powerpoint presentation loop animation

How to loop a sequence of PowerPoint animations

• Written by: Jamie Garroch
• Categories: PowerPoint animation
• Comments: 21

Loops are like buses. You wait ages for one then a bunch of them arrive at the same time! In our last looping article you discovered how to create infinite Motion Paths in PowerPoint. Now you’re going to learn a simple technique to loop sequences of animations in PowerPoint.

Animation effects in presentations aren’t just decorative, they’re a great way to pace your content so you can explain your story step-by-step. We’ve got lots of articles about how to use simple animations effectively (like this beginner’s guide to Morph and this introduction to PowerPoint animation ), but today we’re going to look at something a little more sophisticated. Sometimes you might want to play a sequence of animation effects in a loop, over and over again to illustrate a particular point. PowerPoint allows you to loop a single animation effect but not a sequence of multiple effects. Our neat hack solves that limitation and, as an added bonus, gives you a warm fuzzy sensation because you know loops inside out.

How to loop one animation effect in PowerPoint

Let’s start at the very beginning as I’ve heard it’s a very good place to start! If you’re sitting there thinking, ‘Hang on a second, I have no idea how to loop a single animation!’ – fear not! Take a look at the slide below. Let’s say you wanted the computer icon in column E to blink repeatedly until you move to the next slide.

To do this you would add the Blink emphasis effect from the Animations tab ( Animations > Add Animation > More Emphasis effects… ). Then open the Animation Pane , right click on the blink animation you just added and select Effect Options . Then set up the animation as follows:

How to loop a sequence of animation effects in PowerPoint

Okay, one animation successfully looped! But what would you do if you wanted a sequence of animation affects to play in a specified order and then repeat, as in this example:

This is just one PowerPoint slide with a fairly complex animation sequence used to show the production line process. This is what the Animation Pane looks like:

You can download this file to see how the animation sequence was created: Download looping animation file . What we want to do now is to set this whole sequence to repeat until the next slide. How? With our audio bookmark hack!

Hover your mouse over the last animation effect in the sequence and make a note of the time it ends. In our example, it’s 13.5 seconds.

Record a sound file that’s a bit longer than the time you just noted down. This may seem odd but stick with it! To do this, go to the Insert tab in PowerPoint and – way over on the right-hand side of the ribbon – click Audio followed by Record Audio .

Top tip: Name your recording using the target time so you remember when to stop recording!

If you want, you can mute your microphone. Otherwise, keep completely silent and press the record button. Wait until the recording is the right length, then press the stop button.

Wait! Hold the phone. Why are we telling you to record a silent audio file?! All will become clear.

Select your new audio file then set it up in the Playback tab as follows:

• Click Add Bookmark (this will add a bookmark at 0 seconds)
• Click Volume > Mute
• Click Start > Automatically
• Click Loop until Stopped
• Click Hide During Show

Your audio file options should now look like this:

Finally, click the Trim Audio button and set the End Time to the exact time you want the animation sequence to repeat. In our example, the sequence lasts 13.5 seconds so we’ll set the audio end time to 14.00 seconds.

Note: in some versions of PowerPoint this may cause an auto transition to be added to the slide. Check in the Transitions tab and deselect this check box if that happens:

Open the Animation Pane (download our free quick access toolbar customisation for Windows or macOS to open the Animation Pane with just one click). Then select the first animation effect in the sequence, hold down the shift key and select the last effect in the sequence. With the whole sequence selected, go back to the Animations tab and in the Advanced Animation group, click the Trigger menu followed by On Bookmark and then Bookmark 1 .

And you’re done! You should now see two zones in the Animation Pane. The top part in the main timeline sequence just has the audio file in it, set to start automatically and repeatedly fire its single bookmark trigger event every 14 seconds. The main animation sequence has moved to what’s known as the interactive or trigger sequence. This sequence will now start every time the bookmark in the audio file is reached.

And as the audio file is set to loop until you advance the slide, the animation sequence will repeat from when you start the Slide Show until you move to the next slide or quit the show. And it doesn’t stop there. Imagine what effects you could achieve by adding different sequences to different audio files with multiple bookmarks. One audio file triggering another that triggers a sequence of effects that triggers another audio file. Welcome to mind-blowing PowerPoint that makes your brain ache and your heart sing! No? Just us then!

Got a thirst for PowerPoint loops?

If you’re now looping mad, then you might want to check out this blog post: How to create infinite Motion Paths in PowerPoint . And our free BrightSlide add-in for PowerPoint includes lots of new ways to enhance your creativity, including some very cool animation tools that’ll have your boss, colleagues and audiences jumping for joy. Download BrightSlide!

Jamie Garroch

Principal technical consultant, related articles, powerpoint memory game.

• PowerPoint design / PowerPoint animation
• Comments: 4

We love PowerPoint at BrightCarbon. It’s such a versatile application which can be used for so much more than ‘just’ designing presentations. You can create videos, printed collateral, interactive eLearning, even animated GIFs and so much more. But did you know you can even create games? We’ve built one for you, using VBA, and it’s free to download and adapt.

3 ways to create slide backgrounds in PowerPoint

• Comments: 1

If you’ve used BrightCarbon’s guides before, we have no doubt that you can make your content look incredible. But something you might not have dabbled in yet is changing up the slide background in PowerPoint. The right presentation backdrop can do a lot, from keeping everything on brand to adding…

How to create infinite Motion Paths in PowerPoint

All the best things in life do loop-the-loops. Rollercoasters, fancy planes, and… PowerPoint! Learn how to make a loop-the-loop-ing infinite Motion Path in PowerPoint for silky smooth repeating image carousels, never-ending animations, and more!

Absolutely brilliant! Thank you for sharing

Thank you very much, It’s very useful.

Very useful. Worked like a charm

Thank you so much for sharing this knowledge!

Brilliant! Thank you so much

Thank you – works like a charm. I would never have thought that I’ve have to record an audio to make a animation loop!

Great idea!

had to repeat list of animations on a slide – this works perfect! Thanks much for sharing

It doesn’t loop. It just plays once even though I have “loop until stopped selected”. I applied all the steps you suggested. What am I doing wrong?

I’m having the same problem! I’ve followed this guide a few times with no problems but this time I just can’t get it to work.

The most bizarre thing is that a previous slideshow I did still works perfectly and I’ve compared all the settings and all the checkboxes and they all match. But the new slideshows just repeat once and stop. Very annoying. I suspect there’s been an ‘improvement’ by Microsoft – that’s normally what breaks useful things in the office apps!

It seems that in current versions of Office 365 there is a strange bug. I just ran into the same problem, but I figured out its cause and a solution. Here’s how:

Apparently, PowerPoint adds a slide transition timer when you add the audio. It is set so the exact duration of the audio. So when the loop is ready to repeat the transition kicks in and switches to the next slide. To solve it just go to the Transitions tab and clear the check box next to the slide timer (usually the last item on the ribbon).

Works perfectly! I looked for this option for a while and finally learned how to do it. It is explained easily step by step.

Thank you so much.

Where in the heck is the Playback tab? I recorded the video but it’s nowhere to be seen. Clicking it in the Animation pane just brings up Animation options. Why do these articles skimp on screenshots? Be better for us dumb ones.

Found it–have to select the “recording” icon dead center in the slide. Missed it because I had assets masking it. Seriously–screenshots are signposts for your readers. Shouldn’t have to explain that for technical content.

Thanks for the feedback JD. Which step(s) do you believe requires additional screenshot(s)?

All the options I need to do this are greyed out. How do I make them so I can actually click on them?

Really appreciated the effort to put this tip up, and also for the correction on comments on how to fix on Office 365 – just made it work on 7th July 2024 after removing the auto-transiction!

works like a charm! thank you for explaining so clearly

Thank you everyone for the feedback. It appears that there may be a Microsoft regression bug in the way that audio files set to loop until end of slide behave (irrespective of the slide transition setting). We’ve reported this to Microsoft.

Just tried this out and it works very nicely, it was very frustrating not being able to loop my animation flow. Thank you very much for taking the time to post this, itbhelped very much! I still think, PP should be able to do this out-of-the-box, but this is a workaround I can live with.

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It is, quite simply, the best deck we have. I did a nice presentation with it yesterday and would like to do the same next week... I am sure it will get a lot of use. The visual impact and flow are compelling! Peter Francis Janssen

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How to Loop an Animation Effect in Microsoft PowerPoint

When you add an animation in PowerPoint presentation, you may want it to disappear when it’s over, or play repeatedly on the slide as an accessory. For the latter, how to make it happen specifically?

1. To add an animaiton, you should select specific text or shape at first.

2. Go to Animations tab, click Add Animation and choose an effect in the drop-down menu.

3. Click Animation Pane to evoke the side pane. Right-click the animation you just added and choose Timing… in the menu.

4. In the Timing tab of the popping out window, click the small down arrow beside the choice box of Repeat to expand the menu. Choose the number of times you want the animation to repeat, or you can also choose Until Next Click or Until End of Slide .

Then hit OK to confirm the setting, and you can press [F5] to preview the effect.

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Cheat Death by PowerPoint!

How to create looping animations in PowerPoint

October 2, 2018 by Laura Foley 8 Comments

PowerPoint has some incredible animation tools. Incredibly frustrating, that is. One thing that’s eluded PowerPoint animators for years has been a way to loop an animation sequence on a slide. Friends, I’m happy to announce that the wait is over. I’ve learned of a way to cheat the system!

