Insert Equations in Google Slides - Quick Way

Mehjabi Khan

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Sanskar Tiwari

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Sanskar Tiwari

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7 min read

Learn how to insert equations in Google Slides using five different methods. Read the full article and insert equations in Google Slides quickly.

How to Insert Equations in Google Slides (Simple, Working Solutions)

Google Slides does not have a built-in equation editor. That is the problem most users run into immediately.
The solution for this is simple: create equations using Google Docs, images, or equation tools. After this, insert them into your slides.
If your equations already exist in notes, PDFs, or documents, MagicSlides.app can help with the conversion. This saves you time and manual effort.
In this guide, I will be explaining the most practical and reliable ways in which you can insert equations into Google Slides.
Let us get into it!

Method 1: Insert Equations Using Google Docs

Google Docs includes a full equation editor. This makes it the most reliable way to create mathematical formulas for Google Slides.
You can write equations in Google Docs and then copy and paste them into your slides. When you paste, equations retain their formatting and appear clean and professional.

Why does this method work?

  • Supports complex equations
  • No requirement for third-party tools
  • A Google interface that is familiar
Once you add it to Google Slides, equations behave like images, so they won’t break your layout during the presentation.
Best for: Math, science, engineering, and academic presentations.

Method 2: Insert Equations as Images

Another method that you can depend on is inserting equations as images.
In this way, you can generate equation editors or online tools.
You can then export them as images and upload them directly into Google Slides.
This ensures the equation looks exactly the way you want it.

Pros

  • Perfect formatting
  • Works with very complex equations
  • Easy to resize
  • Easy to position

Cons

  • Equations are not editable
  • Text cannot be selected
Best for: Advanced formulas or finalized equations.

Method 3: Use Special Characters for Simple Equations

For basic math expressions, Google Slides allows you to insert characters like symbols, Greek letters, and operators.
This method works when you only need simple formulas, such as short expressions or symbols.

Limitations

  • No fractions, matrices, or integrals
  • When there is manual formatting required
Best for: Simple equations or quick annotations.

Method 4: Use Add-Ons to Insert Equations Faster

Google Slides does support add-ons that allow you to type equations. After this, you can insert them into slides.
These tools speed up the process and reduce switching between apps.
But most still insert equations as images.

When add-ons make sense:

  • When you insert equations frequently
  • If you want faster input
  • If you prefer LaTeX-style typing
Best for: Teachers, students, and technical presenters.

Method 5: Convert Existing Content with Equations into Slides Automatically

If your equations already exist in PDFs, documents, or notes, manually inserting them one by one can be too slow.
Now, this is where MagicSlides becomes useful.

How MagicSlides Can Help You?

MagicSlides, an AI-powered presentation maker, helps you convert content into presentation-ready Google Slides. All of this automatically.
notion image
Instead of you having to rebuild the slides manually, the tool organizes content into clean layouts that are easy to edit and to present.

Key advantages

  • This saves time on your work
  • Keeps your slides consistent
  • Ideal for long content
  • Ideal for equation-heavy content
Best for: Educators, professionals, and frequent presenters.

Best Practices for Using Equations in Google Slides

To keep your slides clear and readable:
  • Use Large Fonts
  • Equations should be readable from a distance.
  • Limit One Equation per Slide
  • Crowded slides reduce understanding.
  • Align Properly
  • Centered and well-spaced equations look more professional.
  • Preview Before Presenting
  • Always check clarity in presentation mode.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Them

  • Blurry equations:
    • For this, avoid excessive resizing of image-based equations.
  • Inconsistent fonts:
    • Make sure to stick to one method throughout the presentation.
  • Editing problems:
    • Keep the original equation source saved in case changes are needed.

Conclusion

Google Slides may not include an equation editor. But inserting equations is straightforward once you know the right approach. Whether you copy equations from Google Docs, insert them as images, use add-ons, or convert existing content automatically, each method works well when used correctly.
For equation-heavy presentations or any other document, MagicSlides helps reduce manual work and keep presentations clean, structured, and presentation-ready.

FAQs

Q1. Can I directly type equations in Google Slides?
No. Google Slides does not support direct equation typing.
Q2. Are the inserted equations editable?
Most equations are inserted as images and are not directly editable.
Q3. What’s the easiest method for beginners?
Using Google Docs and copying equations into Slides.
Q4. Can MagicSlides handle equations?
Yes. MagicSlides can convert content that includes equations into Google Slides automatically.

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About the author

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Mehjabi KhanTechnical 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.

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