Google Slides Chapter 2: Styles and Appearance
- Daniel LaGrow
Instructions
Section 2.1: Color Contrast
When typing in text you want to consider the color contrast between the text and the background. For small text (under size 18), a good contrast ratio to aim for is 4.5:1 or higher. For bigger text (over size 18) a good contrast ratio is 3:1 or higher. Black text on a white background or 21:1 is considered to be the most accessible contrast ratio. If you create a bullet list, the points need to have a contrast ratio above 3:1. Backgrounds with crazy features or patterns should be avoided at all costs. Fortunately, Google Docs does not have any slide themes that are not accessible. To check if your color contrast ratio is sufficient, you should use Adobe’s Color Contrast Analyzer tool.
This slide above has a contrast ratio of 1.16 : 1. This is very low and hardly visible to most readers.
This slide above has a contrast ratio of 21 : 1.
This shopping list has grey bullet points and is hard to see.
Section 2.2: Using Color to Convey Meaning
If you are going to use color to convey information, always include a text alternative. Color alone is not enough to show off information. For example, color blind users or people with low vision looking at a chart may not be able to read the data or struggle to differentiate the data sections.
After your pie chart is finished, you need to provide an alt text for the chart. To do this, right click on the chart. The Format Options Menu will appear to the right of the screen. Click on the Alt Text dropdown menu and type in your alt text.
Section 2.3: Transitions and Animations
As cool as transitions and animations can make your presentation, it is best to use them conservatively. Many transitions and animations are time consuming, distracting, and most importantly could overwhelm viewers.
For transitions, it is best to not use them at all. Fortunately, this is the default setting in Google Slides.
For animations, the rules are a little more lenient. The best effect to use is the “appear” effect. This effect will just make your words appear on the presentation. To use this animation,
Highlight you text you want animated and go to the Insert Tab.
Select Animation. The Motion panel will appear on the right side of the screen. By default, the Appear animation is being used.
Section 2.4: Can I use Flashing and Blinking Images or GIFs?
As a general rule, you should avoid any flashing or blinking images. Flashing, blinking, or flickering content can trigger epileptic seizures. If you do have flashing or blinking images, be sure they do not flash more than 3 times per second. For animations, do not use any flashing or flickering animations. Just use the simple “Appear” animation.