How to Insert Animated 3D Models into PowerPoint Presentation

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Adding 3D models to your PowerPoint presentations can make them more visually engaging and help illustrate complex concepts. With the latest versions of PowerPoint, you can easily insert 3D models and even animate them.

Finding and Inserting 3D Models

The first step is to find a 3D model to insert. PowerPoint provides a catalog of stock 3D models that you can choose from. Alternatively, you can use models from other sources.

Using PowerPoint’s Stock 3D Models

  1. Open the PowerPoint presentation and insert a new slide.
  2. Go to the Insert tab and click the 3D Models dropdown.
  3. Select Stock 3D Models. This will open the catalog.
  4. Browse or search for a model. When you find one, click it to insert it.

You can filter by category to find relevant models faster. The catalog includes people, animals, shapes, tech gadgets, and more.

Using Your Own or Third-Party 3D Models

You can also use 3D models from other sources, such as 3D modeling software or sites like Turbosquid or Sketchfab. The model must be in .OBJ, .STL, or .GLB format.

  1. Download the 3D model file to your computer.
  2. In PowerPoint, go to Insert > 3D Models > From a File.
  3. Select the model file and click Insert.

Customizing and Animating 3D Models

Once inserted, you can customize the look and animation of 3D models.

Resizing and Positioning

Click the model to select it. Resize handles will appear around it. Drag these handles to scale the model as needed. You can also drag the model around the slide to reposition it.

Changing Views

Go to the 3D Model Tools Format tab. The 3D Model Views gallery has perspective presets you can apply. Click a view or use the slider to rotate.

Adding Animations

Go to the Animations tab on the ribbon. Use the animation options to make the 3D model move. For example, choose a Fly In entrance effect.

You can also animate transitions between slides with the model. On the Transitions tab, select a transition then check the Morph box to morph the 3D model’s shape.

Tips for Using 3D Models Effectively

Follow these tips to enhance your presentations with 3D models:

  • Choose models that are relevant to your content. Don’t just add them for decoration.
  • Keep animations subtle. Avoid excessive or distracting motion.
  • Use high quality models. Low quality or pixelated models look unprofessional.
  • Check compatibility if presenting on another computer. Complex models may not display properly.
  • Balance 3D models with other visuals. Don’t overcrowd slides.
  • Test on the presentation equipment you will use. Projector settings can affect appearance.

Why Use 3D Models in Presentations?

Adding 3D models makes presentations more visually interesting. But they also provide additional benefits:

  • Illustrate complex spatial relationships and depth
  • Allow viewing from multiple angles
  • Create animated sequences to demonstrate processes
  • Make product demonstrations more realistic
  • Engage audiences with an interactive element

With PowerPoint’s built-in tools and catalog of models, it’s easy to start enhancing your presentations with 3D. Animating these models makes them even more impactful. Use 3D judiciously alongside other visuals for maximum effect.

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