How-To Geek

How to add a video to a microsoft powerpoint presentation.

If a picture speaks a thousand words, a video speaks a million words!

Quick Links

Embedding videos versus linking to videos, supported video formats in powerpoint, how to insert a video into a powerpoint presentation, manage an embedded video's playback in powerpoint.

Videos can make presentations even more interesting or exciting. If you're looking to add a video to your Microsoft PowerPoint presentation, it's easy to do so. We'll show you how.

In PowerPoint, you can either embed a video or link to a video from your presentation. If you embed a video, your video becomes part of the presentation, which increases the overall size of the presentation file.

Related: How to Send PowerPoint Presentations With an Embedded Video

If you link to a video, PowerPoint only adds a reference to that video in your presentation. The downside of this method is that you need to send the video file separately if you share your presentation with someone. We have written a guide on how to send PowerPoint presentations with videos , so check that out.

In this guide, we'll focus on embedding a video in your presentation so you don't have to worry about sending separate files. And, if you're looking to add a YouTube video to your presentation , there's a way to do that, too.

Related: How to Embed a YouTube Video in PowerPoint

PowerPoint supports multiple video formats, including ASF, AVI, MP4, M4V, MOV, MPG, MPEG, and WMV. If your video is already in one of these formats, you can quickly add that to your presentation.

If your video is in another format, you can convert it to a supported format and then add it to your presentation.

Related: How to Use Handbrake to Convert Any Video File to Any Format

First, make sure the video you want to add to your presentation is saved on your Windows or Mac computer. Then, open your presentation with PowerPoint on your computer.

On the PowerPoint window, in the left sidebar, click the slide in which you want to add a video.

At the top of the PowerPoint window, click the "Insert" tab.

In the "Insert" tab, under the "Media" section (which is to the extreme right side of the interface), click "Video."

You'll now see an "Insert Video From" menu. Here, select "This Device."

Your computer's standard "open" window will open. In this window, access the folder that has your video file. Then double-click your video file to add it to your presentation.

You'll see your selected video in your presentation. To resize this video, click it and use the handles around the video to change its size. Then drag the video to place it at its desired location in your slide.

If you'd like to test the video, at the bottom-left corner of the video, click the play icon.

And you're all set.

Now that you have added a video to your presentation, you might want to change how it plays in your slides. In PowerPoint, you have multiple ways to change your video's playback.

To access these playback options, first, click your video in your presentation. Then, at the top of the PowerPoint window, click "Playback."

In the "Playback" tab, under the "Video Options" section, you will find various options to manage your video's playback.

For example, to change how your video starts to play in your presentation, click the "Start" drop-down menu and select one of these options:

  • In Click Sequence : This plays your video in the click sequence. This means if you press the button for the next slide, your video will play.
  • Automatically : This option automatically plays your video when the slide with your video opens.
  • When Clicked On : Select this option to play your video only when you click it.

The other options are "Play Full Screen," which opens your video in full screen, and "Loop Until Stopped" that plays your video over and over again until you manually stop it.

Before you close PowerPoint, make sure you save your presentation so that your embedded video is saved with it. Do this by clicking File > Save in PowerPoint's menu bar.

And that's how you make your PowerPoint presentations even more engaging by including videos in them. Exciting!

If you don't want to add a video but you do want audio, you can add music to your presentations . This also helps enhance your presentation quality.

Related: How to Add Music to Your PowerPoint Presentation

  • PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • This Or That Game
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • Computers and Electronics
  • Presentation Software
  • PowerPoint Insertions

5 Ways to Embed a Video File in Microsoft PowerPoint

Last Updated: March 27, 2024 Fact Checked

Embedding a Web Video

Embedding a video file, embedding a stock video, using android, linking movie files (powerpoint 2007).

This article was co-authored by Mitch Harris and by wikiHow staff writer, Rain Kengly . Mitch Harris is a Consumer Technology Expert based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Mitch runs his own IT Consulting company called Mitch the Geek, helping individuals and businesses with home office technology, data security, remote support, and cybersecurity compliance. Mitch earned a BS in Psychology, English, and Physics and graduated Cum Laude from Northern Arizona University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,133,800 times.

If you want to spruce up your PowerPoint presentations, you can add a video to your slides. If you have a video file on your computer, you can easily embed it into your presentation. You can also embed YouTube videos, use looping stock videos, or, on older versions of PowerPoint, link to the videos. This wikiHow will show you how to add a video to Microsoft PowerPoint using your Windows, Mac, or Android device.

Things You Should Know

  • Copy a YouTube URL. In PowerPoint, click "Insert' → "Video" → "Online Videos/Movie". Paste the URL and click "Insert".
  • To embed a video file, click "Insert" → "Video" → "This Device" → select a file → "Insert".
  • To use a stock video, click "Insert" → "Video" → "Stock Videos" → select a video → "Insert".

