Designing presentations in Google Slides can be significantly enhanced by using shapes. With the various customization and formatting options for shapes, you can create impressive visual accents and structure your content more clearly. This guide shows you step by step how to insert and customize shapes in Google Slides.
Main Insights
- Google Slides offers numerous options for inserting and formatting shapes.
- You can proportionally or freely change shapes.
- It is possible to customize colors, line styles, and gradients for shapes.
- Additional adjustments, such as adding text to shapes, are easily achievable.
Selecting and Inserting Shapes
To insert a shape in Google Slides, you have two options. You can either use the corresponding button in the top toolbar or navigate through the menu.
First, open Google Slides and look for the toolbar in the top menu. Click on "Shapes".

Alternatively, you can also choose the shape through the "Insert" menu. Go to "Insert" and then "Shapes". You will have several options to choose from. Now you can select the desired shape.

Customizing Shapes
After selecting the shape, drag it to the desired size in your presentation. Make sure to hold down the "Shift" key if you want to maintain the shape's proportions. This will prevent the shape from being distorted.
Once the shape is placed, you can customize it. By simply clicking on the shape, you can change the formatting options for colors and outline. For example, you can make the shape transparent, color it red, or add a black outline. The line thickness can also be increased to up to four points.

Line Styles and Gradients
An interesting aspect of shapes is the ability to choose different line styles. You can choose between solid, dashed, or dotted lines, adding additional visual dynamics to your presentation.

Another important point is customizing gradients. You can change the fill color to "Gradient" and select different color tones. For example, you can create a gray gradient or use creative combinations of other colors.

To add a gradient stop, click on "Add" and choose a color. This allows you to dynamically adjust not only the colors but also the position of the gradients.

Inserting Text into Shapes
If you want to integrate text into your shapes, right-click on the shape and select "Insert Text". You can then add the desired text and adjust the font and size. This allows you to effectively present mathematical equations or specific information, for example.
Additionally, you can change the text color to ensure it is legible and complements the overall aesthetic of your presentation.

Conclusion
Inserting and customizing shapes in Google Slides is a simple and effective way to make your presentations more appealing. With a variety of options for colors, line styles, and text, you can create impressive visual elements that emphasize your message.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I insert shapes in Google Slides?You can choose shapes through the toolbar or the "Insert" menu.
Can I maintain the proportions of a shape?Yes, hold down the "Shift" key while dragging the shape.
How do I change the colors of a shape?Click on the shape and select the desired colors from the formatting options.
Can I use gradients for my shapes?Yes, you can select and customize gradients to give your shape a unique look.
How do I insert text into a shape?Right-click on the shape and select "Insert Text" to add text.