Adding narration to your PowerPoint slides can transform a static presentation into an engaging, standalone video or training module. But what if you don't have a professional microphone, a quiet recording studio, or simply hate the sound of your own voice? Text to Speech (TTS) is the perfect solution.
Why Use Text to Speech for PowerPoint?
Using AI-generated voiceovers offers several advantages over recording yourself:
- Consistency: Maintain the same tone, volume, and quality across all slides, even if you edit them weeks later.
- Clarity: AI voices are designed for perfect enunciation, ensuring your message is understood by everyone, including non-native speakers.
- Speed: No need for multiple takes. Simply type your script, generate the audio, and you're done.
- Flexibility: Easily update your narration by changing the text, rather than re-recording audio segments.
Step-by-Step Guide: Adding TTS Voiceover
Step 1: Write Your Script
Start by writing the narration script for each slide in the "Notes" section of PowerPoint. Keep it conversational and concise. Remember, the audience can read the slides; your voiceover should add value, not just repeat the text on screen.
Step 2: Generate Audio with FreeReadText
Copy your script for the first slide and paste it into FreeReadText. Choose a voice that matches your presentation's tone (e.g., professional for business, cheerful for education). Click "Convert" and download the MP3 file.
Step 3: Insert Audio into PowerPoint
In PowerPoint, go to the slide you want to narrate. Click Insert > Audio > Audio on My PC. Select the MP3 file you just downloaded.
Step 4: Configure Playback Settings
With the audio icon selected, go to the Playback tab. Check "Hide During Show" to make the icon invisible during the presentation. Set "Start" to "Automatically" if you want the narration to begin as soon as the slide appears.
Pro Tips for Professional Presentations
Match Voice to Content
Select a voice that fits your topic. A deep, authoritative voice works well for corporate reports, while a higher-pitched, energetic voice is great for marketing pitches or children's educational content.
Use Pauses Effectively
Don't rush. Use punctuation in your script to create natural pauses. You can also insert silence in the audio editor or split your script into smaller chunks to control the pacing between bullet points.
Export as Video
Once you've added narration to all slides, you can export your entire presentation as an MP4 video. Go to File > Export > Create a Video. This is perfect for sharing on YouTube, LinkedIn, or learning management systems.
Start Creating Narrated Presentations Today
Ready to elevate your PowerPoint slides? Use FreeReadText to generate high-quality, natural-sounding voiceovers in minutes.
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