The easiest way to make columns in Google Slides is to use a two-column layout. Select the slide, click Layout in the toolbar (or Slide > Apply layout), and choose Title and two columns. The slide gets two side-by-side text boxes you can type into. For three or more columns, add extra text boxes and line them up, or insert a table with the borders hidden.
Here are all three methods and tips for keeping columns neatly aligned.
Method 1: Use the Title and two columns layout
- Click the slide in the left panel.
- Click Layout in the toolbar, or go to Slide > Apply layout.
- Choose Title and two columns.
- Click in each column box and type your text.
To add a new slide with this layout, click the arrow next to the + button and choose Title and two columns.
Method 2: Use text boxes
- Click Insert > Text box and drag to draw the first column.
- Type your text.
- Select the text box and press Ctrl + D (Command + D on Mac) to duplicate it for the next column.
- Drag the copy into place, using the red alignment guides to line it up.
- Select all the boxes, then use Arrange > Distribute > Horizontally for even spacing.
Method 3: Use a table without borders
- Click Insert > Table and choose 3 x 1 for three columns (or any number you need).
- Type your text into each cell.
- Select the table, click the Border color button, and choose Transparent. Or set Border weight to 0 pt.
Tables keep columns perfectly aligned, and text wraps inside each cell.
Which method should you use?
| Method | Best for |
|---|---|
| Two-column layout | Quick, consistent slides that match your theme |
| Text boxes | Three or more columns, or custom sizes |
| Table | Precise alignment and comparison layouts |
Frequently asked questions
Can I split one text box into columns in Google Slides?
Google Slides doesn’t offer a column setting for text boxes like Google Docs does. Use the layout, separate text boxes, or a table.
How do I add a line between columns?
Click Insert > Line, and draw a vertical line while holding Shift.
How do I change the layout for many slides at once?
Select the slides in the left panel, then choose Layout > Title and two columns.
Can I edit the two-column layout itself?
Yes. Go to Slide > Edit theme, select the layout, and adjust the placeholders.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.