What are PPT, PPTX, PPS, and PPSX files and how do they differ?

Whether you're an office worker, an assistant, or anyone in need of computer use, you'll surely come across PowerPoint, an excellent presentation tool from Microsoft Office. If you've ever seen file extensions like PPT, PPTX, PPS, and PPSX but don't know how to use them or their differences, let's explore them with SoftwareTips.com.

Defining PPT, PPTX, PPS, PPSX Files.

• PPT is the default file extension for saving presentations in PowerPoint 2003 and older versions.
• PPS is the extension for slideshow mode in PowerPoint 2003 and earlier versions - these files run in 'slideshow' mode when double-clicked.
• PPTX is the default file extension for saving presentations in PowerPoint 2007 and newer versions.
• PPSX is the extension for slideshow mode in PowerPoint 2007 and later versions - it runs in 'slideshow' mode when double-clicked.

Distinguishing between various file types.

• Technically, there's no difference between PPT (or PPTX) and PPS (or PPSX) files.
• For PPT and PPS files, you can freely change the file extensions whenever you want, and the presentation file will remain unchanged.
• For PPTX and PPSX files, you cannot freely change the extensions.

The difference lies in how PowerPoint handles them:

• By default, PPT and PPTX files open in edit mode in PowerPoint, allowing you to use all the toolbars and commands.
• By default, PPS and PPSX files open in slideshow mode, and you won't see the PowerPoint interface. When the presentation ends or you exit using the ESC key, PowerPoint will also exit.

By now, you should have a clear understanding and differentiation between the file extensions PPT, PPS, PPTS, and PPSX. SoftwareHacks.com hopes that the provided information can assist you with some handy tips for using PowerPoint effectively.