Welcome to GIY!

Zoom Troubleshooting Guide

If you run into any technical snags while joining or during the session, use this guide to get back on track.

💡Pro Tip: We recommend logging into the Zoom link 5–10 minutes before start time to test your connection, sound, and display.

📨The confirmation email with your Zoom link is sent one hour before the workshop. Check the spam/junk/promotions folders, of the email address used when registering, if you do not see it in your primary inbox.

🔑 Having Trouble Logging In or Joining?

  • Verify the Link & Passcode: Ensure you are clicking the direct link provided in your registration email. If prompted, copy and paste the passcode directly rather than typing it.

  • Update Your Zoom App:

    • On Computer: Open the Zoom app, click your profile icon in the top right, and select Check for Updates.

    • On Mobile/Tablet: Check your device’s App Store or Google Play Store to ensure the Zoom app is fully updated.

  • Try the Web Browser: If the app won’t open, click your join link, cancel the app launch prompt, and look for the link at the bottom that says “Join from Your Browser.” (Note: Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge work best).

  • Device Restart: If Zoom freezes during login, quickly restart your computer or tablet—it resolves most connection glitches!

🔊 Can't Hear Audio or Sound Issues?

  • Check “Join Audio”: Look at the bottom-left corner of your Zoom screen. If you see a headphone icon labeled “Join Audio,” click or tap it and select “Call over Internet” or “Computer Audio.”

  • Select the Right Speaker Output: Click the small arrow (⬆️) next to the Mute/Unmute microphone icon in the bottom toolbar. Make sure the checkmark is next to your device’s built-in speakers or connected headphones.

  • Check Device Volume: Ensure your computer or tablet’s main system volume is turned up and not muted.

  • Videos/Music Played by Facilitator: If audio from a video presentation sounds quiet or muffled, make sure your Zoom window is active and check that no Bluetooth devices (like nearby headphones) are accidentally connected elsewhere in your space.

🖥️ Can't See the Slides, Presenter, or Videos?

  • Adjust Your Zoom View: Click View in the top-right corner of your Zoom window:

    • Speaker View: Focuses on the person speaking or the screen being shared.

    • Gallery View: Shows all workshop participants at once.

  • Exit Full Screen: If the presentation looks cut off or you can’t find your control toolbar, press the Esc key on your keyboard or double-click the screen to exit full screen mode.

  • Check Display Scaling: If slides look blurry or distorted, minimize and reopen your browser or Zoom window, or check that your device’s screen zoom is set to 100%.

💬 Can't Find or Access the Chat Feature?

  • On a Computer: Look at the bottom toolbar and click the Chat icon (speech bubble). A side panel will pop open on the right side of your screen.

  • On a Tablet or Mobile Phone: Tap your screen to display the controls. Tap More (…) in the bottom corner and select Chat from the menu.

  • Chat Panel Is Hidden: If someone is sharing a screen, your chat window might pop under the main screen. Look for the floating Zoom control panel or press Alt + H (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + H (Mac) to bring up the chat box.

🆘 Need Help During the Session?

If you are still experiencing issues once the workshop starts:

  • Send a direct private chat message to the workshop Educator or Moderator inside Zoom.

  • Or contact us via email, and our team will assist as soon as possible!