Step 1 Open a project in Microsoft PowerPoint.

  • You must have a subscription to use Office 365 . [1] X Trustworthy Source Microsoft Support Technical support and product information from Microsoft. Go to source
  • Adding a video to your PowerPoint can help you make a great presentation .

Step 2 Find a web video you want to insert.

  • You can insert a video from supported websites such as: YouTube, SlideShare, Vimeo, Microsoft Stream, and Flip.

Step 3 Copy...

  • On Mac, this will look like Online Movie .

Step 6 Paste...

  • You'll see a preview of the video.

Step 7 Click Insert.

  • To adjust when the video plays, click the drop-down menu next to Start: . Select In Click Sequence , Automatically , or When Clicked On .
  • Check the boxes to apply any of the following: Play Full Screen , Hide While Not Playing , Loop until Stopped , and/or Rewind after Playing .
  • Click Volume to adjust the video's volume. Select Low , Medium , High , or Mute .

Step 10 Edit the video image (optional).

  • Select the web video and click the Video Format tab.
  • Click Poster Frame on the left of the toolbar.
  • Click Image from File… .
  • Select From a File , Stock Images , Online Pictures , or From Icons .
  • Select the image source from the chosen method, and then click Insert .

Step 1 Open a project in Microsoft PowerPoint.

  • Stock videos work best as a background graphic to your PowerPoint text, since these videos loop seamlessly

Step 2 Click Insert.

  • The stock video will be added to your slide. By default, it will cover the entire slide.

Step 5 Adjust the playback settings.

  • PowerPoint is available for Android in the Google Play Store .

Step 2 Tap the menu icon.

  • The menu will open.

Step 3 Tap Home.

  • If you want to take a video using your camera, tap Open Camera instead.
  • The video file will be added to your PowerPoint.

Step 1 Place the movie file in the same directory as the PowerPoint file.

  • Videos can only be "embedded" (included in the presentation file itself) in PowerPoint 2010 or newer.

Step 2 Open the slide you want to add the video to.

  • Click the Office button and select "Publish."
  • Select "Package for CD" and then select your presentation.
  • Ensure that "Linked files" is selected in the "Options" menu.

Community Q&A

Community Answer

You Might Also Like

Edit a PowerPoint Template

  • ↑ https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/insert-a-video-from-youtube-or-another-site-8340ec69-4cee-4fe1-ab96-4849154bc6db#OfficeVersion=Windows
  • ↑ https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/insert-audio-or-video-in-powerpoint-for-android-95e0a2af-35fb-405a-8536-cdcd934f659a
  • ↑ https://support.office.com/en-us/article/My-movie-doesn-t-play-190cf574-183d-4b7f-b627-3783a14b7b07?ui=en-US&rs=en-US&ad=US
  • ↑ https://support.office.com/en-us/article/Add-and-play-a-movie-in-a-presentation-f3fcbd3e-5f86-4320-8aea-31bff480ed02

About This Article

Mitch Harris

1. Open the slide. 2. Click Insert . 3. Click Movie . 4. Click Movie from File or Video on my PC . 5. Select the video and click OK . 6. Click Playback . 7. Choose how to play the video. 8. Save your presentation. Did this summary help you? Yes No

  • Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Rjan Berglund

Rjan Berglund

May 26, 2017

Is this article up to date?

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Jun 20, 2017

Anonymous

Nov 7, 2016

Anonymous

Jul 27, 2016

Do I Have a Dirty Mind Quiz

Featured Articles

Feel Calm and Relaxed

Trending Articles

18 Practical Ways to Celebrate Pride as an Ally

Watch Articles

Clean Silver Jewelry with Vinegar

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

Keep up with tech in just 5 minutes a week!

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Insert and play a video file from your computer

Depending on the version of PowerPoint that you're using, you can insert an embedded video (the default behavior) or link to a video file stored on your computer.

Inserting an embedded video is convenient, but it increases the size of your presentation.

A linked video keeps your presentation file smaller, but links can break. We recommend storing presentations and linked videos in the same folder.

In the Insert Video dialog box, you choose between Insert (which means "Embed") or Link to File.

Supported video formats

We recommend that you use .mp4 files encoded with H.264 video (a.k.a. MPEG-4 AVC) and AAC audio.

For more details, see Video and audio file formats supported in PowerPoint .

Embed a video stored on your PC

In Normal view, click the slide that you want the video to be in.

On the Insert tab, click the arrow under Video , and then select This Device (or Video on My PC ).

In the Insert Video box, click the video that you want, and then click Insert .

Link to a video stored on your PC

To help prevent broken links, we recommend copying the video into the same folder as your presentation, and then linking to it there.

In Normal view, click the slide where you want the link to the video to be in.

In the Insert Video box, click the file that you want to link to, click the down arrow next to the Insert button, and then click Link to File .

