How to Hide the Speaker Notes in Google Slides: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Michael Collins

Speaker notes in Google Slides can be super helpful when you’re presenting, but sometimes you don’t want the audience to see them. Hiding those notes is simple and can be done in just a few clicks. Let’s dive into how you can keep your notes to yourself while still delivering a knockout presentation.

Step by Step Tutorial to Hide Speaker Notes in Google Slides

Before we get into the steps, it’s important to understand what we’re aiming for. By following these instructions, you’ll remove the speaker notes from view when you’re presenting your Google Slides. This means your audience will only see the slides themselves, without any of your behind-the-scenes comments or prompts.

Step 1: Open your Google Slides presentation

Find the presentation you want to work on and open it up.

When you open your Google Slides presentation, you’ll be in the editing mode where you can see all your slides and notes. This is where you’ll start the process of hiding your speaker notes.

Step 2: Click on "View" in the menu bar

Look for the "View" option at the top of the screen and click on it.

The "View" menu is where you’ll find different options to customize how you see your presentation. It’s your gateway to a cleaner, note-free display.

Step 3: Deselect "Show speaker notes"

There should be a checkmark next to "Show speaker notes" if your notes are currently visible. Click on it to remove the checkmark.

By deselecting "Show speaker notes," you’re telling Google Slides that you don’t want your notes to be part of what’s visible on the screen. It’s like turning off a light switch for your notes.

After completing these steps, your speaker notes will be hidden from view. This means that when you present or share your screen, the notes won’t be seen by your audience. You’ll still be able to access them later if you need to by reversing the process.

Tips for Hiding Speaker Notes in Google Slides

  • If you’re using dual monitors, you can display the presenter view on one screen (with notes) while showing the audience the full-screen slides on the other.
  • Remember to proofread your slides as notes are often used for last-minute additions or corrections.
  • Practice your presentation without relying on notes, in case you need to present without them.
  • Consider using the speaker notes section to jot down keywords instead of full sentences so they’re less noticeable if accidentally displayed.
  • Use the "Hide speaker notes" option as a way to test your knowledge of the presentation’s content.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I view my speaker notes again after hiding them?

To view your notes again, simply go back to the "View" menu, and click on "Show speaker notes" to bring them back.

Can I hide the speaker notes when I’m in the middle of presenting?

Yes, you can hide your notes during a presentation by accessing the "View" menu, but it’s easier to do it before you start presenting.

Will hiding my speaker notes affect how I share my presentation with others?

Hiding your speaker notes will not affect sharing settings. Your notes will remain hidden only in your view unless you choose to show them again.

What happens if I need to see my notes during a presentation?

If you need to see your notes, you can quickly bring them back by selecting "Show speaker notes" from the "View" menu.

Is there a keyboard shortcut to hide speaker notes in Google Slides?

There isn’t a direct keyboard shortcut, but you can use "Alt" + "V" to open the "View" menu quickly, then press "N" to toggle the notes.

Summary

  1. Open your Google Slides presentation.
  2. Click on "View" in the menu bar.
  3. Deselect "Show speaker notes."

Conclusion

Mastering the art of presenting is as much about what your audience sees as it is about what they don’t see. Speaker notes in Google Slides are a great way to keep yourself on track, but knowing how to hide them can make the difference between a good presentation and a great one. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your audience’s focus remains squarely on your slides, allowing your message to shine through.

Whether you’re a teacher, a business professional, or just someone looking to improve their presentation skills, understanding the ins and outs of Google Slides can be incredibly beneficial. From customizing your slides to perfecting your delivery, there’s always something new to learn. And when it comes to hiding those handy speaker notes, you now have the knowledge to do it with confidence.

Remember, the key is to keep practicing and exploring all the features that Google Slides has to offer. With a little effort and creativity, you’ll be wowing audiences in no time. So go ahead, give it a try, and see how much more impactful your presentations can be without those speaker notes in view.