The problem with looping animations in PPT

A looped sequence is a repeating sequence. For example, a looping animation would go through Effect #1, then Effect #2, then Effect #3, then go back to Effect #1 and keep going until you tell it to stop. It seems like it would be super-simple to set something like this up in PowerPoint. Trust me, without knowing the trick I’m about to teach you, it’s a huge pain in the tuchus.

You see, the animation timeline in PowerPoint is stupid. It only travels from left to right, ever forward. There’s no way to isolate a set of animations, group them, and cause them to loop. So to create the illusion of looping, you’d have to repeat the animation sequence however many times you want it to loop. It can be a real drag, especially if you have a number of complicated animations, exact positioning, etc.

The answer? Bookmarks.

I’m a member of the Presentation Guild . One of the many benefits I enjoy as a member is access to the forum pages, where the best presentation designers share their ideas and inspirations. One of the Alpha Nerds, Jamie Garroch , developed an ingenious method of creating looping animations within PowerPoint by using something I’d never been aware existed: bookmarks.

A bookmark can be added to a video or audio file. Like bookmarks IRL, you can use these to mark interesting parts of the media. You can also use them to…wait for it…trigger animations! And the way to do it is to use bookmarks on an audio file you create that’s the same length as your desired animation loop.

How to create looping animations

Don’t be put off by the number of steps below. As with anything, writing out instructions takes much longer than actually doing it. If you’d rather learn by watching me do it, then watch this video.

Step 1: Create your animations

Create the animations you want on your slide. Wherever you want a bookmark to trigger an animation, select Start On Click . Use animation tools like After Previous , With Previous , Duration , Delay , etc., as you normally would.

Step 2: Make the audio file

• Under Media on the Insert tab, click Audio then Record audio .
• Click on the red dot (record) and remain silent for the length of your recording. The recording length is determined by how long you want the looping animation to be. When finished, click on the square (stop).
• Click on the audio file. Under Audio Options on the Playback tab, select Volume then select Mute . Also select Hide During Show, Start Automatically , and Loop Until Stopped .

Step 3: Add bookmarks

• Click on the audio clip.
• In the audio controls below the clip, click Play .
• When you reach the point where you want to make a bookmark, click Pause .
• Under Audio Tools , on the Playback tab, in the Bookmarks group, click Add Bookmark . Note that these bookmarks cannot be changed, only deleted and remade, so choose wisely!
• Make as many bookmarks as you have Start On Click animations.

Step 4: Use bookmarks to trigger animations

• In the Animation Pane , move your audio file to the top.
• Select the first animation that starts on click, then select On play…Recorded Sound – Bookmark 1 under Triggers .
• In the Animation Pane , move all of the animations that follow up until the next Start On Click animation to be after the triggered animation.
• Repeat steps 1–3 for as many Start On Click animations you have.

Step 5: Breaking the animation cycle

To get the animation cycle to stop and advance to the next slide, follow these steps:

• Click on the Transitions tab in the Ribbon .
• In the Timing section of the Transitions tab, deselect On Mouse Click
• Select After and set the amount of time you want to stay on the slide.

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How To Loop Animation In PowerPoint

Have you ever wondered how to create loop animation in PowerPoint to make your presentations more engaging and dynamic?

We will also provide step-by-step instructions on how to create loop animation in PowerPoint, along with tips for using it effectively and common mistakes to avoid.

Key Takeaways:

What is loop animation.

Loop Animation in PowerPoint refers to a technique where a sequence of effects or slides repeats continuously to create a dynamic and engaging visual presentation.

This feature allows presenters to showcase content in a captivating way by displaying key messages or visuals repetitively, ensuring that critical information is reinforced in the minds of the audience. Loop animations can be applied to various elements within a presentation, such as text, images, charts, or even entire slides, offering a seamless flow of information. By incorporating loop animations in PowerPoint, presenters can maintain viewer interest and focus throughout the presentation, leading to improved retention of the material being presented.

How Does Loop Animation Work in PowerPoint?

Loop Animation in PowerPoint functions by setting up a sequence of effects on slides that repeat in a continuous loop during the presentation, offering a visually appealing way to convey information.

Why Use Loop Animation in PowerPoint?

Loop animation in PowerPoint provides a seamless way to display continuous motion graphics, keeping viewers captivated and interested throughout the presentation. This feature can be especially impactful when presenting complex concepts or processes, as the repetitive motion aids in retention and understanding.

Benefits of Loop Animation in PowerPoint Presentations

By incorporating loop animations into your slides, you can captivate your audience by creating dynamic and eye-catching visual effects that hold their attention throughout the presentation. These animations can help reinforce key points, keep the audience focused, and enhance comprehension of complex concepts. The repetitive nature of loop animations can aid in reinforcing important messages, ensuring that your audience retains the information even after the presentation ends.

How to Create Loop Animation in PowerPoint?

To create Loop Animation in PowerPoint , follow a step-by-step process that involves choosing the object to animate, adding animation effects, and setting the animation to loop for continuous playback.

Once the animation effect is applied, adjust the duration and timing by accessing the ‘Effect Options’ and ‘Timing’ tabs. This allows you to customize how and when the animation occurs on each slide.

Step 1: Choose the Object to Animate

Lastly, audience engagement should be at the forefront of your mind when deciding on the object to animate. Choose elements that will captivate your viewers and keep them interested throughout the presentation.

Step 2: Add Animation to the Object

Regarding animation effects in PowerPoint, there are several options to choose from to bring your slides to life. You can opt for entrance effects, emphasizing effects, motion paths, or exit effects, each serving a specific purpose in enhancing your content.

Timing is crucial when setting up these effects; ensure that the duration and delay are appropriate to sync with your narration. Utilizing animation judiciously can not only capture the audience’s attention but also convey information effectively. Remember, each effect should contribute to the visual storytelling you want to convey through your presentation.

Step 3: Set the Animation to Loop

These steps will ensure that your animations play on a loop, enhancing the engagement of your PowerPoint presentation. Remember to preview your slideshow to confirm that the animation loop is working as intended.

Tips for Using Loop Animation in PowerPoint

Visual simplicity is key when working with loop animations. Opt for clean and clear transitions to avoid overwhelming your audience. Choose animations that complement your content rather than detract from it. This will ensure that your message remains the focal point of the presentation.

Remember to use animations to emphasize key points. Highlighting crucial information through strategic animation can help reinforce concepts and capture the audience’s attention.

Keep the Animation Simple

By embracing simplicity in loop animations, presenters can create a more user-friendly and engaging experience for their viewers. Clutter-free visuals help the audience to focus on the core message without getting distracted by unnecessary embellishments. With clear messaging, viewers can easily grasp the information being conveyed, leading to better retention and understanding of the content. Minimal distractions ensure that the audience remains attentive and receptive throughout the presentation, enhancing overall engagement and impact.

Use Loop Animation for Emphasis

When used judiciously, looping animations bring a dynamic element to your slides, enhancing storytelling and captivating your audience’s attention. To maximize the impact, consider using loop animation sparingly, primarily focusing on essential information that you want your audience to retain long after the presentation has concluded.

Use Loop Animation for Interactive Presentations

Incorporating interactive elements such as clickable hotspots or trigger animations can encourage user interaction and enable hands-on exploration of content. This not only makes the presentation more immersive but also fosters a sense of participation and personal connection with the material being presented.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Using Loop Animation in PowerPoint

Overusing loop animation.

One common mistake to avoid in PowerPoint presentations is overusing loop animation, as excessive repetitive effects can distract the audience, diminish message clarity, and detract from the overall presentation quality.

This can result in a message dilution, where the core content gets overshadowed by unnecessary visual embellishments, undermining the effectiveness of the presentation as a whole.

Using Inappropriate Animation Effects

Not previewing the animation.

Ensure a seamless presentation flow by always previewing the loop animations in PowerPoint before the actual showcase, as overlooking this step can lead to unexpected visual discrepancies, timing errors, or technical glitches.

In conclusion, Loop Animation in PowerPoint offers a versatile tool for creating engaging, dynamic presentations that captivate audiences and elevate the visual storytelling experience to new heights.

Additional Resources

If you are looking to elevate your presentation game and captivate your audience with impactful animations, BrightCarbon is a go-to destination. Their comprehensive tutorials cover everything from basic animation principles to advanced techniques, ensuring you have all the tools at your disposal to create visually stunning slides.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to loop animation in powerpoint, can i loop multiple animations in one slide, how do i stop the looped animation, can i loop an animation on a specific part of a slide.

Yes, you can loop an animation on a specific part of a slide. Follow these steps:

Is there a keyboard shortcut to loop animations in PowerPoint?

Can i loop an animation in powerpoint online, similar posts, how to play one slide after another in powerpoint, how to convert ppt to video in powerpoint 2007, how to remove notes in powerpoint for mac, how to add line under header in powerpoint, how to add underline animation in powerpoint, how to get laser pointer in powerpoint.

How to Make a PowerPoint Loop? (Step-By-Step Guide)

Have you ever come across a presentation that just keeps on going? It’s mesmerizing, isn’t it? Imagine being able to create a looping presentation within PowerPoint that is sure to captivate your audience.

