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Text to speech in Powerpoint

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Learn everything you need to know about text to speech in PowerPoint.

Text-to-speech software or commonly also known as TTS or read aloud, has become increasingly popular and useful. This software is used to convert text into spoken words, making it easier for people to understand the content of a presentation. Why utilize this software? Microsoft PowerPoint can be vital to a business’s success. It's a great tool for creating visuals and making presentations, promoting the transmission of complex ideas, and it helps people save time and remain engaged with the audience. A text-to-speech function in Microsoft PowerPoint can be a great functionality.

Text to Speech Software and its Benefits

Text-to-speech (TTS) software has revolutionized the way people consume written content, converting printed text into spoken words with just the click of a button. Whether it’s for individuals with reading difficulties, language learners, or busy professionals, TTS software offers several compelling benefits. Here's a look:

  1. Accessibility Enhancement: TTS software enables those with visual impairments or reading disabilities to access written content independently.
  2. Learning Support: It aids in learning by providing auditory learning options for students who absorb information more effectively through listening.
  3. Multitasking Efficiency: Users can listen to written content while performing other tasks, maximizing productivity.
  4. Language Development: TTS is an invaluable tool for language learners, allowing them to hear pronunciation and improve their speaking skills.
  5. Reduced Eye Strain: By listening rather than reading, users can reduce eye fatigue associated with prolonged screen time.
  6. Wide Application Range: From navigating websites to listening to eBooks and documents, TTS software has diverse applications across various fields.
  7. Customization Options: Many TTS programs offer customizable AI voices, speeds, and accents, enhancing user experience and comprehension.

Customize PowerPoint presentations

Microsoft PowerPoint is a versatile program that can be used for many different purposes. One of its best features is the ability to customize your presentations. This includes being able to choose different templates, add your own photos and graphics, and record a voice-over. This allows you to create a presentation that is truly unique and reflects your own style. PowerPoint also allows you to share your presentations online, so others can view them or even edit them.

How to create an effective presentation with text-to-speech

If you are at some point in your career or in your academic career, you may have created a PowerPoint presentation, whether in high school, in college, or in your job.

To use the text-to-speech feature in PowerPoint, open the presentation and select the slide or the text box you want to read aloud. In the toolbar, click on the "Aa" icon and select "Text Box." Type or paste your text into the text box. In the toolbar, click on the "Speak" icon (the microphone). Your computer will start reading the text aloud. You can customize the settings by clicking on the "Settings" icon (the gear).

You can also use TTS software such as Speechify. A nice feature of TTS apps is the different languages it supports and the voice speed you can adjust. The voice-over or text-to-speech voices can also be changed and you will have several options; male, female, British, or Australian voices for instance. In addition to this functionality, it is also possible to use the dictation feature. After you have used this feature, the TTS software can read the text aloud, in turn helping you work faster or catch any grammar mistakes.

To break it down and make sure there is no confusion between the two, the text-to-speech (TTS) feature is your computer or device being able to read aloud written text. While the dictating feature is a built-in feature you find in Microsoft Office applications like Powerpoint, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, or any other Microsoft Office tool. Here you can speak to have text written out. Using each in conjunction with one another goes a long way with learners trying to maximize their time or soak in the information.

Speechify - The Best TTS Software

Speechify is available as a Google Chrome and Safari extension or an API. It can also be used with Microsoft Office applications like PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, or any other Microsoft Office tool. Aside from using this TTS with Microsoft products, you can use it with just about any other system. Your emails, web pages, and documents can all have a voice-over. It almost feels like you're listening to a podcast with realistic AI voices.

In addition, Speechify is a great way to create appealing and effective PowerPoints. Its easy-to-use interface makes it perfect for users of all levels of experience, and its wide range of features ensures that you can create a presentation that is perfect for your needs. So if you’re looking for an easy and efficient way to create a powerful and informative presentation utilizing speech recognition, Speechify is the software for you.

Text-to-speech software has proven to be very beneficial to people with disabilities to help them read and write. This isn't just a tool for people with disabilities, however. Whether it be due to dyslexia or a busy schedule due to e-learning, you're likely better off having text-to-speech run for you instead. Speechify helps you make the most out of your time. You’ll benefit from boosting your understanding and focus while maximizing your time and doing more at once. 

FAQ

​How do I get PowerPoint to read text out loud?

Open PowerPoint on the computer and click on any file. Click the Read a Portion of This Document button in the Quick Access Toolbar and select the volume or speed at which you want to listen. Select the Read button, and begin to listen.

What is the difference between text-to-speech and speak?

Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and OneNote all feature a Speak feature. With this function, you can have text read aloud in the language of your choice. Text-to-speech (TTS) is your computer or device’s ability to read aloud text.

What is the voice quality like in PowerPoint?

Voice quality is determined by the audio file. Sound formats that work with PowerPoint presentations include WAV., MP3, and WMA.

Cliff Weitzman

Cliff Weitzman

Cliff Weitzman is a dyslexia advocate and the CEO and founder of Speechify, the #1 text-to-speech app in the world, totaling over 100,000 5-star reviews and ranking first place in the App Store for the News & Magazines category. In 2017, Weitzman was named to the Forbes 30 under 30 list for his work making the internet more accessible to people with learning disabilities. Cliff Weitzman has been featured in EdSurge, Inc., PC Mag, Entrepreneur, Mashable, among other leading outlets.