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title: PowerPoint Placeholders Explained date: 2024-01-01 cover: 1.jpg author: tutsplus.com tags:
- PowerPoint
- Placeholders
- Presentation Tips
Have you ever seen placeholders in PowerPoint and wondered how to use them?
Placeholders help you easily add to your slide while keeping your slide design intact.
Sometimes, the placeholders have prompts such as “Click to insert picture” or “Click to add text.” These prompts let you know what that placeholder is for. This article covers what a placeholder is in PowerPoint, how to use a placeholder, and some PowerPoint FAQs.
What Is a Placeholder in PowerPoint?
A placeholder in PowerPoint is a pre-formatted container where you can insert text, graphics, or video. These containers simplify the slide formatting process. Many premium templates come with placeholders already included, with picture placeholders being a common feature.
How to Use a Placeholder in PowerPoint
In this tutorial, we’ll be using PowerPoint version 16.69.1 on macOS. If you have a different operating system or a different version of the software, your results may differ.
Here’s how to use a placeholder in PowerPoint:
1. Choose a Template
In this tutorial, we’ll be using the Makeit PowerPoint template, which features over 150 slides and five color schemes. This template includes infographics, illustrations, and graphics, along with picture placeholders that allow you to easily drag and drop your chosen image.
2. Open Microsoft PowerPoint
On slide two of the Makeit PowerPoint template, you’ll see two different placeholders—one for images and one for text. The image placeholder will display the words “click icon to add picture,” while the text placeholder will contain placeholder text.
3. Add a New Blank Slide
To insert your own placeholders, start by adding a new slide. Click on the New Slide button in the toolbar. This action will duplicate the previous slide. If the duplicate contains an unwanted placeholder, simply select it and press Delete on your keyboard.
4. Change the Slide Layout
To modify the placeholder layout on a slide, click the Layout button in the toolbar. A menu will appear, allowing you to select your desired layout.
Customizing Placeholders
Now, let’s revisit slide two of the Makeit template to customize our presentation using the placeholders:
1. Add Text
To replace the placeholder text, highlight the existing text and press Delete. Click inside the box to activate a blinking cursor, and you can begin typing your own content.
2. Add an Image
You can add an image to the placeholder using two methods:
Method 1: Insert an Image
Click on the Insert Picture from File icon. This will open a file finder; locate your image and double-click it to insert it into the placeholder.
Method 2: Use the Insert Tab
Click on the Insert tab, then select the Pictures button. A menu will appear with options based on the location of your image file. Once you find your image, double-click it to place it into the picture placeholder.
3. Resize a Placeholder
To resize a placeholder, click and drag the white boxes around the image or text. Depending on which box you drag, the placeholder will adjust accordingly.
4. Rotate a Placeholder
At the top of the box surrounding your text or image, you’ll see a circular handle with a circular arrow. Click and drag this handle to rotate the placeholder in the direction you move your mouse.
Frequently Asked PowerPoint Questions (FAQ)
1. How Do I Download a Premium Template?
To download a premium template, first, create an Envato Elements account. Once you have an account, downloading a premium PowerPoint template is straightforward. Follow this tutorial for detailed instructions:
2. Can I Customize My Premium Template?
Absolutely! Premium templates are designed to be customized. You can easily add your text and images. If you want guidance on how to customize a premium PowerPoint template, read this article:
3. What Are Text Effects?
Text effects enhance your text to make it more engaging for the audience. They can help highlight important facts or key phrases. For instructions on adding text effects to your slide, check out this tutorial:
4. What Are PPT Master Slides, and How Do I Use Them?
Slide master tools allow you to manage the layout of your PowerPoint presentations. Changes made to the slide master will reflect on all related slides. Learn more in this article:
5. How Do I Add Audio to My Slide?
Envato Elements offers thousands of audio files available to subscribers. Adding audio can make your presentation more engaging. Follow this tutorial for steps on how to include audio in your slides:
Top Source for Premium PowerPoint Templates
Envato Elements is the ideal source for premium PowerPoint templates, and it offers much more—images, audio, fonts, and more. To access these assets, you need to subscribe for a low monthly fee.
Every premium template is crafted to look impressive and stylish, providing a quality that free templates often lack. With a premium template, you save time and effort since the groundwork is already laid out for you. Just add your text and images, and you’re ready to go.
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Download a Premium PowerPoint Template Today!
Now that you understand how placeholders can simplify slide design, consider using them in your next presentation. For the best experience with premium templates, try signing up for Envato Elements today!