How to Make Posters on PowerPoint

Microsoft PowerPoint allows you to create and print your own poster.

If you're developing a poster but want to do something more professional than poster board and a marker, Microsoft Office PowerPoint offers such an option. With everything from different poster sizes, text, image and photo and background option, you can create a poster that is personalized and professional in style. All it takes is just a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2007

Instructions

How to Make Posters on PowerPoint

1. Open a new project and choose a blank template. Pick a size for your poster by clicking the "Design" tab and then "Page Setup" option. A faculty website from University of Washington suggests using 48 in. to 60 in. wide and 36 in. in height.

2. Add text with the "Text Box" function. This allows you to move your text as one unit, or break the text up by creating a text box for each piece. Format your text and position it on the poster any way you wish.

3. Add clip art images or personal photos by using the "Slide Show" bar. Position your photos and images with the text.

4. Add a background to your poster. Click "Format" from the menu bar and then "Background." You can choose from standard PowerPoint backgrounds or use your own photo for a background. If you're photo doesn't automatically go to the back, right-click on it and select "Send to back."

5. Locate a poster-printing company in your area. Unless you have the equipment yourself, you'll have to take your design to a company for printing.

Tips & Warnings

• According to University of Washington, PowerPoint limits the size of your poster. You can double this size by scaling it to 200 percent.

• You can print your poster out on an 8 in by 11½ in. paper to see what your poster will look like in smaller size.

• These steps were developed for Microsoft PowerPoint 2007. They may or may not work in other PowerPoint versions.

• You may need to turn the poster printing option on under the printer "Properties" section ("Advanced" menu).

References

• University of Washington Faculty Website: How to Make a Poster Using PowerPoint