Adding video to your PowerPoint presentations can make them more dynamic, engaging, and memorable for your audience. Whether you want to demonstrate a concept, tell a story, or liven up text-heavy slides, video is a great tool to incorporate.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps for adding videos from a file on your computer or linking to an online video. I’ll also share some best practices to take your video-infused presentations to the next level!

Insert a Video from Your Computer

Adding a locally stored video file directly into your presentation keeps everything together in one file. Here’s how:

On the Insert tab, click Video > Video on My PC. This opens the Insert Video dialog box.
Navigate to the video file you want to add and select it. Nearly all common video formats are supported.
Click Insert. The video will now be embedded on the slide.

You can now resize, move, trim, or add effects to the video right within PowerPoint.

Link to an Online Video

Rather than embedding the video file itself, you can just insert a link to a video from an online source like YouTube or Vimeo.

Here’s how to link to an online video:

Copy the video URL from the online source.
On the Insert tab, click Video > Online Video.
Paste the video URL into the box. A preview of the video appears.

Click Insert. The video link is added but not embedded.

The advantage here is your presentation file size stays small. The downside is that you do need a web connection to play the video.

Best Practices

When adding video to PowerPoint, keep these tips in mind:

Keep videos short – Under 2 minutes is best. Long videos may lose viewers’ interest.
Use high quality videos – Make sure your videos are properly lit, in focus, and have clear audio.
Preview the video first – Confirm that the video file plays properly before inserting it.

Place videos intentionally – Don’t just add a video for the sake of it. Make sure it supports key points.
Consider your audience – Ensure the video content and length is appropriate for the target audience.
Check compatibility – Test videos on the actual computer/projector setup where you will present.

Enhance with Transitions

Don’t just drop a raw video onto a slide. Add some polish!

Fade in/out – This creates a smooth transition at the start and end.
Trim length – Cut your video to only the most relevant part.

Add captions – Captions help the audience grasp key points.
Animate entrance/exit – Make videos fly, dissolve, wipe, or spin onto the slide.

Present with Confidence

Now that you know how to add videos like a pro, it’s time to deliver a winning presentation!

Practice your timing – Rehearse transitions so videos start and stop smoothly.
Engage the audience – Pause videos to discuss key points or ask questions.
Have a backup plan – If videos fail, have a fallback, like distributing a handout.

Most importantly, have fun! Videos let you show your creative side.

Adding well-placed videos is one of the best ways to create memorable, impactful presentations. With the right strategy, preparation, and polish, video can help captivate your audience from start to finish!