How To Add a Countdown Timer to PowerPoint?

Want to know the secret behind delivering a flawless presentation, without rushed endings and awkward pauses? 

Don’t worry! 

Our simple and easy-to-follow guide on how to add a timer to PowerPoint will not just help you to deliver your presentation flawlessly, but you can also take breaks to respond to audience queries or drink a glass of water without falling behind. 

Before we proceed forward, let’s first explore the PowerPoint timer function of Microsoft office, what it is and how it works. 

What is a PowerPoint Timer?

Have you ever watched a bold timer appear on the screen that immediately locks the attention of the audience during a presentation? That’s the power of a countdown timer.

PowerPoint timer is a feature or tool that allows you to add a countdown timer to your PowerPoint slide to track or display the passage of time. 

You can use it to break down the different sessions of a presentation or some fun interactive activities might require time allocation, so, this works the best. 

Whatever the reason is, you can easily add a timer to maintain a smooth look for your presentation. 

Guide to Add a Countdown Timer to PowerPoint 

There are many methods to add a countdown timer to PowerPoint slides, but our team of presentation and brochure designers in Dubai have curated a list of some easy and efficient ways to add a timer to PowerPoint presentations. 

1.  Use Free PowerPoint Countdown Timer Add-ins

It is one of the quickest ways to add a timer in your presentation. By using add-ins, you can help the presenter stick to their time and keep the audience activities timed and focused.

• Open the specific slide where you would like to insert the timer.
• Select the Insert tab and then click on Add-in, then continue.
  
• In the search field, type ‘breaktime’ and followed by clicking search to continue.
• Click on the ‘add button’ next to break time, then select continue to confirm.
• The timer is added, and you can place it where you want to adjust.
• Select a suitable countdown time
• To activate the timer, click on the start button for slideshow view.

1. Use Video as a PowerPoint Countdown Timer 

It is the fastest timer that is best for a single presentation, and you can also use this timer instead of add-ins. 

It is a visually appealing way for quick setups and can be reused across multiple presentations.

• Choose your favourite countdown timer video from YouTube or any other app.
• Go to the address bar and copy the link of that video.
• Select the Insert tab located on the top menu ribbon.
• Choose online video from the video option.
• Paste the copied link of that video in the URL
•  After previewing the video, click Insert to place the timer video on your slide

1. Create Your Own Custom PowerPoint Countdown Timer

It is a fun option to customize your countdown timer for PowerPoint. With the help of shapes and animations, it can turn an ordinary presentation into an interactive and professional one. 

It grabs the attention of people by keeping them focused on the presentation.

• Open your PowerPoint slide where the timer should be added.
• Choose the Shapes menu by clicking on the Insert tab.
• Click on the preferred shape and drag it to your slide.
• Click on the shape format tab to customize the appearance of your selected shape.
• Ensure the consistency of size and shape by copying and pasting the selected shape.
  
• Now add countdown timer numbers or text like (5,4,3,21, go) by double clicking on these shapes.
•  In the countdown sequence, select the highest number, then click on the Animation tab.
• Open the animation style box, then apply appear from the exit section.
• Set the duration to 1 second, and the delay to 0.
• Repeat this process for each number, then press F5 to see the countdown in action.

Final Word 

By adding a countdown timer to your PowerPoint presentation, you do not just add a dynamic element which aids you in effectively managing time during the presentation. But it also ensures that your audience remains engaged throughout the session. By following the steps highlighted in this guide, you can easily add a countdown timer to your presentation in no time.
However, it might be difficult for first time users, or people who are not that well-versed with Microsoft Office. In such cases it is best to consult with a professional PowerPoint Presentation Design Agency, they cannot add such basic functionalities but they can also add advanced animations and transitions to make your PowerPoint aesthetically appealing and engaging.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Why should I use the timer on PowerPoint?

PowerPoint timer helps to maintain the focus of your audience towards your presentation during breaks and timed activities.

Q2. Can it enhance professional PPT design?

It gives a polished and organized look to the PPT design and attracts audiences attention. So, if you are thinking of using it, go ahead!

Q3. Which timer is best for a break?

An animated countdown timer and a video countdown timer are the best way to keep your audience engaged in your presentation, as these timers indicate when the session will resume.

Q4. Can I get ready-made professional timer slides?

Yes, you can easily get ready-made slides from PowerPoint template sites and also get help from AI, as it can design or share downloaded custom slides for your PPT design.