How to Insert Equation in Google Slides: A Complete Guide

If you’ve ever tried adding equations to a Google Slides presentation, you know the challenge. There’s no built-in equation editor here like in Google Docs! But don’t worry; we’re here to guide you on how to effortlessly add equations to your slides. Whether you’re creating a math lesson, a scientific presentation, or a business report, inserting equations doesn’t have to be a hassle. With just a few tricks, you’ll make your slides look polished and professional, keeping them aligned with your presentation’s style.

Let’s dive into the best five ways to add equations and mathematical symbols to your slides without disrupting the flow of your presentation!

Method 1: Use Google Docs Equation Editor and Paste

Google Docs has a convenient built-in equation editor, which makes it easy to write equations, even complex ones. While Google Slides doesn’t have this feature, you can use Google Docs to create the equations and then paste them into your presentation.

Here’s how:

1. Open a new Google Doc.
2. Go to “Insert” > “Equation” to access the equation editor.
3. Type in your equation using the equation toolbar.
4. Once you’re done, select the equation, and copy it (Ctrl+C or Command+C).
5. Go to your Google Slides presentation and paste the equation onto your slide.

While this method doesn’t let you edit the equation directly in Google Slides, it’s quick, clean, and works well for presentations where adjustments aren’t needed after the paste.

Method 2: Use Google Drawings for Customizable Equations

If you want more flexibility with the design of your equations, Google Drawings can be a great workaround. With Google Drawings, you can add equations, customize them with colors, shapes, and sizes, and then import them as images into slides.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Open Google Drawings from your Google Drive.
2. Insert the equation using text boxes, shapes, or the equation tools.
3. Once it looks perfect, go to “File” > “Download” and select “PNG” to save it as an image.
4. In Google Slides, go to “Insert” > “Image” and upload the PNG file you just created.

This method provides extra flexibility if you want to match the equation’s style with your theme or add a bit of flair to your presentation.

Method 3: Use Add-ons for Easy Equation Formatting

There are a few third-party add-ons and extensions that allow you to insert equations directly into Google Slides. These add-ons can save time and simplify the process if you need to use equations regularly.

Popular add-ons for inserting equations:

• MathType: A versatile equation editor that integrates with Google Slides and offers a variety of symbols and formats.
• Auto-LaTeX Equations: Converts LaTeX code into images you can easily place into your slides, great for anyone familiar with LaTeX.

To install these add-ons:

• Open Google Slides and go to “Extensions” > “Add-ons” > “Get add-ons.”

• Search for the add-on you want, install it, and follow the prompts to enable it in your presentation.

These add-ons offer a quick way to add equations with minimal formatting effort, helping you maintain consistency in your presentation.

Method 4: Screenshot Your Equations from Other Tools

If you use an external math editor, like MathType, LaTeX, or even Microsoft Word, you can quickly screenshot the equation and insert it into your slide. This approach is often the fastest for those who already have access to these tools.

Steps for using screenshots:

1. Create your equation in a math editor.
2. Take a screenshot of the equation.
3. Go to “Insert” > “Image” in Google Slides and upload your screenshot.

Be sure to resize the screenshot to ensure it fits naturally within your slide layout and theme.

Method 5: Insert Equations as Text with Special Characters

For basic equations or symbols, you can use Google Slides’ special character feature. While this doesn’t allow complex equations, it works well for simple ones.

How to do it:

1. Go to “Insert” > “Special characters.”
2. Browse for mathematical symbols or enter keywords like “divide” or “integral” to find relevant symbols.
3. Select the symbol, and it will appear in the text box on your slide.

This method works well if your presentation requires only simple math symbols or a few characters.

Final Thoughts

Adding equations to Google Slides may take a few extra steps, but it’s entirely possible with the right tricks. Whether you prefer using Google Docs, Google Drawings, add-ons, or external tools, each method has its unique benefits. With these options, you can make your presentations more engaging and tailored to your Google Slides themes without compromising on content quality. Happy presenting!