Presentations are the best choice for giving information in a condensed, structured, and easy-to-follow way, especially when combined with some easy listening background music. However, even with the best visuals and graphs, there's always a chance to miss something or not explain it in detail. If that's the case, voice overs help deliver info while giving more time to absorb the stuff on the slide.
In this article, you'll learn how to create your own voice recording and add it to a Google Slides presentation – or even record a kind of "walkthrough" video showing slides on your screen with voiced explanation. Whichever option you choose, we'll gladly guide you through it.
- Understanding voice over narration
- Reasons to use voice over for Google Slides
- How to add audio to a Google Slides presentation
- Screen recording with voice-over presentation
- Voice over recording tips
- Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
Understanding voice over narration
Voice over is an audio part of a video content, such as presentations, short clips, animations, or other visual content, where the speaker does not appear in the frame.
Such voice recordings are used in almost any industry where you need to provide additional information, because audio is often more effective than reading. Plus, you can listen to it without actually seeing anything, which is suitable for people with poor vision and those who multitask.
But when it comes to presentations, the situation is a little different.
Reasons to use voice over for Google Slides
Apart from the obvious use of converting visual information into an auditory one, there are a few good voice-over purposes:
- Improved understanding. Voice overs help convey information more clearly, especially if the slides contain complex data or graphics, making the learning experience easier.
- The presentation is more accessible. People with visual impairments, those who perceive information better by ear, and the global audience in general, can absorb the material more easily.
- Increased engagement. Voice adds emotion and makes the presentation less dry.
- Asynchronous learning is useful for online instructors. They can make a presentation for online courses to be viewed without them in person, replacing their speech with a voice over.
- Simplified memorization. The combination of visual and audio (or multimodal learning) improves the assimilation of information.
That's a lot of valid points, so you may be wondering how to add a voice over to your presentation. Keep on reading to find out!
How to add audio to a Google Slides presentation
There are a few possible ways to do it, but which one is the best depends on your needs.
Adding audio files in Google Slides
The most obvious one is to add audio right through Google Slides' feature.
- Record your voice (on your phone or using other voice recorders).
- Save it as MP3 and upload it to Google Slides via Insert > Audio.
It's simple, free, and suitable for basic presentations. It also has basic editing features; once an audio file is added, a speaker icon appears, and you can open settings by clicking it.
Using the Mote extension
You can also use tools for browsers, like Mote, an extension for Chrome that can help you record your voice and embed it into your Google Slides.
- Install the extension and sign up to start using it (we advise using the same Google Slides account you use to register).
- Click the Mote icon in Google Slides and record your voice right there.
While it allows recording without unnecessary programs, this extension doesn't work with non-Chromium-based browsers. Also, free users have recording time limits.
Adding video with voice-over narration
You can also try creating a video with your presentation and voice over and add it to your Google Slides presentation.
- Record your slideshow with voice-over audio in PowerPoint or use some screen recording software and save it as an MP4 video.
- Upload this video to Google Slides via Insert > Video.
It takes more time and might require recording software (like OBS Studio, Bandicam, or even just Win+G combination on Windows), but also gives full control over time, animation, and sound.
Using Mote or inserting an audio file is better suited for simple presentations, whereas for professional ones, you'd want to make a video with a voice over.
Screen recording with voice-over presentation
Another option worth mentioning is recording the presentation with an added voice over, either simultaneous or recorded and added separately. Luckily, apart from the screen recording software mentioned above, it can also be done with online tools!
Similarly to the ones mentioned above, they allow for recording both your voice and whatever happens on screen. With them being cross-platform and simple to navigate, they're the prime option for giving your presentation a glow-up. Plus, some of them provide editing features.
One of them is our online screen recorderl! Using it, you can easily record your Google Slides presentation with your voice over and even make helpful edits later, such as adding a pointing arrow when explaining something. It's also pretty easy to use and only requires Internet access.
