how to add a footnote in google slides

Lemon

2 min read

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02-02-2025

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Adding footnotes to your Google Slides presentations can significantly enhance credibility and provide valuable supplemental information without cluttering your main slides. Whether you need to cite sources, offer additional context, or provide detailed explanations, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. While Google Slides doesn't offer a dedicated footnote feature like some word processors, we can achieve the same effect using readily available tools.

Method 1: Using Text Boxes and Small Font Sizes

This is the most straightforward method for adding footnotes in Google Slides. It leverages the existing text box functionality to create a discreet area for your supplementary information.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Identify the relevant text: Locate the point in your slide where you want to add a footnote.

2. Insert a text box: Go to "Insert" > "Textbox" and draw a small text box near the bottom of your slide, close to the main text it references. Position it subtly to avoid distracting from your core message.

3. Enter your footnote text: Type your supplemental information into the text box.

4. Adjust font size and color: Reduce the font size to make the footnote less prominent. You can also change the font color to a lighter shade, such as gray, to further distinguish it from the main text.

5. Format for clarity: Consider using a superscript number (like ¹,²,³) in your main text to visually link it to the footnote. You can achieve this using the formatting options in the toolbar. Ensure the numbering corresponds correctly to the footnotes.

6. Maintain consistency: Apply this method consistently throughout your presentation for a professional and unified look.

Method 2: Using the Presenter Notes Feature (for Internal Use Only)

This method is ideal for personal notes or information intended only for the presenter's reference, not for the audience viewing the presentation directly.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Navigate to Presenter Notes: While viewing your presentation in edit mode, locate the "Presenter Notes" section at the bottom of the screen.

2. Add your notes: Enter the supplementary information you'd like to include as a footnote, directly related to the slide's content.

3. Use clear organization: Number your notes to maintain a consistent and easy-to-follow structure.

Important Note: The Presenter Notes are only visible to you during the presentation; the audience won't see them on the projected slides.

Method 3: Leveraging External Tools (Advanced Users)

For more complex footnote management, you may consider creating your footnotes in a separate document (like Google Docs) and then incorporating them as images or screen captures into your Google Slides presentation. This approach is more time-consuming but allows for better formatting and potential automation if you have many footnotes.

Best Practices for Footnotes in Google Slides

• Keep it concise: Footnotes should provide brief, supplementary information, not lengthy explanations.

• Maintain consistency: Use the same method and style for all your footnotes to ensure a professional look.

• Use sparingly: Overuse of footnotes can distract from the main points of your presentation.

• Prioritize readability: Ensure your footnotes are easy to read, even with smaller font sizes.

• Accessibility: Consider the accessibility of your footnotes, particularly for color-blind audiences.

By following these methods and best practices, you can successfully add footnotes to your Google Slides presentations, enhancing their clarity, credibility, and overall impact. Remember to choose the method that best suits your needs and the context of your presentation.