how do you add music to google slides

how do you add music to google slides

Have you ever considered enhancing your Google Slides presentations with the soothing melodies of music? It’s a creative way to engage your audience and make your presentation more memorable.

Adding Music to Google Slides: A Comprehensive Guide

Adding music to Google Slides can be a delightful way to enhance your presentation. This feature allows you to incorporate audio tracks that complement your slides, making your content more dynamic and engaging. However, integrating music into your slides requires some steps that may not be immediately obvious. In this guide, we will explore various methods to add music to Google Slides and provide tips on how to use it effectively.

Method 1: Embedding an Audio File

One of the most straightforward ways to add music to Google Slides is by embedding an audio file directly into the presentation. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Upload Your Audio File: First, navigate to your Google Slides document and click on the “Insert” tab. Then, select “Audio.” Choose “Record” if you want to record your own audio, or “Browse” to upload an existing audio file from your computer.

  2. Place the Audio on Your Slide: After uploading your audio file, you can position it anywhere on your slide. You can drag the audio object around until it fits perfectly within your layout. If needed, adjust its size and position using the formatting options available in the toolbar.

  3. Customize Your Audio: To further customize your audio, you can change its volume, loop settings, and other playback options. These options can be found under the “More Options” button, which appears when you hover over the audio object.

Method 2: Using Background Music

Another method to include music in your Google Slides presentation is by playing background music. This technique is ideal for creating a consistent and immersive atmosphere throughout your slides:

  1. Select Background Music: Navigate to the “Slide Show” tab and click on “Background Music.” This will open a menu where you can choose from preloaded music files or upload your own MP3 file.

  2. Set Up Your Music: Once you have selected or uploaded your music, you can control its playback through the settings. You can set the music to play automatically, start only when the slide containing the music is displayed, or even loop the music indefinitely.

  3. Adjust Volume Levels: Depending on the type of music you choose, you might need to adjust the volume levels to ensure they don’t overpower your content. The volume controls are accessible in the “More Options” dropdown menu.

Tips for Effective Use of Music

Using music in your Google Slides presentations can significantly enhance their impact. Here are some tips to help you utilize music effectively:

  • Choose Appropriate Music: Select music that aligns with the theme and tone of your presentation. For example, upbeat and energetic music works well for motivational speeches, while calm and soothing tunes are perfect for educational or reflective content.

  • Keep It Short: While music can be powerful, keep it short and to the point. Overly long musical segments can distract from your main message and break the flow of your presentation.

  • Sync with Visuals: Ensure that the timing of your music matches the visual content on your slides. For instance, you might want to play a piece of music when transitioning between slides or during key moments in your presentation.

Conclusion

Adding music to Google Slides can transform your presentations into engaging and memorable experiences. Whether you opt to embed an audio file or play background music, these techniques offer flexibility and creativity. By following the steps outlined above and applying the tips provided, you can effectively integrate music into your Google Slides presentations, making them more captivating and impactful.


  1. How do I control the volume of the background music in Google Slides?

    • You can adjust the volume levels in the “More Options” dropdown menu when selecting or setting up background music.
  2. Can I add different music tracks to each slide?

    • Yes, you can upload separate audio files for each slide and place them accordingly to create a customized soundtrack for your presentation.
  3. What are some popular websites where I can find free music for my Google Slides?

    • Websites like Unsplash and Freesound offer royalty-free audio clips that you can easily import into your Google Slides presentation.