Tag: powerpoint 2013

Protect Your Slides in PowerPoint 2013

powerpoint 2013

powerpoint presentation

PowerPoint tip

Protect PowerPoint file

Rick Enrico

SlideGenius

May 04, 2016

Protecting your PowerPoint slides is essential, especially if you are sharing your presentation with colleagues, clients, or collaborators and want to prevent unauthorized changes, edits, or access. PowerPoint 2013 offers several methods to protect your presentation, from basic password protection to restricting editing permissions.Here are some methods to protect your slides in PowerPoint 2013:

1. Password-Protect Your Presentation

One of the most secure ways to protect your PowerPoint file is by adding a password to prevent unauthorized users from opening or editing it. PowerPoint allows you to set different passwords for viewing and editing the presentation.How to Do It:

  • Open your PowerPoint presentation.
  • Click on the File tab and select Info.
  • Click on Protect Presentation and choose Encrypt with Password.
  • Enter a password for the file and confirm it. Once applied, users will need to enter this password to open the presentation.

Example: For confidential corporate presentations, use a password to restrict access and ensure that only authorized personnel can view or edit the slides.

2. Mark Your Presentation as Final

If you want to prevent further edits to your presentation, you can mark the file as final. This action informs others that the presentation is complete and shouldn’t be edited. Although this method doesn’t provide full security, it discourages changes.How to Do It:

  • Open the presentation and click on the File tab.
  • Select Info, then click on Protect Presentation.
  • Choose Mark as Final. PowerPoint will display a notification that the presentation is marked as final, and editing will be restricted.

Example: Use this feature after completing your final version of a pitch deck to indicate that no further changes should be made.

3. Restrict Editing

You can restrict users from editing specific aspects of your presentation, such as preventing changes to the text or design. This is useful when sharing presentations with collaborators who should only review the content, not modify it.How to Do It:

  • Click on File > Info.
  • Under Protect Presentation, select Restrict Access.
  • Choose from the available options to restrict formatting, design, or editing changes while allowing the presentation to be viewed.

Example: Restrict editing for a presentation you’re sharing with a client, allowing them to review the content without making modifications to the design.

4. Save the Presentation as a PDF

If you only need the recipient to view the presentation without making any changes, consider saving the file as a PDF. This format is secure, as it prevents edits to the content while maintaining the visual layout of the slides.How to Do It:

  • Open your presentation and click File > Save As.
  • Choose PDF from the list of formats and save the file. The PDF will retain the design and content but will not allow for editing.

Example: When sharing a finalized presentation with external clients, save the file as a PDF to maintain design integrity and prevent alterations.

5. Use Digital Signatures

PowerPoint 2013 supports the use of digital signatures, which can certify the authenticity of a presentation and verify the identity of the author. This feature is ideal for presentations that require a higher level of security and authenticity.How to Do It:

  • Click on File > Info.
  • Select Protect Presentation and choose Add a Digital Signature.
  • Follow the steps to create and attach your digital signature, which will indicate that the file has not been tampered with since the signature was added.

Example: Add a digital signature to presentations that are legally binding or require proof of authorship, such as financial reports or formal business proposals.

6. Remove Personal Information

If you’re sharing a PowerPoint presentation with others, it’s a good idea to remove any personal information, such as author details or editing history, to protect your privacy.How to Do It:

  • Click on File > Info.
  • Select Check for Issues and click on Inspect Document.
  • In the Document Inspector window, check for personal information, and remove it before sharing the file.

Example: Before sending your presentation to clients or external parties, remove personal metadata to maintain professionalism and protect sensitive information.

Final Thoughts

PowerPoint 2013 offers several ways to protect your slides, from adding passwords to restricting editing and converting your presentation to a PDF. By applying these protection methods, you can safeguard your work, prevent unauthorized modifications, and ensure that your presentation is shared securely.

View Notes During Your Presentation for PowerPoint 2013

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powerpoint notes page

powerpoint presentation

PowerPoint tip

powerpoint tutorial

Rick Enrico

SlideGenius

view notes

Apr 01, 2016

Presenter notes in PowerPoint 2013 are an essential tool that allows you to have additional information at your fingertips while delivering your presentation. These notes act as a script or reference, helping you stay on track without displaying them to your audience. PowerPoint’s Presenter View enables you to see your slides, notes, and upcoming content all at once on your monitor, while your audience only sees the slides.Here’s how to set up and use Presenter View to view your notes during your presentation in PowerPoint 2013:

1. Enabling Presenter View

Presenter View allows you to display your notes on one screen (your laptop or desktop monitor) while projecting the slides onto a second screen (such as a projector or external display).How to Enable It:

  1. Connect Your External Display or Projector: Plug in your second monitor or projector.
  2. Go to the “Slide Show” Tab: Click on the Slide Show tab in the PowerPoint ribbon.
  3. Check “Use Presenter View”: Under the Monitors group, make sure Use Presenter View is checked.
  4. Select the Correct Display: Next to the Use Presenter View checkbox, select which monitor will show the Presenter View (usually your laptop screen) and which one will display the slides (external display or projector).