Shows Insert Video dialog in PowerPoint

Newer versions of PowerPoint support the playback of video with multiple audio tracks. They also support closed captions and subtitles that are embedded in video files.  For more information, see Make your PowerPoint presentations accessible .

Find out where a linked video is stored

If there's already a video on a slide and you want to know where it's stored, go to File > Info . Under Optimize Media Compatibility , there will be information about all media files in the presentation—whether they are linked or embedded in the file.  If there are any linked videos, PowerPoint gives you a View Links hyperlink. Click it to open a dialog box that shows the storage location of any linked files. 

YouTube video

If you want to insert a video on YouTube, switch to Insert or link to a video on YouTube .

Preview a video

When a video is selected on a slide, a toolbar appears below the video that has a play/pause button, a progress bar, incremental forward/backward buttons, a timer, and a volume control. Click the Play button at the left of that toolbar to preview the video.

The playback controls for a video on a PowerPoint slide

Play a video automatically or when clicked

By default, in Slide Show, the video plays as part of the click sequence.    That means that when you click anywhere on the slide to advance to the next step (or when you press the Spacebar, Right arrow key, or other key that advances to the next step) the video plays. This Start option is called In Click Sequence .

But if you prefer, you can make the video start automatically as soon as it appears onscreen, or make it play when it is clicked:

Select the video frame.

On the ribbon, on the Playback tab, open the Start list and choose the option you prefer:

The Playback options for a video from your PC are: In Click Sequence, Automatically, or When Clicked On

For more details about the options for playing the video in Slide Show, see Set the 'Play' options for a video .

To get the correct instructions, select the version of PowerPoint that you're using:

Insert a video stored on your computer

In Normal view, select the slide you'd like to add a video to.

On the Insert tab, click Video , then click Movie from File .

In the Choose a Movie dialog box, select the file you want to insert.

If you want to embed the video on the slide, simply click Insert .

If you want to put a link to the video on the slide, click Options at the lower left corner of the dialog box, and then select the Link to file box, and then click Insert .

Once you've added a video to your presentation, you can add effects and choose whether the video plays automatically or when it is clicked.

Tip:  You can play back video that has multiple audio tracks. Closed captions and subtitles that are embedded in video files are also supported.  For more information, see Make your PowerPoint presentations accessible .

Insert a video stored on your computer 

Open a new or existing presentation in PowerPoint for the web.

Select Insert > Video > This Device . 

Insert a video from PowerPoint Web screenshot one

Select the video you want and select  Open  to insert it in your slide.  

Insert a video from PowerPoint Web screenshot two

After your video has been inserted and appears on the slide, you can move, resize, or apply shape effects to your video.

Insert a video from PowerPoint Web screenshot three

PowerPoint for the web supports insertion of video files up to 256 MB.  

We recommend using .mp4 video file format for best presentations quality and experience. We also support the following file types: .mov, .wmv, .avi, .m4v, .mkv, .asf, .ts.  

The speed at which videos from your computer or laptop are inserted is dependent on your network connection.  

Want to insert an online video instead?

Go to Insert a YouTube video for all the details.

Video and audio file formats supported in PowerPoint

Add text to a video

Facebook

Need more help?

Want more options.

Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Microsoft 365 subscription benefits

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Microsoft 365 training

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Microsoft security

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Accessibility center

Communities help you ask and answer questions, give feedback, and hear from experts with rich knowledge.

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Ask the Microsoft Community

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Microsoft Tech Community

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Windows Insiders

Microsoft 365 Insiders

Was this information helpful?

Thank you for your feedback.

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

How to embed a video in PowerPoint for a more engaging presentation

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

What type of content do you primarily create?

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Making an engaging PowerPoint presentation is no easy feat.

You have to figure out what to say, and what you want your audience to grasp. Then, decide how to bring the two together to deliver a compelling presentation.

One popular way to add flair is by embedding video into the content, like what Dr. Frans de Waal did in his TED Talk on inequity aversion . To emphasize his points, he included videos of animal experiments, turning a mind-numbingly boring topic into an engaging and viral presentation—which now has over 5 million views.

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to embed a video in PowerPoint so you can create exceptional presentations that grab your audience’s attention and help them remember what you said.

How to embed a video in PowerPoint from your PC or Mac

First, of course, you’ll need a video, either one online or from your media library. The next step is to find a way to make it play during your PowerPoint presentation. You could do it manually by bringing up the video from another website or program while you’re speaking, but that process is clunky and you might end up facing technical challenges.

Luckily, there are simpler and easier methods of embedding videos in PowerPoint. You can link to your video file externally or embed it directly in your presentation. 

Use the tutorial below to insert videos in PowerPoint from a computer.

How to embed a video in PowerPoint in Windows

Step 1: select the powerpoint slide.

Launch Microsoft PowerPoint on a Windows computer and open a blank or existing PowerPoint file. 

Then, go to the slide you want to embed a video and select the Insert tab in the toolbar.

