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How to Add a Timer to PowerPoint (We Tried All & Here Are the Best 4)

Paige Puntillo

How to add a timer to PowerPoint? The PowerPoint tool we’ve all come to rely on lacks a fundamental feature – a built-in timer. And we understand the struggle as we tried searching for ways to insert timers to PowerPoint, we were met with a scattered mix of incomplete solutions and unsatisfactory advice.

We get it. We understand the struggle, the frustration, and the need for a dependable timer solution. We’ve been down that road ourselves, and that is why this article is here – not just to highlight the problem, but to offer a solution.

Trust us, we have tried all the different methods to add a timer to PowerPoint, and we have decided to put an end to this enigma by sharing with you the best 4 ways to add a timer to PowerPoint, with and without add-ins. Let us not waste any more time and jump right in!

How to Add a Timer to PowerPoint (With Add-In)

Method #1 with classpoint add-in.

The first and most obvious method is through adding timer add-ins to PowerPoint. We have tried many of them including Breaktime and EasyTimer , but these add-in timers either have limited customisability or are unable to run simultaneously while you navigate between slides. We recommend you to try this add-in called ClassPoint , which not only includes a timer feature for PowerPoint but also offers a wide array of additional features to help you elevate and transform your presentations , turn it into an interactive experience , or gamify your slides .

Let us show you how to add ClassPoint Timer to PowerPoint in 4 simple steps:

Step 1: Download ClassPoint

Download ClassPoint and sign up for an account at www.classpoint.io. You will gain access to a wide range of new functionalities and tools in PowerPoint, including PowerPoint Timer and Stopwatch. You can access the PowerPoint Timer and Stopwatch at the ClassPoint toolbar at the bottom of your screen during slide show mode.

Step 2: Run the Timer

Yes, running a PowerPoint timer has never been easier. It is just one click away! To start the Timer, click on then Timer icon right next to Embedded Browser in the ClassPoint toolbar during slide show mode.

ClassPoint timer has 2 modes – timer and stopwatch, providing full flexibility to adapt to different presentation needs.

3. Customise the Settings

You can easily adjust the timer in increments of 30, 10, or single seconds. Additionally, you can manually input a precise time using the minute and second frames or adjust the quick (+) or (-) buttons.

You can also maximise or minimise ClassPoint timer for optimal visibility, as well as adjusting the various alarm tunes to capture attention.

Here is a detailed tutorial on how to insert ClassPoint Timer to PowerPoint:

How to Add a Timer to PowerPoint (Without Add-Ins)

We know you are eagerly anticipating various methods to add a PowerPoint timer without the need for any add-ins. Because the simpler the better, right? Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that these methods, while add-in-free, often demand more hands-on effort with the use of PowerPoint animations. So if you are not a great fan of PowerPoint animations, we recommend you to stick with ClassPoint Timer above.

However, if you are someone who prefer customization and crave innovative solutions, get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into these manual yet creatively empowering techniques to add a Timer in PowerPoint!

Method #2 Disappearing Countdown Timer

Step 1: Create the Shapes and Numbers

Start by creating five squares and text boxes containing the numbers 5 through 1. These will be animated to vanish sequentially, with one-second intervals between each disappearance. You can duplicate the shapes and text boxes easily with the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + D.

Alternatively, you can add Smart Art to create a disappearing countdown timer .

Step 2: Group the Shapes and Numbers

Group the individual squares and numbers.

Step 3: Add Animations

On the Animations tab, go to Exit Animations and select Disappear.

Step 4: Repeat

Repeat Step #3 for the remaining rectangles containing the numbers 4, 3, 2, and 1. To ensure you don’t lose track of which item to animate, go to “Selection Pane” and name the shape groups into identifiable terms. 

Step 5: Animation Pane and Settings

Go to Animation Pane and adjust the setting. Set the number 5 group to “Start on Click” and set the duration and delay to 1 second.

Step 6: Repeat

Repeat Step #5 for all other rectangles, progressing from 4 to 1. Configure the timing to: Start: After Previous, Duration: Auto, and Delay: 01:00.

Step 7: Add Sound (Optional)

You can also choose to add sound to the animation to better capture your audience’s attention.

There you have it – a disappearing countdown timer!

Method #3: Clock Countdown Timer

The countdown clock timer method also leverages PowerPoint animations, specifically employing a distinct animation known as “Spin.”

Step 1: Create the Clock Base

First, you need to create a clock base by adding a circle, as well as an arrow to represent the clock hand. Group the clock base elements.

Step 2: Add Numbers/Time

Add numbers to the outer rim of the clock. Depending on your desired clock functionality, you can include numbers at intervals of 1, 5, 15, or 60. In our scenario, we intend for the clock to operate as a 1-minute countdown timer, thus we integrated numbers as seconds at 15-second intervals.

Next, add animations to the clock. On the Animations tab, go to Animations and select Spin.

Step 4: Customise the Animation Settings

Configure the effect options to: 360 degree full spin clockwise, and the timing options to: start: on click, duration: 60 seconds (or your desired countdown period).

That’s it. You can test it out by going to slide show mode!

Method #4: Bar Countdown Timer

The final method without using any add-ins is a bar countdown timer, which works very similar to the disappearing timer. We would be using the PowerPoint animation “fly out” in this case.

Step 1: Create 2 Rectangles

Create two rectangles that span the width of the PowerPoint slide.

Step 2: Stack the Rectangles

Stack the 2 rectangles on top of one another. The bottom rectangle will function as the base and the top rectangle will be the animating bar. Make sure to use distinct colours for both rectangles as well so they can be told apart from one another.

Select the top rectangle and add animations to it. On the Animations tab, go to Exit Animations and select Fly Out.

Configure the effect options to: properties: to left, and the timing options to: start: on click, duration: 60 seconds (or your desired countdown period).

Congratulations! You have successfully mastered the 4 best ways to add a Timer to your PowerPoint! These PowerPoint timer techniques will undoubtedly enhance your presentations, making them more engaging, organized, and seamlessly timed for a truly impressive impact.

Ways to Use A PowerPoint Timer

• Business Professionals
• Pitch Presentations: Ensure concise business pitches, emphasizing key points within a limited timeframe.
• Training Workshops: Break down business training sessions into time-bound segments, keeping professionals engaged and facilitating better knowledge retention.
• Paced Lessons: Set timers for presentations and teaching to ensure all materials and learning objectives are covered.
• Class Transitions: Timers are effective ways to signal transitions between different segments of a lesson, or between different subjects.
• Idea Generation: Use timers for rapid idea generation exercises, encouraging creative ideas and concepts to surface.
• Artistic Presentations: Coordinate visual transitions with timers for effective artistic presentations that blend images, text, and music seamlessly.
• Timed exercises: Set timers for exercises and test practices to foster a sense of accountability and time management.
• Study Breaks: Use timers to for short breaks during study sessions, to help maintain focus and prevent burnout
• Public Speakers
• Keynote Addresses: Time keynotes perfectly by setting up timers, delivering impactful messages within allocated time slots.
• Storytelling: Enhance storytelling by synchronizing timer transitions with narrative peaks, adding a layer of dramatic effect.
• Remote Teams
• Virtual Meetings: Use timers for agenda segments during virtual meetings, ensuring focused and concise meetings.
• Icebreaker Activities: Set timers for remote team icebreakers to create time-bound bonding experiences when physically apart. 

