It’s easy to add backgrounds to your presentation on one or more slides. If you have PowerPoint 2003, you can also insert backgrounds in the master view to create custom templates. The steps below work with all versions of PowerPoint 97 forward. See changes in PowerPoint 2007 here.

For more information, on using backgrounds in PowerPoint, see what is a powerpoint background?

• On the Format menu, click Background.
• Under Background fill, click the arrow on the right of the box, and then Click Fill Effects
• Choose the Picture tab and Click Select Picture to find the background you want
• Click Insert
• Click OK
• If you want to apply the background to selected slides, click Apply. (If you want to apply the background to all slides, click Apply to All.)

Also see how to create custom PowerPoint templates using alternate slide masters. It’s easy and fast!

OK, using backgrounds takes a few more clicks than templates. But isn’t a stunning presentation worth it?

If you’ve ever changed the background of a PowerPoint slide, you already know how to use Presenters’ Choice alternate slides. And if you haven’t, it’s easy to learn.