Southern New Hampshire University

Turning on Subtitles in PowerPoint (macOS)

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Enhancing Accessibility with Microsoft Subtitle Feature

Using the Microsoft Subtitle feature during presentations is a powerful way to make your content more inclusive and accessible. This tool provides real-time captions of spoken words, which can significantly benefit audience members who are deaf or hard of hearing, allowing them to follow along without missing key information. It also supports individuals with different learning abilities by offering visual reinforcement of the spoken content, helping with comprehension and retention.

Additionally, this feature can automatically translate speech into multiple languages, making it easier for participants who are non-native speakers to understand the presentation. By incorporating subtitles, presenters can foster a more engaging and supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to learn and participate effectively.

Enabling and Customizing Live Subtitles in PowerPoint Presentations

  1. Go to the “Slide Show” tab in the PowerPoint ribbon.
The home ribbon with the "Slide Show" button boxed in.
  1. Check the box labeled “Always Use Subtitles” to enable subtitles for your presentation.
The setting "Always Use Subtitles" selected.
  1. Customize settings under “Subtitle Settings” to suit your needs:
The "Subtitle Settings" drop down menu.
  • Spoken Language:

    Click the dropdown arrow to select the language you will be speaking during the presentation. Choose the language that best matches your speech.

The drop-down menu of "Subtitle Settings" with "Spoken Language"menu boxed in.
All languages that can be chosen for the speaker to use.
  • Subtitle Language:

    Click the dropdown arrow to select the language you want the subtitles to appear in. A wide range of languages is available for translation.

The drop-down menu from selecting "Subtitle Settings" with the "Subtitle Langauge" menu boxed in.
All of the languages that can be selected for the subtitles.
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