How to Create a New PowerPoint Presentation

Microsoft PowerPoint is one of the most widely used tools for creating presentations. Whether you’re preparing a school project, a business pitch, or a training session, knowing how to create a new PowerPoint presentation is a skill that can make your ideas more engaging and easier to understand.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the process of creating a presentation step by step. We’ll cover opening PowerPoint, choosing layouts and themes, adding text and images, and saving your work. By the end, you’ll be ready to create professional presentations with confidence.

👉 If you’re new to PowerPoint, these skills are covered in our PowerPoint Introduction Course, which is perfect for beginners.

Why PowerPoint Is So Popular

• Easy to use, even for beginners.
• Makes complex information more visual.
• Helps keep audiences engaged.
• Works well for both in-person and online presentations.

Starting a New Presentation

Option 1: Blank Presentation

1. Open Microsoft PowerPoint.
2. From the start screen, choose Blank Presentation.
3. A new slide will open with a simple title and subtitle layout.

Option 2: Use a Template

1. From the start screen, browse templates (business, education, reports, etc.).
2. Select a template that fits your topic.
3. PowerPoint will create a presentation with pre-designed slides.

Understanding Slide Layouts

Each slide has a layout that controls where text, images, or charts go.

Common layouts include:

• Title Slide → For the opening of your presentation.
• Title and Content → For bullet points, text, or images.
• Two Content → Compare two sets of information.
• Blank → For maximum flexibility.

Adding Text to Slides

1. Click inside a text placeholder.
2. Type your content.
3. Use the Home tab to format text (font, size, colour).

Tips:

• Keep text short and clear.
• Use bullet points instead of paragraphs.
• Stick to one idea per slide.

Inserting Images and Media

Visuals make your slides more engaging.

• Insert > Pictures → Add images from your computer.
• Insert > Icons → Choose from PowerPoint’s built-in icons.
• Insert > Online Pictures → Search images from Bing.
• Insert > Video/Audio → Add media directly into your slides.

Choosing a Design Theme

Themes control colours, fonts, and backgrounds.

1. Go to the Design tab.
2. Choose a theme that fits your topic.
3. Use Variants to change colour schemes.

Adding New Slides

1. Go to the Home tab.
2. Click New Slide.
3. Choose a layout for the new slide.

Shortcut: Ctrl + M adds a new slide quickly.

Saving Your Presentation

Save As

1. Click File > Save As.
2. Choose a location (PC, OneDrive, or SharePoint).
3. Enter a clear file name.

Save Formats

• .pptx → Default PowerPoint format.
• .pdf → Great for sharing read-only versions.
• .mp4 → Export as a video.

Running Your Slideshow

1. Go to the Slide Show tab.
2. Click From Beginning or press F5.
3. Use arrow keys or the space bar to move through slides.

Adding Transitions and Animations

• Transitions → Effects between slides (e.g., Fade, Push, Wipe).
• Animations → Effects applied to text or objects (e.g., Fly In, Appear).

Tips:

• Use sparingly to avoid distraction.
• Choose simple effects for a professional look.

Tips for Creating a Good Presentation

• Keep text minimal.
• Use high-quality visuals.
• Stick to a consistent theme.
• Limit transitions and animations.
• Practise your delivery.

Final Thoughts

Creating a new PowerPoint presentation is simple once you know the basics. With practice, you’ll be able to design slides that are both professional and engaging.

👉 Learn the basics in our PowerPoint Introduction Course.
👉 Move on to the PowerPoint Advanced Course to master custom templates, advanced animations, and professional presentation techniques.

With these skills, you’ll be able to deliver presentations that make a lasting impact.

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