PowerPoint Resources

Microsoft PowerPoint has changed very little over the past few versions. Anyone who has learned PowerPoint 97 will have no problem with PowerPoint 2002 (the Office XP Version). So, although there are few (if any) web tutorials for PowerPoint 2002 currently available, looking at tutorials designed for versions 2000 and 97 can be a rewarding experience.

For your guidance, the only major changes in PowerPoint 2002 are the use of the new Task Pane, which replaces some of the old dialogues (actually it's rather good) and the improved animation options (a spectacular improvement on the previous version).

Beginners Start Here

    PowerPoint 2000 Basics Tutorial4 Stars
    Excellent tutorial for the beginner. Shows you all the basics and will get you up and running with a simple presentation fast. Based at Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis, this tutorial was written by Cindy Hollingsworth.

    PowerPoint in the Classroom4 Stars
    This tutorial is designed for School kids but it is really good. Very clear and beautifully laid out. If you can put up with Sue Special and Jim Jingle (I joke not) you'll be creating presentations in no time.

Book Recommendations

    coverRunning Microsoft PowerPoint by Stephen Sagman. It's rare to find a really good tutorial guide published by a software house but Stephen Sagman's book is very good indeed. If you are a beginner with PowerPoint, this book tells you all you need to know in a clear and logical way. Sadly, a PowerPoint 2002 version is not yet available but I hope there is one in the pipeline. Running Microsoft PowerPoint is available from Amazon.co.uk for £25.99 and provides an excellent introduction to what is turning out to be a really good application.

PowerPoint 2000

    PowerPoint 2000 Tutorial4 Stars
    Very good, clear and well laid out tutorial from Florida Gulf Coast University. This tutorial is an excellent follow up to either of the two beginners tutorials above. There's more detail on various topics and will help towards a deeper understanding of the application.

    10 Minute Guide to PowerPoint4 Stars
    Another super tutorial. This one is a whole book online. It covers practically everything you need to know in a very clear and straight forward manner. Possibly the most comprehensive PowerPoint tutorial available.

Help, Resources and other Tutorials

    Microsoft PowerPoint Assistance Center4 Stars
    Lots of rally good help, advice and tips for everyone. Particularly good coverage of more advanced topics. Want to know fow to play a Flash movie from a PowerPoint slide. Find out how here.

    UWEC Online Help Collection4 Stars
    Comprehensive PowerPoint 2000 tutorials from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Clear and well laid out.