Well, you can! In this article, we’re going to walk you through the steps of creating your own looping presentation, from understanding what a looping presentation is to setting the slide show to loop.

We’ll also provide some helpful tips and troubleshooting advice so you can make a successful loop and achieve the presentation of your dreams.

Short Answer

Then go to the “Transitions” tab, and check the box next to “On Mouse Click” and select “Loop Until Stopped”.

What is a Looping Presentation?

A looping presentation in PowerPoint is a great way to capture and keep viewers engaged and entertained.

This type of presentation allows you to create a continuous cycle of animations that play one after the other.

Its an effective way to deliver information in an efficient and engaging way.

Looping presentations can be used for a variety of purposes, such as to educate, explain processes, or just to entertain.

In addition, looping presentations can be used to create a sense of atmosphere.

For example, if youre creating a presentation about a beach, you can use looping to show a continuous cycle of images of the beach.

This can help create an immersive experience for viewers, and help keep their attention on your presentation.

Finally, looping presentations can also be used to create a visual aid while someone is speaking.

What Do You Need to Make a PowerPoint Loop?

To make a PowerPoint loop, you will need a few basic tools.

First, you will need a computer running Microsoft PowerPoint.

Additionally, you may want to have access to a few other tools, such as an image editing program or a video editing program, depending on what type of presentation you are creating.

Finally, you will need to have a basic understanding of how to use PowerPoint and how to use the Animation Pane.

You can add images, text, and videos to your slides to make them more engaging.

How to Use the Animation Pane

To make a PowerPoint loop, the first step is to access the Animation Pane in the ribbon.

To do this, first select the object that you want to animate.

To add additional animations to the sequence, select another object and repeat the steps.

When you have created the sequence of animations that you want to loop, you can adjust the timing of the animations by selecting the animation in the Animation Pane and then clicking on the Timing tab.

Once you are happy with the sequence of animations, you can set the presentation to loop in the Slide Show settings.

Then, check the box next to the Loop Until Stopped option.

This will ensure that your looping presentation will continue to play until the viewer manually stops it.

Creating a Sequence of Animations

To make a PowerPoint loop, you’ll need to use the Animation Pane to create a sequence of animations that will play one after the other.

You can also set the duration of each animation, and the order in which they will play.

This will create a more dynamic presentation that will keep the audience engaged.

In the Slide Show tab, you can choose to loop the presentation continuously, or after a certain number of slides.

By following these simple steps, you can easily create an engaging, looping PowerPoint presentation.

Setting the Slide Show to Loop

Once you have created your sequence of animations within the Animation Pane, you will need to set the presentation to loop in the Slide Show settings.

Once you have enabled this feature, your presentation will loop continuously until you press the Escape key.

You can then enter the number of times you would like the presentation to loop in the Loop for box.

Once you have enabled the looping feature, you can click the OK button in the Set Up Slide Show window to save your settings.

This will ensure that your audience stays engaged and entertained for the duration of your presentation.

Tips for Creating a Successful Loop

2. Make sure your animations are timed correctly. If the animations are too fast or too slow, the presentation wont be as effective.

5. Use transitions to create a seamless loop. Transitions can help create a smooth transition between slides and make the presentation feel more cohesive.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When it comes to troubleshooting common issues with a PowerPoint loop, there are a few tips to keep in mind.

First, make sure that the animation sequence is set up correctly.

Additionally, always double check the Slide Show settings to make sure the presentation is set to loop.

This will reset the show and should allow the loop to play correctly.

Finally, if the loop isn’t working as expected, try reloading the presentation.

Final Thoughts

With the steps outlined above, you can easily make a looping PowerPoint presentation by using the Animation Pane to create a sequence of animations and setting the Slide Show to loop.

Keep in mind the tips for creating a successful loop and troubleshoot any common issues you may encounter.

James Wilson has extensive knowledge in the information technology industry.His second love, besides dealing with computers, is smart home technology. He is continually updating information to better comprehend this problem and has a deep understanding of the apartment’s support system.

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How To Loop a PowerPoint Presentation

Learn how to loop a PowerPoint in 3 easy steps! Usually, once you’re finished with your presentation, PowerPoint goes back to the slide editor. But if you want your presentation to go back to the start, this quick tutorial will show you how to loop any PowerPoint presentation and set it to run automatically.

Why Learn How to Loop a PowerPoint

It can be very awkward to have your audience looking at the black screen after going through all your slides. Or even worse, at the slide editor. If you’re planning on going back on some of your previous points, learning how to loop your PowerPoint presentation can be a useful tool. Sure, you can go back using the Back key. But this way can make it easier and more polished, especially if you have a long presentation with many slides.

Learning how to loop a PowerPoint can also be extremely useful for those making a pictured-based presentation. Slides don’t necessarily have to have a lot of information on them. PowerPoint can also be used just to present images and examples or to provide a background for the speaker. Looping your presentation will make sure that you’re never left with an empty screen.

In short, it’s a nice detail to make your presentation look more clean and polished. So, are you ready to learn how to loop a PowerPoint presentation?

How to Loop a PowerPoint Presentation

Luckily, learning how to loop a PowerPoint is very easy! Just follow these 3 steps:

1. Open your presentation and go to the Slide Show tab.

2. Select the Set Up Slide Show option for the Set-Up Options window to appear.

3. In this window, go to the “Show options group” and tick the Loop continuously until ‘Esc’ (the first option). Don’t forget to click OK to apply the new set-up!

And that’s all! Try putting your presentation on Slide Show mode. You’ll see that your presentation keeps going on until you press the ESC key in your keyboard.

How To Make a Self-Running PowerPoint Presentation

If you’re making a PowerPoint presentation to be used only as a background, then this information might be useful too. Usually, PowerPoint presentations only advance to the next slide when a mouse click occurs. But you can set your presentation to run automatically. This way, you don’t have to keep worrying about moving to the next slide since your presentation will do it on itself!

This is a great option for presentations that are only images on a loop, like in a Pecha Kucha presentation . You will be able to focus much better on what you have to say rather than in clicking on your slides to avoid boring your audience with only one picture.

1. Go to the Transitions tab.

2. In the “Timing” group (in the far right), tick the After option. In the timer on its side, enter how much time you want between slide and slide.

3. Select the Apply To All option so every slide follows the same set-up.

If you want different times for each slide, you can also customize it like so. You just have to go one at a time changing how much time you want to spend on each slide and ignore the last step. Don’t forget to practice before your presentation! Only then you’ll know if the times you set for each slide are right. Good luck!

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How to Loop a PowerPoint Presentation

Just like an animated GIF or video clip, you can loop a slideshow in Microsoft PowerPoint. This is ideal if you set the presentation to automatically play because it starts at the beginning each time it ends to create an infinite loop.

Here’s how to loop a PowerPoint presentation on Windows and Mac. Currently, PowerPoint on the web doesn’t offer a Loop feature.

Set the Timing to Advance the Slides

Before you set your PowerPoint presentation to loop, you may want to adjust the timing to advance through the slides. You can use the same time for each slide or display particular slides for a longer amount of time.

• Open your presentation in PowerPoint on Windows or Mac and go to the Transitions tab.
• In the Timing section of the ribbon, check the box for After and enter the time in seconds to the right. You can also use the arrows to move the time up or down in small increments.

• To set different times for slides, select the next slide and use the above step to choose the After timing. Continue this process for the remaining slides.
• To set the same timing for all slides in the presentation, select Apply To All in the Timing section.

• If you only want continuous play to advance the slides, you can uncheck the box directly above for On Mouse Click . However, if you want the ability to advance the slides with a mouse click and after a certain amount of time, you can leave the box checked.

Once you have the timings set to advance the slides, you can turn on the Loop setting.

• Go to the Slide Show tab and select Set Up Slide Show in the Set Up section.

• Under Show type , choose an option to play your presentation.
• If you plan to present the slideshow or have an individual view the show, choose one of the first two options. Then, check the box for Loop continuously until ‘Esc’ in the section beneath.

Confirm that the Using timings, if present setting is marked under Advance Slides.

• If you want the slideshow to play automatically , choose the third option, Browsed at a kiosk . You’ll then see the Loop continuously until ‘Esc’ and Using timings, if present settings are automatically marked and disabled for changing.

• Adjust any other options per your preference and use the OK button to save the settings.

When you’re ready to begin the slideshow and let it play, check out our how-to for starting the PowerPoint presentation as well as navigating it if needed.

Just Let It Play

By looping a PowerPoint presentation, you don’t have to lift a finger to advance through the slides. You can display it at a kiosk, in a waiting room, or at a convention booth and just let it play over and over.

For more, look at how to add narration for an engaging PowerPoint presentation .

Sandy Writtenhouse is a freelance technology writer and former Project, Department, and Program Manager. She turned her education, job experience, and love of technology into a full-time writing career. With all sorts of gadgets in her home and her hands, she seeks to help others make life easier through technology. Read Sandy's Full Bio

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How to Loop a PowerPoint Presentation?

Table of Contents

PowerPoint presentations are a go-to for clear and informative content delivery. But what if you want your presentation to run on repeat, like at a kiosk or digital sign? The good news is, that PowerPoint has a built-in feature to loop your slideshow, ensuring your message stays on display without interruption. 

This blog post will guide you through the simple steps to set your presentation on a loop, keeping your audience engaged and informed around the clock.

