SPREADSHEETS:

The easiest way to incorporate spreadsheets and graphs is by choosing the appropriate autoformat from the slide type options you are given when you choose NEW SLIDE. If you choose one that contains a graph, then Power Point prompts you to doubleclick to add your graph. Additionally, you can choose GRAPH from the INSERT menu. Once the graph has been inserted, you are given the spreadsheet tools if you need to manipulate your data. For example, you could change it to a line graph from a bar graph using the CHART TYPE icon on your tool bar. Clicking once on the LEGEND icon makes it appear. Clicking a second time makes it disappear. By hesitating as you guide your arrow across the toolbar, a speech balloon will pop up telling you what each icon does. After you've edited your graph to a design you like, click anywhere outside of it, and your graph will then appear in the slide.

One sophisticated feature of Power Point allows you to animate features of your spreadsheet as in slide 5 above. Here each bar "flies in" with a click of the mouse allowing you to discuss mobilization numbers for the five countries, then casualty totals, and finally the figures for the wounded. This is achieved by inserting your complete chart first. While the chart is still highlighted, choose CUSTOM ANIMATION from the SLIDE SHOW pulldown menu. Choose the CHART EFFECTS tab which will give you several options of how to animate. Slide 5 introduces the chart by elements in the series. You can PREVIEW the animation style you chose by the button labelled so and can modify until you are satisfied. To see the animation on the above slide, click here.