Last week, we inserted audio files in Microsoft Word for the PC. This week, we will insert audio files in Word for Mac. We will also look at how to play audio files inserted in Word for Mac.
Quick Links:
This tutorial is available as a YouTube video showing all the steps in real time.
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The images below are from Word for Microsoft 365 for Mac. These steps are similar for the standalone versions of the software back to Microsoft 2016 for Mac.
How to Insert Audio Files
Important Notes about Audio Files in Word for Mac
Audio files in Word for Mac are inserted as links rather than embedded objects that become part of the document. Therefore, your readers must have access to the audio source files.
One solution is to place your Word document and audio files in cloud storage before creating the links. Then, send your readers a link from the Word document in cloud storage.
If you have access to Word on a PC and would like to embed audio files, please see “How to Insert Audio Files in Microsoft Word.”
Also note that audio files inserted in Word for Mac might not play in Word on a PC. If your readers use Word on a PC, create a regular hyperlink to the audio file in cloud storage rather than inserting it into your document using the method shown here.
- Place your cursor where you want to insert the audio file.
- Select the Insert tab in the ribbon.
- Select the Media button.
- Select Audio from File from the drop-down menu.
- Locate and select the audio file in the dialog box.
- Select the Insert button.
The audio file should appear in your document as a speaker icon.
How to Change the Audio File Icon
- Right-click or Control-click the icon.
- Select Change Picture from the shortcut menu.
- Locate and select the image you want to use in the dialog box.
- Select the Insert button.
The speaker icon should change to your new image.
11. Save your file to save your changes.
How to Play Audio Files
- Double-click (or double-tap) the audio icon.
The audio should begin playing immediately.
- Press the Esc key to stop the audio file. Alternatively, you can click a different part of the page to stop the audio file.
Pro Tip: You can also play the audio file by right-clicking or control-clicking the icon and then selecting Play from the shortcut menu.
Related Resources
How to Create a Custom Heading Style in Microsoft Word for Mac
How to Insert Headers and Footers on Specific Pages in Microsoft Word (PC & Mac)