How do I export a PDF for Gemini Notebook?
This wiki guide provides an overview on how to prepare instructional materials (slides, notes, transcripts, etc.) as an accessible PDF for a custom Gemini Notebook.
Steps for Preparing PowerPoint Content for AI
Add Instructor Notes.
Go to each slide and paste script in the “Notes” pane below the slide view.
Check for Accessibility.
Before exporting, go to: Review → Check Accessibility.
- Slide Titles: Make sure each slide has a unique title for navigation by screen readers.
- Alt Text: Right-click images → Edit Alt Text (describe visuals meaningfully).
- Reading Order: Use the Selection Pane to reorder elements if needed.
- Text Contrast: Ensure high contrast (e.g., dark text on a light background).
- Avoid Animations: These don’t translate well to PDFs and may confuse assistive tech. Substitute with placeholder static images/descriptive alt text when possible.
Follow the suggestions from PowerPoint Accessibility Checker (e.g., missing alt text, unclear reading order) to remediate the document before exporting.
Export to PDF with Notes.
Click File → Export
Then, choose Create PDF/XPS Document → click Create PDF/XPS
Set Export Options.
In the Options dialog:
- Under “Publish what”, choose: Notes Pages
- Check:
- Document structure tags for accessibility
- Bitmap text when fonts may not be embedded
- Click OK → Publish
Now each page of the PDF will show a slide with its corresponding script in the Instructor Notes below the slide.
Upload a PDF to Gemini Notebook
- Open your notebook in Gemini Notebook.
- Click Add source or choose the file addition option.
- Select your PDF file from your local device storage or select it from Google Drive.
- Wait for the file to process (each file can be up to 200 MB).
- Each source will allow you to toggle the file on/off depending on if you want it included in the Studio generation of assets.
Additional Resources
- NECO TLC | How do I write alt text for images?
- NECO TLC | How do I create accessible PDFs?
- Gemini Notebook: Add or discover new sources for your notebook
Need Extra Support?
We are here to partner with you as you enhance your courses. If you run into technical issues or want a collaborative consultation on designing custom interactive modules, please reach out to our team:
-
- Email: tlc@neco.edu
- Send us a request: Request Support
