Microsoft PowerPoint is a presentation software program developed by Microsoft, originally created by Robert Gaskins and Dennis Austin at Forethought, Inc., and first released in 1987 for Macintosh computers
. It allows users to create a sequence of slides, each containing text, images, charts, videos, animations, and other multimedia elements, to visually convey information in a structured format
. PowerPoint presentations (often called PPT files) are widely used in business, education, and other fields to support group presentations and communication
. The software is part of the Microsoft Office suite and is available on multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android
. Key features of Microsoft PowerPoint include:
- Creating slides with text, graphics, tables, charts, videos, and audio
- Applying templates and design themes for consistent style across slides
- Adding animations and transitions between slides to enhance visual appeal
- Presenting slideshows on computers or projecting them to audiences, with presenter view and remote control options
- Sharing presentations online in real time via links for remote viewers
PowerPoint evolved from producing printed transparencies and slides to supporting digital video projection and interactive presentations, becoming the dominant presentation software with an estimated 95% market share worldwide since the late 1990s
. In summary, Microsoft PowerPoint is a powerful and versatile tool for creating and delivering multimedia presentations to communicate ideas effectively to an audience
