Microsoft PowerPoint, a program that creates slide show presentations, is one of the most widely-used business software programs in the world. It's also easy to learn how to use. Once you master the basics, your presentations – whether you are selling or training – will become a dynamic tool to reach clients or employees. Three things to keep in mind:

1. It's no substitute for the basics in giving a speech: rehearse, look at the audience (not the slides), be familiar with the room and equipment, pace yourself.
2. Use key phrases, avoid all-capitalization, choose easy-to-read fonts and dark text on light background.
3. Customize with animation, pictures, charts and music – but don't overuse the fun stuff. It will distract.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get up to speed quickly

To learn how to use the program, spend some time with online tutorials. Microsoft's Web page has free tutorials on every aspect of PowerPoint – from slide manipulation to animation.

I recommend: Microsoft PowerPoint Tutorial gives you the basics. For audio and hands-on practice, go to Microsoft Office Online. Watch an on-demand Web cast designed for small business users at Microsoft Events.

Create templates

With PowerPoint, you don't need to reinvent the wheel every time you create a presentation. Just like you have letterhead with your logo, you can create slide templates that include your logo, company name or other elements.

I recommend: Create your own templates with PowerPoint 2003 Add-in Template Creation Wizard or use any of the pre-designed templates included in the PowerPoint Templates Pack 3 or from the Animation Factory, which offers more than 650 free graphics.

Pump up the volume

Sometimes, static slides just don't cut it. Impress your audience by creating a more dynamic presentation that incorporates audio and other elements.

I recommend: Download the Producer for PowerPoint 2003 add-in to synchronize audio, video, slides and images.

Use animation effects

Take your presentation to the next level with animation effects, such as fade in, fade out and stretch pull in, that can place added emphasis on your slides.

I recommend: Microsoft's OfficeOne Animations add-in offers more than 50 animation effects.

Publish your presentation on a CD or Web site

If you've ever wished you could have captured your Academy Award-winning performance, now you can by recording it on a CD or Web site. It's also a great way to standardize employee training.

I recommend: Camstasia Studio add-in for PowerPoint records all multimedia aspects of your live PowerPoint presentation, including animations and voice narration.

Ask questions

Not sure how to move a text box or image during your presentation? Can't figure out how to create a continuous loop slide show? As you create your presentations, you'll no doubt hit a few snags. When you do, there's free help just a few clicks away.

I recommend: Log on to the PowerPoint Discussion Forum at Microsoft.com to ask your peers how it's done.

Buy PowerPoint online for less

PowerPoint can be purchased separately or as part of the Microsoft Office suite. Several online retailers offer discounts on both.

I recommend: Check out eDirectSoftware for PowerPoint standalone or Microsoft Office, which claims to be the cheapest online software company. WestgateMedia.com offers free shipping on orders of $49 and more.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Print a hard copy of your presentation as a back-up reference and to give slide numbers. In the middle of a presentation and want to show a slide out of order? Type the slide number and hit 'enter.'
• •  The urge to draw a diagram on a slide or add a note suddenly hits. Use PowerPoint's virtual annotation pen under 'pointer options,' then click 'pen.'
• •  Protect your presentation as you're working on it. Go to 'tools,' then 'options,' then hit 'security' tab. Choose a password.
• •  Always check and re-check your grammar and spelling.