Overview
This lecture explains three main methods to add voiceovers to Microsoft PowerPoint presentations, including using PowerPoint's built-in tools and external audio editing software.
Setting Up PowerPoint for Voiceovers
- Access all recording tools by right-clicking the ribbon, choosing "Customize the Ribbon," and checking the "Recording" tab.
- The "Recording" tab consolidates audio and video recording tools into one place for easier access.
Method 1: Simple Audio Insertion
- Select the desired slide, go to the Recording tab, and choose "Insert Audio."
- You can insert pre-recorded audio or record new sound directly in PowerPoint.
- After recording, you can name, preview, re-record, and insert the audio clip.
- The inserted audio appears as a speaker icon on the slide with playback controls.
- Use the Audio Format tab to customize the icon's appearance.
- The Playback tab allows you to trim the audio, add bookmarks, set fade in/out, and choose how the audio plays (on click, automatically, or when icon is clicked).
Method 2: Record Slideshow
- Use the "Record Slideshow" option in the Recording tab to narrate slides.
- Recording view allows you to record audio (and optional video), pause, and use annotation tools (e.g., laser pointer, drawing).
- Each slide gets its own audio file, so moving slides does not affect the recordings.
- You can re-record audio for individual slides without affecting others.
- Default settings use recorded slide timings and automatically play narrations, adjustable in the Slideshow tab.
Method 3: Using Audacity for Advanced Editing
- Audacity is a free audio editor that allows you to record and edit audio clips before importing them into PowerPoint.
- Record audio in Audacity, delete unwanted parts, and export the clip as MP3 or WAV.
- Import the edited audio in PowerPoint using "Insert Audio from PC."
- Edits made in Audacity are preserved when played in PowerPoint.
Presentation Distribution Options
- Save the presentation as a PowerPoint Show to launch directly in slideshow mode.
- Export the presentation as a video (MP4) to include voiceovers and slide transitions.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Voiceover — Recorded audio narration synchronized with presentation slides.
- Recording Tab — PowerPoint ribbon section that groups all recording and audio tools.
- Trim Audio — Edit the start or end of an audio clip to remove unwanted silence or mistakes.
- Bookmarks (in audio) — Markers in an audio clip for quick navigation.
- Audacity — Free, open-source audio recording and editing software.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice adding and customizing voiceovers using all three methods.
- Download and install Audacity for advanced audio editing, if needed.
- Try exporting a PowerPoint file with voiceovers both as a Show and as a video.