How to Insert a PDF in Google Slides: Quick Methods for 2025
Inserting a PDF into Google Slides isn’t supported directly, but there are simple tricks to do so. In this guide, I’ll show how to insert a PDF in Google Slides via the quickest and most effective ways to add a PDF to your presentation. So, let’s start our discussion!
Can I Directly Open PDF in Google Slides?
Let me clarify first, Google Slides doesn’t support PDF upload as a single object. But don’t worry! You can use one of the following options depending on your needs:
- Insert a clickable link to the PDF
- Convert PDF pages into images
- Automated solution
- Use Google Drive preview features
And I’ll explain each one below with proper step-by-step instructions!
How to Insert a PDF in Google Slides?
Here are the four practical solutions which I found to open PDF in Google Slides effortlessly and quickly, i.e.
#Method 1. Insert PDF as Clickable Link
This is the fastest and easiest way when I need a file just for reference. Here are the steps for the same:
- Upload the PDF to Google Drive
- Right-click the file > Get link
- Choose Anyone with the link
- Copy the link
- In Google Slides > Click Insert > Link
- Paste the PDF link
- Optionally, add a preview image
#Method 2. Open PDF in Google Slides as Images
If you want the PDF visually displayed inside a slide, convert each page into an image. To do so:
- Open the PDF on the computer
- Take a screenshot
- Save the image
- In Google Slides > Insert > Image
- Upload the screenshot
- Resize and position it as needed
#Method 3. How to Insert a PDF in Google Slides Automatically
Instead of manually taking screenshots, I prefer using tools that convert a PDF into a format Google Slides can handle instantly. One of the most efficient tools I use is Magicslides AI Presentation Maker, which can directly import a PDF and convert it into a complete PowerPoint or Google Slides presentation.
So, once the presentation is generated, directly open it in Google Slides with just one click.
Sign in now for free, and follow the steps to open PDF in Google Slides:
- Open the solution.
- Upload or import the PDF document
- Let the tool automatically convert each PDF page into a clean PPT slide
- When everything is done, export it directly to Google Slides.
#Method 4. Embed PDF Using Google Drive Preview
While Google Slides doesn’t directly embed PDFs, you can still:
- Upload PDF to Google Drive
- Open PDF > copy the address from the browser
- In Slides, insert a screenshot of the PDF cover
- Right-click screenshot > Insert link
- Paste the Drive preview link
Also read: How to convert PPT to Google Slides
Author’s Verdict
Even though Google Slides doesn’t support PDFs directly, I’ve found these methods reliable to answer, i.e. how to insert a PDF in Google Slides. So, opt for any which suits your needs best, and directly open PDF in Google Slides without any external help.
People Also Ask
Q1. How do I insert a PDF without converting it to images?
Upload the PDF to Google Drive and insert a link in the slide.
Q2. How to keep PDF pages clear and sharp?
Convert them into high-quality PNG or JPG files using an online converter.
Q3. Others cannot access my PDF file link. What should I do?
Change Drive permissions to Anyone with the link.
Q4. Can I edit a PDF in Google Slides?
Only after converting the PDF into a PowerPoint file first.
Q5. Can I insert multiple PDF pages quickly?
Yes. You can convert the entire PDF into images and drag them into Slides.
Share on socials
About the author
Mehjabi Khan— Technical Writer & Sheets Automation Specialist
Mehjabi Khan is one of our talented technical writers with a background in creating spreadsheet solutions for major companies like Mahindra and Suzuki. She specializes in Google Sheets automation, custom functions, and workflow optimization. Her clear, step-by-step tutorials make complex spreadsheet concepts accessible to everyone.
More from the blog