How to Customize Powerpoint Tables

Using tables in PowerPoint is a nice way of presenting information in an easy to read format. Tables can be used as time lines, or to present numerical data in an easily understood format. Once you've created a table in PowerPoint, it is relatively easy to customize it in order to fit your needs, or even to add some of your own personal touches. The following steps show some of the basic table features in PowerPoint 2007, but other versions of PowerPoint have similar features.

Things You'll Need

• Microsoft PowerPoint

Instructions

1. Create a basic table using the table tool, located in the "Insert" menu at the top of the PowerPoint window. If you have a general idea of the dimensions you will need, you can use the quick table grid to create a table with those dimensions. If not, select "Draw Table."

2. Enter the data in your table. If you need additional rows or columns, right-click somewhere on your table, and mouse over "Insert." You can add rows or columns as you need them through this menu.

3. With your table selected, click on the "Design" tab under the "Table Tools" menu at the top of the PowerPoint window. You can change the table's colors, borders, or add effects.

4. Select "Layout" underneath the "Table Tools" menu near the top of the PowerPoint window. This will let you change the dimensions of individual cells, the size of the entire table, and the direction of the text.

Tips & Warnings

• To change the background color of the entire table, you can use the table icons in the "Design" menu. The "Shading" tool (also in the Design menu) changes the background color of individual cells.

• If you used the "Draw Table" option, you will need to add rows and columns individually.

• You can change the size of the entire table by putting your cursor close to the outside border of the table and clicking and dragging outward.

References

• Florida Gulf Coast University: PPT2007 Tables
• University of Wisconsin: PowerPoint Basics