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Creating Digital Presentations: Google Slides & Microsoft PowerPoint

April Elder

Created on October 1, 2025

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Creating Digital Presentations: Google Slides & Microsoft PowerPoint

Choosing Your Platform

Choosing Your Platform

  • Google Slides
    • Free with Google account
    • Works in your web browser
    • Great for collaboration
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
    • Part of Microsoft Office
    • Desktop/Laptop software
    • Industry standard features

Getting Started: Opening a New Presentation

Google Slides:

  • Go to slides.google.com
  • Click "+ New" button
  • Choose blank or template
PowerPoint:
  • Open Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Click "New"
  • Select blank or template design

Understanding the Interface

Key elements:

  • Menu bar at the top
  • Toolbar with common tools
  • Slide preview panel on left
  • Main editing area in center
  • Notes section at bottom
  • Zoom controls

Creating Your First Slide

Steps:

  • Click "+ New Slide" button
  • Choose a layout
  • Add a title
  • Include subtitles or content
  • Remember: Less text is better
  • Use bullet points for key ideas

Adding Content to Slides

How to add:

  • Text boxes
  • Images
  • Shapes
  • Charts
  • Tables
  • Videos
Pro tip: Use "Insert" menu for all content

Making It Look Good

Design tips:

  • Choose consistent colors
  • Use readable fonts
  • Keep backgrounds simple
  • Align elements properly
  • Use contrast for readability
  • Include white space

Adding Transitions and Animations

Simple steps:

  • Select your slide/object
  • Click "Transitions" or "Animations"
  • Choose effect
  • Adjust timing
  • Preview your changes
Remember: Don't overdo it!

Sharing and Collaborating

Google Slides:

  • Click "Share" button
  • Enter email addresses
  • Set permissions
PowerPoint:
  • Save to OneDrive
  • Click "Share"
  • Invite others

Presentation Tips

Best practices:

  • Check spelling
  • Use presenter notes
  • Practice timing
  • Keep slides simple
  • Save your work often
  • Preview before presenting