Skipping the backstage area in PowerPoint 2013 is quite simple. It involves adjusting the program’s options to bypass the default start-up screen and go directly to a blank presentation or the most recent file. This quick tweak can save you time and streamline your workflow, especially if you’re a frequent user of PowerPoint.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Skip the Backstage Area in PowerPoint 2013
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand what we’re aiming to achieve. The backstage area in PowerPoint 2013 is the screen you see when you first open the program. It displays options to create a new presentation, open an existing one, or access other features. By skipping it, you’ll start with a new blank presentation or the last one you worked on.
Step 1: Open PowerPoint Options
Open PowerPoint 2013 and click on ‘File’ to access the Backstage area.
In the Backstage area, you’ll find an ‘Options’ button at the bottom. Click on it to open the PowerPoint Options dialog box.
Step 2: Select the ‘Save’ Category
In the PowerPoint Options dialog box, select the ‘Save’ category on the left side.
The ‘Save’ category contains various settings related to saving and opening presentations, including the option to skip the Backstage area when the program starts.
Step 3: Disable the Start Screen
Under the ‘Save’ category, look for the option that says “Show the Start screen when this application starts.”
Uncheck the box next to this option to disable the start screen.
Step 4: Save Your Changes
After unchecking the box, click ‘OK’ to save your changes and close the PowerPoint Options dialog box.
Your settings will now be updated, and the next time you open PowerPoint 2013, it will bypass the Backstage area and take you directly to a new blank presentation or the last file you worked on.
After completing these steps, PowerPoint 2013 will no longer display the backstage area upon launch. Instead, you’ll be taken straight to a new presentation or the most recent one you’ve worked on, depending on your recent activities. This can make your PowerPoint experience faster and more convenient.
Tips: How to Skip the Backstage Area in PowerPoint 2013
- Make sure to save your work before closing PowerPoint to ensure the last presentation you worked on opens automatically.
- Keep in mind that disabling the start screen will not affect the ability to access the Backstage area by clicking ‘File’ after PowerPoint has opened.
- If you frequently work on new presentations, consider leaving the start screen enabled for quicker access to the template selection.
- Remember that you can always revert the changes by following the same steps and re-enabling the start screen.
- Use keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl + N to create a new presentation quickly without going through the Backstage area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I re-enable the backstage area if I change my mind?
To re-enable the start screen, simply follow the steps again and check the box next to “Show the Start screen when this application starts” in the ‘Save’ category of PowerPoint options.
Will disabling the backstage area affect my ability to open recent documents?
Disabling the backstage area will not affect your ability to access or open recent documents. You can still find them under the ‘Open’ tab after clicking ‘File’ within PowerPoint.
Can I still access PowerPoint templates without the backstage area?
Yes, you can still access templates by choosing ‘New’ from the ‘File’ menu within PowerPoint, even with the backstage area disabled.
Will this setting affect other Office applications?
No, this setting is specific to PowerPoint and will not affect the behavior of other Office applications like Word or Excel.
Is there a way to skip the backstage area by default but still access it quickly if needed?
Yes, you can disable the start screen by default but still access the backstage area by clicking ‘File’ once PowerPoint is open. This gives you the best of both worlds.
Summary
- Open PowerPoint Options from the File menu.
- Select the ‘Save’ category.
- Uncheck the “Show the Start screen when this application starts” option.
- Save changes by clicking ‘OK’.
Conclusion
Mastering PowerPoint 2013 means knowing all the shortcuts and tricks to make your presentation-making process as smooth as possible. By skipping the backstage area, you’re making a small but significant tweak that streamlines your workflow. Remember, it’s about working smarter, not harder. And let’s face it, who doesn’t like saving a few extra clicks?
However, it’s important to remember that this setting is not set in stone. You can easily revert back to the default setting if you find yourself missing the backstage area’s quick access to templates or recent documents. The key is to find a balance that works for you and helps you create compelling presentations with ease.
For those who frequently use PowerPoint 2013, consider this tip as one of the many ways to tailor the program to your needs. There’s a world of keyboard shortcuts, customization options, and features waiting to be explored. Happy presenting, and may your slides always be as smooth as your transitions!
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.