To change the default view PowerPoint opens with in Microsoft 365, go to File > Options > Advanced, scroll to Display, and choose a view in Open all documents using this view, such as Normal, Outline, Slide Sorter or Notes. Click OK. Every presentation then opens in that view, whatever view it was saved in.
Quick Answer
File > Options > Advanced > Display > Open all documents using this view > pick a view > OK.
Steps to Change the Default View
- Open PowerPoint and click File > Options.
- Select Advanced.
- Scroll to Display.
- Open the Open all documents using this view list and choose a view.
- Click OK. The change applies next time you open a presentation.
View Options
| View | Shows | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| The view saved in the file | Whatever the author last used | Default behaviour |
| Normal – thumbnails, notes and slide | Slide, thumbnails and notes pane | Everyday editing |
| Normal – outline and slide | Text outline and slide | Writing content |
| Slide Sorter | All slides as tiles | Reordering |
| Notes | Slide with speaker notes page | Preparing to present |
Choose Which Screen Shows the Slide Show
If “display setting” means which monitor or projector shows the slides, go to the Slide Show tab, set Monitor to the screen you want, and tick Use Presenter View to keep your notes on your own screen.
Troubleshooting
- Notes pane is hidden: Click Notes on the status bar or View > Notes.
- Thumbnails missing: Choose View > Normal, or drag the left edge back out.
- Before presenting: See turning off all animations, adding comments and getting a word count.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this change how others see my file?
No. It only changes how PowerPoint opens files on your computer.
Can I set this on a Mac?
PowerPoint for Mac opens files in their saved view; switch views from the View menu.
How do I go back to the default?
Choose The view saved in the file in the same list.
Summary
- Open File > Options > Advanced.
- Find Open all documents using this view.
- Pick a view and click OK.
- Use Slide Show > Monitor for projector settings.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.