Microsoft PowerPoint has long been a staple for presentations, and whether you’re a frequent user or only use it occasionally, there’s always more to learn. One helpful feature is embedding videos, adding visual interest and variety to your presentations. This guide will walk you through the steps of embedding videos from YouTube and your computer, as well as address common questions.
Embedding a YouTube Video:
1.
Choose your slide:
Click the slide in the sidebar where you want to embed the video, then click the specific area (title header, body text, etc.).2.
Insert the video:
Click the ‘Insert’ tab, select the ‘Video’ icon, and choose ‘Online Video’. If using PowerPoint 2019 or newer, you can paste the video URL directly.3.
Copy the embed code:
Go to the YouTube video, click ‘Share’ then ‘Embed’. Select the entire code under ‘Embed Video’ by clicking once, then copy it using Ctrl + C.4.
Paste the code:
Return to PowerPoint, paste the copied code into the ‘From a Video Embed Code’ field, and press Enter or click the arrow icon.Customizing the Embedded Video:
1.
Playback options:
Click the ‘Playback’ tab to control video settings like autoplay, clicking to play, and more.2.
Video formatting:
Click the video frame, right-click, and select ‘Format Video’ to adjust brightness, size, and other attributes.Inserting a Video from Your Computer:
1.
Select the location:
Decide where you want the video on your slide and click ‘Insert’ > ‘Video’ > ‘Video on My PC’.2.
Choose the video:
Navigate to the video file on your computer, double-click it, or click once and select ‘Open’. PowerPoint will embed it with its own media player.Important Note:
If you’re using a video from your computer, make sure both the PowerPoint file and video file are saved on a USB drive, external hard drive, etc., for presentations outside your computer. Keep both files in the same folder to ensure playback.Automatic YouTube Playback:
1.
Enable Normal View:
Ensure your slideshow is in Normal view.2.
Select the video:
Click the YouTube video you want to autoplay.3.
Set Autoplay:
Go to ‘Playback’ > ‘Start’ > ‘Automatically’. Alternatively, choose ‘Play in Click Sequence’ to start the video when advancing slides.Troubleshooting Embedded Video Issues:
If your embedded video isn’t playing, check the following:
1.
Video compatibility:
Ensure the video format (MP4, AVI, WMV) is supported by PowerPoint. If not, convert the video using a program like HandBrake.2.
