If you’ve ever seen a PowerPoint where one slide fades into another or spins dramatically, that’s a slide transition. These effects move the audience from one slide to the next. PowerPoint gives you tools to use transitions in a smooth, eye-catching way.

Download the practice presentation.

Applying Transitions

What Are Transitions?

Transitions are effects that happen between slides. PowerPoint offers three types:

  • Subtle: Basic moves like fading or wiping. Clean and simple.
  • Exciting: Bigger effects like zoom or rotate. Use carefully to avoid distractions.
using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint
  • Dynamic Content: These move only the content, not the whole slide. Best used between slides with the same layout.
Using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint

⚠️ Tip: Don't overdo transitions. A few well-placed effects are better than adding one to every slide.

How to Apply a Transition

  1. Select the slide where the transition will end.
    Using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint

  2. Click the Transitions tab.
  3. Choose an effect from the list. Click More to see all options.
    Using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint

  4. Click the effect you want. It will preview automatically.
    Using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint

  5. (Optional) Click Apply to All if you want to use the same transition on every slide.
    Using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint

Previewing Transitions

You can preview your chosen transition in two ways:

  • Click Preview on the Transitions tab.
Using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint
  • Click the Play Animations icon near your slides on the left.
Using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint

Customizing Transitions

To Change Direction:

  1. Select the slide.
  2. Click Effect Options.
    Using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint

  3. Pick a direction or style. (Options depend on the chosen transition.)

To Adjust Duration:

  1. Select the slide.
  2. In the Timing group, enter how long the transition should last in seconds.

To Add Sound:

  1. Select the slide.
  2. Click the Sound dropdown in the Timing group.
  3. Pick a sound and preview it.
    Using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint

⚠️ Sound can be fun but annoying if used on every slide. Keep it light.

Removing Transitions

From One Slide:

  • Select the slide.
  • Choose None from the transition list.
Using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint

From All Slides:

  • Select one slide.
  • Choose None.
  • Click Apply to All.

Advancing Slides Automatically

Want your slides to change without clicking?

  1. Select a slide.
  2. On the Transitions tab, go to the Timing group.
  3. Uncheck On Mouse Click.
  4. Check After, then enter the time (e.g., 01:15:00 for 1 minute 15 seconds).
    Using Slide Transitions in PowerPoint

  5. Repeat for other slides or click Apply to All.

Even with auto-advance on, you can still use the mouse or arrow keys to move forward if needed.

Final Tips

  • Stick to Subtle transitions for most slides.
  • Use Exciting or Dynamic transitions for major points or section changes.
  • Always preview your presentation before sharing it.

Transitions can lift your presentation—but only when used wisely. Keep it clean, simple, and professional.