The rest is simple:
Start the project
Open Clideo's Online Screen Recorder and click "Get started", then "Record" in the navigation bar, and "Screen".
If prompted, make sure to allow microphone access. You can record sound from your device and your own voice simultaneously. Feel free to switch microphones or turn the mic on and off in the settings whenever you need.
Record the presentation
Click the red record button to start recording. And select the tab with your presentation in the pop-up window that appears. You can also choose an app window or your entire screen. Once you've made your choice, click "Share".
During recording, you can use the retake and pause buttons when necessary.
To stop and save the take you like, click "Stop sharing". And go to the tab Editor — Clideo. You can preview your recording, rename it and add it to your project timeline for further editing.
The screen and voice recordings will be added as two separate files in both cases. You can edit them separately by clicking on them and adjusting the available settings. Use the left-sidebar menus to add text, GIFs, shapes, arrows, and other elements.
If you can't record your voice because of poor sound or any other reason, but still want to have a professional voiceover, use the text-to-speech (TTS) option in the sidebar. Combined with presentation slides as images, it'll also be a video with generated speech, but you wouldn't need to record anything.
When you finish editing, click "Export" at the top right and choose the option you like.
Save the presentation
After it's processed, you can check how your Google Slides presentation recording looks. If you're happy with it, click "Download" to save the screen recording to your device or cloud storage.
Should you have any questions about the tool, visit our Help Center.
Voice over recording tips
The best voice over is the one that goes unnoticed – the more natural the voice sounds, the better! And we have a few tips to help you achieve it.
Preparation tips
- Text – write a voice-over script, avoid complex words, and speak in short sentences.
- Pace – slower than in life (optimally: 120-150 words per minute).
- Silence – turn off the fan and notifications on your phone, and close the window (people can forgive poor sound, but clear audio sounds like a professional voice over and engages them more).
Technique tips
- Microphone – use a headset or an external device.
- Position – hold the microphone 5-10 cm from your mouth, just below your chin (so it doesn't catch your breath).
- Pop filter – if you have one (or pull your sock over the microphone to avoid "puffing").
Recording tips
- Pose – sit up straight, don't squirm in your chair (so you sound clear).
- Emotions – smile, even if you can't be seen – it changes the tone of your voice.
- Do 2–3 takes – the first recording is almost always worth redoing.
Editing tips
- Noise reduction – available even in free programs like Audacity or online tools.
- Pauses – leave 1–2 seconds of silence between phrases for editing.
- Volume – check that there are no sharp jumps (normal: -6 dB to -3 dB).
Checklist before saving
- No background noise?
- Are all words legible?
- No "echo" from an empty room?
If that's three "yes", then you're good to go!
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can you create a voice over directly in Google Slides?
Yes, but not really; if you use the Chrome browser, a Mote extension allows you to record your voice directly into a slide. Otherwise, you'd have to record and upload a separate audio file.
What is the ideal length for slide narration?
Depending on the specific slide, generally go for 10–30 seconds for simple slides, 30–60 seconds for slides with graphs, charts, or short explanations. Up to 90 seconds is viable only for complex topics with detailed analysis (but it is better to split into several slides).
What's the easiest way to add voiceover to Google Slides?
If you already have it as a file, upload it. If you need to record a speech, there is an extension for Chrome or online recording tools for other browsers, such as Clideo.
Are there any AI tools for creating voice overs?
Sure! You can find a lot of online and offline software, multi-functional and dedicated tools, and at least one that suits your needs exactly.
How do I add an AI-generated speech on Google Slides?
You can create an AI voice over in a dedicated tool, add it as a video or audio file in Google Slides, or use Clideo to record your presentation as a video and then add an AI voice over.
Conclusion
Adding a voice over to your Google Slides presentation can boost its professionalism and impact, making your content more accessible, engaging, and memorable. Whether you choose to insert separate audio files, use extensions, or record a full voiceover presentation with Clideo, these techniques will help you deliver your message clearly and effectively. Happy presenting!