Step 2: Click Video > This Device

Select the Video option. Here, you can either embed a video from your computer or from an online source, like a website or YouTube and other supported platforms.

Click This Device from the drop-down menu to embed a video from a folder on your computer.  

PowerPoint supports MP4 files encoded with H.264 video and AAC audio. So, you can upload videos in file formats, such as M4V, MOV, ASF, AVI, MPG, MPEG, or WMV.

If you don't want to play a video full screen, resize it to your preferred dimensions.

For precise height-to-width proportions:

  • Select Format (PowerPoint 2013 or newer) or Options (PowerPoint 2010) in the Size group
  • Click the Dialog Box Launcher Icon image
  • Click Size, then select the Lock aspect ratio checkbox under Scale 
  • Enter your preferred height and width under Size and rotate or enter the percentage of size that you want in the Scale height and width boxes

Then, select Video Format to access formatting options like borders and effects or right-click the video for more options. You can also use the Designer tool to choose from professional slide templates. 

Then, click the Playback tab to trim your video, add captions, choose playback options, like In Click Sequence, Automatically, or When Clicked On.

Note: In PowerPoint for Microsoft Office 365 or PowerPoint 2016 version 1709 or later, you can use the In Click Sequence option. This way, your video can play in sequence with other actions you’ve programmed on the slide, like animations or transitions. 

To insert a web video, select Video > Online Videos . 

Note: PowerPoint supports YouTube, SlideShare, Vimeo, Stream, and Flip video providers.

Step 3: Click Insert

If you choose to embed an online video, copy the link to the video you want to embed and paste it in the blank field. A preview of your video will appear in the Insert video pop-up.

Click the Insert button to embed the video in your presentation. 

PowerPoint will download and insert the video on the selected slide. You can drag the edges of the video thumbnail to resize it, then use Video Format options, like shape, border, and effects to enhance the video. 

Select the Playback tab to insert captions or choose how your video plays (automatically or when clicked). 

Note: You can’t change when an online video starts. But if you’re embedding a YouTube video, you can copy the video URL at the current time to link from a specific start time. 

Click the Slide Show tab to preview the video with all the formatting changes you made. Then, save your presentation to your computer or click the Share button to move or copy it to the cloud.

How to embed a video in PowerPoint on a Mac

To embed a video in PowerPoint for Mac, you’ll need to save the video file in the same folder as your presentation.

Launch PowerPoint and open a blank or existing presentation, then select the slide you’d like to add a video to. 

Select Insert .

Step 2: Click Video > From File

Click Video to access video embed options from the drop-down menu:

  • Video browser
  • Video from file
  • Stock videos
  • Online film

Select Video from file to insert a video file from your Mac.

In the Choose a Video dialog box, select the video file you want to insert, then click the Insert button to embed the video on the slide.

If you want to put a link to the video on the slide, click Show Options in the lower left corner of the dialog box. 

Then, select the Link to file box, and click Insert .

Select the Video Format tab to add effects and choose whether your video will play automatically or when clicked.

Tip: If you’re using the 2016 version of PowerPoint (or newer), you can play back videos with multiple audio tracks. These versions also support closed captions and subtitles embedded in video files.

Select the Playback tab to do the following:

  • Trim your video
  • Add fade in and fade out effects
  • Play the video on full screen or hide during the show
  • Insert captions
  • Select start time options (in click sequence, automatically, or when clicked)
  • Loop the video to play repeatedly and continuously during the presentation
  • Rewind your video

How to embed a video in PowerPoint from YouTube

Embedding a YouTube video to a PowerPoint presentation is simple. You can use the video URL or integrated search function to embed a video you uploaded to YouTube or someone else’s video (with permission).

To add a video to your PowerPoint presentation, you’ll copy the video embed code and paste it into the slide you want. The code will load the video at the source and play it on the platform you’re using. 

You won’t need to download and upload the video from YouTube and the video will load and play faster regardless of the file size. Plus, you can share video content that’s covered under copyright, so you’re not in danger of crossing any legal lines. 

Follow these steps to embed a video in PowerPoint from YouTube on a Windows PC or Mac. 

How to embed a video in PowerPoint from YouTube in Windows

Step 1: click “insert video”.

Open a PowerPoint presentation and select the slide you want to embed your video.

Click Insert > Video .

Step 2: Choose “Online video”

Select the Online Videos option.

Step 3: Insert the URL from YouTube

Right-click the video to copy the video link or embed code, or click Share to get the embed code. Then, paste the URL or embed code in the link field. 

A preview of your video will appear in the Insert video dialog box.

Click Insert to embed the video in your presentation. 

Resize the video thumbnail, then use the video formatting options to enhance it. 

Click Playback play the video automatically or when clicked or add captions. Then, preview the video with all the edits you made and save or share your presentation.

