The New Google Slides Sidebar

Google Slides is a widely used tool by many teachers and students. Recently, many have moved to Canva to take advantage of the variety of templates and stock content that is more easily accessible. However, some find Canva to be a bit overwhelming with too many options and tools. The latest Google Slides update brings some of the great features seen in Canva into the more user-friendly Google Slides interface! Check it out!

The new "Sidebar" in Google slides can be found on the right side of any presentation:

In it, you will find slide templates, "building blocks", stock content, and quick access to files from Drive.

Templates will give you some pre-formatted presentations that include a variety of images and slide layouts. This goes beyond the standard Google Slides "themes" and actually includes sample content:

Building Blocks gives you access to different pieces that can be inserted into any presentation - this includes things like statistics, quotes, call-outs, and badges:

Stock Content lets you search and browse to quickly add things like images, gifs, and stickers:

And finally, Drive gives you quick access to any images you have saved in your own Google Drive!

If you or your students struggle with Canva or simply prefer Google Slides, it is now much easier to create professional-looking presentations quickly!