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Printing PowerPoint

Multiple Slides Per Page

Print PowerPoint slides efficiently by using handout layouts that put multiple slides on each page. This dramatically reduces paper usage while keeping your notes readable.

Recommended Printing Method

1 Open PowerPoint

Open the PowerPoint presentation you would like to print.

2 Initiate Print

Choose one of these methods:

  • Go to File → Print, or
  • Use the shortcut Ctrl + P

3 Select Your Printer

Choose the printer you would like to use from the printer dropdown menu.

4 Select Print Layout

Under "Settings," look for the "Print Layout" dropdown (it may say "Full Page Slides" by default). Change it to:

Our Recommendations:

  • 3 slides per page - Best for note-taking (includes lines for notes)
  • 6 slides per page - Best if you don't need to take notes

5 Print Double-Sided

Please also print on both sides of the paper, if possible. Look for the "Print on Both Sides" or "Duplex Printing" option in your print settings.

Paper Savings Comparison

See how much paper you can save with different printing layouts for a 30-slide presentation:

1 Slide/Page

30 sheets

Traditional method - uses the most paper

3 Slides/Page

10 sheets

67% paper savings! Perfect for detailed notes

6 Slides/Page

5 sheets

83% paper savings! Great for reference

Additional Tips
  • Preview before printing - Check the preview to ensure slides are readable
  • Print in grayscale - Unless color is essential, black and white saves ink
  • Consider digital alternatives - View slides on your tablet or laptop instead of printing
  • Share files digitally - Email or share via OneDrive instead of making copies for everyone
  • Print only what you need - Use the "Custom Print" option to print specific slides
  • Use both sides - Duplex printing cuts paper use in half
University of Pittsburgh at Bradford | Sustainability Initiative

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