Note: YouTube’s video file formats are similar to those PowerPoint supports, so your video will likely play without issues. However, YouTube supports some formats that PowerPoint doesn’t, including FLV, 3GPP, WebM, DNxHR, ProRes, HEVC (h265), and CineForm. If your video isn’t playing, check to make sure it’s a supported file format.

How to embed a video in PowerPoint from YouTube on a Mac

Step 2: choose “online film”.

Select Online Film . 

A URL pop-up will appear prompting you to enter the link to the YouTube video.

Go to YouTube and copy the link or embed code of the video you want to embed in your presentation. You can right-click the video and select copy video URL or copy embed code, or click Share and copy the video link or embed code.

Paste the video link or embed code in the URL pop-up in your PowerPoint presentation, then click Insert .

Resize your video and polish your slides before saving the presentation to your computer.

How to insert a video file link in PowerPoint

Embedding a video in PowerPoint may be convenient, but it increases the size of your presentation. 

To reduce your presentation file size, insert a video file link to create a linked video. The downside with linked videos is that links can break, but you can prevent this by copying and storing your presentation and linked videos in the same folder, then linking to the video there.

Ensure you have a stable internet connection, then use the steps below to insert a video file link in PowerPoint on a PC or Mac.

Insert a video file link in PowerPoint on a PC or Mac

Step 1: take a screenshot of the video.

Find the video you want to link to in PowerPoint and take a screenshot of the clip. 

To take a screenshot in Windows, you can either use the Snipping tool, press the PrtScn (print screen) key and Windows Logo key on your keyboard. 

If you’re using a Mac computer, you can take a screenshot by pressing and holding SHIFT + COMMAND + 3 keys together (for full screenshot) or SHIFT + COMMAND + 4 keys to screenshot a specific area. 

Step 2: Insert the screenshot in your presentation

Alternatively, navigate to the slide you want to add your screenshot to, select Insert > Pictures > Picture from File . Then, find the screenshot you took, select Insert to add it to the slide, then crop, resize, and position it to your liking.

Step 3: Hyperlink the image to your video

Right-click the image and select Link . 

If your video is in Descript, copy the video link from your dashboard.

 Insert the video link in the address field then click OK .

The hyperlink will be connected to the image itself, not other elements on the slide or the entire slide.

Click Slide Show to test your video and ensure it links to the right video. When you click on the image, it will open in a web browser, ready for you to play.

Why can’t I embed a video in PowerPoint?

Embedding videos to a PowerPoint presentation is a straightforward process, but sometimes the video may fail to play. Let’s review some reasons for playback failure and how to resolve them.

Video playback issues

Video playback may fail in PowerPoint if:

  • The storage folder is corrupt
  • The video’s audio is out of sync
  • The video file is corrupt, damaged, in an unsupported file format, or missing certain files

How to fix: Convert your video into a supported file format, check PowerPoint playback settings, or make the video visible by unchecking the Hide while not playing option in the playback tab. You can also save your presentation using the PPT or PPTX extension, so it’s easier to open the file in older or modern Office versions. 

File size and compatibility

Your video might not play if the file is too big. To resolve this issue, compress the media file by going to File > Info > Compress Media. Then, select one of these options: 

  • Presentation quality/full HD: Adjusts the video size while maintaining its quality.
  • Internet quality/HD: Saves on space and video quality.
  • Low quality/Standard: Saves more space but doesn’t keep overall video and audio quality. This option is ideal if you want to share the presentation with others and ensure your videos will still play.  

If your video file is incompatible with PowerPoint, it may be in an unsupported file format or missing a codec. 

How to fix: Convert the video to a supported format or add a missing codec to your computer for smooth playback.

Broken links

When adding an online video, you might accidentally enter an incorrect link or the video link may be broken at the source. This means it won’t embed correctly and won’t play when you’re presenting. 

How to fix: Before inserting or embedding an online video, install the required updates for your version of PowerPoint and check that you’ve copied the right link. Then, test your video to ensure it plays on any device.

Make the best videos to embed in PowerPoint with Descript

Embedding a video in PowerPoint is a pretty simple process with several benefits for you and your audience. To prevent yawns and glazed-over eyes, you’ll need professional-quality videos that will draw your audience in, keep them engaged, and improve message recall.

Descript’s audio and video editing software lets you record, edit, and publish studio-grade videos to YouTube, then embed them in your PowerPoint presentations in a few clicks. 

Plus, Descript’s AI-powered automatic transcription generates high-quality transcripts from your video’s audio, which you can use as notes while making your presentation. You can also use Descript’s AI features to get text summaries, auto-generate copy for social media posts, and enhance your audio with Studio Sound .

Take Descript for a spin today to make quality videos that will help you deliver exceptional PowerPoint presentations.

Related articles

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Featured articles:

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

How to post a video on YouTube in 3 easy steps

This article will guide you through simple steps to upload your video to YouTube and share best practices to help your content get views.

