How Do I Choose the Best Online PowerPoint® Classes?

There are many uses for PowerPoint® and many ways to learn the skills needed to use it to its full advantage, including online classes. There are many versions of PowerPoint®, and each is set up very differently, so choosing the best online PowerPoint® classes typically should start with finding one focused on the version you intend to use. While most classes are made for people with general PowerPoint® knowledge, finding classes that are geared toward your personal experience level may be better. Many beginner classes focus on how to use PowerPoint® in general, but some may have special objectives, such as designing or making business presentations. The length of the classes and how long you have access to class-related files also will be important.

PowerPoint® comes in many versions, and taking a class focused on the wrong version may not be conducive to getting the most from the class. For example, although PowerPoint® 2003 and PowerPoint® 2007 have similar tools and arrangements, they are not exactly the same, so you may get lost while trying to follow instructions for the wrong version. Choosing online PowerPoint® classes that directly target your version will ensure you can perform all the tasks and work asked of you.

The majority of online PowerPoint® classes focus on teaching people with little or no knowledge of PowerPoint®. While this may describe you, it would be best to choose classes that target your specific experience level. Choosing beginner classes when you have intermediate or advanced knowledge of PowerPoint® may leave you disappointed, because you may not learn anything new. Similarly, choosing a class that is too advanced for your skills also may result in your learning nothing.

Another consideration is the objectives. Most online PowerPoint® classes have basic objectives, such as teaching you how to use the general tools and features, but some will have special objects. For example, if you are trying to learn how to design with PowerPoint®, then choosing classes with design objectives may be better. A look through the objectives list can give you an idea of what you will be learning about PowerPoint® in a particular class.

While online PowerPoint® classes typically give you more freedom to schedule around class time when compared to physical classes, you may still have to follow a strict schedule. Online classes often specify that classes will be daily or weekly, but some classes may only be offered during certain times. You also should check on how long you have access to the teaching documents. When you sign up for classes, you are typically able to access teaching documents for several weeks or months; a longer access time may be beneficial if you want to archive the teaching files for future reference.