How to Use PowerPoint Shortcut Keys Like a Pro (Boost Speed)

If you are a regular PowerPoint user, you might have noticed that performing some tasks can be quite time-consuming, especially if you are using the mouse to navigate through the application. However, using PowerPoint shortcut keys can help you save time and become more efficient. In this article, we will explain how to use PowerPoint shortcut keys like a pro and become a more productive presenter.

Understanding PowerPoint Shortcut Keys

PowerPoint shortcut keys are combinations of two or more keys that allow you to perform certain tasks quickly and easily. The most basic shortcut keys include Ctrl + N for creating a new presentation, Ctrl + O for opening an existing presentation, Ctrl + S for saving a presentation, Ctrl + P for printing a presentation, and Ctrl + F for finding text within a presentation.

Advanced keyboard shortcuts, on the other hand, involve the use of Ctrl, Shift, and other keys to execute more complex commands. For example, Ctrl + Shift + N creates a new slide, Ctrl + Shift + O opens a new presentation, Ctrl + Shift + S saves a copy of the presentation, Ctrl + Shift + P opens the print dialog box, and Ctrl + Shift + F opens the Font dialog box.

Tips and Tricks for Using PowerPoint Shortcut Keys

To use PowerPoint shortcut keys effectively, you need to know which keys to use and when to use them. Here are some tips and tricks for using PowerPoint shortcut keys:

Creating and Editing Slides

• Use Ctrl + M to add a new slide to your presentation
• Use Ctrl + D to duplicate a slide
• Use Ctrl + Z to undo your last action
• Use Ctrl + Y to redo your last action

Working with Text and Objects

• Use Ctrl + B to bold text
• Use Ctrl + I to italicize text
• Use Ctrl + U to underline text
• Use Ctrl + Shift + > to increase font size
• Use Ctrl + Shift + < to decrease font size

Managing Presentations

• Use Ctrl + F5 to start a slideshow from the beginning
• Use F5 to start a slideshow from the current slide
• Use Shift + F5 to start a slideshow from the current slide in a window
• Use Ctrl + Shift + G to group selected objects together

Formatting and Designing Slides

• Use Ctrl + Shift + C to copy formatting from one object
• Use Ctrl + Shift + V to paste formatting from one object to another
• Use Ctrl + E to align text center
• Use Ctrl + L to align text left
• Use Ctrl + R to align text right

By using these shortcut keys, you can easily format and design your presentation, saving time and making your presentation look more professional.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Using PowerPoint Shortcut Keys

While using PowerPoint shortcut keys can save you a lot of time, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid.

Overusing Shortcut Keys

Using shortcut keys too frequently can be counterproductive. While it’s good to use them to save time, it’s important to use them judiciously. Overusing shortcut keys can result in errors and confusion.

Using Incorrect Shortcut Keys

Using the wrong shortcut keys can also lead to errors and frustration. Take the time to learn the correct keys for the task you are trying to perform.

Ignoring Mouse Navigation

While using keyboard shortcut keys can speed up your work, it’s also important to remember that you can still use the mouse to navigate the application. Sometimes, using the mouse can be quicker and easier than using shortcut keys.

Most Useful Keyboard Shortcuts for PowerPoint

#1: Common PowerPoint Shortcut Keys

#2: Slide Navigation Shortcut Keys

#3: Text Formatting Shortcut Keys

#4: Shape Formatting Shortcut Keys

#5: Other Useful Shortcut Keys

Conclusion

PowerPoint is a powerful tool for creating and delivering presentations, and incorporating shortcut keys can make your workflow more efficient and save you time. Whether you’re navigating between slides, formatting text, or starting and ending your presentation, there’s a shortcut key for that. Take the time to learn and memorize these keys, and you’ll be Powering up your presentations in no time!