2. Adding Notes to Your Slides

Before using Presenter View, ensure your notes are added to each slide. These notes will be visible to you while you present.How to Add Notes:

  1. Select a Slide: Click on the slide where you want to add notes.
  2. Open the Notes Section: At the bottom of your PowerPoint window, you’ll see a panel labeled Notes. If it’s not visible, click the Notes button at the bottom right of the PowerPoint window.
  3. Type Your Notes: Type any information or talking points you want to reference during your presentation in the Notes pane.

3. Using Presenter View During the Presentation

When in Presenter View, you’ll be able to see:

  • Current Slide: The slide currently being displayed to your audience.
  • Next Slide: A preview of the upcoming slide.
  • Presenter Notes: A section showing the notes you’ve written for the current slide.
  • Timer and Clock: A timer to keep track of how long you’ve been presenting, and a clock to help manage your time.

How to Access Presenter View:

  1. Start the Slide Show: Go to the Slide Show tab and click From Beginning or From Current Slide.
  2. Presenter View Appears: Once the slide show begins, Presenter View will automatically appear on your primary screen, and the slides will be displayed on the external display or projector.
  3. Navigate with Confidence: Use the arrows in Presenter View to move between slides while reading your notes without the audience seeing them.

4. Adjusting the Notes During the Presentation

If you need to adjust or edit your notes during the presentation, you can click the Notes section in Presenter View and type changes directly. This is especially useful for adapting or updating content as you go.

Final Thoughts

Presenter View in PowerPoint 2013 is a valuable tool for anyone looking to deliver a more polished and organized presentation. By keeping your notes and key points visible to you, but hidden from your audience, you can stay focused, confident, and on track throughout your presentation.

Open PowerPoint 2013 in Safe Mode on Windows 10

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powerpoint 2013

powerpoint safe mode

Powerpoint tips

Rick Enrico

safe mode

SlideGenius

windows 10

Feb 10, 2016

PowerPoint has become the go-to tool for creating dynamic, interactive slide decks, yet unexpected crashes or file-corruption errors can derail even the most carefully planned presentation. Running PowerPoint in Safe Mode starts the program with only essential components, bypassing problematic add-ins and custom settings. Below are three reliable ways to open PowerPoint 2013 in Safe Mode, followed by an outline of the mode’s functional limitations.

Method 1: Use the Run Command Dialog

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. In the text box, type powerpnt /safe (note the space before the forward slash).
  3. Click OK or press Enter. PowerPoint launches with “Safe Mode” displayed in the window title bar.

Method 2: Use the Ctrl Key Shortcut

  1. Locate your PowerPoint shortcut—either on the desktop or pinned to the taskbar.
  2. Press and hold Ctrl, then click the shortcut while still holding the key.
  3. A confirmation dialog appears. Select Yes to confirm. PowerPoint now opens in Safe Mode.

Method 3: Use Windows Search from the Taskbar

  1. Click the search box (or Cortana icon) on the taskbar.
  2. Type powerpnt /safe, ensuring the space remains between powerpnt and /safe.
  3. Press Enter. PowerPoint starts in Safe Mode automatically.

Functional Limitations in Safe Mode

While Safe Mode is invaluable for troubleshooting, it restricts several features:

  • Saving templates is disabled.
  • Toolbar or command-bar customizations do not load and cannot be saved.
  • AutoCorrect lists do not load and edits are not retained.
  • Recovery files stay closed until you exit Safe Mode.
  • Files cannot be saved to an Alternate Startup Directory.
  • Preference changes are not recorded.
  • Optional add-ins and integrated programs do not load automatically.
  • Documents that require restricted permissions cannot be opened or created.

Key Takeaways

Opening a presentation in Safe Mode is a quick, effective strategy when you suspect corrupted files or malfunctioning add-ins. By following any of the three methods above, you can isolate the problem, continue working, and prevent last-minute technical setbacks. Keep these steps handy so you can respond calmly if PowerPoint misbehaves during your next critical presentation.

References

  • Microsoft Support. “Work with Office Safe Modes.”
  • IntoWindows. “How to Open Microsoft Office 2013 in Safe Mode.”

