Print PowerPoint Slides

PowerPoint presentations are often shared on a projector or display. But sometimes, you might need to create a printed copy for your audience.

It’s great to have a physical copy of your presentation for reference. 

When it comes to printing slides in PowerPoint, there are three key formats you can choose from:

Key Printing Formats

1. Full-Page Slides: This format prints each slide on its own page, similar to the standard view in PowerPoint.
2. Notes Pages: If you use the important Speaker Notes feature to add reminders on what to say, you can print Notes Pages to keep them handy while speaking.
3. Handouts: Save paper and ink by printing Handouts, which include multiple slides on a single page with designated space for notes.

Additionally, you can print an outline version of your slides, which contains no visual content.

In this tutorial, I will guide you through the steps to print a PowerPoint presentation effectively, ensuring you have all the necessary information to create physical copies when needed.

Why Print Your PowerPoint Slides?

You may wonder why printing slides is necessary in a digital world. Here are some compelling reasons:

1. Spotting errors: A printed copy can help identify typos or mistakes that might be overlooked on-screen.
2. Audience handouts: Providing printed copies allows your audience to follow along and keep a record of the presentation.
3. Alternative use: PowerPoint can be a useful tool for designing handouts or posters, even if you don’t present digitally.

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Before we proceed, consider downloading our FREE eBook: The Complete Guide to Making Great Presentations. This resource can assist you in writing, designing, and delivering an impactful presentation.

Now, let’s explore how to print your PowerPoint slides in various formats.

How to Quickly Print PowerPoint Slides (Watch & Learn)

Check out the video tutorial below, where I walk you through the process of printing slides in multiple styles, including PDF versions.

The Basics of Printing Your PPT Slides (From Within PowerPoint)

This tutorial is based on macOS and PowerPoint version 16.65. If you’re using a different operating system or version, your results may vary.

Before printing your presentation, follow these steps:

1. Choose Your Printer

Select the printer you want to send your presentation to. In an office with multiple network printers, make sure to confirm this setting to avoid sending your document to the wrong printer.

To choose a printer, click on File in the toolbar and then select Print… A new window will appear. Click on Show Details to access additional options.

2. Choose the Pages to Print

If you don’t want to print every slide, PowerPoint allows you to select specific pages.

In the print window, look for the Slides: section. By default, it shows All. If you want to print select slides, choose the Custom Range: option and enter the slide numbers separated by commas (e.g., 2,5,6,7).

3. Choose Orientation and Color Settings

Decide on the orientation of your printed slides—either Portrait or Landscape.

In the Orientation: section, you can choose the preferred option. Additionally, you can select your color settings in the Output: field.

How to Print Full-Page PPT Slides in PowerPoint

Full-page slides are printed copies of each slide, one per page. This option is ideal for reviewing content before presenting.

Keep in mind that this format uses more paper and ink, so consider your resources.

Print PowerPoint Slide Handouts

Slide handouts are an excellent choice for conserving paper while providing reference copies.

To print handouts, use the Layout: field in the print dialog and select the appropriate option, including the Notes option to print your notes alongside the slides.

How to Print Your PowerPoint as a PDF

To export your presentation as a PDF, which is a great option for sharing without needing PowerPoint installed, follow these steps:

1. Click on File in the toolbar.
2. Select Save As… from the dropdown menu.
3. In the File Format: field, choose PDF.
4. Click on Export to save your presentation as a PDF.

Recap and Learn More PowerPoint Skills

This guide serves as a reference for printing your PowerPoint slides, whether as notes pages, handouts, or PDFs. It’s a vital skill for many presentations.

For further development of your PowerPoint skills, consider exploring these additional tutorials:

• How to Lock a PowerPoint Presentation (+Video)
• How to Start Using SmartArt in PowerPoint in 60 Seconds
• How to Make a Timeline in PowerPoint With Templates (w/Video)

Print Your Premium PowerPoint Template Today!

After reading this guide, apply these techniques to your next presentation, and consider using premium templates from Envato Elements to save time and enhance your design.