How to Add Slide Numbers in Google Slides: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding slide numbers to your Google Slides presentation can enhance its professionalism and make it easier for your audience to follow along. Whether you're preparing a business presentation, an academic lecture, or a creative project, numbering your slides helps in keeping track of the sequence and provides a polished touch. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to add slide numbers in Google Slides.

Step 1: Open Your Presentation

Begin by opening your Google Slides presentation where you want to add slide numbers. Make sure you're signed into your Google account and have access to the presentation.

Step 2: Access the Slide Master

To add slide numbers to all slides in your presentation, you'll need to use the Slide Master. This tool allows you to make changes that affect the entire presentation. Follow these steps:

1. Click on Slide in the top menu.
2. Select Edit master from the dropdown menu. This will open the Slide Master view.

Step 3: Insert Slide Numbers

Once you’re in the Slide Master view, you can insert slide numbers:

1. Select the master slide (the top slide in the list). Changes made here will apply to all slides.
2. Click on Insert in the top menu.
3. Choose Slide numbers from the dropdown menu.

Step 4: Customize the Slide Number Placement

You can adjust the placement and formatting of the slide numbers:

1. Click on the slide number box that appears on the master slide.
2. Drag it to your desired location. Typically, slide numbers are placed in a corner, either at the bottom right or bottom left.
3. Use the formatting options in the toolbar to change the font size, color, or style if needed.

Step 5: Apply and Close the Slide Master

After positioning and formatting the slide numbers:

1. Click on the X button or Close master to exit the Slide Master view.
2. Your slide numbers should now be visible on all slides in your presentation.

FAQ

Q1: Can I add slide numbers to only specific slides?

A1: Unfortunately, Google Slides does not support adding slide numbers to specific slides via the Slide Master. If you need different numbering on some slides, you’ll need to manually add text boxes with numbers to those slides.

Q2: How do I remove slide numbers from my presentation?

A2: To remove slide numbers, return to the Slide Master view, select the master slide, click on the slide number box, and delete it. This action will remove slide numbers from all slides in your presentation.

Q3: Can I format slide numbers differently from the rest of the text on the slides?

A3: Yes, you can format the slide numbers separately. In the Slide Master view, click on the slide number box and use the formatting options in the toolbar to adjust the font size, style, and color to suit your presentation’s design.

Q4: How can I add custom text or page numbers instead of automatic slide numbers?

A4: In the Slide Master view, you can insert a text box by clicking Insert and selecting Text box. Type in your custom text or numbers and format them as desired. However, remember that this method will require manual adjustments if you add or remove slides.