Powerful Presentation: Creating a Captivating Trade Show Video Loop with PowerPoint

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powerpoint 2013 loop

set up slide show

Slide Show

trade show video loop

trade shows

Jun 19, 2014

Trade shows are excellent opportunities to showcase your brand, products, or services, and one of the most effective tools you can use is a video loop created with PowerPoint. A well-designed video loop can captivate attendees, attract them to your booth, and communicate key messages quickly and efficiently. Here’s how to create a powerful trade show video loop using PowerPoint.

1. Keep It Short and Engaging

Trade show attendees typically move quickly from booth to booth, so your video loop should capture their attention within a few seconds. Focus on delivering key information concisely and visually.Why It’s Important:

  • Captures Attention Quickly: Short, engaging content ensures that attendees are drawn to your booth without overwhelming them.
  • Keeps the Audience Interested: A concise video loop prevents viewers from losing interest, encouraging them to stop and learn more.

How to Do It:

  • Limit your video loop to 2-3 minutes, with each slide lasting no longer than 10-15 seconds.
  • Use bold visuals and headlines to quickly convey your message.

2. Focus on Visuals Over Text

At a busy trade show, attendees won’t have time to read through lengthy text. Instead, focus on strong visuals like product images, short video clips, and icons that quickly communicate your brand message.Why It’s Important:

  • Increases Engagement: Visually appealing content is more likely to attract attention in a crowded trade show environment.
  • Simplifies Messaging: Images, videos, and icons can communicate ideas faster and more effectively than text.

How to Do It:

  • Use large, high-resolution images and short video clips to showcase your products or services.
  • Replace long paragraphs of text with short, impactful phrases or bullet points.

3. Add Smooth Transitions and Animations

Smooth transitions and animations between slides can make your video loop more dynamic and engaging. However, it’s important not to overdo it—simple, elegant transitions work best for maintaining a professional look.Why It’s Important:

  • Keeps the Audience Engaged: Well-timed animations and transitions help keep the viewer’s attention without being distracting.
  • Enhances Professionalism: Subtle animations give your presentation a polished, high-quality feel.

How to Do It:

  • Use PowerPoint’s Fade or Wipe transitions between slides for a smooth and professional effect.
  • Animate key points or product features to draw attention, but keep the animations simple and unobtrusive.

4. Incorporate Brand Colors and Logos

Your trade show video loop is an extension of your brand, so it’s important to maintain brand consistency. Use your company’s colors, fonts, and logos throughout the presentation to reinforce brand recognition.Why It’s Important:

  • Builds Brand Recognition: Consistent branding ensures that attendees associate the content with your company.
  • Creates a Professional Image: A cohesive color scheme and branded elements make your presentation look more professional.

How to Do It:

  • Apply your brand’s color palette to slide backgrounds, text, and icons.
  • Include your company logo on each slide in a subtle but visible location, such as the bottom corner.

5. Include a Call to Action (CTA)

A well-designed trade show video loop should encourage viewers to take action. Whether it’s visiting your website, contacting your sales team, or signing up for a product demo, include a clear call to action (CTA) that directs attendees to the next step.Why It’s Important:

  • Encourages Engagement: A clear CTA invites attendees to interact with your booth, learn more about your products, or contact your team.
  • Drives Conversions: By providing clear instructions, you increase the likelihood that attendees will take the next step in the buyer’s journey.

How to Do It:

  • Use bold text or buttons with CTAs like “Visit Our Website,” “Schedule a Demo,” or “Contact Us for More Information.”
  • Place the CTA at the end of the video loop or throughout the presentation to ensure viewers see it multiple times.

6. Set the Video to Loop Continuously

At a trade show, your video needs to play on a continuous loop so that it runs automatically throughout the event. PowerPoint allows you to set your video presentation to loop seamlessly, ensuring it repeats without interruption.Why It’s Important:

  • Maximizes Exposure: A continuous loop ensures that your presentation is always running, capturing the attention of new attendees as they approach.
  • Minimizes Setup Effort: Once your presentation is set to loop, you don’t have to manually restart it during the event.

How to Do It:

  • Go to Slide Show > Set Up Slide Show and select Loop continuously until ‘Esc’.
  • Test the loop function before the event to ensure that the transitions and timing work seamlessly.

Final Thoughts

Creating a captivating trade show video loop using PowerPoint is an effective way to engage attendees and showcase your brand. By focusing on visuals, keeping the content short and engaging, and incorporating smooth transitions and branded elements, you can create a powerful presentation that draws people to your booth and communicates your message effectively. Don’t forget to include a clear call to action and set your presentation to loop continuously for maximum impact.