This book is organized into parts, which are groups of chapters that deal with a common general theme. In each part I've attempted to avoid the obvious and focus only on the cool features that will help you become more effective and efficient as a professional PowerPoint user.
Here's what you'll find:
Part I: The Big-Picture Design. This part starts out with an extremely compressed introduction to PowerPoint for those who may need a review (Chapter 1). Then it moves right into creating your own templates and color schemes and managing slide masters and layouts.
Part II: Conveying the Message. The chapters in this part provide guidance for importing and exporting text, using automatic versus manual text boxes, and arranging text in tabular or worksheet form including importing and linking with Excel.
Part III: Still Images. This part covers still graphics of all kinds. It explains the drawing tools in PowerPoint including the special fill effects available, covers strategies for effective use of bitmap images without unduly increasing file size, and explains how to use the Clip Organizer to create large catalogs of artwork. Advanced strategies for formatting charts and modifying diagrams are also covered.
Part IV: Motion Images and Effects. This part tackles the extremely powerful and complex topic of slide animation, including transitions, preset animations, and custom animation techniques. It also includes help for working with sound effects, soundtracks, and narration, and working with full-motion video clips.
Part V: Preparing and Presenting a Show. Presenting a show is much more than just clicking the mouse to advance to the next slide! Learn about custom shows, automatic timing rehearsal, presenting using a multi-monitor configuration, and packaging presentations on CD. This part also covers advanced formatting techniques for handouts including exporting them to Word, and techniques for preparing a presentation for publication on the Web including creating clickable hyperlink buttons.
Part VI: Extending PowerPoint. This part explains how to make PowerPoint your own by customizing menus and toolbars and writing macros. It also gives you a peek at the world of add-ins.
In addition, check out these appendices:
Appendix A explains what's new in PowerPoint 2003 and how changing between versions can affect your existing presentations.
Appendix B points you to some helpful Internet resources, which are also available on the companion Web site for this book.
Appendix C tells you about the goodies on the CD that accompanies this book.