In the realm of presentations, time isn’t just a measurement; it’s a storyteller, a catalyst, and a guiding force that can elevate your delivery from good to unforgettable. Navigating the absence of a native PowerPoint timer and the uncertainty of finding reliable solutions can be a daunting journey. However, armed with the knowledge of the best four timer methods we have shared with you explored, you are now empowered to create well-timed and engaging presentations with finesse!

As you embrace these techniques—each click, animation, and countdown—you are not just crafting slides; you’re curating an experience. Now it is your moment to shine – use the above tutorials or the following template to let your next presentation be a testament to your mastery of time, leaving your audience in awe and ensuring your message resonates long after the final slide.

About Paige Puntillo

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How to Add a Timer to Your PowerPoint Presentations

The best thing about PowerPoint is that it allows you to customize your presentations as much as you need. Graphs, charts, personalized backgrounds, you name it! And, of course, this includes adding time countdown tools . 

Here, you’ll find how to add a free countdown timer to your PowerPoint presentations. You can even make your very own PowerPoint timers!

We’ll go over the following topics:

PowerPoint timer common uses

How do you put a timer on powerpoint, option 1: free powerpoint countdown timer add-ins, powerpoint timers add-in recommendations, option 2: create your own powerpoint timers, bar powerpoint countdown timer, clock powerpoint countdown timer, digital countdown timer using vba macros, option 3: download a countdown clock template for powerpoint.

So, let’s get started.

Adding a PowerPoint countdown timer can be really useful when doing presentations:

• A timer helps you and your audience know how much time has passed .
• Timers are handy when you have a time limit you need to be aware of. For example, if you are quizzing your audience, a countdown timer in the presentation will help them know how much time they have left to answer your questions.
• You can even use PowerPoint timers for a presentation break to ensure your audience knows exactly when they’re expected to be back in their seats.

Let’s take a look at how to create them!

Adding a PowerPoint timer countdown is actually really easy! Here, you’ll find 3 ways to insert them in your presentation slides. Let’s take a look at each one of them.

The easiest way to add a free countdown timer to your presentation is through a PowerPoint add-in . 

You just need to open PowerPoint and go to the Insert ribbon > Get Add-ins.  

This will take you directly to the Add-in store of Microsoft Office . Once there, you just need to type “timer” in the search bar , and you’ll get all the options PowerPoint has to offer.

There are many options from where to choose, and you can pick whichever fits best your own needs. My personal favorites are PP Timer, EasyTimer, and Breaktime.

PP Timer is one of the best options! They offer digital and analog timers, and they both look professional yet visually appealing .

What's fantastic about PP Timer is the level of customization it offers. You can personalize the time, font type and size , the text displayed at the beginning and end, a background image, and even include a last-minute countdown.

EasyTimer  

EasyTimer offers three options for PowerPoint countdown timers: A square analog clock, a digital one, and a bar countdown timer. 

Just as its name says, it’s very easy to use , and you just need to add your time. You can also customize if you want a ticking noise as the seconds pass and a time’s up alarm.

Breaktime  

Breaktime is ideal for those looking for a PowerPoint countdown timer for a presentation’s break . As with Easy Timer, you need to type in how much time you want to countdown.

The best thing about Breaktime is that you can add a themed background to your timer. It offers different design options, like coffee, books, and lunch. This is what the coffee break would look like:

The only downside of these options is that they’re not very customizable. If you have an amazing PowerPoint design, these presentation timers will probably not fit very well. If you want a truly customized feature, chances are you are going to have to do it yourself .

In the next section, I’ll show you how to make your own PowerPoint countdown timer - step by step!

Making your own PowerPoint countdown timer is easier than you might think. Here you’ll find three different versions of PowerPoint timers that are very easy to do on your own.

A bar PowerPoint timer is one of the easiest and most effective ways to convey passing time . You just need to follow these easy instructions:

1. Create the timer shape base

Go to the slide you will work on and draw a bar wherever you want your bar to be. Take into consideration that it’ll look cleaner if the end of the timer (where it’ll disappear towards) fits the border of the slide. Use the Insert tab > Shape > Rectangle to draw it.

2. Add movement

Select the shape and go to the Animations Tab . Select Add Animation , and pick the Fly Out option on the “Exit” group.

3. Make it look like a timer!

Now it’s time to customize the animation so it looks like a countdown timer! On the Animation Tabs , click Effect Options . Here you’ll be able to choose in which direction you want your timer to disappear. 

If it’s a vertical bar, To Bottom is your pick! In the case of a horizontal bar PowerPoint timer, select “To Left” or “To Right” as you prefer.

4. Customize your timer’s duration

Finally, let’s add the time. On the far right of the Animation Tab, on the “Timing” group, type into Duration how much time you want your timer to countdown. And now you have a customized PowerPoint countdown timer!

Make sure to check out that its start cue is On click (also in the “Timing” group”) so you can control exactly when the countdown begins. If any of these options are unavailable when you’re trying to follow these instructions, then you might not have your shape selected. Just click on your rectangle and try again!

Making a clock PowerPoint countdown timer is very similar to the bar one, and it’s also very easy.

1. Pick your timer base shape

First, you need to pick the shape that’s going to work as your countdown clock. Take into consideration that it needs to be a shape, not an image. You need to be able to select only the inner circle of the clock (or the part you want to shade), in order to make it work.

You can also use an icon for this. Templates by 24Slides offer a wide array of icons you can download completely for free. There are hundreds of templates, so you’ll definitely find something that fits your needs!

2. Pick your timer’s color

Select your shape and use the Shape Format Tab > Shape Fill to add color to it. This is how your countdown clock will look when time’s up.

3. Add movement

While still selecting your shape, go to the Animations Tab > Add Animation > Wheel option in the “Entrance” group.

Now all you need is to type your time in Duration (On the Animation Tab > “Timing” group), just like in the bar PowerPoint timer.

It should end up looking something like this:

Creating a digital countdown timer using VBA macros is a bit more complex, but it allows you to customize it as you wish . To create one, just follow these instructions:

1. Insert a Rectangle Shape

Begin by inserting a rectangle shape into your PowerPoint slide. Use the Insert tab > Shape > Rectangle to draw it.

2. Rename the Shape

Go to Shape Format > Selection Pane , and double-click on the shape's name. Next, rename the shape to "countdown."

3. Access VBA Module

Open the Developer tab > View Code . Right-click on the VBA module and choose Insert > Module.

4. Paste Code

Paste the following code and adjust the time (in seconds) as needed.

Sub countdown()

Dim time As Date time = Now()

Dim count As Integer count = 30 'assuming 30 seconds

time = DateAdd("s", count, time)

Do Until time < Now() DoEvents ActivePresentation.SlideShowWindow.View.Slide.Shapes("countdown").TextFrame.TextRange = Format((time - Now()), "hh:mm:ss") Loop

5. Set up Action on the Slide:

Return to the slide and select the rectangle shape. Go to Insert > Action , and choose Run macro . To confirm your changes, click OK .