What is PowerPoint Looping?

Normally, in a PowerPoint presentation, you have to manually move from one slide to the next by pressing keys on the keyboard or clicking buttons on a mouse or presentation remote.

However, when you enable looping in PowerPoint, the presentation progresses automatically from one slide to the next without requiring manual input. This eliminates the need for the presenter to interact with the computer or mouse during the presentation.

With PowerPoint looping, you can also set each slide to display automatically for a specified duration, determined by you. Once the preset time elapses, the next slide seamlessly appears. Additionally, upon reaching the final slide, the slideshow automatically starts over from the beginning.

Why Do You Need to Loop Your Slideshow in PowerPoint? 

There are several reasons why you might want to loop your slideshow in PowerPoint:

• Unattended Presentations: Looping is ideal for situations where the presentation runs without a presenter. This could be at a kiosk, trade show booth, or in a waiting room. Looping ensures the information is continuously displayed for viewers to come and go as they please.
• Automated Playback: Looping allows for a hands-off presentation experience. Once started, the presentation progresses automatically, freeing you up to greet attendees or answer questions.
• Self-Paced Learning: Looping can be useful for self-paced learning environments. Viewers can revisit slides or take breaks without needing someone to control the flow.
• Continuous Engagement: Looping keeps the audience engaged with a constant stream of information. This can be beneficial for displaying menus, directions, or other ongoing updates.

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How to Make a PowerPoint Presentation loop?

Ready to loop your presentation? Here’s how it’s done:

Step 1:  Open your PowerPoint and head over to the “Slide Show” tab.

Step 2:  Click the button that says “Set Up Slide Show.” A new window will pop up.

Step 3:  Under “Show options,” find the magic checkbox that says “Loop continuously until ‘Esc’.” Check that box to make your presentation run on repeat.

Step 4:  Want to control how long each slide shows? Look for the option “Automatically advance slides” and check it. Then, use the up and down arrows to set the display time for each slide.

Step 5:  Once you’re happy with the settings, click “OK” to save them.

Step 6: Time to loop! Go back to the “Slide Show” tab and click “From Beginning” (or “From Start”). Your presentation will start playing and keep going until you press the “Esc” key.

How To Loop a PowerPoint SlideShow from Selected Slides?

PowerPoint lets you loop a customized selection of slides, creating engaging presentations that run unattended. This eliminates the need for manual slide changes while maintaining audience interest. Here’s how to loop specific slides:

Step 1:  Select Slides: In the Slide Sorter view, hold “Shift” and click the first and last slides you want to loop.

Step 2:  Enable Looping: Go to the “Slide Show” tab and click “Set Up Show.” Check the box for “Loop continuously until ‘Esc'” and choose “Show slides” from the dropdown menu. Select “From” and enter the slide number where your loop should begin.

Step 3:  Create Custom Show (Optional): For easier access, name your looped sequence as a “Custom Show” within the “Set Up Show” dialog.

Step 4:  Start Looping: Navigate back to the “Slide Show” tab and choose “Custom Slide Show” to launch your looped presentation.

Closing Thoughts

Looping your PowerPoint presentation is a simple yet powerful technique that unlocks a variety of use cases. By following these steps, you can ensure your message runs continuously, keeping your audience informed and engaged, whether it’s at a kiosk, trade show booth, waiting room, or any other scenario that demands unattended playback. 

• No design skills required
• 3 presentations/month free
• Don’t need to learn a new software

Frequently Asked Questions

My presentation has animations and transitions. will they loop as well.

Absolutely! When you loop your presentation, animations and transitions will also repeat continuously, regardless of the looping method you choose.

Does looping affect animation timing?

There’s a possibility. Looping might affect how your animations play out, especially if they have specific timings set. To avoid any hiccups, be sure to thoroughly test your looped presentation. This will ensure your animations sync smoothly with the slide transitions.

Can I loop specific slides in my PowerPoint presentation?

Yes! PowerPoint gives you the flexibility to loop a selected group of slides, creating engaging presentations that run unattended.

How do I stop or pause a looped slideshow in PowerPoint?

Need a break? Simply press the “Esc” key on your keyboard to interrupt the looped slideshow at any time.

Can I customize the duration of each slide in a looped PowerPoint presentation?

Yes, you can! PowerPoint allows you to adjust the slide transition settings for each slide. This lets you control how long each slide displays, creating a tailored and dynamic looping experience.

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How To Loop A PowerPoint Slideshow? Detailed Guide

Microsoft PowerPoint is a popular application for creating and delivering presentations. PowerPoint has numerous options for adding flair and taking your presentations a notch higher, such as the ability to incorporate YouTube videos, GIFs, etc. If you loop your PowerPoint, every slide will display for a predetermined duration. After the presentation, it will automatically resume from the beginning.

But the question is, can you use the looping function effectively? When used correctly, this feature eliminates the need for presenters to click a mouse or computer key to transition between slides. This feature is easy to set up and customize.

Today’s guide will teach us how to loop a PowerPoint slideshow and various tips and tricks for effective looping.

Why You Need to Loop Your Slideshow in PowerPoint?

Before learning how to loop a PowerPoint slideshow, let’s see under what scenarios one needs to loop their slideshow:

One helpful tool in PowerPoint that helps to guarantee a smooth and continuous presentation experience is the ability to loop your slideshow. The constant playback draws and maintains audience attention whether you present information in automated presentations, build interactive kiosks, or show information in exhibitions. Looping makes it possible to communicate information effectively and reinforce essential points for audience members who might join the presentation at different times. 

How to Make a PowerPoint Loop?

You can learn how to make a PowerPoint loop through the instructions below. You can use the loop for various events, such as trade exhibitions, information displays, or kiosks.

• Open the PowerPoint presentation that you wish to loop first.
• Go to the Slide Show Tab: The PowerPoint window has several tabs at the top. To access choices relating to presenting your slides, select the “Slide Show” tab.
• Access Setup Show: Several commands and choices are under the “Slide Show” tab. Search for the “Set Up Slide Show” button or menu item in the group labeled “Start Slide Show.” Click on it.
• Display Type: Select “Presented by a speaker (full screen).”
• Preview slides: If you want the slides to play automatically, select “Manually” or enter the desired duration for each slide’s PowerPoint presentation loop timing.
• Enable your presentation to loop indefinitely unless you manually end it by hitting the Escape (‘Esc’) key by enabling this option.
• Click OK: After adjusting these settings to store your options, click the “OK” button.
• Begin Your Loop: Your slides will be set to loop unless you manually stop it by pressing the ‘Esc’ key. To stop it, click “From Beginning” or “From Current Slide” under the “Slide Show” tab to begin your presentation.

How to Loop a PowerPoint SlideShow from Selected Slides

You can choose which slides you want to loop around in PowerPoint. Eliminating manual intervention and maintaining audience interaction can be achieved by carefully choosing which slides to show throughout the presentation. Follow these steps to learn how to loop a PowerPoint slideshow from selected slides: 

• Select the “Slide Show” option to start a loop for a particular set of slides. To initiate the loop, click the first slide in the thumbnail pane on the left.
• Click the final slide you wish to add to the loop while holding your keyboard’s “Shift” key. Next, select “Setup Show” and turn on the looping feature.
• Choose the “Custom Show” option and give it a name in the “Set Up Show” dialogue box. Navigate to the “Slide Show” menu and select “Custom Slide Show” to begin your looping presentation from the selected slides.

How to Set Up Auto-Loop for Continuous Playback

Now you know how to loop a slideshow in PowerPoint from selected slides, let us see how you can set up auto-loop for continuous playback: 

• Select the Slide Show tab.
• Press the Set Up Slide Show button. You’ll see an options window appear.
• Keep clicking Loop till you reach “Esc.”

Note: Under Show Type, select Presented by a speaker or Browsed by an individual if you want the speaker or individual to continue controlling the presentation and clicking between slides. Clicking “Browsed” at a kiosk checks the Loop until the “Esc” box appears continuously. Moreover, auto-looping may annoy your viewers if your presentation is very repetitive. Use it with discretion and only when it makes sense for your writing subject.

How to Loop A PowerPoint SlideShow Using 2007 Version (older versions).

Use these detailed instructions to loop your slides if you’re using an older version of Microsoft PowerPoint:

• Open your PowerPoint presentation on your 2007 Microsoft PowerPoint .
• Select the tab labeled Slide Show. Select the “Set Up Slide Show” option from the “Set Up” menu.
• Go to the “Show options” section and select “Loop continuously until ‘Esc'” from the dialogue box that appears. Click Ok.
• Select your initial slide from the “Slides” preview side panel. To select your final slide, press and hold Shift. 
• Select the tab labeled “Animations.” Turn off “On Mouse Click” and check the “Automatically After” box.
• The “After” box in the “Timing” panel has up and down arrows that you can use to change the time each slide appears. It will automatically loop back to the first slide when your slideshow reaches the last one.

How to Stop or Pause your Slideshow loop at any point.

Learning how to make a PowerPoint loop is of no use if you don’t know how to stop or pause your slideshow loop at any point: 

You can use simple keyboard commands to pause or stop your slideshow loop at any time during a PowerPoint presentation. You can manually stop the looping slideshow by hitting the “Esc” key (also known as the Escape key) on your keyboard. It gives presenters a simple and quick option to stop the continuous playback so they can answer queries, have conversations, or go to particular slides that are not playing continuously.

