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How to Insert a GIF into Google Slides

February 19, 2024 1.0K views

Google Slides is an impressive presentation tool that not only facilitates collaboration but also comes equipped with creative features to help you push the boundaries of your imagination. One exciting way to elevate your presentations is by incorporating GIFs, injecting a dynamic and lively element into your slides. While Google Slides might have a slight learning curve that could pose initial challenges, this article is here to guide you through the process of how to insert a GIF into Google Slides to make your slides come to life.

How to use the URL method to insert a GIF into Google Slides?

Teachers often rely on slides to effectively communicate course concepts. And a proficient educator ensures student engagement and fosters a keen interest in learning.  By learning how to put a GIF in Google Slides, you can add a dynamic and interactive layer to your teaching materials. Follow this step-by-step guide to master the URL method for incorporating GIFs. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also enriches the learning experience, ensuring your lessons are both captivating and impactful.

Step 1: Open the Google Slides presentation where you wish to incorporate a GIF.

Google Slides Interface


Step 2: Navigate to a reputable GIF website or search engine to locate the ideal GIF for your presentation. Here, we chose to import GIF from giphy.com by searching a keyword for the type of GIF that is required.

GIPHY Homepage


Step 3: Hover over the GIF you wish to add, and you will see a link icon. Click on it and copy the link to your clipboard. Alternatively, some sites do not provide this option. In such cases, right-click and select "Copy Image Address" from the context menu.

Copy GIF Link


Step 4: To insert the GIF, click on the slide where you want the GIF and then visit the Insert menu.

Step 5: Here, click on Image and then select "By URL" in the flyout menu.

Google Slides Paste GIF using URL


Step 6: You will encounter the Insert Image window, where you should paste the GIF link copied from the website using CTRL + V.

Google Slides insert URL


Step 7: After copying the link, a preview of the GIF will appear. Click on "Insert Image", and the GIF will be pasted on to your selected slide.

Google Slides GIF Preview


Step 8: Customize the placement and size of your GIF as needed for your presentation using your cursor. You can also employ the same functions to replicate the GIF across multiple slides if required.

Google Slides GIF customization

How to use the Computer method to Insert a GIF into Google Slides?

The computer method is relatively easy as well. Just follow these steps to learn how to insert a GIF into Google Slides.

Step 1: Launch your web browser and search for the desired GIF within the images section.

Google GIF


Note: To identify whether the image is a GIF or not, check the bottom left where it should display "GIF".

Step 2: Click on the image you wish to add to open its preview. Then, right-click to open the context menu. Right-click on the chosen image and select "Save image as..." to download it onto your computer, ensuring it is saved in either .JIF or .GIF format.

Google How to Save a GIF


Step 3: Open your Google Slides file where you intend to incorporate the GIF. Navigate to the "Insert" tab, then select "Image", followed by "Upload from computer".

Google Docs upload from computer


Step 4: A pop-up window will appear on your computer screen, allowing you to locate and open the saved GIF file.

Step 5: Refine the GIF's placement and adjust its position as needed within your document.

Google Docs How to Insert a GIF using computer


How to use the Customized GIFs method to Insert a GIF into Google Slides?

Google Slides offers an integrated tool allowing you to import GIFs directly from its library, accessible free of charge. Follow these steps to learn how to seamlessly incorporate GIFs into your presentations.

Step 1: On Google Slides, access the "Insert" option at the top. Navigate to "Images" and then select "GIFs and Stickers".

Google Slides Insert Images, GIFs, Stickers


Step 2: A dedicated section will appear on the right side. Enter relevant keywords that align with your desired GIF, enabling you to search and choose the most suitable one.

Google Slides free GIFs and stickers


Step 3: Once you've selected the ideal GIF, proceed to the bottom of the section and click "Insert" to seamlessly integrate it into your presentation.

Google Slides insert GIFs and stickers


Step 4: Fine-tune the size and position of the GIF according to your preferences, ensuring a polished and professional appearance.

Google Slides customizing a GIF


How to edit a GIF in Google Slides?

You can effortlessly customize the appearance of your GIFs by editing them according to your preferences. Explore a variety of options available for you to enhance and tailor your GIFs to your liking.

Crop a GIF

Step 1: Double-click on your GIF to initiate the cropping process.

Google Slides Crop options


Step 2: Drag the black tabs to achieve the desired size for your GIF. Ensure that you are manipulating the black tabs and not the blue nodes, as the latter will alter the overall size of your GIF.

Google Slides GIF size


Step 3: Press Enter to confirm and complete the cropping of the GIF. If, by mistake, you adjust the blue nodes, use the Undo button (or Ctrl + Z on your keyboard) to revert the changes and retry the cropping process.

Google Slides crop GIF


Crop to shape

Step 1: Click on the arrow located next to the Crop icon.

Google Slides Crop to shape option


Step 2: Select "Shape" from the dropdown menu, then choose the desired shape from the available options. A variety of shapes, arrows, and callout designs are at your disposal.