6. View your countdown timer in presenter mode

And you’re done! To view your countdown timer, go to the Slide Show Mode and click on the rectangle shape to initiate the countdown.

7. Customize your timer’s appearance

As a final step, you can customize the shape's size, color, font , and any other visual aspects to suit your preferences.

If you liked the examples you’ve seen above, you don’t have to create them from scratch. They are all from Templates by 24Slides (our library of free PowerPoint resources), and I’ve put together our best countdown clock templates for you here:

PowerPoint Countdown Timer Template

Check out this PowerPoint Countdown Timer Template. It includes a 15-minute countdown timer , a 5-minute timer for PowerPoint, and a Progress Bar Timer in PowerPoint that you can adjust to your desired time!

Creative Powerpoint Timer Template

If you're looking for a visually appealing and creative template that you can still customize however you want, this template is for you. It includes more than 10 slides with clocks in different formats that you can use to set up your timer.

Free Animated Countdown Timer for PowerPoint

Discover this visually stunning and creative PowerPoint Timer Template in pink. This animated template offers many different clock icons and bars , allowing you to customize and personalize your timer as you wish.

Free PowerPoint Timers 

This PowerPoint timer template offers incredible clock infographics for presentations. It includes various clocks, including an hourglass, that you can use to create your own timer . Download it for free!

Check out more Free PowerPoint Countdown Timer Templates . To turn them into an animated timer, you only need to apply one of the strategies we provide in option 2 . And you’re all set!

Want to learn more about PowerPoint? Check out this content:

• Add a Real-Time PowerPoint Clock to Your Presentations
• How to Make a PowerPoint Slideshow that Runs Automatically?
• How to Track Changes in PowerPoint
• How to Add a Watermark in PowerPoint
• The Cost of PowerPoint Presentations: Discover the hidden expenses you might overlook!

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Create an on-screen timer

You can add an animated on-screen timer or progress bar to make your presentation more interesting. For example, you might want to include a timed quiz at the end of a training with a countdown display. You can use the animation features in PowerPoint to create many different kinds of timers.

If you’re looking for a timer to track how long you’ve been speaking to stay within your allotted time limits, see Start the presentation and see your notes in Presenter view .

Tip:  You can also find other types of timers, such as stopwatch timers, at the Office Store or use free slide templates to count down  one minute , five minutes , and ten minutes for your audience.

Create a countdown timer

This timer uses a simple but dramatic animation sequence. It shows a countdown in one-second intervals from 5 to 1.

Begin by creating five text boxes with numbers 5 through 1. We will animate these to disappear one at a time, in one-second intervals.

Tip:  Create the boxes in order from highest to lowest so it’s easier to animate them in order.

To create text boxes, on the Insert tab, in Text group, click Text box , and draw the text box on your slide. Then add the number. You can copy and paste to duplicate and then edit the new boxes.

Click inside the text rectangle with the number.

On the Animations tab, in the Advanced Animation group, click Add Animation , and go down to Exit . Here, you can select the animation you want, for example Disappear .

Select the rest of the rectangles 4, 3, 2, 1 in order, and apply the same exit animation, Disappear , to each, one at a time.

Click Animations > Animation Pane to show the Animation Pane . The numbering of the rectangles can be a little confusing because PowerPoint is accounting for other objects on the slide. Look at the number to the right, which shows the text in the rectangle.

You want only the first rectangle with the number 5 to start on a click, and you want it to stay on screen for one second before it disappears. You want the other boxes to then each wait one second before disappearing automatically, one by one.

Select Rectangle 5 , and in the Animations > Timing group, leave the settings Start: On Click and Duration: .01 , but set Delay to 01.00 , one second.

Now, in the Animation Pane , select the rest of the rectangles one at a time, from 4 to 1. Again, in the Timing group, set the timing details to: Start: After Previous , Duration: Auto , and Delay: 01:00 .

When you’re done, try it out by going to Slideshow Mode and playing From Current Slide . Click to begin the countdown!

You can preview your animation effects any time. On the Animations tab, in the Preview group, click Preview .

After the countdown, you might want to add an animation, such as a text box that reads Finished! To do this, insert the text box, select it, go to Animations > Advanced Animation > Entrance > Appear . Then, in the Timing group, set Start to After Previous , set Duration to Auto , and set Delay to 00.00 . Notice that this text box also appears in the Animation Pane .

Note:  You can just as easily animate shapes to appear or disappear using the different entrance and exit animations in PowerPoint. You can use any interval, but it’s a good idea to set the same delay for each object in the sequence.

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How to create a progress bar timer

Another effective way to add a countdown timer is to emulate the appearance of a progress bar.

On the Insert tab, in the Illustrations group, click Shapes , and select a rectangle.

On the slide, click where you want the progress bar, and draw a rectangle with its edge against the left border of the slide.

You can color the bar as you like. Right-click the bar and select Format Shape > Shape Options > Fill > Solid fill .

On the Animations tab, in the Animation group, select Fly In .

Click Effect  Options and  select From Left .

In the Timing group, set the Duration to the number of seconds you want the progress bar to run, for example, 30 seconds. For Start , select On Click .

Here’s what your settings should look like:

When you’re done, try it out by going to Slideshow Mode and playing From Current Slide . Click to begin the timer. The progress bar should appear to grow from the left side of the screen for 30 seconds and then stop.

Animate text or objects

Add, change, or remove transitions between slides

Set the timing and speed of a transition

Animate pictures, clip art, text, and other objects

Rehearse timings for a slide show

Use slide masters to customize a presentation

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• Presentations
• Presentation Techniques

How to Quickly Insert a Countdown Timer in PowerPoint (+Video)

As a presenter, I find it essential to actively engage my audience. There are moments when I want them to be mindful of the time, and I can seamlessly incorporate a PowerPoint timer into my presentation to achieve this. Doing so allows me to create a sense of urgency, keep the flow organized, and ensure that my content aligns with the allotted time.

Whether it’s a timed quiz, a countdown display, or simply managing my speaking duration, adding a timer to a PowerPoint slide enhances the overall experience for both me and my audience.

Jump to content in this section:

How to Add a Timer to Your PowerPoint Presentation

• Method #1 Create a Bar Timer
• Method #2 Create a Clock
• Method #3 Use an Add-in

3 Easy Tips to Keep Your Presentation Brief

There are many different reasons that you use a PowerPoint timer. So, learning how to add a countdown timer to PowerPoint can be helpful. Here are a few examples:

• If you must give a presentation in a short amount of time, you can add a timer to PowerPoint slides to keep you on track.
• If you include a Q&A section in your presentation, you might want to add a timer so that the audience knows that they have a limited time to ask or answer questions.
• A timer can also track the time left in a break for a longer presentation.  

In this article, I’ll show you three different methods of inserting a timer in PowerPoint. You'll also explore some premium templates from Envato Elements and learn why templates are beneficial . Finally, we’ll look over some common PowerPoint questions and answers.

How to Add a Timer in PPT (Quickstart Video)

Are you in a hurry to add a timer to PowerPoint? Don't worry, we've got you covered with this quickstart video. In just a few minutes, you'll learn how to insert a PowerPoint timer into your slides:

Do you want to find out more about using a timer for PPT slides? Continue reading the written tutorial for step-by-step instructions.