Advanced Techniques for Creating a Seamless Loop in PowerPoint

One of the techniques used for creating a seamless loop in PowerPoint is incorporating videos and GIFs. PowerPoint’s animations, transitions, and triggers can create seamless looping. Here is how:

• Select the video you imported and added to a slide.
• Open the “Animations” tab from the main menu.
• Choose “Play” from the animation gallery’s “Media” section after clicking the “ Add Animation ” button.
• On the right side of the screen, click the “Animation Pane” to open it.
• Right-click the “Play” button and choose “Timing” in the “Animation Pane.”
• Choose “Until End of Slide” or “Until Next Click” as the “Repeat” option in the “Timing” tab.
• Use Triggers to adjust the start and stop times of the video.

Tips and Tricks for Effective Slideshow Looping in PowerPoint

As you can see, creating a PowerPoint loop video couldn’t be easier. It only takes three easy steps to complete. Nonetheless, there are always specific tips you may apply to improve the appeal and attention-grabbingness of your videos.

1. Selecting the Right Video

The length and content of the video are the primary considerations when discussing the “right” video. Therefore, consider the duration of your video when creating a continuous loop.

Yes, longer videos can be more captivating, but they may add to the presentation’s file size and degrade performance. Shorter video clips, however, are less likely to affect performance and can loop more naturally. Regarding the video’s substance, make sure it supports the main idea of your presentation and is pertinent to the subject of your talk. The video aims to increase viewer comprehension and engagement without becoming overbearing or intrusive.

2. Compressing Video Files

Large videos can detract from the overall image of your presentation by making it excessively slow and challenging to share. Therefore, consider using a specialized video compression tool or the built-in PowerPoint compression feature to optimize your presentation by compressing the files. It doesn’t always imply that your presentation will look grainy. Still, it can cause a noticeable quality loss, so keep that in mind when creating the presentation in the first place.

3. Examining the Presentation

Make sure the video loops accurately and smoothly by testing it before you deliver your presentation. Go over the entire presentation, looking for any inconsistent or problematic playback. If you complete your testing on time, you can safely make all the required changes and retest it until the loop video functions as planned.

4. Looping Videos to Create Ambience and Background

You can also use videos that loop to set the mood for your presentation. For instance, a natural setting or a soft animation can produce an aesthetically pleasing and captivating ambiance. Nevertheless, the presentation’s general subject and the background clip are complementary rather than distracting.

To sum up, looping your PowerPoint slideshow is simple. PowerPoint’s “Set Up Slide Show options” allow you to program it to loop indefinitely for a predetermined number of times.

Use transitions carefully, arrange your slides in the correct order, and adhere to best practices while making your looping PowerPoint to give it a polished, professional appearance. Your looping slideshow can operate flawlessly at events without supervision with the correct settings.

How to Loop Slideshow In Powerpoint?

To loop a slideshow in PowerPoint, go to the “Slide Show” tab, select “Set Up Slide Show,” check “Loop continuously until ‘Esc’,” and click “OK.”

Can I loop specific slides within my PowerPoint presentation?

Yes, PowerPoint allows you to loop specific slides.

How do I stop or pause a looped slideshow in PowerPoint?

To interrupt a looped slideshow at any point, simply press the “Esc” key on your keyboard.

Can I customize the duration of each slide in a looped PowerPoint presentation?

Yes, you can control the timing of each slide by adjusting the slide transition settings, allowing for a tailored and dynamic looping experience.

Can SlideUpLift templates be used in looped presentations?

Yes, SlideUpLift provides PowerPoint templates that are compatible with looped presentations. These professionally designed templates can enhance the visual appeal of your slides, making your looped presentation more engaging and impactful.

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Home Blog PowerPoint Tutorials PowerPoint Animations: Animate Text, Objects, and Slides in Your Presentations

PowerPoint Animations: Animate Text, Objects, and Slides in Your Presentations

Working with graphic assets can bring a degree of expectancy when delivering a presentation, such as in the case of PowerPoint animations. They can help add emphasis to slide content and reveal parts of the slide gradually to help presenters discuss topics sequentially. 

As a presenting software, PowerPoint provides all kinds of animations for emphasis, entrance, exit, and to create a set motion. Join us today to learn all about animations in PowerPoint and unleash your creative potential.

Table of Contents

How PowerPoint Animations Can Benefit Presentation Design

Understanding powerpoint animation basics, types of animations in powerpoint, how to animate text on powerpoint, animating objects for visual impact, crafting seamless slide transitions in powerpoint, mastering advanced animation techniques in powerpoint, dos and don’ts of powerpoint animations, real-world use cases of animated presentation slides, recommended animated powerpoint templates, enhanced engagement and understanding through animations.

Dynamic presentations can have many benefits. The importance of such animations is often only realized by people familiar with PowerPoint. As we’ve seen in our guide on visual communication , graphical elements can make concepts more understandable. In the case of animations, we can use the transitions between slides or elements to split concepts and make them clearer.

Audience engagement is another factor, as eye-catching slides often include surprise elements hidden behind animations. These elements attract the audience’s interest and increase retention rate. In this case, animations serve as powerful presentation aids for the speaker.

Capturing Audience Attention

PowerPoint animations are more likely to capture the audience’s attention than static slides. The moving objects on-screen are the type of visuals people are likely to find attention-grabbing instead of trying to read through static slides or looking at static images. On this behalf, storytelling techniques boost their efficacy in connecting with the audience by implementing animations and transitions rather than sticking to static slides. 

Emphasizing Relationships Between Elements

Whenever we work with contrasting values, like pros and cons slides , animations help the presenter highlight areas of interest or disclose the opposite values section by section. This, in turn, structures the speech for real-time interaction with the graphical assets rather than having the audience read the slide and lose focus on the speech. 

Interactive Presentations

As mentioned before, presenters can craft compelling stories through the careful use of animations in PPT. What is often overlooked is the link between interactive presentations and animations. For instance, a speaker can deliver different outcomes of the presentation by selecting one path whose outcome is revealed through an animation. This “wow” factor induces surprise and creatively presents case scenarios.

Another option is when introducing your team in presentations. Rather than using static slides, incorporating animations gives more rhythm to the presentation and invites the public to interact with the speaker.

Getting Started with Animation in PowerPoint

To start with animations in PowerPoint, select an object you wish to animate and go to the Animations tab to choose an animation to add to the slide element. When adding animations to multiple objects in a slide, you should consider the sequence you wish to use to animate objects.

Accessing Animation Features

When accessing animation features, you will come across various animation types. By expanding the Animations menu, you can select animations for entrance, exit, emphasis, and motion paths to create a path for your animated sequence. You can also click to instantly preview an animation for the selected object or switch to slideshow mode to see how the animation will appear.

Adding Animations to Text and Objects

Once an animation is added to a text or object, a number is assigned. This number shows the sequence in which the object will be presented. For example, the object will be the first to be animated on screen, followed by two, three, and so on.

You can adjust the sequence of animations, triggers, and other settings from the Animation Pane in PowerPoint.

Timing and Sequence in Animations

The Timing menu in the Animations pane provides options to set the duration of the animation, the time to delay the animation on the screen (if necessary), and to assess if the animation starts on click, with the previous or after the last animation. How you select these animations will help you adjust the time and sequence of the animations. For example, you can use ‘ with previous’ option to show two animated objects simultaneously.

Entrance, Exit, and Emphasis Animations

Some of the most commonly used animation types fall under three categories: entrance, exit, and emphasis animations.

Entrance Animations

The Entrance Animations are meant to start or introduce objects. You can explore all entrance-related animations by going to Animations -> Animation (menu) -> More Entrance Effects . This will reveal all entrance animations you can click to preview for a selected object. These often consist of basic animations with effects like appear, fly-in, float-in, strips, wheel, circle, box, dissolve-in, split, wedge, wipe, plus, diamond, checkerboard, blinds, etc. The animations can be divided into three categories: basic, subtle, and moderate. These categories help identify the type of effects in each category according to how prominent they might be on screen.

Exit Animations

The Exit Animations are meant to help exit a slide or animated sequence to close a topic or subtopic, or to conclude the on-screen animations for a slide. These animations are similar to the Entrance Animations with the same effects. You can use these animation types for an exit sequence using effects like blinds, circles, checkerboard, box, plus, split, wedge, wipe, diamond, dissolve out, contract, swivel, fade, zoom, basic zoom, collapse, float up, etc.

Like the Entrance Animations, you can go to  Animations -> Animation (menu) -> More Exit Effects to preview the animations and to see the three categories for basic, subtle, or moderate animations.

Emphasis Animations

Other than basic, subtle, and moderate, the Emphasis Animations come with an additional category, ‘exciting.’ Emphasis animations in PowerPoint provide visual aids for emphasizing content within slides. The effects for these animation types in PowerPoint are also quite different from the entrance and exit-themed effects. Effects like fill color, grow/shrink, transparency, line color, teeter, color pulse, object color, desaturate, darken, lighten, blink, wave, and others can help emphasize an object within a slide to make it pop out before the audience.

