If you’re working on a presentation and notice that one of your slides isn’t showing during Present mode, chances are that the slide is hidden. Google Slides allows you to hide or unhide slides to control what appears during the actual presentation. While this feature is helpful, many users struggle to find the option to stop hiding a slide once they no longer need it hidden.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to stop hiding a slide in Google Slides, why a slide becomes hidden, and how to manage hidden slides effectively. The steps are simple, even if you’re new to Google Slides.
What Does “Hidden Slide” Mean in Google Slides?
A hidden slide is a slide that exists in your presentation but is skipped automatically during slideshow mode. You can still see and edit the slide in the editor, but your audience will not see it when you present.
Hidden slides are useful when you:
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Prepare optional slides
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Keep backup content
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Create different versions of the same presentation
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Organize information without deleting slides
However, when you want the slide to appear in your slideshow, you must unhide it.
How to Stop Hiding a Slide in Google Slides
Follow these simple steps:
Method 1: Unhide a Slide Using the Menu
This is the most common method and works on all devices.
Step-by-step:
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Open your presentation in Google Slides.
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In the left-hand sidebar (slide panel), select the slide that is currently hidden.
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Hidden slides appear slightly dim or grayed out.
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Go to the top menu and click on Slide.
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From the dropdown list, choose Show slide.
The slide is now visible again during your presentation.
Method 2: Right-click to Unhide the Slide
This is the fastest way.
Step-by-step:
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Locate the hidden slide in the slide list on the left.
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Right-click on the slide thumbnail.
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Select Show slide from the menu.
Instantly, the slide becomes unhidden and will appear during Present mode.
Method 3: Unhide Multiple Slides at Once
If you have several hidden slides in a row, you can unhide them together.
How to do it:
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Press and hold Shift on your keyboard.
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Select the first hidden slide.
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Then select the last hidden slide.
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Right-click and choose Show slide.
All selected slides will be unhidden at the same time.
How to Know if a Slide is Hidden
A hidden slide usually has:
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A grayed-out appearance
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A crossed-out eye icon (in some versions)
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Slightly faded coloring
If the slide looks different from the others, it’s likely hidden.
Why Your Slide May Be Hidden
Slides can become hidden for several reasons:
✔ You accidentally selected “Hide slide”
It’s easy to click this option by mistake.
✔ A template or shared file already has hidden slides
Many collaborative presentations contain hidden slides for optional content.
✔ Someone else editing the file hid the slide
If you’re working in a shared environment, another collaborator may have hidden it.
✔ Keyboard or shortcut actions
Sometimes a shortcut or quick click can hide a slide unintentionally.
Tips to Avoid Accidentally Hiding Slides
Here are some helpful tips to prevent future confusion:
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Double-check the slide panel before presenting.
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Use clear labeling for optional slides.
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Avoid rapidly selecting slides and right-clicking without checking the options.
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When collaborating, notify team members before hiding slides.
These habits will help ensure that important slides are not accidentally skipped during your presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I unhide slides in Google Slides on mobile?
Yes. Tap the slide thumbnail → tap the three dots → choose Show slide.
2. Will my slide become visible to others after unhiding?
Absolutely. Anyone accessing the file or viewing the presentation will see the slide.
3. Does “Show slide” work automatically during Present mode?
Yes. Once a slide is unhidden, it will appear normally during slideshow playback.
Final Thoughts
Unhiding a slide in Google Slides is a simple task once you know where to find the option. Whether you’re preparing a business presentation, a school project, or a training deck, knowing how to stop hiding a slide ensures that all your important content is displayed when you need it.
By following the steps in this guide, you can easily manage hidden slides and present with confidence.