Timers can have many purposes in your presentation. But mainly, you use them to keep track of time passing or let the audience know the time.

To demonstrate how to insert a timer in PowerPoint, I’ll use the Multima Multipurpose Template from Envato Elements. 

Also, for this tutorial, I’ll be focused on slide four. Here's what slide four looks like without edits made to the slide. It's nearly ready to insert PowerPoint timer graphics.

Three methods can be used to add a timer to PowerPoint or insert a countdown clock in PowerPoint. Let's look at each of them in turn.

Method #1: Create a Bar Timer

The bar method is effective in showing the passage of time. With it, you can create a moving bar that moves at your own chosen speed. Timers for PPT slides are flexible when you use the bar method.

It’s a quick, easy way to mark time passing as you share a slide. Here are the steps for adding a bar timer to any presentation slide:

1. Create a Timer Base

To add a bar timer to PowerPoint , click on the Insert tab. Next, click on the Shapes button.

When you click this button, the shape menu drops down. Choose the rectangle shape. Next, draw the rectangle for your timer for PPT slides.

If you'd like, right-click on the rectangle and select Fill to change the color of the rectangle.

To add text to the rectangle, click Insert and then click Text Box . 

2. Add Movement to Your Timer

Click on your rectangle and click on the Animations tab. If you've added text, hold down the Control key and click on the text box. This selects both shape and text and ensures that they will animate together. 

Next, click on the More drop-down arrow on the Animations tab. You’ll see the full gallery of animation options drop down. From it, look at the Exit group. There, choose Fly Out. 

Now, let’s adjust how the bar moves. This will make it look more like a timer, exiting off to one side of your slide. It will count down to the edge and disappear when the time is up. 

With your rectangle selected, click on the Effect Options button on the Animations tab. On the drop-down, click To Left. This means that the animation effect will move to the left. Choosing this option gives your shape a timer effect.  

3. Create a Custom Duration

With your rectangle selected, you can change the duration of the animation. This controls the exact speed of your countdown timer.

On the Animations tab, find the Timing section on the right side. In the Duration section, you can adjust the timing using the up and down arrows. Or you can type in a custom value.

Just like that, you’ve built a custom timer in PowerPoint using the bar technique!

Method #2: Create a Clock

The clock method is like the bar method. This is great for people who want their timer to look more like a clock.

Here are the steps to add a clock timer to your slide.

1. Pick Your Clock Base

First, you need to choose a clock base. You can use a shape that came with the template or create your own. Remember, it needs to be a shape and not an image.

This shape will be the inner part of the clock that we'll use as the clock. Next, I'll show you how to make the outside of the clock.

To begin, I moved some elements from the slide to make room for the clock. Now, choose which shape you want your clock to be. I chose the circle.

Click on the Insert tab. In the toolbar, click on the Shapes button. When you click on this button, a shape menu drops down. Draw the circle where you want your clock to be.

Next, keep drawing shapes around the middle shape to create a clock. I chose more circles. 

After you've drawn the shapes, you’ll need to add numbers to show time. Double-click inside the shape and type the number you want.

To add a text box, click the Insert tab. Next, click on the Text Box button in the toolbar button. Draw the text box in the outside shapes. Again, type the number that you want.

2. Pick Your Clock’s Color

Customize your clock by choosing the color. Begin by clicking on the shape.

Next, click on the Shape Format tab. Then, click on the Shape Fill drop-down button, found in the Shape Styles group. You’ll see a color chooser menu appear. Click on any of the new shades to apply it to your clock shape.

3. Add Movement to Your Clock

Now you need to add movement to your clock to show time passing. Begin by clicking on the middle circle.

Next, click on the Animations tab. In the Animation group, click the drop-down arrow. From the gallery, find the Wheel option and click on it to select it. This animates your circle like a ticking clock in PPT.

4. Customize Your Clock’s Duration

Adding a custom clock duration can make your timer more accurate. Start by selecting the middle circle.

Next, click on the Animations tab. In the Timing section, find the Duration field. Click on it, and you can add a custom duration using the arrows.

Plus, you can type in a custom time value using your keyboard. This controls the speed of the Wheel animation that you just added.

Method #3: Use an Add-In

Here is how to use an add-in to add a PowerPoint timer to your slide:

1. Find the Add-In

Add-ins are PowerPoint tools that you can add to your PowerPoint toolbar. There are add-ins for lots of different tools, including timers. Here are the steps explaining how to add an add-in timer to your slide:

To access the add-in menu, click on the Insert tab. Next, click on the Get Add-ins button in the toolbar.

This causes the add-ins store to pop up in a window. These give you features to insert PowerPoint timers. Choose the timer add-in that you want to add to PowerPoint.

2. Choose the Add-in

Before adding a timer to PowerPoint, it’s best to read the reviews. The one titled EasyTimer has the best review, so we will add that one. To add it to PowerPoint, click on the red Add button. There are many timers for PPT slides in the PowerPoint add-in store, such as:

Choose the PowerPoint timer that suits your needs. Once you click Add, a box with the license terms and privacy policy will appear. After you’ve read it, click Continue .

3. Customize the Timer

After you click Continue , your PowerPoint timer will appear on a slide. Use the drop-down menus to customize the timer to suit your needs.

Here are three tips to keep your presentations brief:

1. Focus on Key Points

If you want to do more than use a PowerPoint countdown timer to keep your presentations brief, you should ensure that you only focus on key points or essential information. This means that you should cut out any fluff or unnecessary information. It helps to figure out what your presentation is about and expand on that idea.

2. Don’t Rush

If you’ve put a timer in PPT slides or want to make a short presentation, don’t talk fast to make your presentation shorter. You need to do your research and ensure that you are presenting facts and only telling the main story of your presentation.

3. Use Pictures

Pictures can give the audience a lot of information, whether it’s a chart that shows data or an emotional picture to prove a point. If you’re using a timer on PowerPoint and want to create a brief presentation, use images to help illustrate your points. Here are some articles that will help you learn how to keep your presentation brief:

FAQ About Microsoft PowerPoint

If you don’t know much about PowerPoint or know some, you still might have questions. Here are some common PowerPoint questions and answers:

1. How Do I Make an Interactive Quiz in my Presentation?

First, figure out what questions you want to ask your audience. After deciding which questions, you want to type up the questions and the multiple-choice answers.

Next, add any icons and animations. For a more in-depth tutorial on how to add an interactive quiz to your presentation, read this article: 

2. How Do I Show the Different Options for a Decision?

You can show the decision-making process and different possible outcomes through a decision tree. You can either create a node decision tree or a branch decision tree. Learn how in this tutorial:

3. How Do I Give My Presentation Over Zoom?

It's become more common to present PowerPoint Presentations over a video call. To present your presentation over Zoom, you need to have both Zoom and Microsoft PowerPoint. Here's an in-depth tutorial on how to give your PowerPoint presentation over Zoom:

4. How Do I Add an Image to my PowerPoint presentation?

There are several ways to add images to presentations:

• You can copy and paste an image into your presentation.
• Another way to add a photo to your presentation is to click on the Insert tab. Next, click on the Pictures button. Choose an option from the drop-down menu depending on the location of your image. Now, double-click on the image and resize as needed.

