Presenting information during a video conference is a fundamental part of modern remote work. However, there are few things more stressful than trying to show a video to your colleagues, only to be met with a chorus of “we can’t hear the sound”. Understanding how to share screen on Google Meet properly—and crucially, how to share your system audio—is essential for running smooth, professional meetings.
In this guide, we will draw on Google Workspace best practices to explain the three different presentation modes in Google Meet, ensuring you choose the right option for your specific scenario.
Understanding the Three Presentation Modes
When you are in a Google Meet call and click the Present now button (the icon of a box with an upward-pointing arrow), you are presented with three distinct choices. Selecting the correct one is the key to a successful presentation.
1. A Chrome Tab (Best for Video and Animation)
If you need to show a YouTube video, a Google Slides presentation with transitions, or anything that requires high-quality audio, you must select this option. Google explicitly states that sharing a specific Chrome tab is the only way to guarantee high frame rates and synchronised audio sharing.
- Click Present now and select A tab.
- A list of your currently open Chrome tabs will appear.
- Select the tab containing your video or presentation.
- Crucial Step: Ensure the toggle at the bottom of the window labelled Share tab audio is switched On.
- Click Share.
2. A Window (Best for Specific Applications)
If you need to demonstrate how to use a specific piece of software (like Microsoft Excel or Adobe Photoshop) without showing your colleagues your messy desktop or private notifications, select this option. It restricts the audience’s view to a single application window.
- Click Present now and select A window.
- Select the specific application you want to share.
- Click Share.
Note: You cannot share computer audio using the Window option.
3. Your Entire Screen (Best for Complex Tutorials)
If your presentation requires you to jump between multiple different applications (e.g., dragging a file from your desktop into a web browser), you must share your entire screen. Be warned: your audience will see absolutely everything on your monitor, including incoming email notifications.
- Click Present now and select Your entire screen.
- Click on the image of your screen to select it.
- Click Share.
How to Stop Sharing
When your presentation is complete, it is vital that you formally stop sharing so the meeting can return to a standard grid view of the participants.
- Look for the persistent floating toolbar at the bottom of your screen, or return to the main Google Meet tab, and click the blue Stop sharing button.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I share my screen on a Mac?
If you are using a Mac and clicking “Share” does nothing, you are likely experiencing a common macOS security block. Open your Mac’s System Settings, navigate to Privacy & Security > Screen Recording, and ensure the toggle next to Google Chrome is turned on. You will need to restart Chrome for the changes to take effect.
Can someone else present while I am presenting?
Yes. If another participant clicks “Present now”, Google Meet will warn them that they are about to take over the presentation. If they proceed, your screen share will be automatically terminated.
By selecting the appropriate presentation mode, you can ensure your remote meetings run without technical interruptions.
