Enhancing Accessibility with Microsoft Subtitle Feature
Using the Microsoft Subtitle feature during presentations is a powerful way to make your content more inclusive and accessible. This tool provides real-time captions of spoken words, which can significantly benefit audience members who are deaf or hard of hearing, allowing them to follow along without missing key information. It also supports individuals with different learning abilities by offering visual reinforcement of the spoken content, helping with comprehension and retention.
Additionally, this feature can automatically translate speech into multiple languages, making it easier for participants who are non-native speakers to understand the presentation. By incorporating subtitles, presenters can foster a more engaging and supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to learn and participate effectively.
Enabling and Customizing Live Subtitles in PowerPoint Presentations
- Go to the “Slide Show” tab in the PowerPoint ribbon.

- Check the box labeled “Always Use Subtitles” to enable subtitles for your presentation.

- Customize settings under “Subtitle Settings” to suit your needs:

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Spoken Language:
Click the dropdown arrow to select the language you will be speaking during the presentation. Choose the language that best matches your speech.


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Subtitle Language:
Click the dropdown arrow to select the language you want the subtitles to appear in. A wide range of languages is available for translation.


Additional Resources
- Accessibility Features in Video Playback on PowerPoint
- Present with Real-Time, Automatic Captions or Subtitles in PowerPoint
- Set up your Device to Work with Accessibility in Microsoft 365
- Make your PowerPoint Presentations Accessible
- Manually Add Closed Captions or Subtitles in PowerPoint
- Microsoft PowerPoint Video Accessibility Training - Microsoft Support
- SNHU Accessibility and Assistive Technology Resources