Narration Tips

If you would like to provide the narration for a PowerPoint show which will be converted to video, no problem. You can generate the audio and send it to us. Here are some suggestions to improve quality and efficiency.

• Don't import the audio or create it in PPT. For the video, it is imported using a separate piece of software.
• To record the audio in your computer:
  • Create the narration for each slide as a separate WAV or MP3 file. These can be E-mailed to us to save time and shipping.
  • Use a good quality mic and appropriate connection to your computer. There are mics that connect to the computer using the USB port as well as ones that use the mic input. You may want to try several different mics to find one that works well with your voice.
  • Use a good quality recording program in your computer. Audacity can be downloaded for free but allow yourself some time to learn how to use it.
  • If your computer fan or other noises pick up in the recording, try using foam or cloth to isolate the computer from the mic.
• To use an audio recorder:
  • Check with us to make sure we can work with the audio format you are creating.
  • Allow time for shipping the audio to us.
• Position the mic slightly below your mouth and at about a 45 degree angle to your mouth so that you are speaking over it rather than directly into it. This will reduce popping sounds.
• Be sure to check for hissing "S" and popping "P" sounds when testing mics. Say "Simple Simon" and "Peter Piper" types of phrases. It's also good to check for popping "B" and "T" problems. Pop filters that fit over the mic are available.
• Allow at least two seconds of silence before starting to speak and two seconds after you finish.
• Settle your hands and body before starting the two seconds and stay still for the two seconds at the end. Even the touching the mouse will likely record.
• Position your mouth in relation to the mic before beginning to speak and keep it in position. Don't start turning away from the mic before you finish speaking. Allow the two seconds at the beginning and end.
• Pauses at the beginning of the narration, within it, and at the end can be edited out. It is better to get good voice quality than perfect timing when narrating. If you must clear your throat or cough while narrating, try to allow a second or so before and after it.
• Narrating a packaged program is different that presenting in front of a group. You cannot emphasize a point by gesturing or moving, you must do this with your voice. Pause where appropriate to allow a point to sink in, but keep the pause short. Use intonation and speed that are appropriate to the points being made visually.
• Listen carefully to the audio after recording. Ask someone else to listen and provide feedback. Use a good quality set of speakers or headphones.

If you want to create the PowerPoint show for your video, please check our suggestions for this.