Discover more about working with images below:

5. How Do I Add Charts or Graphs to My PowerPoint Template?

Charts and graphs can be helpful when presenting data.

To add a chart or graph to your template, click on the Insert tab. In the toolbar, click on the Chart button. When you click on this button, a chart menu drops down. Choose the chart you want.

For a more in-depth tutorial, read this article:

Learn More About PowerPoint

Here are some articles that can help you learn more about PowerPoint:

Find More PowerPoint Templates

Find more PowerPoint templates by reading these articles:

Whether you're looking for a template to use to add a timer to PPT or you just need a good presentation template, Envato Elements is your best choice.

Find PowerPoint Templates

Envato Elements is a subscription service where you pay a low monthly fee to access unlimited digital assets. You get unlimited downloads of:

• premium presentation templates
• stock photos

With premium professional templates, your slide decks will shine. You’ll create stunning designs in moments. It’s the best value for creatives like you in 2024 and beyond.

Add a Timer to Your Next PowerPoint Presentation

Countdown timers in presentations can help you keep track of time. Or they can make the audience aware of the time. Either way, insert PowerPoint timers for accurate time tracking.

In this article, you found out how to add a timer to PowerPoint. We also went over the benefits of templates from Envato Elements. Finally, I answered common PowerPoint questions.

Now that you know how, why not download a PowerPoint template now ? Use it to add a timer to your next PowerPoint presentation.

Blog > How to add a Countdown Timer in PowerPoint

How to add a Countdown Timer in PowerPoint

09.09.21   •  #powerpoint #tips.

Countdowns in PowerPoint presentations can help to make your presentation more dynamic. In this blog post you will find instructions on how to quickly and easily add your own digital timer to PowerPoint. However, if you prefer predefined designs, we have prepared different templates for you to download.

4 possible use-cases for countdown timers

Breaks are essential in presentations to allow the audience to process the information they got. When the audience is tuning out, it is often not due to the presenter, but to an overload of information. In this case, a pause is an effective way to digest the information and rebuild the attendees' attention. In order not to forget about breaks, it is advisable to include slides with a break countdown in your presentation. The countdown ensures that all your listeners will return from the break on time.

2. Exercises

When giving presentations, you should involve your audience in your talk. An interactive presentation with exercises motivates your participants and makes them to active listeners. To avoid exceeding your time schedule, you can use a timer in your presentation. This way, your audience also keeps track of how much time is left for the exercise.

3. Brainstorm sessions

If ideas should be collected during a presentation, it is suitable to brainstorm with your audience. Especially here it's important to set the time limit for brainstorming beforehand. While your participants are brainstorming ideas, you can use a PowerPoint countdown to show the remaining time.

4. Live polls

To learn more about your audience, you can start a presentation with a poll, for example. With SlideLizard it is possible to conduct polls and surveys during presentations. Even while the poll is running, you can see a live evaluation of the results in the speaker view. Meanwhile your audience is able to see a countdown to know how long the poll is already running. You can find more about the survey function of SlideLizard here .

Create your own countdown timer

Creating countdowns in PowerPoint works quite easily. With this simple bar timer, you can show your audience exactly how much time is left of the break. Follow these 4 steps to add a countdown to PowerPoint presentations.

1. Creating a shape

To create a timer, we first need a shape. Click on that slide where you want to insert your countdown and choose > Shape > Rectangle in the Insert tab.

2. Selecting an animation

To bring movement into the presentation now, click on the shape and switch to the "Animations" tab. For a countdown, we need the "Flying out" output effect.

To make the bar disappear like a timer, click on "Effect options" and select "To Left". This way you can determine in which direction your bar timer decreases.

3. Customize the duration

On the far right of the Animation tab, you can specify the desired duration of the countdown. It's specified in seconds and the highest value is 59.00 seconds.

However, if you want a timer that lasts longer than a minute, there is another option. In the "Advanced Animation" tab, select Animation Area and double-click on the timeline.

An additional window opens in which the duration of the countdown can be increased to 10:00 minutes, for example.

4. Customize the design

Finally, you can customize the design of the timer as you wish and change colors or backgrounds. The best place to look for license-free backgrounds for your slides can be found in our blog post „Best Sources of free Images to use in PowerPoint Presentations“ .

PowerPoint Countdown template to download

There are many offers for pre-made countdowns online, but we have created a free template with different timers for you to use.

Tip: If you want to change the color of the countdown from our template, just press CTLR + A to select all shapes and then change either the font color or the shape color of the countdown.

3 PowerPoint Add-ins for Countdowns and Timers

Another possibility for a countdown would be to install so-called add-ins. Add-ins are special functions you can add to your standard PowerPoint toolbar. We have tested various PowerPoint add-ins and summarized their advantages and disadvantages for you. Now we present to you the 3 best countdown add-ins.

What are PowerPoint Add-ins?

Add-ins are special functions that you can add to your standard PowerPoint toolbar. Add-ins are not included in a software package by default and can be added to the software by the user afterwards.

How to insert a timer in PowerPoint?

You can create a timer in PowerPoint either using animations or insert pre-made countdowns using add-ins. We explained how to create a 10-minute timer yourself step by step in this blog post .

Related articles

About the author.

Johanna Gumpelmeyer

Johanna is a passionate graphic designer and supports the SlideLizard team in the area of marketing and UX design. There she combines her creative streak with technical know-how.

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The big SlideLizard presentation glossary

Slide layouts.

PowerPoint has different types of Slide Layouts. Depending on which type of presentation you make, you will use more or less different slide layouts. Some Slide Types are: title slides, section heading slides, picture with caption slides, blank slides.

Diagonal Communication

Diagonal communication means that the employees of a company communicate with each other regardless of their function and their level in the organisational hierarchy and regardless of their department within the company.

Hybrid Audience

A mix between in-person and virtual participants for an event or a lecture is called a hybrid audience. Working with a hybrid audience may be challenging, as it requires the presenter to find ways to engage both the live and the virtual audience.

Screen presentation

A screen presentation is a graphic support and accompaniment to a spoken presentation. A popular programme for creating screen presentations is PowerPoint.

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Free Timer for PowerPoint

Easy to use timer for PowerPoint and similar presention software.

Download Free Timer for PowerPoint

Compatible with Windows, MAC OS 10.12 Sierra or later. Program doesn´t work with Keynote. *Files were compressed to reduce filesize. Unzip by right click / Extract all.

Check out the PRO version

Timer to use with PowerPoint presentations and more

Slideshow Timer  is best used with PowerPoint and similar presentation software. The timer is constantly displayed and will float on top of any other app . It´s easy to use, you can resize it, move it around …

How to use the timer?

Step 1: download the timer and install.

For  Windows  CLICK HERE  and  MAC (10.10 Yosimite and above)  CLICK HERE . Once you download the ZIP file, unzip and double click the icon to install.

STEP 2: Run the timer

Step 3: set the time, step 4: start the timer.

Click the green “Play” button to begin. Hover over the app window to reveal the “Stop” and “Pause” buttons.

