Mastering Presentations: 18 Pro Tips for PowerPoint & Setting Up Your PC

Introduction: Why Tech Setup Is the Secret to Mastering Presentations

In today’s world of remote work and endless online meetings, delivering a standout presentation is about more than just your slides or speaking skills—it’s about your entire technical setup. Troy Chollar, PowerPoint MVP and co-founder of TLC Creative Services, delivered a powerhouse session at Present to Succeed 2021, sharing 18 essential tips for flawless virtual presentations. Forget “winging it” on Zoom—Troy shows how the right computer, PowerPoint, and platform settings can make you look and sound like a pro, every time.

The New Reality: Why Your Computer Setup Matters More Than Ever

Troy explains that the shift to virtual meetings is here to stay, and presenters must adapt. With so many distractions just a click away, your audience’s attention is fragile. The solution? Eliminate technical hiccups before they happen. Troy’s approach: treat your computer and environment as part of your presentation toolkit. From dual monitors and high-speed internet to remotes and backup cameras, every detail counts.

Power Settings, Displays & Professionalism: The Foundation of a Great Talk

Troy dives deep into the nitty-gritty of computer setup. He shares how to:

• Adjust power settings so your computer never sleeps mid-presentation

• Optimize graphics card settings for true color accuracy (no more “almost white” slides!)

• Use abstract or branded backgrounds to avoid embarrassing desktop reveals

• Hide desktop icons and taskbars for a clean, distraction-free look

• Set up dual monitors for seamless control—or master one-monitor hacks if that’s all you have

  
  

These aren’t just “nice to haves”—they’re the difference between looking amateur and delivering a broadcast-quality experience.

PowerPoint Mastery: Slides, Navigation & Personalization

Troy’s PowerPoint tips go far beyond templates. He recommends:

• Making your first and last slides identical for smooth transitions

• Exporting slides as images to use as desktop backgrounds, masking when you leave slideshow mode

• Personalizing file properties so your name—not someone else’s—shows up on shared files and PDFs

• Using PowerPoint sections for easy navigation, especially in large decks or multi-presenter events

• Adjusting default settings for image compression, pop-up toolbars, and display preferences
  

These tweaks save time, reduce stress, and help you stay in control—no matter what curveballs come your way.

Audio, Video & Media: Controlling the Experience

Ever been blasted by a too-loud video in a presentation? Troy shows how to set custom volume levels for each media file, ensuring a smooth audio experience. He also covers the importance of reliable microphones, backup cameras, and knowing how to quickly move windows between screens—so you never fumble in front of your audience.

Virtual Platforms: Zoom, Teams & Real-Time Collaboration

Troy doesn’t just talk PowerPoint—he’s a master of the platforms that bring presentations to life. His pro tips include:

• Using Zoom’s “portion of screen” share for flexible presenter view

• Resizing and moving presenter view windows for maximum control

• Leveraging Microsoft Teams’ built-in presenter tools and real-time collaboration features

• Allowing co-hosts or colleagues to update slides live during your talk—so you’re always up to date, even if the CEO changes the numbers at the last minute

Final Thoughts: Present Like a Pro, Every Time

Troy’s session is a must-watch for anyone who presents, trains, or leads online. By mastering your tech setup, PowerPoint features, and virtual platforms, you can deliver presentations that are not just “good enough”—but truly memorable. The best part? Troy’s downloadable PDF puts all 18 tips at your fingertips, so you can start leveling up your virtual presentations today.

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Join the Conversation

What’s your biggest tech challenge when presenting online? Do you have a favorite PowerPoint or Zoom hack? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!