Google Slides Accessibility Tips

When you’ve got an accessible presentation, it means that everyone in your audience can fully engage and learn from your presentation.

For example, your audience could have people with visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive disabilities. Therefore, you should do your best to make your Google Slides presentation accessible to all individuals. This article covers using Google Slides accessibility to create an inclusive presentation.

How to Make Your Google Slides More Accessible

This tutorial uses a premium Google Slides template from Envato Elements. The template we’ll use is the Delica Google Slide presentation, a multipurpose template ideal for any use, featuring over 133 unique slides in a 16:9 screen ratio. Everything in this template is easy to edit, including the charts that come with the presentation.

To ensure your Google Slides presentation is accessible to people with disabilities, follow the tips below to create a presentation that’s welcoming for everyone.

How to Add Alt Text

Alt text is crucial as it describes an image, allowing screen readers to convey the image’s content to visually impaired users. Here’s how to add alt text to an image:

1. Add an Image

You can acquire premium images from Envato Elements. In this Google Slides accessibility tutorial, we’ll use the Baby Panda in California USA photo. To add a photo, click on Insert from the menu, then choose the Image option and select the appropriate location for your image file.

Double-click on your image to insert it into your slide and adjust as needed.

2. Add Alt Text

Once your image is in place, making it accessible is essential. Select your image, then right-click on it and choose the Alt Text option. An Alt Text window will appear.

3. Enter the Title

In the ALT Text window, provide a title and description for your image. Here are some quick tips when adding alt text:

• Be descriptive about what you see in the picture.
• Avoid assumptions about the image’s content.
• Keep descriptions concise.
• Don’t start with phrases like “image of” or “picture of.”
• Use specific terms like headshot, illustration, chart, etc.
• Incorporate one or two keywords.
• Include any relevant text that’s part of the image.
• Avoid repeating information already on the page.

Use Tables for Data

When tables are used effectively, they can enhance the accessibility of your Google Slides presentation. Here’s how to add a table:

1. Insert

Clear the slide you’re going to use by removing unnecessary elements. Click on the Insert tab in the menu, then select the Table option. A window will appear allowing you to draw your table.

2. Draw a Table

In the drawing window, drag your mouse across and down to create your desired number of columns and rows. Click to finalize the table once you’ve completed the drawing.

3. Add Data

When you add your table, include a header row or column for easier reading. Click inside a cell to type the data.

Check Text Size and Alignment

Using appropriately sized text that is well-aligned can significantly assist those with visual impairments. Here’s how to adjust text size and alignment:

1. Change Text Size

In Google Slides, it’s important to maintain a text size of at least 16-point font for accessibility. Highlight the text you wish to enlarge, and adjust the font size using the plus and minus buttons in the font size menu.

2. Align Text

For better readability, align your text to the left when possible. Highlight the text, then click on the Align button in the ribbon and select the Left option.

Use Bulleted Lists

Bulleted lists help screen readers communicate list items effectively. You can choose between numbered or bulleted lists. Here’s how to create both:

How to Make a Bulleted List

1. Clear the Slide

Begin by clearing any unwanted elements from your chosen slide.

2. Add a Text Box

Click on the Insert button in the menu and select the Text box option. Use your mouse to draw the text box.

3. Type Your Text

Click inside the text box to type your content.

4. Add Bullets

Highlight your text, then click on the Bulleted List button in the ribbon. To choose bullet styles, click on the arrow next to the button.

Add Numbered Bullets

The steps to add numbered bullets are similar. After highlighting your text, click the Numbered List button in the ribbon.

How to Add Voiceover on Google Slides

To enhance your presentation further, consider adding voiceovers. Here’s how to add audio to Google Slides:

1. Upload Your Audio File to Google Drive

First, ensure you have your audio file ready. Go to Google Drive, and click + New.

2. Upload File

Select the File Upload option from the menu, and locate your audio file to upload it.

3. Insert Audio

Once uploaded, click Insert from the menu, then choose Audio. A window will display the audio files in your Google Drive. Double-click on your audio file to insert it into your slide.

4. Move Audio

An audio symbol will appear on your slide. You can reposition it as needed, and use the Play button to test the audio.

The Best Source for Google Slides Templates

Envato Elements is a top resource for Google Slides templates, providing a subscription service that offers access to premium digital assets, including templates, audio, fonts, and images. Using a well-made template allows you to start with a professional design while still being able to personalize your presentation.

Now that you’re equipped with tips to make your presentation more accessible, it’s time to create an engaging and inclusive presentation for your next project.