*Note: You can even run multiple timers at once, side by side.

STEP 5: Timeout screen

Extra: light and dark theme.

There are  two basic design themes: light and dark . For more color options, number styles and upgraded features please check  PRO version .

Download Free PowerPoint Timer

Free vs pro comparison.

Like the Slideshow Timer? Leave a comment below.

Questions? Please refer to  FAQ . If your question remains unanswered, feel free to comment below.

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43 Comments

Hi, I’m looking forward to the Mac version. Any chance of having the option of displaying with the surrounding circle around the time remaining – like the Nano version? Love the visual look – great for those who struggle with visualising how much time is left.

Hi Tony, this timer doesnt offer that. Yes, you need to use Nano timer for the extra visuals. Best

how do you insert the timer into a powerpoint presentation? I don’t want it to “float” on top of my presentation since i have to upload my presentation to the presenters computer.

we dont have such a timer as it would be limited to only one slide.

Looks like a nice, usefull timer, will definitely give it a try.

Great, thank you!

Doesn’t float above powerpoint show in slideshow mode.

Hi, i’m looking for a timer anable to run alone when i open a powerpoint file. may be PowerPoint Timer is the solution for me ?

Hi Jean, best to try it out. It´s free.

Hello, I’m SO excited to try your timer with my slides in my high school classroom. It’s going to be key to keeping all my students focused and on-task. Unfortunately, it says I cannot use it on my OS 10.10.5. It says it requires 10.12 or higher. But your website says it works on 10.10. Where are the older versions located?

Hi Nicole. Not sure why it doesnt work on your OS, might be some other issue. There are no older versions of this timer.

Can you put a non .exe version? with all the viruses going around, this makes us worried.

Hi Paul, it needs to be an .exe as it is a program file. The program is safe, but you need to get it from our page.

Hi I downloaded the Pro version of Slideshow Timer. It works fine and floats over all the stuff on my desktop and running apps, but when I hit play on a Keynote presentation it disappears. I need to to show up onscreen over the presentation.

Hi David, the program doesnt work with Keynote.

Thank you very much, it is very useful for me.

very good one, BR

This is amazing, thank you!!

Hi, I am trying to install the free version of Powerpoint Timer, which is not working properly. The internet browser said that the computer does not have problems but the source( https://bit.ly/SlideshowTimerPCv114 ) does not respond.

Hi there, not sure what could be the problem. Try opening and downloading with another browser. The download and the program are working fine.

This is amazing & free! I have been searching for something like that for some time now. Thank you!!

is it copyright free?? i mean can i use it for youtube videos

Hi, no, it is not copyright free.

Hello, I love the Floating options. How do you do that in power point. I love what the Dynamic Timer has down in thier work. I am looking for something where I can preprogram for specific times and dates in the past and future.

Where I can stop it on demand and it floats on the slides. I can also display to clocks at once. Who made you program. I would love to have mine made with sound effects. It’s for a history project.

Hi there, this is a simple timer, we are developing more advanced version, but it will be a different timer. And yes, you can display, run multiple timers at once.

Can this timer work just on 1 slide or 2 slides? I dont need it on every slide.

Sorry, cannot do that. However you can remove or hide the timer when not needed.

there must be option to resize the timer window and transparent background. it looks too odd timer covering a big portion/space on the slide show. audience keep noticing the timer more than presentation content. can you please add the said facility?

Hi there, resizing of the timer is possible (try it), however transparent background is not. Best

Hi — a good looking timer, but I need to insert it in a PPT slide and then take the presentation to another folder and application. So far, when trying to install the timer I select the Browse button to put it in an appropriate folder to transport the PPT presentation. However, your install process hangs up when I hit browse? Suggestions? Second, how can I insert and start the time from within a PPT slide. Thank you.

Hi there, the timer is a separate program from PPT so you cannot move it around – or start / stop, with presentation automatically. You can use the timer (on screen) where you need it, run the program and use it.

Timer for PowerPoint (SLIDESHOW TIMER)

i want to purchase the timer for windows. I have a doubt, if i format the window or change my laptop, do I need to purchase again or i can use it after formatting the window also.

Hi, you can use it again.

When I’m just presenting a ‘questionnaire pdf file’ alone, to my students during online exams; my students are not able to see this timer on the pdf file; even though I place the timer on the pdf file. Is there an option to pin this timer onto any files like pdf, word files etc… so that even if I present that particular pdf file or word file – the timer becomes visible to my kids??

Hi there, not sure which OS or program for presenting you are using?

Hi, is there an alarm sound on the completion of time ?

Hi, with free timer no.

Any chance of getting keyboard shortcuts for things like start/stop, set the time, exit app? Would be great for use with a StreamDeck and make it much more user friendly.

Hi, thank you for the comment. True, however this app does not allow this, only fullscreen timers do.

I am disappointed that the free version of this timer only allows for a 20 minute time limit. For it to be useful, there needs to be an option for a longer countdown.

Hi, thank you for the comment. There is more than 20 min, with the PRO version of the timer.

It’s awesome designed for me to have a web site, which is valuable in favor of my know-how. thanks admin

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How-To Geek

How to create a countdown timer in microsoft powerpoint.

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Quick Links

Create a custom countdown timer, get a ready-made timer using an add-in.

There's no built-in timer in PowerPoint, but you can create your own using a mix of objects and animations. There's also a neat add-in you can use if you need a quick solution. Let's take a look.

You can create a custom countdown timer in PowerPoint by adding to on-screen shapes an exit animation with a set time to complete the animation. You can use one shape if you want, but if you use multiple shapes for the timer, you'll need to set each animation to begin in order once the last animation is finished. Note that the longest duration you can set for a single animation is 59 seconds.

First, open the PowerPoint presentation you'd like to add the timer to, and then insert the shapes of your choice (Insert > Shape). You can insert as many or as few shapes as necessary. In this example, we'll insert five rectangles with rounded edges.

Once you've got the shapes set, add a number to them by double-clicking the shape and typing the number. The numbers can represent minutes or seconds. If you want the duration of the timer to be 5 minutes, then you can add 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 in the boxes and set each animation duration to 59 seconds.

Next, add an exit animation to each shape. You'll need to add the animation in the order you want each animation to disappear. To add an animation, click the shape to select it, go to the "Navigations" tab, and then choose an exit animation. Exit animations are red.

After you select the animation, set the duration of the animation in the Timing group. As mentioned earlier, the max duration you can set is 59 seconds.

After you set the first animation, select the next shape, give it an animation, and then set the duration. However, for this one, you'll also need to adjust when the animation starts. For a seamless countdown, you'll want to select "After Previous." This means the animation will start when the previous animation is finished.

Continue this until all of the shapes have been assigned an exit animation and duration.

To insert a countdown timer using an add-in , open the PowerPoint presentation , navigate to the "Insert" tab, and then click "Get Add-ins" ("Store" on Mac).

The Office Add-ins window will appear. There are multiple countdown timer add-ins you can choose from, but we'll be using "Breaktime" in this example. Search for "Breaktime" and then click the red "Add" button to the right.

When you add the add-in, the timer will appear on the current slide of your presentation.  If you want to add the timer to a different slide, navigate to the slide and then click Insert > My Add-ins > Breaktime.

