Backstage View in PowerPoint is the area where you manage the presentation file rather than edit individual slides. It provides options for creating, opening, saving, printing, sharing, and changing PowerPoint settings.
In this PowerPoint Backstage View Tutorial, you'll learn how to use Backstage View in PowerPoint, understand the PowerPoint File Tab, and explore the main PowerPoint Backstage View Options.
What Is PowerPoint Backstage View Used For?
The PowerPoint Backstage View is designed for tasks that apply to the entire presentation. Unlike the Ribbon, which provides tools for editing slides, Backstage View focuses on PowerPoint File Management.
You can access it by selecting the File tab in the upper-left corner of PowerPoint.
PowerPoint File Tab Explained
The PowerPoint File Tab opens Backstage View and provides access to important file-management commands.
Common options include:
Option | What It Does |
New | Creates a new presentation or starts from a template |
Open | Opens an existing presentation |
Save / Save a Copy | Saves the presentation or creates another copy |
Opens printing and preview options | |
Share | Provides options for sharing and collaboration |
Info | Displays information and management options for the presentation |
Options | Lets you customize PowerPoint settings |
The exact options can vary depending on your PowerPoint version and account.
PowerPoint File Management
The PowerPoint File Management Tools help you work with presentations without changing their slide content.
For example, you can use Backstage View to:
Create a new presentation.
Open a recent or existing file.
Save a presentation or create a copy.
Print and preview a presentation.
Share a presentation with others.
Change PowerPoint settings.
How to Use Backstage View in PowerPoint
Follow these steps to access Backstage View:
Open your PowerPoint presentation.
Select the File tab.
Choose the required option, such as Save, Open, Print, or Options.
Complete the required action.
Select the Back arrow or press Esc to return to your presentation.
PowerPoint Backstage View for Beginners
For beginners, the easiest way to remember Backstage View is:
Ribbon = work on your slides
Backstage View = manage your presentation file
For example, use the Ribbon to format text or insert an image, but use the File tab when you want to save, print, share, or manage the presentation.
Understanding the Microsoft PowerPoint Backstage View makes it easier to manage presentations and find important file-related tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is the File tab located?
The File tab is located in the upper-left corner of the PowerPoint window.
2. Is Backstage View the same as the Ribbon?
No. The Ribbon contains tools for editing individual slides, while Backstage View is for managing the presentation file as a whole, such as saving, printing, or sharing.
3. What can I do in Backstage View?
You can create, open, save, print, and share your presentations, as well as access settings to customize your PowerPoint experience.
4. How do I exit Backstage View?
You can exit Backstage View by clicking the Back arrow in the upper-left corner or by pressing the 'Esc' key on your keyboard.
