How to make a Google Slides link shorter

Unlike Google Forms, you won’t see a link shortener in Google Slides. And unfortunately, the link you obtain to share a presentation can be long which makes it inconvenient to send, share, or post.

Luckily, you can take advantage of link shortening tools available on the web. While you’ll find both free and paid options, if you want to shorten only a link or two and aren’t concerned with extra features, the free shorteners are the way to go.

We’ll show you how to obtain your slideshow URL and how to make a Google Slides link shorter.

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What is a shortened link?

Have you heard of a shortened link but aren’t exactly sure what that means?

When you obtain a link, whether to a Google Slides presentation or other type of item, that link can be lengthy. For instance, this link to share a slideshow is a bit long:

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1kEkqFD8bvFYzniGBmXp41-123abcde45-789fghij67/edit?usp=sharing

But by using a link shortener, you can transform your lengthy 100-character URL into a shorter 20-character one, like this:

http://bit.ly/123abc

The shortened link takes you to the same place, it’s just a less intimidating and easier to share URL.

Depending on the link shortener you use, the first part of the link is normally the name of the tool. As in the above example, the link was shortened by Bitly.

The second part or back half of the link is a small set of random characters. If the tool provides the option for a custom URL, you can enter the back half you want to use. In the example below, IS.GD is used to create a link with “customname”.

https://is.gd/customname

Note: The above links are merely examples and not actual links created by Google Slides, Bitly, or IS.GD. We are not responsible for nor have affiliation with any content, websites, or locations connected to these sample links.

Obtain the Google Slides presentation link

You can copy the link to your Google Slides presentation a couple of ways, depending on the permissions you want to allow for those you share it with.

Select the arrow next to Share at the top to grab a quick link. To customize the permissions, use the Share button instead, make your adjustments in the General Access section, and choose Copy link.

With the link on your clipboard, you can head directly to one of the shorteners below. Alternatively, paste your link in a note or document to copy and paste it when you’re ready.

4 free online link shorteners

With your Google Slides link on your clipboard or saved in a note, you can use an online link shortener to obtain your shortened URL in less than a minute.

We’ve included four excellent options for this task, from the popular tools offering paid bonus features to those that are completely free without limits or strings attached.

1. Bitly

Bitly is one of the most popular and commonly used link shorteners. You can create 10 links and five custom back-halves per month for free. If you need more and are interested in additional features like QR code customizations, redirects, and landing pages, Bitly plans start at $8 monthly.

1. Visit the Bitly website and enter your Google Slides link in the box.
2. Select Get your link for free and sign in with your Google account or sign up with your email address and password.

3. You’ll then see your shortened URL and can choose Copy link or View link details.

To shorten more links later, log in on the Bitly site and pick Create link.

2. TinyURL

Another widely used link shortener is TinyURL. You can shorten links for free but also look at subscriptions for features like analytics, URLs with branded domains, and link expirations. TinyURL plans start at $10 per month annually.

1. Head to the TinyURL site and add your Google Slides link to the box.
2. Optionally enter an alias and hit Shorten URL.

3. You’ll then see your shortened link and can pick Copy. Alternatively, you can visit the URL in a new tab, obtain a QR code, share the link, see your URL details, or shorten another.

If you want to sign up for free, select Create Free Account.

3. RB.GY

The RB.GY free link shortener is provided by Rebrandly, so if you’re familiar with that tool, you may want to use this one as well.

1. Visit the RB.GY site and place your Google Slides link in the box.
2. Select Shorten URL.

3. When you see your link in blue, choose Copy to put it on your clipboard. You can also create a QR code or view the link details.

4. IS.GD

For a bare bones link shortener, look no further than IS.GD. If you don’t mind your link starting with is.gd and want a basic tool, this is the one for you.

1. Head to the IS.GD website and paste your Google Slides link in the box.

2. For a custom link, select the arrow for Further options/Custom URL and enter the back half in the box. Optionally, pick from Standard, Lower Case, or Lower Case Pronounceable and check the Log Statistics box if you’re interested.

3. Hit Shorten! and you’ll see your link. Select and right-click to copy it or use the option to create a QR code.

Note that the IS.GD link takes you to a page that displays the full Google Slides URL. This allows you to confirm before you connect to the destination. 

Make your slideshow succinct with Plus AI

If you’re looking for ways to shorten the link you share to your Google Slides presentation, you might also be interested in creating a more succinct slideshow. Using Plus AI for Slides and Docs, you can get help updating lengthy content to make it more digestible.

Along with shortening content, you can rewrite it to be more academic, educational, or sales-centric. And, you can use Plus AI to create complete presentations too! Use a simple prompt, upload a file, or paste text and watch as Plus assembles your slideshow in just minutes.

For more, head to the Plus AI website. You’ll find a list of features, the template gallery, sample presentations, and details to begin your trial.

Conclusion

Just because Google Slides doesn’t offer a built-in link shortener doesn’t mean you have to use that lengthy URL. Check out these tools for shortening your link and making it easier to share.

Before you shorten your link, look at how Plus AI can help enhance your presentation or even create your next slideshow.

FAQs

Does Google have a URL shortener?

Google no longer has a link shortener. In 2018, anonymous users couldn’t create new links, and the service was then discontinued in 2019. Current goo.gl links will stop working in August 2025, so it’s best to start using a new link shortening tool, sooner than later.

How do I make a link shortener in Google Forms?

To use the built-in link shortener in Google Forms, start by selecting Send on the top right. Move to the Link tab and check the box for Shorten URL. When you see the shortened link, select Copy to place it on your clipboard to paste where needed.

What is the shortcut for a hyperlink in Google Slides?

To display the Insert Link pop-up box in Google Slides, press Ctrl + K on Windows or Command + K on Mac. Alternatively, you can use the Insert link button in the toolbar or Insert > Link in the menu.