You can set the timer in minutes and seconds, start and stop the timer, and reset it back to the input time. You can even give your timer a background by choosing one from the "Type" option.

That's all there is to it. Timers serve an important purpose, but depending on what you're hoping to accomplish, you may also want to consider adding a progress bar or even a clock to your presentation.

Related: How to Create a Progress Bar in Microsoft PowerPoint

• Microsoft Office
• Microsoft PowerPoint

How to Make a Timer in Powerpoint: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding a timer to your PowerPoint presentation can be a game-changer. It helps you manage your time effectively and ensures your presentation runs smoothly. Plus, it’s pretty straightforward to do. Let me walk you through it.

After completing the timer setup in PowerPoint, you’ll have a visual countdown that lets both you and your audience know how much time is left for a particular section or the entire presentation. This is especially useful during timed presentations, such as conferences or workshops.

Introduction

Ever found yourself rambling on during a presentation, only to realize you’ve run out of time for the rest of your content? Or perhaps you’ve sat through a presentation that seemed to drag on forever? Timing is everything, and that’s where a PowerPoint timer swoops in to save the day.

Creating a timer in PowerPoint is a nifty trick that keeps your presentation on track, engages your audience, and adds a professional touch. It’s perfect for pitch presentations, classroom settings, timed exams, or any situation where you need to pace your information flow. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your presentations more dynamic and interactive, mastering this simple tool could be your answer. So, let’s dive in and learn how to keep your audience on their toes with a perfectly timed PowerPoint presentation.

Step by Step Tutorial on How to Make a Timer in PowerPoint

Before we get into the steps, let’s clarify what we’re aiming for here. By following the tutorial, we’ll create a countdown timer that’ll tick away as your slides progress, keeping you aware of the time without constantly checking your watch.

Step 1: Open the PowerPoint Slide

Start by opening the slide where you want the timer to appear.

Adding a timer to a specific slide means it will only be visible when that slide is active. This is perfect for sections of your presentation where time management is crucial, like a Q&A or a timed break.

Step 2: Insert a Text Box

Go to the Insert tab and click Text Box, then click on the slide where you want to place your timer.

By inserting a text box, you create a designated area for your timer. This can be placed anywhere on your slide, but it’s typically best to keep it in a corner where it’s visible but not distracting.

Step 3: Enter the Time

Type the time you want to count down from in the text box in the format of minutes:seconds, such as 05:00 for five minutes.

Remember, the time you enter here will be the starting point of your countdown. Make sure it’s set for the right amount of time you need for the section of your presentation.

Step 4: Add the Animation

Go to the Animations tab, click Add Animation, and choose Wipe. Then, set the Effect Options to From Left and the Duration to the same amount of time you typed into the text box.

The Wipe animation gives the illusion of time passing by as it gradually reveals the countdown. It’s a simple yet effective way to visualize the timer.

Step 5: Trigger the Animation

Under the Timing section, set the Start option to After Previous and check the box for Repeat until End of Slide.

Setting the animation to start ‘After Previous’ ensures that the timer begins automatically after any previous animations or transitions. The ‘Repeat until End of Slide’ option will keep the timer running until you move to the next slide.

Additional Information

Now, you may be wondering, “Is there a way to customize the timer to match my presentation style?” Absolutely! PowerPoint allows you to change the font, color, and size of the text in your timer to ensure it integrates seamlessly with your design. You can also experiment with different animations to find what works best for you.

Remember to practice with your timer before the actual presentation. This helps you get a feel for the pace and timing, ensuring there are no surprises on the big day. Plus, it’s always good to have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties – maybe have a watch or a clock handy just in case.

• Open the PowerPoint Slide
• Insert a Text Box
• Enter the Time
• Add the Animation
• Trigger the Animation

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i add a timer to all slides.

Yes, you can add a timer to all slides by copying the text box and animation, then pasting it onto each slide.

Can I pause the timer during the presentation?

Pausing the timer isn’t straightforward, but you can always stop the presentation or switch to a slide without a timer if needed.

What if I need more than 60 minutes?

For a timer longer than 60 minutes, you’ll need to manually adjust the animation duration and enter the time in the text box appropriately.

Can I use a timer for breaks in my presentation?

Absolutely! A timer is perfect for indicating breaks, keeping everyone on schedule for when to return.

Will the timer work in older versions of PowerPoint?

While the steps may vary slightly, these basic instructions should work for most recent versions of PowerPoint.

Creating a timer in PowerPoint might seem like a small addition, but its impact on the effectiveness and professionalism of your presentation is undeniable. Whether you’re a teacher, a student, a business professional, or anyone in need of timed content delivery, mastering this simple tool can make a huge difference.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t let the first run of your timer be during the actual presentation. Test it out, tweak it, and make it your own. And there you have it – time’s up on our guide, but your journey to stellar presentations is just beginning!

Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.

After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.

His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.

Read his full bio here.

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Free Shareable Countdown Timer for Presentations and Events

A well-planned presentation is bound to be successful. By carefully constructing a timetable and sticking to it, you can ensure that the whole event goes smoothly without any hiccups. This way, no presenter takes more time than they are due to take, so every sub-event and presentation can be engaging and detailed. No more rushing through a presentation because the previous presenter forgot to check the clock.

To keep every presenter on time, you will need a high-quality timer software, and there is no better timer software on the market than Stagetimer. With its tons of features and easy setup, Stagetimer is a great option for any event or presentation. In this brief, we will be telling you all about Stagetimer and how it can be used to enhance your events and presentations to make them more engaging.

Introducing Stagetimer: The Perfect Free Shareable Countdown Timer for Presentations and Events

Stagetimer is a browser-based shareable countdown timer with an emphasis on flexibility in its use. This shareable online timer comes brimming with useful features such as live control, long-term scheduling, and low data usage. With its unique and highly customizable design and looks, you can use Stagetimer for any kind of event or presentation.

Whether the event or presentation you have organized is online or offline, Stagetimer will keep it right on track the whole time. Not only that, but its basic version is completely free.

So you can try it out without having to make any long-term commitments. Additionally, it boasts a pro version with premium features that any content creator or organization can benefit from.

How to Use Stagetimer’s Free Shareable Countdown Timer to Enhance Your Event Experience

Organizing an event can be very stressful since everything needs to work seamlessly to ensure a memorable experience. Stagetimer is designed to provide just that. With this multiple countdown timer app, you can create a detailed timetable of the whole event. Then you can follow the timetable diligently with a timer showing exactly when each sub-project for organizing the event is due to be finished.

As a shareable countdown timer, it can be sent to every performer or presenter attending the event beforehand. This way, every presenter will know when they are going to be up in advance with a countdown telling them how long until their turn.

This helps eliminate confusion during the event and provides more clarity to the staff as well. Additionally, with a detailed timetable at hand, you can better organize an event thanks to improved team cohesion.

The Top Features of Stagetimer’s Free Shareable Countdown Timer and How to Use Them

Stagetimer offers many useful features that make event organization so much easier. These features are:

Shareability

Can you send someone a countdown timer using Stagetimer? The answer is yes, as Stagetimer is a countdown timer that can be shared very easily. You can share it using a unique link or through a QR code as you prefer. This makes it much easier to keep your whole staff and attendants in the loop about the event’s timeline.

