To improve visual engagement, Microsoft Powerpoint allows users to create simple animation effects for their presentation slides. For more complicated animation styles, you may sometimes find yourself experimenting with different animation effects to combine with each others depending on your needs. If you require your animations to be presented with a sequence, then motion paths are the way to go. Here’s how to create motion paths in Microsoft Powerpoint:
1. Motion Path
Select the object that you want your motion path added. Take note that the motion path will be created in the center of your designated object so it will follow the motion path applied in that manner. Look for the Animations tab in your Microsoft Powerpoint slide and choose the more choice inside the Animation gallery. Look under Motions Path- you will be able to choose between different paths like arcs, turns, shapes and more.
2. Custom Path
Custom paths are when you can decide the duration and connect different paths. To do so, click on the start of the motion path and draw a path. You can move your pointer and click on where else you want to create lines (between two click points is ideal). Keep drawing your custom path until you are satisfied and double click to stop.
3. Freehand Path
If neither of the motion paths appeal to you, you can also choose to draw a freehand path. Choose where you want the motion path to start. Now hold onto your left mouse button and move where you want your object to follow. Double click to make the end point of your motion path and look how it works out through the preview option found in the animation tab.
4. Auto Reverse
You can also double your animated effects by auto reversing. The auto reverse feature makes sure that your animated effects will play once and then play again in reverse format. This makes it ideal for repeat animation for example, objects rolling back and forth. To use auto reversing, you can take a look at the effects you are using and choose one. Hit the CTRL key and choose another animated effect. You can then click on a drop down arrow so that the effects in the animation pane can be seen. Choose Effect options and select auto reverse from there.
5. Test
Before deciding that the process is complete, make sure you switch to presentation view and watch to see that everything is in order. Run a few test practices to determine the smoothness of your animated effects and if there are things to be changed. This is also essential since it will allow you to familiarise yourself with the overall pacing of your Powerpoint slides. If everything turns out fine, make sure to save a spare copy.
