Showing speaker notes in Google Slides is a straightforward process that can be accomplished in a few simple steps. Once you’re in your Google Slides presentation, click on “View” in the top menu, and then select “Show speaker notes.” This will open a pane at the bottom of the screen where you can see and edit your notes for each slide.
After you complete this action, you’ll be able to see the notes that you’ve prepared for each slide at the bottom of the screen. This is helpful when practicing your presentation or during the actual presentation, as it allows you to stay on track and remember key points without cluttering your slides with too much text.
Introduction
When it comes to presenting, preparation is key. But even the best-prepared speakers can benefit from a little help on stage or in the meeting room. That’s where speaker notes come in handy. Google Slides, the popular presentation software from Google, offers a feature that allows you to add notes to each slide, visible only to you, the presenter. Why is this important? Well, imagine you’re standing in front of an audience, and you suddenly forget what to say next.
Having speaker notes can save you from an awkward silence and keep your presentation flowing smoothly. They’re like a cheat sheet that no one else can see! This feature is relevant to anyone who uses Google Slides for presentations, whether you’re a student, teacher, business professional, or just about anyone who needs to convey ideas in a visual format.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Show Speaker Notes in Google Slides
Let’s delve into the steps that will let you take advantage of this nifty feature.
Step 1: Open your Google Slides presentation
Begin by opening the Google Slides presentation for which you want to view or add speaker notes.
Accessing your presentation is the first step in preparing to show your speaker notes. Ensure you’re logged into your Google account and navigate to the presentation within Google Drive or by visiting slides.google.com.
Step 2: Click on “View” in the top menu
Once your presentation is open, click on “View” in the top menu.
The top menu is your gateway to various features in Google Slides. By clicking on “View,” you’re one step closer to enabling your speaker notes.
Step 3: Select “Show speaker notes”
In the dropdown menu under “View,” select “Show speaker notes.”
By doing so, you’ll activate the speaker notes pane, which typically appears at the bottom of your presentation window. You can now see the notes you’ve prepared for each slide.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Helps Stay on Track | Speaker notes in Google Slides help you stay on track during your presentation by providing a reference point for what to say next. |
| Reduces Anxiety | Knowing you have notes to fall back on can reduce anxiety and boost confidence while presenting. |
| Keeps Slides Clean | Using speaker notes allows you to keep your slides clean and free of clutter, as you won’t need to include all your talking points on the slides themselves. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Potential for Overreliance | Relying too heavily on speaker notes may make your delivery less natural if you’re constantly looking down to read them. |
| Technical Issues | If there’s a technical glitch with Google Slides or your device, you might lose access to your speaker notes. |
| Can Be Overlooked | In the heat of the moment, it’s possible to forget to check your speaker notes, especially if you’re nervous. |
Additional Information
While showing speaker notes in Google Slides is a great way to keep yourself on track during a presentation, there are a few additional tips to consider. Firstly, practice with your speaker notes well before the actual presentation. This will help you become familiar with where each note fits into your talk, so you’re not scrambling to find the right note for the right slide. Also, keep your notes concise and in bullet points, if possible.
You don’t want to end up reading verbatim from your notes, as this can come across as unengaging. Instead, use them as prompts to jog your memory. Another handy feature in Google Slides is the ability to print your slides with the speaker notes included, which is perfect for rehearsals or if you prefer a physical copy as a backup. Lastly, remember that while speaker notes are a great tool, engaging with your audience and maintaining eye contact are also key aspects of a successful presentation.
Summary
- Open your Google Slides presentation
- Click on “View” in the top menu
- Select “Show speaker notes”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I edit my speaker notes in presenter view?
Yes, you can edit your speaker notes in presenter view by simply clicking in the notes pane and making your changes.
Will the audience be able to see my speaker notes during the presentation?
No, your speaker notes are not visible to the audience. They are for the presenter’s eyes only.
Can I print my slides with the speaker notes?
Yes, you can print your slides with the speaker notes by selecting “Print settings and preview” from the File menu and adjusting the settings accordingly.
What happens to the speaker notes if I convert my Google Slides presentation to a different format?
If you convert your Google Slides presentation to another format, like PowerPoint, your speaker notes will typically be preserved in the conversion.
Are speaker notes saved automatically?
Yes, speaker notes in Google Slides are saved automatically along with your presentation.
Conclusion
In the world of presentations, being prepared is everything. Speaker notes in Google Slides are a game-changer for anyone looking to deliver a seamless, engaging presentation without the fear of losing their place or forgetting key points. While there are a few potential drawbacks, the advantages of using speaker notes far outweigh them.
Remember, your speaker notes are your secret weapon; they provide that extra layer of security that can make all the difference when you’re in the spotlight. So, the next time you’re gearing up for a big presentation, don’t forget to show your speaker notes in Google Slides and give yourself the peace of mind you deserve.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.