More and more people are relying on PowerPoint for crafting interactive and engaging presentations. However, common issues like application crashes and file corruption are still inevitable disasters waiting to happen. That’s why it’s a good idea to launch a presentation safely to avoid technical issues that can worsen start-up and add-in problems.
Let’s learn how to run Microsoft PowerPoint 2013 in Safe Mode using three different methods:
Using the Command Prompt Window
1. Click Windows + R on your keyboard to launch the command prompt box named Run.
2. Once the dialog box appears, type powerpnt /safe. Remember to include a space between powerpnt and the forward slash (/) or the command won’t run.
3. Hit Enter on your keyboard or press OK to open the program in safe mode.
Using the Ctrl Key
1. Hold down the Ctrl key for a few seconds, then click on your PowerPoint shortcut on the desktop or the Windows taskbar.
2. A confirmation dialog will appear. Click Yes to enter safe mode.
3. You’ll know you’ve entered safe mode when you can read (Safe Mode) on the title bar of the application.
Using the Windows Taskbar
1. Click on Cortana to expand the search box in the taskbar.
2. In the Search option, type powerpnt /safe, then press Enter. Don’t forget to include the space between powerpnt and the forward slash (/).
3. PowerPoint should open in Safe Mode.
Safe Mode Limitations
While the User-Initiated Safe Mode fixes or isolates the problems, you should also know that it has certain restrictions. Below are notable limitations when starting a program in safe mode:
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Templates can’t be saved.
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Toolbar or command bar customizations are not loaded, and customizations can’t be saved.
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The AutoCorrect list is not loaded, and changes aren’t saved.
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Recovered documents aren’t automatically opened.
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Files can’t be saved to the Alternate Startup Directory.
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Preferences can’t be saved.
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Additional features and programs aren’t automatically loaded.
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Documents with restricted permissions can’t be created or opened.
Still having trouble launching your presentation in safe mode? Check out this video tutorial to see how to do it step by step:
Now you know how to run PowerPoint in Safe Mode!
Opening your PPT file in safe mode is a highly effective way to fix corrupted or damaged presentations. These simple hacks are good for fighting back the panic when things go wrong. Try these three different methods in case your next presentation runs into some rough waters.
References
“Work with Office Safe Modes.” Office. n.d. www.support.office.com/en-us/article/Work-with-Office-safe-modes-dedf944a-5f4b-4afb-a453-528af4f7ac72
“How to Open Microsoft Office 2013 In Safe Mode.” Into Windows. www.intowindows.com/how-to-open-microsoft-office-2013-in-safe-mode
