Zoom tips and troubleshooting help
This article covers the following topics:
- How to use the chat
- How to test your speakers and microphone
- How to switch to a different camera
- How to customize your view
How to use the chat
The Chat button can be found at the bottom of your Zoom window.
If you click on this icon, the chat will open in a new pane or window.
To send a message, click the message bar and use the keyboard to type your comment. When you’re ready to send your message, press Enter on your keyboard or click the send button (paper airplane icon) in the lower-right corner.
By default, your messages will be sent to everyone who is attending the Zoom meeting.
If you click the blue dropdown arrow (where it says “Everyone”), you can select individual participants or the host to send a message privately. You can use this feature to send questions or comments to the facilitators instead of speaking. Your facilitators may also use the chat to provide links, send documents, and answer questions submitted by participants.
How to test your speakers and microphone
If you are experiencing audio issues, you can test your microphone and speakers by clicking the up arrow next to the microphone icon.
Select Audio Settings.
To test your speaker, click Test Speaker. If you cannot hear the ringtone that plays, you will need to adjust your volume or select a different speaker (such as headphones) using the dropdown arrow. If you only have one speaker option, you may have to seek audio troubleshooting help for your specific computer or smartphone model.
To test your microphone, click Test Mic. When you test, be sure to select the checkbox that says, “Automatically adjust microphone volume.”
Zoom will record your voice as you speak aloud. Wait for Zoom to play your voice recording back to you. If you cannot hear the recording of your voice, you will need to select a different microphone (such as headphones with a microphone cord) using the dropdown arrow. If you only have one microphone option, you may have to seek audio troubleshooting help for your specific computer or smartphone model.
How to switch to a different camera
If you are having trouble with your camera, you can try switching to a different video device if you have more than one (such as a USB-connected webcam). To check which device you are currently using, click the up arrow next to the camera icon.
Select Video Settings.
If the camera you are currently using is not working, click the dropdown arrow below Camera to select a different one.
This settings menu is also where you can go to turn on certain video settings, such as “Touch up my appearance” and “Adjust for low light.”
How to customize your view
In the upper-right corner of your Zoom screen, select View.
When expanded, the View menu lists three viewing options: Speaker, Gallery, and Immersive.
- Speaker View means that whoever is speaking at any given moment during the Zoom meeting will appear large in the center of your screen, with the rest of the participants appearing in smaller boxes at the top of your screen. This view is recommended for presentations and training sessions.
- Gallery View means that all participants in the Zoom meeting will appear on your screen in boxes of equal size. Depending on the number of participants in the meeting, you may not be able to see everyone on your screen at one time.
- The third viewing option, Immersive View, is generally not recommended for presentations and training sessions.
To enter Fullscreen mode, click Fullscreen at the bottom of the View dropdown list. To exit Fullscreen mode, press the Escape key on your keyboard, or go back up to the View dropdown list and click Exit Full Screen.
Need more help?
For more Zoom tips and troubleshooting help, please go to the Zoom Support website and search for your specific issue.