How to Insert and Edit Videos in Microsoft PowerPoint
Adding videos to your PowerPoint slides can instantly transform a plain presentation into an engaging experience. Whether you’re teaching, pitching an idea, or presenting to clients, videos help capture attention and make your message more memorable.
This guide covers:
- Inserting videos from your computer
- Embedding online videos like YouTube
- Editing and formatting videos
- Playback and customization options
- Frequently asked questions
1. Inserting a Video from Your Computer
You can easily add a locally saved video to your slide:
- Open PowerPoint and go to the Insert tab.
- Click Video → Video on My PC.
- Select the video file and click Insert.
- The video will appear directly on your slide.
Tip: Use Insert → Screen Recording to capture your screen and insert it as a video.
2. Inserting an Online Video
To embed a YouTube or online video:
- Go to Insert → Online Video.
- Paste the video URL.
- The video streams directly from the internet.
Reminder: Internet access is required during playback.
3. Playing and Previewing Videos
- Play/Pause: Click the play button.
- Timeline: Jump to any point in the video.
- Resize: Drag corner handles.
- Move: Drag to reposition.
- Delete: Press the Delete key.
4. Editing Videos in PowerPoint
Trimming a Video
- Select the video and open the Playback tab.
- Click Trim Video.
- Adjust start and end points.
- Preview and click OK.
Fade Effects & Bookmarks
- Add Fade In / Fade Out for smooth transitions.
- Use Bookmarks to jump to key moments.
5. Playback Options
- Start: Automatically or On Click
- Volume: Adjust sound level
- Loop: Repeat video
- Play Full Screen
- Rewind after Playing
6. Formatting Videos
- Poster Frame: Set a thumbnail image
- Video Styles: Add borders and effects
- Crop & Resize: Fit the slide perfectly
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can YouTube videos play without internet?
No. Online videos require an active internet connection.
Why can’t I trim online videos?
Trim Video works only for locally inserted videos.
Best video format for PowerPoint?
.MP4 (H.264 + AAC) offers the best compatibility.
Final Thoughts
Videos make presentations more engaging and professional. With PowerPoint’s built-in tools, you can insert, edit, and control videos effortlessly to deliver powerful presentations.