Exploring Motion Path Animations

If primary effects aren’t what you want, it’s time to switch to Motion Paths . These are animated effects in PowerPoint that showcase objects across a specific path. In other words, these are elaborate animations that drag objects on the screen based on a particular shape or path, such as a 4,5, 6, or 8-point star, crescent moon, circle, diamond, football, heart, octagon, pentagon, square, trapezoid, teardrop, right triangle, arc (down, right, left, up), curvy right, bounce right, etc.

Motion Paths are divided into four categories. The basic effects consist of shapes, whereas, Line Curves provide lines and curves to animated objects. Similarly, the special category contains more elaborate effects such as inverted square, loop de loop, peanut, bean, curved square, etc.

Choosing Appropriate Animation Styles

When choosing animation styles, picking a style that best resonates with your presentation slides is important. The animations’ names and categories can help you identify what might work for you. Furthermore, after adding an animation, you can go to Effect Options to view the various directions and options used to refine the animation to build your sequence further. Depending on the animation type, you can pick variations of the animation, directions, colors, transparency, points to edit or lock, or other options for selected effects. The image below shows the variations for the Wheel animation in PowerPoint via Effect Options .

Similarly, if you select Transparency from Emphasis Effects, you can choose how transparent the object will appear on the screen. Likewise, many color-themed effects enable picking a custom color to animate an object.

Since Motion Paths are unique, you will get options to edit points, lock paths, reverse the direction of the default animated sequence, etc.

Now that you know how to animate in PowerPoint, it’s time to explore making written content more interesting using animations.

Start by opening a blank PPT file and adding a placeholder text. The idea is to learn how text interacts with animation effects without working with complex graphic layouts.

Select the text and switch to the Animations tab. In there, pick an animation effect of your preference. You will get a preview of the effect applied – which will show the number of the animation order once completed.

Animations for text, like any other animation, can be controlled in terms of behavior by accessing the panel at the right-most section of the Ribbon.

Additionally, we can expand the animations panel to select from the different effects offered by PowerPoint.

Animating Text Elements on PPT Templates

Animating text elements to highlight key aspects of your slides can be a great way to create engaging presentations. The Animated 3D 4 Steps & Core PowerPoint Template shown below are among the Animated PowerPoint templates at SlideModel that animate objects and text elements for emphasis while retaining a clear layout.

As visible from the animated sequence from the Animation Pane in the image below, the slide deck uses animated text boxes with a mix of other slide elements to create a sequence where a four-step diagram is highlighted with supported text to help elaborate each part of the diagram in an animated sequence. We can add, remove, or modify the included effects via the Animation Pane.

Balancing Text Animations for Impact

By balancing text animations, you can have maximum impact when highlighting content for your slides. The animations can be triggered to start simultaneously to reveal all the text after a sequence of objects, before objects appear, or one by one to reveal the diagram contents gradually.

Animating Images, Shapes, and Charts

When animating shapes and images, you can use a variety of animation types for entrance, exit, and emphasis, and to make the content pop out. However, charts require subtle animations, and it’s best to use basic effects to reveal charts, such as Appear and Disappear .

The Animated Network Diagram PowerPoint Template is an example of how to animate shapes.

The template’s title slide reveals shapes and icons in the form of a diagram in an animated sequence.

You can also include images in such a template to customize the given diagram and animate it to reveal the image simultaneously or after a set of objects has already been revealed.

If you are including a chart in your slide that is to be animated, make sure the animation corresponds to other elements that might also be animated. For example, you can trigger the chart to be revealed after the slide title with a simple Appear effect. In such a case, the chart can be displayed altogether or gradually, in animated form.

Applying Object Animations Strategically

When placing slide objects, you must apply the animations strategically to avoid revealing information out of sequence. Furthermore, it is also worth considering how your effects appear. For example, in the image of the diagram below, would you prefer the diagram to appear floating upward or downward? Such considerations and other vital elements, such as your branding needs, are important to ponder when setting your animated sequence.

Enhancing Presentation Flow with Transitions

While Animations for PowerPoint are one way of making your slides engaging, PowerPoint Transitions is another. You can access them via the Transitions tab in PowerPoint and apply transitions between slides.

While many legacy transitions provide basic effects when switching between slides, some of the more recent additions to this menu, such as Morph Transition , enable the creation of elaborate animations by using Transitions to animate your slides. The below example shows a slide with the Morph transition, giving an animated effect to the diagram.

Maintaining Coherence Between Slides

When applying Transitions, it is essential to maintain coherence between slides by ensuring they don’t overlap with any added Animations. To do this, you should preview your slide deck to see how it might appear once all the animated effects have been included in your slides. Like PowerPoint Animations, you can also use Effect Options for Transitions to set a sequence or direction that best suits your needs.

Layering for Complex Animation Effects

Using layers of multiple objects and slides can easily create advanced animation effects. This can be done using not only PowerPoint animations but also transitions. The Animated Pendulum Swing PowerPoint Templates from the SlideModel archive of animated templates use Transitions like Morph to create animated sequences. The below example shows a swinging pendulum created using Morph.

Combining and Triggering Animations

Depending on the number of elements within a slide and the animations used, you can use triggers to customize and set sequences for slide elements to animate. The example below shows the selected pendulum’s various linking options for the on-click trigger. By placing your slide objects to be connected and triggered with different parts of your slide, you can create and customize animated sequences that can be pretty attention-grabbing. 

PowerPoint Animation Painter

If you thought you had to start from scratch to animate each slide of your presentation, you are sorely mistaken. Much like the Format Painter option in PowerPoint, we can find Animation Painter , which is accessible via the Ribbon under the Advanced Animation control options.

This tool helps us duplicate animations between elements of the same slide or copy animation effects from one slide to another. As a format copying tool, it requires at least one animation effect to be placed otherwise the option is grayed out.

Creative Experimentation

Experimenting with Animations in PowerPoint can be pretty helpful to avoid making monotonous presentations. Experimentation does not necessarily require making slides from scratch, but you can also use ready-made templates such as the 3D animation PowerPoint Templates at SlideModel. Alternatively, some slide deck templates offer a considerable range of animation effects intended for maximum audience engagement, which users can quickly customize by editing placeholder areas for text, images, and logos.

Below is a list of do’s and don’ts of PowerPoint Animations for making presentations that best use animated effects.

Maintain Animation Moderation

It is essential to maintain moderation when using animations, as the use of too many animations on a single slide or presentation can make the content confusing.

Use of Appropriate Animations

Try to use appropriate animations for slide objects. The animation should suitably show if the object is to enter, exit, be emphasized, or be highlighted using a motion path.

Avoid Animation Overload

Avoid flashy animated sequences unless your presentation is meant for an audience that might find engaging, such as children in a classroom session.

Subtle can be Just as Engaging

Sometimes, subtle animations can be just as engaging as an animation with an elaborate effect. This can, in fact, be a better option than using animations that might be visually overpowering or difficult to follow due to elaborate effects.

Ensure Visual Consistency

As discussed earlier, it is vital to maintain consistency in using animated effects. Be it Animations or Transitions, using flashy effects or too many diverse effects can hurt how the audience perceives your content, as it might become confusing, visually overpowering, or unprofessional. In such a case, the audience might quickly lose interest in the presentation, leading to Death by PowerPoint.

Less is More

The design language of visual designs over the past decade or more has been intended to use fewer effects and graphical elements with ample space to make the interface look clean. Be it Modern UI or Material design apps, this design language has been evident across desktop and mobile UIs. Using the same concept, you can design your slides with fewer animations and graphical elements to make your content more visually appealing.

Turning PowerPoints into Millions

Courtney Allen, a professional PowerPoint designer who came out of a BFA in graphic design from Boise State University, had all but PowerPoint as a part of her portfolio. She started her freelancing career via Upwork, making over a thousand PowerPoints for clients, bringing in as many as $2 million. She suggests using simple designs and animations to make the most out of PowerPoint presentations. 

Guy Kawasaki Pitch Deck

Guy Kawasaki, a former Apple employee, whose famous 10-slide pitch deck has inspired a variety of PowerPoint templates. This rule was designed for startups and business presentations, focusing on pitching a concept to investors. While this isn’t directly related to using animations in presentations, it is an example of making the best use of minimalist content in a few slides. You can learn more about the Guy Kawasaki pitch deck from our article about the 10/20/30 rule for PowerPoint presentations .

How not to use an Animated PowerPoint Presentation in Court! 

Presentations with animations aren’t always a great idea. In 2014, a court in the United States criticized a PowerPoint presentation by the prosecutor, which led to the court throwing the case out. The presentation was made with sound effects and animations, with flashy elements like the bullseye. Some of the significant mistakes made by the prosecutor included ‘visual advocacy,’ where the defendant was marked with the word ‘guilt’ in the slide deck. Not to mention, the animated presentation seemed to be aimed at influencing the court using visual aids. Something that did not sit well with the court.

Use of PowerPoint by the US Military

The US Military has often been accused of Death by PowerPoint for preparing what some call the worst PowerPoint slides ever created. The issue became so profound that in 2011, it was revealed that an executive communications manager at Microsoft, Dave Karle, was tasked with ensuring that the US military could finally start using the software properly. After discussions with top military officials, an updated military presentation method was created, consisting of a number of presentation templates, tips, and graphics and more than 6000 map symbols. 

In this section, you can check some ready-made templates that can be easily customized for your presentation’s purposes. All these templates feature professionally made animation effects with native PowerPoint tools.