Google Slides Shapes


Step 3: To ensure your GIF maintains its proportions and avoids distortion during cropping, navigate to the Format menu.

Google Slides Format Options


Step 4: Scroll down to Format options, and click on the Size & Position box. Verify that the width and height are equal to maintain the integrity of your GIF's proportions.

Google Slides Format Tab


Add Border To GIF

Step 1: Highlight your GIF by selecting it.

Google Slides border icon


Step 2: Navigate to the menu bar and locate the Border color icon, represented by the pencil icon. Click on it to choose the preferred color for the border surrounding your GIF.

Google Slides border color


Step 3: Adjust the thickness of the border according to your preferences. Click on the Border weight icon, then select the desired weight—either thinner or thicker—to achieve the desired visual effect.

Google Slides GIF Border Weight

Format GIF

Step 1: Click on your GIF to select it.

Google Slides Format GIF

Step 2: In the toolbar, locate and click on "Format options". This action will open the Format options bar.

Google Slides Format Options

Step 3: Within the Format options bar, under the "Rotate" section, choose your desired rotation angle or opt to flip your GIF horizontally or vertically.

Google Slides GIF Rotation

Step 4: Navigate to the "Recolour" section in the Format options bar. Scroll down to explore color options and modify the GIF's color to align with your presentation theme.

Google Slides GIF Recolour

Step 5: Lastly, under "Adjustments" in the Format options bar, customize the brightness, transparency, or contrast of your GIF to enhance its visual impact within your presentation.

Google Slides GIF adjustments

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WPS Presentation

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WPS Office Download

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WPS Office Install now

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WPS Office interface

How to Insert a GIF into Powerpoint in WPS Office

WPS Office has a powerful presentation tool that not only facilitates the exploration of your creativity but also aids in crafting impactful presentations. With WPS Office, incorporating GIFs into your slides enhances the overall visual appeal, allowing you to create a presentation of magnificent quality.

Step 1: Open WPS Presentation and select the specific slide where you wish to insert a GIF.

WPS Office open Presentation

Step 2: Head to the Insert tab and click on the “Picture” button.

WPS Office Insert Picture

Step 3: In the Picture dropdown menu, select "From File" to choose a GIF from your computer.

WPS Office Insert picture from computer

Step 4: Browse your computer and open the downloaded GIF.

Step 5: The GIF will be added to your slide. Now, you can reposition and adjust its size to achieve the best look on your slide.

WPS Office insert GIF in PowerPoint Presentation

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FAQs About Inserting A GIF Into Google Slides

Q1. How To Make A GIF File The Background For A Slide?

Step 1: Right-click on the slide in Google Slides where you want to set the GIF file as the background.

Step 2: Select "Change background" from the options.

Step 3: Click the "Choose image" button to initiate the background change.

Step 4: Browse for the GIF file you want to use, or simply drag the file onto the tab.

Step 5: Once the GIF is selected, click the "Done" button to confirm and set it as the background.

Q2. How to add Animated Stickers to Google Slides?

Step 1: Create a new presentation or open an existing presentation in Google Slides.

Step 2: Navigate to the top menu and select "Insert".

Step 3: Choose "Image" from the dropdown menu.

Step 4: In the submenu, select "GIFs and stickers".

Step 5: Use the search bar to find GIFs and/or stickers relevant to your presentation.

Step 6: Click on one or several GIFs to insert them into your slides.

Q3. Why does my GIF not work In Google Slides?

When you copy and paste a GIF directly from a website into Google Slides, the animation may be lost. To ensure the GIF remains animated, it is recommended to follow the instructions above and either insert it via URL or upload it from your computer. Additional reasons for GIFs not working in Google Slides may include:

  • File Size: Large GIF files may not load properly or may experience delays. Opt for smaller file sizes or consider compressing the GIF.

  • Browser Compatibility: Different browsers may handle GIFs differently. Ensure you are using a compatible browser, such as Google Chrome, for optimal performance.

  • Google Slides Version: Check if you are using the latest version of Google Slides, as older versions may have limitations or issues with certain features, including animated GIF playback.

  • Network Issues: Slow or unstable internet connections can hinder the loading of GIFs. Download the GIF and insert it directly into your presentation to avoid dependency on external links.

  • GIF Complexity: Some intricate or highly animated GIFs may not render well in Google Slides. Consider simplifying the GIF or using a different one.

Get Creative With WPS Office

GIFs, often recognized as a delightful innovation, and as you learn how to insert a gif into google slides, you would realize that they extend beyond just entertainment in presentations. While they indeed inject fun and interactivity, their utility transcends, adding a touch of professionalism and unlocking a world of creative possibilities. WPS Office, known for its robust presentation tools, not only facilitates the integration of GIFs but acts as a catalyst for elevating the overall quality and creativity of your presentations. Elevate your presentations and download WPS Office today to embark on a journey of enhanced creativity and professional excellence.


15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.