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Product Updates

Descript Season 6: Meet Underlord

Descript's new AI editing assistant. With powerful AI tools at every step of your workflow, Underlord does all the tedious and boring work, and leaves all the creative work to you.

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

How to A/B test on YouTube for better video performance

A/B testing can help boost your video's stats long after it's published. This guide share which tools to use and how to avoid common mistakes.

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

How long can YouTube Shorts be? YouTube's guidelines, explained

Discover how long YouTube Shorts can be, and learn the ideal duration, resolution, and strategies for successful Shorts.

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

How to create YouTube Shorts from existing video: A beginner’s guide

Learn how to create YouTube Shorts from existing videos. Unlock tips and tricks for repurposing content effectively.

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

Descript tutorial for beginners: 6 steps to get started

Hit the ground running with this Descript tutorial. Import, edit, and publish your audio or video project with the intuitive text-based editor.

Articles you might find interesting

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

New in Descript: Share your Overdub Voice, choose filler words to remove, and more

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

How to sync audio and video: 3 options with tips

It’s frustrating when your video sound lags behind what people see on screen. Here’s how to sync both the audio and video footage.

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

It ain't over yet: 6 podcast marketing tips for a show that's ended

Just because your show is already out in the world doesn’t mean you can’t work your marketing skills! Here are six ways to get more listens to the podcast you've worked so hard on.

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

How to edit crosstalk in video

You don’t want to cut out crosstalk willy-nilly — there’s an art to editing this conversational collision.

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

How to record with OBS: A beginner’s guide

Learn how to record with OBS like a pro! Our step-by-step guide covers everything you need for high-quality recordings!

how to add video clips in powerpoint presentation

The ultimate guide on how to get more views on TikTok

Learn how to get more views on TikTok and create engaging content with these 11 tips.

Join millions of creators who already have a head start.

Get free recording and editing tips, and resources delivered to your inbox.

Related articles:

Share this article

Avantix Learning

How to Insert a Video in PowerPoint (from a File on Your PC or Shared Drive)

Insert a video in PowerPoint as an embedded object. (video on monitor)

Insert or Embed a Video in a PowerPoint Presentation from a File and Set Playback Options

by Avantix Learning Team | Updated October 9, 2021

Applies to: Microsoft ® PowerPoint ® 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019 and 365 (Windows)

You can insert a video into a PowerPoint  presentation from a file on your PC or from a shared drive. Video can help to engage your audience and focus attention. In 2010 and later versions, video files are embedded or copied into PowerPoint by default so video files can increase file size significantly.

Recommended article : How to Compress Video and Audio Media in PowerPoint to Reduce File Size

Do you want to learn more about PowerPoint?  Check out our virtual classroom or live classroom  PowerPoint courses >

When inserting video in PowerPoint, consider the following:

  • PowerPoint 2010 and later versions support common video formats such as WMV (Windows Media Video file), ASF (Windows Media file), MP3 and MP4 (Movie files) and AVI (Windows Video File).
  • The default format for PowerPoint 2013 and later versions is MP4.
  • In 2010 and later versions, video is embedded by default not linked as in previous versions.
  • If you choose to link to a video, it's good practice to copy the video file to the same folder as your presentation before you link. You will not be able to apply certain types of formatting to linked videos.

Note: Buttons and Ribbon tabs may display in a different way (with or without text) depending on your version of PowerPoint, the size of your screen and your Control Panel settings. For PowerPoint 365 users, Ribbon tabs may appear with different names. For example, the Video Tools Playback tab may appear as Video Playback.

Although you can insert a video in Slide Master View, we'll assume here that most of your videos will be inserted on slides in Normal View.

Inserting a video from a file

To insert a video from a file and embed it on a slide:

  • In Normal View, navigate to the slide where you want to insert a video.
  • Click the Insert tab in the Ribbon.
  • Click Video. A drop-down menu appears.
  • Depending on your PowerPoint version, choose Video on My Computer, Video on My PC or This Device. A dialog box appears.
  • Navigate to the folder where your video is saved and click the video to select it.
  • On the bottom right of the dialog box, click Insert to embed the video. You can also double-click it. If you click the drop-down menu beside Insert, you can choose Link to File. If you decide to link rather than embed, you may want to copy your video or movie clip to the same folder as your presentation before you insert it on your slide. PowerPoint will place the video in the center of the slide.
  • In Normal View, click the video and then Play on the media controls to play the video.

After you insert a video, two tabs will appear in the Ribbon when you click the video (Video Tools Playback and Format or Video Playback and Format) in Normal View.

Below is the Video Tools Playback tab in the Ribbon with a video selected (this may appear as Video Playback):

Video Tools Playback tab in the Ribbon in PowerPoint after you insert or embed a video.

Below is the Video Tools Format tab in the Ribbon with a video selected (this may appear as Video Format):

Video Tools Format tab in the Ribbon in PowerPoint.

