Create a Table of Contents in PowerPoint

5 minutes read

@ tutsplus.com

Learn how to make a table of contents in PowerPoint quickly and easily with this short tutorial and video guide.

Introduction

A PowerPoint table of contents page provides essential context in any business presentation. It acts as a handy navigation tool for your audience, allowing them to see what slides are to come and how your presentation flows. In this guide, we will take you through the steps to create an effective table of contents in PowerPoint, along with a video tutorial for visual learners.

The Free Guide to Building Amazing Business Presentations (eBook)

For an added resource, be sure to download our FREE eBook: The Complete Guide to Making Great Presentations. It’s a perfect companion to this tutorial!

How to Make a Table of Contents in PowerPoint (Video)

Our video tutorial will guide you through the process of creating a table of contents in PowerPoint. This resource will showcase the best techniques to help you get started swiftly.

Watch the video below to learn how to create your table of contents using a PowerPoint template and how to customize it to suit your style.

If you prefer a step-by-step illustrated guide, continue reading the written version of the tutorial.

How to Make a Table of Contents in PowerPoint

Creating a table of contents in PowerPoint is essential for organizing your presentation effectively. Here are some key advantages of having a contents page:

Keeps your agenda cohesive.
Shows your audience the flow of your presentation.
Provides reference points for easy navigation.

Let’s get started with building a table of contents using the Agio PowerPoint Template from Envato Elements.

Note: This tutorial uses Windows 10 and Office 365. If you’re using different software, the steps may vary slightly.

1. Launch Your Presentation

Begin by opening your PowerPoint presentation. Typically, the table of contents slide is positioned at the beginning, following the title slide. This setup is common in printed materials.

Select slide #19 in your presentation, which has a placeholder for a captivating image. Adding a visually appealing image will engage your audience.

2. Study Your Outline

Utilize PowerPoint’s Outline View to start structuring your table of contents. Access it by going to the View tab and selecting Outline View. This feature allows you to scroll through the content in your presentation and decide what to include in your table of contents.

When you finish outlining, switch back to Normal view to continue editing your slides.

3. Indent the Table of Contents Layout

To visually represent the hierarchy of topics, indent certain lines in your table of contents. This will help show which topics are main points and which are subpoints.

To indent text, click before the word you want to indent and press the Tab key.

4. Add Links to Reference Slides

Make your table of contents interactive by adding hyperlinks to your slides. Select the text you want to link, then navigate to the Insert tab and click Link.

Choose Insert Link and then select Place in This Document to link to the appropriate slides. This dynamic feature ensures that your audience can easily navigate through your presentation.

Repeat these steps for each item in your table of contents.

5. Explore the Finished Table of Contents

After you’ve added all your links, it’s important to review them to ensure they work correctly. Use the Slide Show view to test the links and see how they function in real-time.

This process ensures your table of contents effectively aids your audience in navigating your presentation.

How to Quickly Customize a Table of Contents PowerPoint Slide

Now that you’ve created your table of contents, personalize it to enhance its visual appeal. Here are some customization ideas:

1. Use Custom Fonts

Selecting custom fonts can significantly improve the aesthetic of your table of contents. Browse the collection available on Envato Elements and choose fonts that fit your presentation style.

2. Add Text Effects

Enhance the visibility of your headings by utilizing text effects like bold or italics. These effects can draw attention to your critical points.

3. Change the Color Palette

Adjust the colors of shapes and text to align with your branding. Click on the object, go to the Shape Format tab, and select Shape Fill to explore different color options.

4. Rearrange Slide Objects

Feel free to move objects around your slide to achieve a balanced and visually appealing layout. Click on the object and drag it to a new position.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully learned how to create and customize a table of contents in PowerPoint. This tool will not only enhance the organization of your presentation but also provide your audience with a clearer understanding of your content.

Find More PowerPoint Templates

Utilize high-quality templates to enhance your PowerPoint presentations. Check out our curated collections for stunning PowerPoint slide templates that can elevate your table of contents and overall presentation design.

The Top Source for the Very Best Microsoft PowerPoint Table of Contents Templates

For top-notch PowerPoint templates, check out Envato Elements. With a flat monthly rate, you can download unlimited premium templates, stock photos, fonts, and more.

The new AI-powered search assistant on Envato Elements makes finding the perfect digital content easier than ever. Describe your project needs, and you’ll see a curated collection of content that fits your criteria.

Join Envato Elements today and explore the vast resources available for your presentations!

You Just Learned How to Create a Table of Contents in PowerPoint

Every successful presentation begins with clarity and organization. You’ve just acquired the knowledge to create a helpful table of contents in PowerPoint, guiding your audience through your content effectively.

Remember, a well-designed table of contents can make all the difference in how your presentation is received. Don’t forget to utilize templates to streamline your workflow and elevate your presentation design.

Previous page Create a Swimlane Diagram in PowerPoint

Next page Create a Timeline in Google Slides