could understand the purpose and key information in each table or figure from its caption, structure, and accompanying alt text.
4. Check your navigation before creating the PDF
Make sure your table of contents includes all major headings and that its entries link to the corresponding sections in your thesis. If your thesis has tables or figures, check that your lists of tables and figures match the captions and page numbers in the manuscript. When you convert your thesis to a PDF, make sure bookmarks are included and work correctly.
Quick check: Open the final PDF and test the table of contents, bookmarks, and links in the lists of tables and figures. Don’t assume they’ve transferred correctly from Word.
5. Don’t forget the details hidden inside your PDF
Accessibility isn’t only about what readers see on the page. Your final PDF should also contain useful document information, including the author, title, subject, and keywords. Set the document language and verify that the thesis title appears when the PDF is opened.
Quick check: Review your final PDF to verify that both the visible content and document properties are correct.
Final thoughts
Constructing your thesis with consistent styles, accessible tables and figures, accurate navigation, and complete PDF information can make a real difference in how readers discover, navigate, and engage with your work.
For more information about the Graduate College’s new standards and support resources, visit the Thesis and Dissertation website.
Questions? Contact Dr. Erin Kaufman at erin-kaufman@uiowa.edu with general questions about accessibility, to learn more about our thesis templates, or to set up an optional pre-deposit format check.