1. Multi-Purpose Animated PowerPoint Slide Deck

Those looking for how to animate in PowerPoint now have a ready-made solution to create mind-blowing presentations in a couple of minutes. This slide deck contains 26 slides in a broad selection of topics. We can present facts, introduce our team, our company, display charts with animated effects, and so much more. Check it out now!

Use This Template

2. Animated 8-Step Social Media Carousel PowerPoint Template

Bring dynamism to your social media posts by implementing this vivid social media carousel template. With eye-catching animated effects, this template emulates the typical carousel posts we can find on platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram.

3. Problem Solving Animated PowerPoint Template

Bring professional graphics to troubleshooting sessions with your team. This template, filled with PowerPoint animations, offers a user-friendly approach to conventional problem-solving situations in which the team has to observe the Issue Matrix, suggest possible solutions, and prepare an implementation plan and its corresponding process flow diagram. Thanks to its high-quality animation effects, the speaker can introduce the facts individually, without diverting attention from the speech.

4. Animated Company Profile Presentation Template for PowerPoint

We’ve seen this template as one of the examples of animations for PowerPoint. It is a 21-slide solution offering all the tools required for a corporate-styled company profile presentation, specifically tailored for service businesses.

5. Corporate Company Profile Animated PowerPoint Template

An alternative option for company profile presentations, featuring a minimalistic graphic layout with a broad variety of animation effects. Check these 12 slides and customize them with information relevant to your organization – we bring complex animation effects in a ready-made format. Colors and placeholder images can also be replaced.

6. Animated Roadmap PowerPoint Template

Bring more action to any planning meeting using this animated PowerPoint roadmap template. After a clear path overview, each milestone slide contains animation effects to introduce relevant information to the topic. It is a new take on traditional roadmap presentations that allows the speaker to pace themselves regarding how to disclose the information about the strategy to embark on.

7. Animated Pros & Cons Comparison Slide Template for PowerPoint

We mentioned the advantages of using PowerPoint animations to discuss contrasting values of a situation. Well, this animated Pros & Cons slide is the ideal tool for that purpose, offering a generalist view, then two accompanying slides for Pros & Cons, respectively, with animated effects to introduce additional information per point.

Using animations to make visually appealing and engaging presentations requires ensuring that your content corresponds with your added animated effects. It is always best to use animations in moderation and to keep your slides minimalist while unleashing your creativity as a presenter. Using ready-made PowerPoint templates can also help give you a good starting point to begin experimenting with animations and effects. This can also be useful for people new to PowerPoint Animations to explore what is doable with an animated slide deck, using animated sequences tailored for customization. 

Whether you’re using an animated template or making one from scratch, a preview in slideshow mode can save you a lot of trouble with potential issues tied to animated effects. Last but not least, using animations in PowerPoint isn’t always necessary, and you can even go for a simple slide deck with a handful of slides. What matters is that you should be aware of the information being presented, and the visual aids should be just to aid your slides and not meant to be the whole package on their own.

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How to loop a PowerPoint slideshow so that it automatically starts over as soon as it ends

• To loop a PowerPoint slideshow, you'll need to enable looping in the "Set Up Slide Show" menu.
• Once you set your PowerPoint to loop, it'll start over from the beginning automatically after playing the last slide.
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If you've designed a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation that's meant to be viewed repeatedly, such as on a kiosk or in a museum installation, you can adjust the settings in PowerPoint so that your slideshow "loops" instead of ending after one viewing.

Getting a PowerPoint to loop is easy. Read on to find out how, using PowerPoint for both Mac and PC.

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Microsoft office (from $149.99 at best buy), apple macbook pro (from $1,299.00 at apple), acer chromebook 15 (from $179.99 at walmart), how to loop a powerpoint presentation.

1. Open the Microsoft PowerPoint presentation that you want to loop.

2. With your PowerPoint presentation open, click on the "Slide Show" tab, then click on "Set Up Slide Show." 

3. In the pop-up window that appears, click on the box next to "Loop continuously until 'Esc'" so that a small checkmark appears inside the box. Feel free to adjust any other settings in this menu as well. Click "OK" when you're finished.

4. To test whether your PowerPoint can loop successfully, click on the "From Beginning" or "Play From Start" button in the Slide Show tab. Click through the slideshow until you reach the end. When your PowerPoint reaches its final slide, it should start over from the beginning automatically. When you're confident that looping is enabled, and you're ready to close the slide show, press the Esc key.

Related coverage from  Tech Reference :

How to add a border to slides in powerpoint, and give your slideshow a sleek design, how to embed a youtube video into your microsoft powerpoint presentations using a mac or pc, how to convert google slides to a powerpoint presentation in 4 easy steps, how to create a custom powerpoint template to use or share with others, how to copy or duplicate a powerpoint slide and put it anywhere in your slideshow.

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Looping PowerPoint animation sequences within a slide

Setting the Scene

Building a Looping Slide

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Lenovo’s new wireless keyboard works with everything, 7 reasons to get a travel router, quick links, add a motion path animation, customize the motion path.

Microsoft PowerPoint offers many types of animations . You can add effects to text , images, and shapes. But if you want to create your own, you can select a motion path animation to move your object wherever you like.

With motion path animations in PowerPoint, you can make your object zigzag, loop, spiral, or swoosh. Once you select the motion path you want to use, you can customize the points to create the exact path you want your object to take.

Open your PowerPoint presentation and select the slide where you want to create the animation. Either insert the object you want to animate or select it if you've already added it to the slide.

Related: How to Hide an Object Before Animation in PowerPoint

Go to the Animations tab and click the arrow at the bottom of the Animation selection box. This opens the full collection.

Scroll toward the bottom and you'll see a few options in the Motion Paths section. If you want to use one of these, simply select it to apply it to your object. Notice you can choose Custom Path which allows you to draw the path yourself.

For additional options, click "More Motion Paths" at the bottom of the window.

In the Change Motion Path box, you'll see Basic, Lines and Curves, and Special paths. To see a preview before you apply it, check the box for Preview Effect at the bottom. Then, choose one to see it in action.

When you find the path you want to use, select it and click "OK."

If you want to combine motion paths so that your object ends in a certain spot, check out our how-to.

Related: How to Combine Motion Paths in Microsoft PowerPoint

After you apply the motion path, you may have options to change the direction. Select the animated object and go to the Animations tab. Click the Effect Options drop-down arrow to view your choices. Note that not all paths offer extra effects, but most let you reverse the path direction.

Along with changing the direction of your motion path, you can edit the points. Click the Effect Options drop-down arrow and pick "Edit Points."

You'll then see the motion path with the points as squares. Select and drag a point to move it.

You can also right-click a point for options like making it a smooth, straight, or corner point. Additionally, you can add more points or remove one.

If you want to change the start action or duration , or add a delay, select the animation and use the tools on the Animations tab.

Remember, you can preview your animation as you make edits to it using the Preview button on the left side of the ribbon on the Animations tab. This helps to see if you need more adjustments or want to reorder the animations .

Animations can spruce up your slideshow . So if a motion path animation is what you need, you have plenty of options in PowerPoint.

Related: 8 Tips to Make the Best PowerPoint Presentations

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Set the start time and speed of an animation effect

In PowerPoint, you can control when an animation effect starts and the speed at which it happens. You can even repeat or rewind the effect to get just the right look and feel for your presentation. This article shows you a few ways to fine-tune the animations in your presentations.

Set the start time of an animation effect

You can set an animation effect to start when you click the mouse, or in coordination with other animation effects on the slide.

On the slide, click the text or object that contains the animation effect that you want to set the start timing for.

Select the Animations tab, then select the Start down arrow, and pick one of the following:

To start the animation when you click the slide, select On Click .

To start the animation at the same time as the previous effect in the list (where one click executes multiple animation effects), select With Previous .

To start the animation effect immediately after the previous effect in the list finishes, select After Previous .

Set the speed of an effect

To run your animation effect at a faster or slower pace, change the Duration setting.

On the slide, select the text or object that contains the animation effect that you want to set the speed for.

Select the Animations tab, and in the Duration box, enter the number of seconds that you want the effect to run.

Tip:  Smaller numbers mean the effect will run faster and will finish sooner, and larger numbers means the effect will run slower and take longer to finish.

Delay the start time

If you want to delay the start time or pause in between animation effects on a slide, you can set a delay on one or more effects.

On the slide, click the text or object that contains the animation effect that you want to set a delay for or another timing option.

Select the Animations tab, and in the Delay box, enter in the number of seconds that you want the effect to pause before running.

Tip:  The start of an effect’s delay period is controlled by its Start setting. For example, if an effect is set to start After Previous with a delay of 1.5 seconds, its delay of 1.5 seconds begins when the previous effect ends.

Repeat or rewind an effect

Normally, when an animated object has run its course, it stays at its endpoint and appears in its final form. You can set an animation effect (or sequence of effects) to return to its original state, or repeat.

Click the Timing tab, and do one or both of the following:

To play an animation effect more than once, select an option in the Repeat list.

To automatically return an animation effect to its original state and location on the slide after it plays, select the Rewind when done playing option.

For more information about using PowerPoint animation effects, see:

Trigger an animation effect to play

Change the playing order of your animation effects

Apply multiple animation effects to one object

Animate a set of objects as a group

With the slide selected, select the  Animations tab, then select Animations Pane and choose the animation you want to set the start timing for.

