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How to Install the Helperbird Add-on for Google Docs and Slides

Add the Helperbird sidebar to Google Docs, Slides and Sheets. The install steps, the two permissions it asks for, and how to open the sidebar afterwards.

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Your reading tools should be where the document is.

The Google Workspace add-on puts a Helperbird sidebar inside Google Docs, Google Slides and Google Sheets.


How to Install the Add-on

  1. Open a Google Doc, a Slides presentation or a Sheet.
  2. Click Extensions in the top menu.
  3. Choose Add-ons, then Get add-ons.
  4. Search for Helperbird.
  5. Click Install and accept the permissions.

You can also start from the Helperbird listing on the Google Workspace Marketplace (opens in a new tab).


What the Add-on Asks For

The add-on asks for two things:

  • Access to the file you have open, and no other file.
  • Permission to show the Helperbird sidebar inside the editor.

It cannot open, read or change anything else in your Google account.


How to Open the Helperbird Sidebar

  1. Click Extensions in the top menu.
  2. Choose Helperbird.
  3. Choose Open Helperbird.

The Helperbird sidebar opens beside your file, with a tile for each tool.

What you get inside depends on the file. See what the Google Docs sidebar does, what the Google Slides sidebar does and what the Google Sheets sidebar does.

There is no account to sign in to. If you have a subscription key, open the Pro tile, paste your key into the Subscription key box and click Save.


What the Add-on Does Not Do


Video Tutorial


Need Additional Help?

Having trouble installing the add-on? Reach out to our Helperbird support team and we'll help you get set up!

Printed from the Helperbird Help Center · Updated August 12th, 2026

Questions? We are happy to help — helperbird.com/support

Reviews from the Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons and G2

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students to have control over the...

This is my first google review ever! I have to share that the accessibility and support for independent access for students that Helperbird provides, is a game changer. It is constantly being updated with new features based on feedback and it is extremely user friendly. The ability to customize the settings allows students to have control over their own learning, aligning with Universal Design for Learning. Looking forward to sharing with students and fellow educators on a daily basis. Thanks, Helperbird team!
Kelli SudingAssistive technology specialist

The best in its class

The best in its class - SUPERB - It does everything I need for my aging eyes.
Jen RidgeHelperbird user
So many useful features! This app is as helpful as it's name.
Courtney HoodHelperbird user
Helperbird logo: a stylized owl with large round yellow eyes and a beige face.

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Text to speech, dyslexia fonts, reading rulers, color overlays, and 43 more.

Free to add, and the everyday tools stay free. Works in Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari.