Forum Discussion
Favorite PowerPoint Features?
One of the reasons PowerPoint is so popular is because it's so easy to use - there isn't much you need to know to begin using it. That's probably why so many users often miss the newer features after upgrading.
So I thought it would be helpful to share our favorite and most-used features in PowerPoint 07 and 10. For those using 2003, this will be good ammo to make the case for upgrading
My top 3 features:
- Slide Masters - the ability to create my own text and image placeholders. Awesome for creating custom layouts.
- Selection Pane - there's no way to manage multiple animations and objects without it
- Change Picture - simple, but one of the most used features for me.
So, what about you? What are your top features or workflows in PowerPoint?
68 Replies
Good question, Grasshopper.
I'll limit it to three and try not to repeat what you have:
- PowerPoint 2010's ability to remove backgrounds
- Ability to save objects created in PowerPoint as images
- PowerPoint 2010's ability combine shapes
Of course, there's a bunch more but we need to leave room for others.
Wow, I have to admit, I didn't even know about the text and image placeholders. Are there any good tutorials or Screenrs where I can learn more?
We have one here: http://community.articulate.com/tutorials/courses/inserting-text-and-image-placeholders.aspx
It's part of the course-building tutorials but includes a Start and Final version of the file. Can you check that one out to see if it helps?
Awesome, David. Thanks. I'll check it out and post back if I have any questions.
I'm with Tom on the combining shapes features. I've used vector programs for years so it's great to see PowerPoint 2010 offer the ability to combine and create shapes.
Great question - thanks for starting this one David.
I use a lot of animation in my courses - nothing complicated, but there's a lot going on. I couldn't work without the Selection Pane. I don't always name my layers like I should, but I rely on that feature more than anything.
I also customize the menu bar with my own features and tasks. That's a big one.
The other feature I like is PowerPoint 2010's option for saving presentations out as movies. That's pretty cool for sharing on mobile devices.
!que plato! I need to upgrade. I know we're behind w/2003 but I just looked up some of the features everyone's talking about and it's clear I'm not working efficiently.
Does anyone have any PowerPoint tutorial sites that like?
Hello Gang!
You've covered my favorite and most-used PowerPoint features. I would like, however, to add the screenshot tool in version 2010. I find this to be a very helpful and essential tool. I confess, I do not use this tool daily, but when I have used it, I found it very convenient.
Thank you.
Awesome! This is a great list.
What about the Photo Effects? Those were introduced in 2007. Are you using those? I use Shape Effects (Drop Shadows, Soft Edges) more, but the photo effects are pretty schweet!
