How to Import a Mac Keynote File Into Microsoft PowerPoint
Keynote and PowerPoint Compatibility
If you need to import a Mac iWork Keynote presentation into Microsoft PowerPoint for the Mac or PC, then you’ll be glad to know that Apple allows you to export your Keynote presentation in various file formats, including PowerPoint. In addition, Keynote lets you open, email and edit existing presentations from Microsoft PowerPoint. Since Keynote contains many options for templates and 3D charts that you may not find in PowerPoint, this capability enables you to use both applications to create the presentation that best fits your needs and tastes.
Saving Your Mac Keynote File for Microsoft PowerPoint
To save your presentation into the PowerPoint format, open the presentation in Keynote. Click on the “Share” menu, then click “Export” to view a dialog that provides options for exporting as a PPT (PowerPoint Presentation), PDF, image, HTML or iPod compatible file. Click on the “PPT” option to view a wizard that walks you through the exporting process.The wizard is relatively simple and involves choosing a name for the exported file.
Click “Next,” then type a name for the presentation and select the target location in the “Save As” dialog box that appears. Click “Export” to convert the file and save it to the chosen location. After the process completes, Keynote displays a dialog letting you know of any problems that occurred in the process. For example, there may be a slight difference in how certain fonts appear in the converted document. This would mainly be a problem if you use special fonts on Mac that are not compatible with PC. If something major goes wrong, the notification offers resolutions such as changing the problematic font. In most cases, however, this should not cause a major problem.
Although this exporting process will likely suit most users, Keynote also offers you to send a converted document via email. This can save time since you don’t have to worry about attaching the converted document manually. If you want to email a presentation in the PowerPoint format, select “Send via Mail” followed by “PowerPoint” on the “Share” menu. Mac Mail will launch, and a new message with the attached presentation will appear.
Importing Your Mac Keynote File Into Microsoft PowerPoint
After you have converted the document, you can open it in Microsoft Office for Windows or Mac as you would open any other document. Click “Open” from the “File” menu, then select the presentation in the dialog box and click “Open.” You can then edit the presentation just as you could a native PowerPoint presentation. However, keep in mind that you will not be able to edit template-specific items such as the borders and designs. If you need to do so, you can reopen the presentation in Keynote and export the file again for use with PowerPoint after the desired changes are made.
References
All screenshots taken by author and all references taken from Apple iWork Keynote 2009
iWork Keynote 2009’s official website: https://www.apple.com/iwork/keynote/