Playing a video automatically or when clicked

You can change the way a video plays when you run a slide show.

To control the way a video plays during a slide show:

  • In Normal View, click the video on the slide.
  • Click the Video Tools Playback or Video Playback tab in the Ribbon.
  • In the Video Options group, beside Start, choose In Click Sequence, When Clicked On or Automatically from the drop-down menu.

If you select When Clicked On, you must click directly on the video when running a slide show.

Playing a video full screen

You can play a video so that it fills the entire screen when you run a slide show. However, depending on the resolution of the original video file, it might appear distorted if the video is lower quality.

Be sure to preview your video so that if the video appears distorted or blurry, you can turn off the full screen option. If you set a video to be displayed full screen and it is also set to start automatically, you can drag the video frame off the slide into the gray work area so that it will not be visible on the slide or flash briefly before the video goes to full screen.

To set a video to play full screen during a slide show:

  • In the Video Options group, select the Play Full Screen check box.

Controlling video volume

To control video volume:

  • In the Video Options group, click Volume and then choose Low, Medium, High or Mute.
  • You can also set the volume of a video by using the volume slider on media controls that appear below the video.

Be sure that volume is turned on through your Control Panel settings on your computer.

Hiding a video when not playing

During a presentation, you can hide a video until you are ready to play it. However, you should create an automatic or triggered animation to start the video or you won't see it play during the slide show.

To hide a video when not playing:

  • In the Video Options group, select the Hide While Not Playing check box.

Looping a video

To play a video continuously during a presentation, you can loop the video:

  • In the Video Options group, select the Loop until Stopped check box.

Rewinding a video after playing

To rewind a video after playing during your presentation:

  • In the Video Options group, select the Rewind after Playing check box.

Showing media controls during a slide show

To show the media controls during your presentation when running a slide show:

  • In Normal View, click the Slide Show tab in the Ribbon.
  • In the Set up group, select the Show Media Controls check box.

Fading a video in or out

You can start or end your video with a fade effect for a certain number of seconds.

To start or end a video with a fade effect:

  • In the Editing group, under Fade Duration, choose or enter a duration for Fade In or Fade Out. To add a timed fade to the beginning of your video, in the Fade In box, click the up and down arrows to increase or decrease the fade in time. To add a timed fade to the end of your video, in the Fade Out box, click the up or down arrows to increase or decrease the fade out time.

Cropping a video

You can also crop a video in PowerPoint to remove specific areas in the video.

To crop a video:

  • Click the Video Tools Format or Video Format tab in the Ribbon.
  • Click Crop in the Size group.
  • Position the pointer over a black cropping handle and drag the handle.
  • Click Crop again to finish cropping.

Trimming a video

You can trim video at the beginning and end of each clip so you can start at any point and end the clip earlier. Trimming is different from cropping.

To trim a video clip:

  • In the Editing group, click Trim Video. A dialog box appears.
  • To trim the beginning of the clip, click the start point (a green marker on the far left). When the pointer becomes a two-headed arrow, drag the arrow to the desired starting position.
  • To trim the end of the clip, click the end point (a red marker on the right). When the pointer becomes a two-headed arrow, drag the arrow to the desired ending position.

In this article, we've reviewed inserting video files in PowerPoint presentations from a PC or shared drive, controlling playback during a slide show as well as cropping and trimming. In future articles, we'll look at video formatting techniques and how to export a PowerPoint presentation as a video.

Subscribe to get more articles like this one

Did you find this article helpful? If you would like to receive new articles, join our email list.

More resources

How to Embed a YouTube Video in PowerPoint

How to Highlight Text in PowerPoint (5 Ways)

How to Add Audio in PowerPoint Presentations

A Beginner's Guide to Video Formats in PowerPoint

PowerPoint Keyboard Shortcuts to Play and Control Video During a Slide Show

Related courses

Microsoft PowerPoint: Intermediate / Advanced

Microsoft PowerPoint: Design for Non-Designers

Microsoft PowerPoint: Accessible PowerPoint Presentations

Microsoft PowerPoint: Animations Bootcamp

Microsoft Excel: Intermediate / Advanced

VIEW MORE COURSES >

Our instructor-led courses are delivered in virtual classroom format or at our downtown Toronto location at 18 King Street East, Suite 1400, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (some in-person classroom courses may also be delivered at an alternate downtown Toronto location). Contact us at [email protected] if you'd like to arrange custom instructor-led virtual classroom or onsite training on a date that's convenient for you.

Copyright 2024 Avantix ® Learning

You may also like

How to Insert or Type E with an Accent Mark in PowerPoint (È, É, Ê, Ë, è, é, ê, or ë)

How to Insert or Type E with an Accent Mark in PowerPoint (È, É, Ê, Ë, è, é, ê, or ë)

You can insert or type e with an accent mark in PowerPoint using built-in tools or keyboard shortcuts (including Alt code shortcuts). The letter e can be inserted with an accent in both upper or lower case in text boxes or placeholders on slides, the slide master or layouts. The following are common accents in upper or lower case – È, É, Ê, Ë, è, é, ê, or ë.