In the pane, under Timing , select  Start dropdown list, then pick one of the following:

With the slide selected, selected the  Animations tab, then select Animations Pane and choose the animation you want to set the duration for.

In the Duration box, enter the number of seconds that you want the effect to run.

With the slide selected, select the  Animations tab, then select Animations Pane and choose the animation that you want to set a delay for or another timing option.

Under  Timing , in the Delay box, enter in the number of seconds that you want the effect to pause before running.

Tip:  The start of an effect's delay period is controlled by its Start setting. For example, if an effect is set to start After Previous with a delay of 1.5 seconds, its delay of 1.5 seconds begins when the previous effect ends.

On the Animations pane, expand the Timing  section, then do one or both of the following:

To automatically return an animation effect to its original state and location on the slide after it plays, check the Rewind when done playing box.

On the slide, select the text or object that contains the animation effect that you want to set the start timing for.

Select the Animations tab, and in the Duration box, enter the number of seconds that you want the effect to run. (Or use the up and down arrows on the right side of the Duration box to incrementally adjust the timing.)

On the slide, select the text or object that contains the animation effect that you want to set a delay for or another timing option.

Select the Animations tab, and in the Delay box, enter in the number of seconds that you want the effect to pause before running. (Or use the up and down arrows on the right side of the Delay box to incrementally adjust the timing.)

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powerpoint loop a series of animation

I am currently working on a slide with an animation of sunrise to sunset as a background. Then there are some pictures fade in and fade out.

Now, I am having difficult to loop the series of animation that repeat the pictures fade in and fade out until sunset.

I am trying to avoid manual timing setting because the duration from sunrise to sunset is 1 hour and there are only 5 pictures to repeat the fade in and fade out that takes only 10 secs for each picture.

Appreciate your help!

Unfortunately you're probably done with the animation and presentation already. In the hopes this answer can help future questioners, however, this blog post has a walkthrough of steps that can loop a single slide as a sort of sub-presentation.

First, click Slide Show > Set Up Show. Put a checkmark to Loop continuously until 'Esc'. Click Ok. Now, Click Slide Show > Custom Shows. Click New. Select the slide you are looping, click Add. Click Ok and Close. Click on the slide you are looping. Click Slide Show > Slide Transition. Under Advance slide, put a checkmark to Automatically After. This will allow the slide to loop automatically. Do NOT Apply to all slides. Right click on the thumbnail of the current slide, select Hide Slide. Now, you will need to insert a new slide just before the slide you are looping. On the new slide, insert an action button. Set the hyperlink to the custom show you have created. Put a checkmark on "Show and Return"

This has worked for me.

• Works great, thanks! Helpful hint: for the hyperlink portion: Cutom Show can be found under the Place In This Document section. –  user3191107 Commented Jan 13, 2014 at 16:57
• Great but how you advance to the second slide. My first slide is looping no matter what i press ? –  Anonymous Commented Oct 15, 2016 at 20:02
• @Anonymous Press Escape and it should break you out –  Erica Commented Sep 20, 2017 at 14:35
• still works great in 2022. the hyperlink of the action button should be set to a custom show (and not the hidden slide). I missed that part and it took me a while to figure out what it was. thanks –  nivniv Commented Mar 25, 2022 at 8:22

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged loops animation powerpoint or ask your own question .

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How to Add a Countdown Timer to a PowerPoint Presentation

Microsoft PowerPoint is a powerful presentation tool. You can use animations, such as countdown timers, to make your presentations more engaging. This tutorial shows how to create a PowerPoint countdown timer to be used in various PowerPoint presentations, such as a quiz.

Tip : What to create PowerPoints more efficiently? Learn these PowerPoint keyboard shortcuts .

Add a PowerPoint Countdown Timer Using PowerPoint Add-Ins

There are many ways to use a countdown timer in PowerPoint presentations. One way is to use PowerPoint add-ins. Both free and paid add-ins appear in search results.

Open Microsoft PowerPoint, and create a new presentation. Select the Home tab from the ribbon. Click on the Add-ins option, then click More Add-ins to open a separate Office Add-ins window.

Type “timer” in the search field to find timer add-ins. Click on the Add button to add a timer to the slide.

After adding a timer, you can modify it through the settings.

PowerPoint Countdown Timer Add-Ins We Recommend

We recommend the following PowerPoint timers for your PowerPoint presentation:

Both of these timer add-ins are free to use and easy to customize. EasyTimer has three different clock types: Bar, Square, and Digital. You can use any of these clocks in your presentation. The Breaktime timer only has a digital clock but comes with several themes, like Dinner, Exercise, Breakfast, Coffee, Tea, etc.

Create Your Own Countdown Timer for PowerPoint

Adding a countdown timer to PowerPoint presentations with the help of add-ins is an easy and hassle-free process. However, it has some limitations, such as not being able to modify the design of the timer. It may suit you better to create your own countdown timer to use in PowerPoint presentations.

Disappearing Countdown Timer

Select an image for your timer, such as the circular shape. To select a shape, click the Insert tab, then click on the Shapes option. If you select a circle, press and hold the Shift key; otherwise, an elliptical shape will form.

Double-click on the shape to write a number inside it. The number indicates how many seconds the timer will last.

To create a disappearing PowerPoint countdown timer, select the shape on the slide, and go to the Animations tab. I selected the Wheel animation.

To define the timing for your timer, select With Previous in the Start drop-down in the Timing Group. This will start the timer automatically when the slideshow reaches that slide. If you select On Click in this drop-down, left-click the mouse to start the timer. Set the Duration to 1 second.

Copy the shape, and paste it on the same slide. Change the color of the new shape. You need to have one shape for each second of your timer. For example, if the duration of your timer is 5 seconds, you need to create four more copies of the shape.

Change the number and color of each shape. For all other copies of the shape, select After Previous in the Start option of the Timing Group .

The next step is to align all the shapes. Overlap all the shapes so that you see only one shape on your slide. To bring a shape behind the previous shape, right-click on the shape, and select Send to Back . Alternatively, also select the Bring to Front option, and adjust accordingly.

For example, for a 5-second timer, the overlapping order of the shapes would be:

The easiest way is to use the Arrange option. Select all the shapes, then go to the Home tab. Click on the Arrange option, and select Align -> Align Center . Click Arrange again, and select Align -> Align Middle .

After creating a disappearing countdown timer, insert it into any slide in your presentation. You can also copy and paste the timer slide.

Tip : These useful PowerPoint templates will help you set up a Digital Planner.

Clock Countdown Timer

To create a digital clock countdown timer, first select a shape. Fill the shape with your choice of color, then add a text box to the shape. Add three text boxes if you’d like to display hours, minutes, and seconds in the timer. To add a text box, select the Text Box option in the Insert tab, then draw a rectangle with your mouse to insert the text box.

Also, create a text box for each second of your timer, including “0.” Select the font of your choice. The digital clock font is not preloaded in Windows, but you can download and install it.

To create a digital clock countdown timer, I added animations only to the text box that displays seconds. It should start with the highest number. For example, in a 5-second timer, the highest number would be 5.

The number 5 will disappear after 1 second, and the number 4 will appear automatically. Select the text box that displays the number 5, select the Animations tab, and click on the Add Animation option. Select the Disappear animation. In the Timing Group, select With Previous in the Start drop-down, and set the Duration to 1 second.

Select the text box that displays 4, then select the animation Appear . In the Start drop-down, select After Previous , and click Add Animation again to add another animation.

Select the Disappear animation this time, then select With Previous in the Start drop-down, and set the delay to 1 second. Repeat this same animation with numbers 3 to 0. For the number 0, do not add the Disappear animation.

Bar Countdown Timer

To create a Bar Countdown Timer, draw a rectangular shape on the slide, then select the Colored Outline theme style for it to create a hollow rectangle. Create another rectangle, and fill it with a color.

To select an Exit animation for the filled rectangle, select an Effect Option . Select With Previous in the Start drop-down, and set the duration equal to the duration of your timer.

You can select any Effect Options. For my timer, I selected the From Top Effect, as it was the vertical bar.

SmartArt PowerPoint Countdown Timer

SmartArt is a visual representation of information in a PowerPoint presentation that helps make a presentation informative and engaging. To create a SmartArt Countdown Timer, insert a SmartArt to your slide, then add animations to each element of the SmartArt separately.

Delete the unnecessary elements of the SmartArt. Select a SmartArt, and insert it into the slide. Right-click on the SmartArt, and select Group -> Ungroup . Repeat this until all the elements of the SmartArt are ungrouped. You have to ungroup the elements of the SmartArt so that you can add separate animations to all the elements.

Now, select an element and add the appearing or disappearing animation to it. Similarly, define animations to all the elements of the SmartArt.

A countdown timer can be useful in a presentation in PowerPoint. If you are a teacher, you can create quizzes for students, add a countdown timer to quizzes, and even upload the quizzes to your YouTube Channel. Not a fan of PowerPoint? Check out these PowerPoint alternatives .

Image credit: Pexels . All screenshots by Deeksha Gola.

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Deeksha is a tech enthusiast and loves writing articles related to technology. Previously she has worked with Electronics Arts as a Tech Support Assistant and helped many gamers troubleshooting and fixing game errors. Playing Guitar is her hobby.