Good presentations often stand out through appealing visualizations. One way to enhance your slides and pique the interest of your audience is through animations. Google Slides offers a variety of animation possibilities that you can use strategically to draw attention to specific elements of your slides. Let's explore the basics of animation in Google Slides together and learn how to use them effectively and purposefully.
Key Insights
- Animations are an important tool for making slides more dynamic.
- You can choose between different animation effects, such as flying in, fading out, or enlarging.
- Be sure to limit the number of animations per object to avoid distractions.
Step-by-Step Guide
To set up animations for your presentation in Google Slides, follow these simple steps:
1. Select Object and Add Animation
First, select the object you want to animate. This can be a text box, an image, or a shape. To add an animation, go to the menu and click on "Add animation." You can only add an animation if an object is selected.

2. Set Animation Type
After selecting the object, a bar with various animation options will appear. Here you can choose effects like "sudden appearance" or "slow fade-in." Select the desired effect and note that no animation will take place if you haven't selected an object.

3. Adjust Animation Timing
Now you can set when the animation should occur. Choose "on click," "after previous," or "with previous animation." These options determine whether the animation starts with a click or runs automatically.
4. Adjust Animation Speed
You can also adjust the speed of the animation. Click on the dropdown list and choose between "slow," "normal," or "fast." You can also set a custom time to tailor the animation to your preferences.
5. Create Combined Animations
A great way to combine multiple animations is to use sequences. For example, you can rotate first and then enlarge. Make sure the transitions are smooth; it's recommended not to use more than two animations per object to keep the presentation clear.
6. Review Animations
Before starting your presentation, test the animations. Click "Play" to see how the animations look in action. Ensure everything runs smoothly and avoid creating too many distractions for your audience.

Summary
Using animations in Google Slides can elevate your presentations to a new level. Be mindful of how you use animations to both captivate the audience and clearly convey information. Avoid using too many animations to maintain focus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best effects for animations in Google Slides?The best effects are those that support the content, such as "fade in" or "fade out."
How can I change the speed of the animations?You can adjust the speed from a dropdown menu and choose a custom time.
Is it possible to edit the animations after they are inserted?Yes, you can edit the animation settings at any time by selecting the object again and adjusting the animation settings.
Is there a mistake to avoid when using animations?Yes, using too many animations per object can be distracting and make the presentation cluttered.