Learn Microsoft PowerPoint 2013 the Easy Way - 9 Hours Course

Editorial Take

Simon Sez IT delivers a solid, beginner-focused introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint 2013 in this 9-hour Udemy course. With a clear structure and practical examples, it’s designed for users who want to build confidence in creating professional presentations from scratch.

Standout Strengths

• Comprehensive Foundation: Covers essential PowerPoint skills from interface navigation to file sharing. Learners gain confidence through structured, bite-sized lessons that build progressively.
• Hands-On Practice: Includes downloadable practice files that reinforce learning. Applying skills in real-time helps users retain formatting, design, and insertion techniques more effectively.
• Touch Device Support: Addresses modern input methods with a dedicated section on touch. This is rare in older PowerPoint courses and adds relevance for tablet users.
• Data Security Focus: Explains Trust Center and data protection settings clearly. Users learn to manage privacy and file safety, a crucial but often overlooked topic.
• Clear Module Flow: Organized into logical learning blocks from setup to sharing. The progression mirrors real-world usage, making it easy to follow and apply.
• Email and Cloud Sharing: Teaches how to share via email and SkyDrive. These skills remain relevant even as platforms evolve, emphasizing accessibility and collaboration.

Honest Limitations

• Outdated Software Version: Focuses on PowerPoint 2013, which lacks newer features. Users may need to adapt lessons to modern versions, reducing immediate applicability.
• Limited Design Depth: Covers basics but not advanced design principles. Those seeking polished, visually compelling slides may need supplemental resources.
• No Collaboration Tools: Omits real-time co-editing and cloud features in newer versions. This limits usefulness for team-based workflows common today.
• Minimal Animation Coverage: Skims over transitions and animations. Presenters looking to enhance engagement through motion may find this a gap.

How to Get the Most Out of It

• Study cadence: Complete 1-2 modules daily to maintain momentum. Spaced repetition improves retention of toolbar locations and shortcut keys.
• Parallel project: Create a real presentation while taking the course. Applying skills immediately reinforces learning and builds a portfolio piece.
• Note-taking: Document key steps for templates and media insertion. These notes become a quick-reference guide post-course.
• Community: Join the Udemy Q&A to ask questions. Engaging with others helps clarify confusing topics like SkyDrive integration.
• Practice: Reuse practice files to experiment with designs. Trying different layouts builds confidence and creativity.
• Consistency: Schedule fixed weekly study times. Regular engagement ensures completion and deeper skill absorption.

Supplementary Resources

• Book: 'PowerPoint 2013 For Dummies' by Ned Snell. Expands on course topics with additional templates and design tips.
• Tool: Microsoft Office 2013 suite for hands-on practice. Essential for applying what you learn in a real environment.
• Follow-up: 'Master PowerPoint 2019' course by Simon Sez IT. Builds on this foundation with modern features and collaboration tools.
• Reference: Microsoft Support Documentation for PowerPoint. Offers official troubleshooting and feature explanations.

Common Pitfalls

• Pitfall: Skipping practice files to save time. This reduces skill retention; always follow along to build muscle memory.
• Pitfall: Assuming 2013 skills transfer perfectly to 2021+. Newer versions have UI changes; verify feature locations as you upgrade.
• Pitfall: Overlooking Trust Center settings. Ignoring data protection can lead to security risks when sharing presentations externally.

Time & Money ROI

• Time: 9 hours is reasonable for mastering core features. Focused learners can complete it in a weekend with high retention.
• Cost-to-value: Paid price is justified for structured, guided learning. Comparable to one hour of private tutoring, but self-paced.
• Certificate: Shows initiative in professional development. Useful for resumes, though not industry-recognized like Microsoft certifications.
• Alternative: Free YouTube tutorials lack structure. This course offers a cohesive path, making it worth the investment for beginners.

Editorial Verdict

This course excels as a foundational resource for absolute beginners needing to quickly become proficient in PowerPoint 2013. The instructor’s clear delivery, combined with practical exercises and a logical curriculum, makes complex features accessible. While the software version is dated, the core principles of slide creation, formatting, and sharing remain applicable across newer versions. The inclusion of touch support and data protection topics adds unexpected depth, setting it apart from basic how-to tutorials.

However, learners should be aware that PowerPoint has evolved significantly since 2013. Those using Office 365 or newer versions may need to adapt what they learn. Despite this, the course delivers excellent value for its target audience—beginners in education, administration, or small business who need reliable, step-by-step training. With supplemental practice and minor updates, the skills gained here form a strong base for effective presentation design. Recommended for structured, self-paced learning with real-world application.