How to Use Lists in PowerPoint

When you're building a PowerPoint presentation, making your content easy to read is key. One simple way to do this is by using bulleted or numbered lists. These lists help break down information, making it more digestible for your audience.

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Using Bulleted Lists

By default, PowerPoint adds bullets automatically when you type in a placeholder. But you can easily change how bullets appear.

To change the bullet style:

1. Select the list you want to update.
2. On the Home tab, click the Bullets drop-down arrow.
3. Choose a new bullet style from the menu.

The new bullet will show up right away in your list.

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Using Numbered Lists

If the order of your points matters, switch to a numbered list. PowerPoint makes this easy.

To change the numbering style:

1. Select the list.
2. On the Home tab, click the Numbering drop-down arrow.
3. Pick a numbering style from the menu.

Your list will update with the new number format.

To change the starting number:

1. Select the list.
2. Click the Numbering drop-down on the Home tab.
3. Choose Bullets and Numbering.
4. In the Start At field, type the number you want.
5. Click OK.

Your list will now start from the number you set.

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Adjusting List Appearance

You can also tweak how bullets or numbers look — size, color, and spacing — to match your slide design.

To change size and color:

1. Select the bulleted list.
2. Click the Bullets drop-down, then choose Bullets and Numbering.
3. In the dialog box:
   • Set the Size.
   • Pick a Color.
4. Click OK. The list will reflect the changes immediately.

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Customizing Bullets with Symbols

Use a symbol as a bullet to highlight items.

To use a symbol as a bullet:

1. Select the list.
2. Click the Bullets drop-down and choose Bullets and Numbering.
3. Click Customize and choose a symbol from Wingdings or Symbol.
4. Click OK twice to apply it.

Your list will now display the chosen symbol as a bullet.

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Adjusting Bullet Spacing

To change the gap between bullets and the text:

• Use the first-line indent marker on the Ruler.
• Slide it left or right until spacing looks right.

Lists in PowerPoint guide your audience. A clear, well-designed list helps people follow your message, stay engaged, and remember key points.