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How to verify reading order in PowerPoint 365

Belot, Al 20 Reputation points
2025-12-26T19:57:43.36+00:00

I am using the Accessibility Assistant, and it is coming up with a message to check reading order on slides. I have manually adjusted the reading order to the correct order, but the message continues to show that the order needs to be checked. It there an option to verify the reading order? When searching online I don't seem to have the drop-down menu that is shown in tutorials.

Microsoft 365 and Office | PowerPoint | For business | Windows

Answer accepted by question author

Chris Duong 8,825 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
2025-12-26T20:30:18.7633333+00:00

Hi @Belot, Al, 

Welcome to the Microsoft Q&A forum.   

Thank you for reaching out regarding the message from Accessibility Assistant about checking the reading order on your slides. I really appreciate you taking the time to adjust the reading order manually and sharing your concern.

I understand the situation can be confusing, especially when it seems like the reading order has already been corrected but the alert continues to appear. I’d be happy to clarify what’s happening and how PowerPoint handles this. 

In newer versions of PowerPoint, the Accessibility Assistant may still display the “Check reading order” message even after you’ve correctly arranged objects because the alert is only a review recommendation that doesn’t clear automatically, older tutorials reference now‑removed confirmation options, and hidden, grouped, or unused elements can also trigger the warning. 

Here are a few steps you can try to ensure all elements are fully aligned with accessibility expectations. 

Please double‑check the reading order: 

1/ Open the Review tab → select Check Accessibility. 

2/ In the right‑side pane choose Reading Order → then click Reading Order Pane. 

  • User's image

3/ Look for any hidden objects, unused placeholders, or grouped elements that may still be in the reading order. 

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4/ Make sure the reading order matches the visual structure of your slide (top → bottom, left → right). 

If everything is set correctly, you can safely ignore the message your slide will still be accessible even if the Assistant continues to flag it for review. 

For additional details, you can refer to these articles: 

Note: Microsoft is providing the above information as a convenience to you. Some of the websites are not under Microsoft's control. Microsoft cannot make any representations regarding the quality, safety, or suitability of any software or information found there. Please make sure that you completely understand the risk before retrieving any suggestions from the above link.    

 

I hope this information is helpful. Please follow these steps and let me know if it works for you. If not, feel free to share them in the comments on this post so I can continue to assist you. 

I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this. 

Warm wishes to you and your family for a delightful Christmas and a prosperous New Year. 

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