Transitions in PowerPoint 2013 allow you to control how your slides move from one to the next during a slideshow. Using transitions can add polish and professionalism to a presentation.
Types of Transitions
There are three main types of transitions in PowerPoint 2013:
- Subtle – Simple transitions like fades, wipes, pushes, and pulls. These tend to be the least distracting.
- Exciting – Flashier transitions with sounds and dynamic animations. Use sparingly as these can be distracting if overused.
- Dynamic Content – Advanced transitions tailored for specific content like photos, charts, SmartArt, and text. Requires PowerPoint 2013 or later.
Accessing the Transitions Tab
To add transitions in PowerPoint 2013:
- Select the slide(s) where you want to add a transition
- Click on the Transitions tab in the ribbon
- Select a transition effect from the gallery
Pro Tip: Click the More button to see the full gallery of transitions available!
Customizing Transitions
Many transitions can be customized further on the Transitions tab:
- Effect Options – Choose from additional transition patterns and directions
- Sound – Add sound effects during the transition
- Duration – Control the speed of the transition
Pro Tip: Use the Apply To All button to quickly add the same transition to every slide!
Previewing Transitions
Don’t forget to preview your transitions before presenting! You can preview the transition for the current slide using:
- The Preview button on the Transitions tab
- The slide sorter view
- Presenter view during your slideshow
Previewing ensures transitions appear as intended and are not too distracting for your audience.
Transition Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips for working with transitions effectively:
- Use subtle transitions between most slides to avoid jarring your audience
- Reserve exciting transitions for key points you want to emphasize
- Limit transitions to 2-3 types in a single presentation
- Ensure transition speeds suit the pace of your presentation
- Disable transitions if they detract too much from content
- Preview thoroughly and tweak if transitions feel too busy
Animating Slide Content
In addition to slide transitions, you can also animate text and objects within a slide:
- Entrance effects make items appear in stages
- Emphasis effects draw attention to elements
- Motion Paths make items move across slides
- Exit effects make items disappear from slides
Animations help you reveal key points one at a time during your presentation. Use sparingly and preview animations alongside transitions.
Presenting With Transitions and Animations
When presenting slides with flashy transitions and animations, let the effects do the work for you. Don’t explain the transitions, just let them draw attention to your main points.
Only use transitions that enhance your content rather than distract from it. Well-chosen, subtle transitions that suit your presentation style will make your slides appear polished and professional.