How to Fade a Picture or Part of a Picture in PowerPoint (Using a Gradient)

How to Fade a Picture or Part of a Picture in PowerPoint (Using a Gradient)

You can fade a picture in PowerPoint by drawing a rectangle shape on top of the picture and then filling the rectangle with a gradient from opaque to transparent. This technique is often used to fade an image into the background of a slide. Since the rectangle is placed on top of the image and then text may be placed on top of the rectangle, you may need to reorder the objects.

How to Lock an Image, Shape or Other Object in PowerPoint

How to Lock an Image, Shape or Other Object in PowerPoint

You can now lock an image, shape or other object in PowerPoint. Objects can be locked in Normal View or Slide Master View. Only PowerPoint 365 users can lock objects to prevent moving and resizing. This is helpful if you want to select and move other objects on the slide or prevent others from moving or resizing an object. You can lock items using the context menu or the Selection Pane.

Microsoft, the Microsoft logo, Microsoft Office and related Microsoft applications and logos are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in Canada, US and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of the registered owners.

Avantix Learning |18 King Street East, Suite 1400, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5C 1C4 | Contact us at [email protected]

How to Insert a Video in PowerPoint (from a File on Your PC or Shared Drive)

Our Courses

Avantix Learning courses are offered online in virtual classroom format or as in-person classroom training. Our hands-on, instructor-led courses are available both as public scheduled courses or on demand as a custom training solution.

All Avantix Learning courses include a comprehensive course manual including tips, tricks and shortcuts as well as sample and exercise files.

VIEW COURSES  >

Contact us at  [email protected]  for more information about any of our courses or to arrange custom training.

Privacy Overview

Pin it on pinterest.

  • Print Friendly

COMMENTS

  1. How to Add a Video to a Microsoft PowerPoint Presentation

    On the PowerPoint window, in the left sidebar, click the slide in which you want to add a video. At the top of the PowerPoint window, click the "Insert" tab. In the "Insert" tab, under the "Media" section (which is to the extreme right side of the interface), click "Video." You'll now see an "Insert Video From" menu.

  2. How to Insert a Video in PowerPoint: 5 Simple Ways - wikiHow

    Adjust the playback settings. Select the video and click the Playback tab. You'll be able to edit how your video plays on the slide. To adjust when the video plays, click the drop-down menu next to Start:.

  3. Add, format, and record video in PowerPoint - Microsoft Support

    Select Format to put frames and effects on your video. Select Video Effects, Video Border, or Video Shape to add effects, borders, or crop your video to a shape. Select Corrections or Color to adjust the video’s color tone. Select Poster Frame to choose the video’s opening frame, and then click and drag with your mouse to select your ...

  4. Insert a video from YouTube or another site - Microsoft Support

    Copy the address of the web page from the Address bar of your browser. Switch to PowerPoint for the web and select the slide where you want to place the video. On the Insert tab of the ribbon, in the Media group, select Online Video. In the Online Video dialog box, paste the address you copied in step 2. Select Insert.

  5. How to embed video in your PowerPoint presentations - YouTube

    Haily is here to run you through the ins-and-outs of adding a video to your PowerPoint presentation — whether that’s by inserting a video, uploading a linked...

  6. Insert and play a video file from your computer - Microsoft ...

    On the Insert tab, click the arrow under Video, and then select This Device (or Video on My PC ). In the Insert Video box, click the file that you want to link to, click the down arrow next to the Insert button, and then click Link to File. Newer versions of PowerPoint support the playback of video with multiple audio tracks.

  7. PowerPoint: Inserting Videos - YouTube

    In this video, you’ll learn the basics of inserting videos in PowerPoint 2019, PowerPoint 2016, and Office 365. Visit https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/powerpoint...

  8. How to Embed a Video In PowerPoint: A Complete Guide

    Step 3: Click Insert. In the Choose a Video dialog box, select the video file you want to insert, then click the Insert button to embed the video on the slide. If you want to put a link to the video on the slide, click Show Options in the lower left corner of the dialog box.

  9. How to Insert a Video in PowerPoint (from a File on Your PC ...

    To insert a video from a file and embed it on a slide: In Normal View, navigate to the slide where you want to insert a video. Click the Insert tab in the Ribbon. Click Video. A drop-down menu appears. Depending on your PowerPoint version, choose Video on My Computer, Video on My PC or This Device. A dialog box appears.

  10. How to Add Video to a PowerPoint Presentation For Dummies

    Inserting digital video clips and animated GIFs into PowerPoint presentations is a breeze when you know how. This PowerPoint video shows you all you need to ...