Additionally, the easy shareability is not just limited to a physical event or presentation either. You can use this timer for online events as well. Not to mention that you can easily manage each and every connected device’s timer through the controller page.

The sharing links and QR codes can be found on the controller view. After that, you just need to copy and paste the link and send it to whoever you want. The QR code can be scanned directly from your device as well. You can even send the countdown timer through email to the attendants, which is a great plus.

Live Control

Stagetimer allows you to control the timer even as the presentation or event is running. So if you made a mistake or some changes need to be made to the timer due to unexpected events, you can do so in real-time. You can add time or remove time intervals as low as just a second in length from the timer.

You can also live control Stagetimer by using the API . This way, you can create controls for adding or removing a certain amount of time to the timer whenever you want with just a click by using StreamDeck and Companion.

Automatically Start Timers

You can use Stagetimer to schedule timer in advance. You can set the timer to start running at a certain time of your choosing. This way, the timer can be started on an event automatically, even without any supervision. The control page has all the tools you will need to create and customize the countdown timer to your liking.

Simply create a timer and set it to start at a scheduled time. Insert the time you want to start it at and click confirm. Now the timer will start at the appointed time.

Moderation Control Allocation

With Stagetimer, you can also grant moderation powers to staff members so they can create and send messages to the presenter’s screen. This way, multiple people are observing the timer and can make announcements when needed, so there is no room for mistakes.

You can also share notes with the moderators about each part of the event without having to send messages and notes to every connected screen. When generating links for your team, check the Notes box and copy the link. This way, you will get generated links with and without notes in them that you can send to your moderators.

Easy to Customize

Another great feature of Stagetimer is that it can be customized however you want. With a Pro or Premium subscription, you can change the background, font style, colors, and text sizes with just a few clicks. You can also add your own logo to the timer for some easy marketing during the event or presentation.

Examples of How to Use Stagetimer at Your Next Presentation or Event

There are many methods you can use to incorporate Stagetimer at your next presentation or event. You can use Stagetimer to time the presenters and performers. The timer can be shown to the presenters so they can better pace themselves according to the remaining time. Additionally, you can use Stagetimer to set deadlines for things that need to be done during the organization phase of an event.

You can also easily share the countdown timer among staff located in different areas around the world if large-scale coordination is needed to organize the event or presentation. Since Stagetimer automatically adjusts the timers for different time zones, everyone with the timer will be able to better coordinate their actions no matter where they are. Lastly, you can use Stagetimer to sync up different cues and speakers around the venue during an event by sharing it among your staff.

Why Stagetimer is the Best Free Shareable Countdown Timer for Presentations and Events

You may wonder what exactly makes Stagetimer the best countdown timer on the market. To answer this question, here are some of the unique features Stagetimer offers that sets it apart from other timers:

API Capatibility

Stagetimer offers API compatibility. So you can control it remotely using scripts or tools. For instance, you can control your countdown timer using vMix or Companion of Steam Deck. You can even use macros to control the timer, thanks to this feature. This makes it so much easier to integrate your timer into your current systems and remotely control it from anywhere.

Low Resource Requirements

Stagetimer runs in the browser. So it has super low resource requirements. It will even run on a raspberry pi without a hitch. You don’t need any expensive equipment when setting up your timers for an event or a presentation. Not only does this save you money, but it also saves time and effort during event organization.

And if you are in a location with restricted access to internet, you can also use the offline version of Stagetimer that runs locally on your device or network.

Low Data Usage

Stagetimer also boasts extremely low data usage. This also saves you money as you don’t have to get expensive data plans for running the timer. Stagetimer can recover from connection loss very quickly as well. So if the internet strength is weak or it goes out entirely, the timer will bounce back up as soon as it is back online. Stagetimer can run locally as well with the offline version. One less thing to worry about!

Stagetimer prides itself on creating a countdown timer without ads, even on its free version. There won’t be ad banners ruining the look of your screen all the time. Nor will the timer be interrupted by an ad pop-up. Without any ads interrupting the presenters, they can focus on the task at hand and give their presentations passionately.

Try Stagetimer for Free

Stagetimer is a very easy-to-use timer software. Its low system requirements and wide compatibility make it a highly useful tool for large-scale and small-scale events and presentations. You can use Stagetimer to increase the collaboration in your team and organize the perfect event.

Its high customizability also lets you personalize the timer however you like. This is without mentioning other useful features such as agenda sharing, wrap-up time chimes and actions, event rundown, and more. All of these features combined make Stagetimer the best countdown timer out there. Create a room for free to try all basic features.

CueTimer is a desktop app for Mac and PC designed to help presenters manage their time during events and broadcasts. Control a list of timers from our cue-list, or use Stream Deck as a remote controller with Companion. Display a stage timer through multiple output options, including web, NDI, and your computer’s external display.

Mac & PC

Control your time. Stay on schedule

CueTimer provides the tools to ensure that your event runs on schedule. Get started in just three simple steps:

1. Create the timer-list

Write down your schedule in the app interface, or import spreadsheet data: Cuetimer can open CSV & TSV files, and you can paste directly from Excel and Google Sheets. If you prefer a more dynamic workflow where you set the timings as you go, we support that as well.

2. connect the outputs

CueTimer has multiple options for viewing the timers on any device: if you are connected to an external monitor, just push the “Fullscreen” button. Or send the timer-page to broadcast-devices on your LAN-network through NDI. Remote speakers can stay in sync using our online timer.

3. control the time

The interface is tailored for show-control: Start and stop the timers with ease and edit on the fly. Redundancy and backup is secured with undo/redo and autosave. Companion with Stream Deck gives you extra buttons for the commands, and remote control over the network.

Trusted by leading industry professionals

We ❤️ CueTimer! We use it on our shows to keep everything running in military precision. We particularly enjoy using it in conjunction with Companion to enable us to adjust the timers on the fly, giving us feedback on our adjustments and allowing us to hit essential cue times throughout the day. Whether it’s a live event or a broadcast, you will always see us running CueTimer on our Streamdecks! – Ben Dave, Dot + Diode, Great Britain

I can without exaggeration say that CueTimer has changed my life on show site in many ways.

I really enjoy how much customization is available for the display features like creating a template for repeatable segments. My customers also love the messaging feature. For the cost of a license, laptop and small monitor, it’s definitely a better value proposition over a traditional clock system.

– Craig Trosclair, Corporate Lighting and Audio, USA

We are extremely happy to use CueTimer in our productions. We constantly provide AV production solutions for streams, hybrid events and live events catering to state ministries and high-profile corporate clients, so a flexible stage communication and timing tool like this is invaluable to us in securing the flow of the show.

– Panu Koskinen, ShowTekniikka, Finland

We have installed CueTimer on several Macbook Air and use the tool regularly. The range of functions is very large, the design can be adapted almost as desired and saved as a template. If necessary, the timer can be shared via a link over the Internet, but the software basically works offline, which is a great advantage over other products.

– Simon Anliker, Kilchenmann AG , Switzerland

CueTimer and APS are unbelievable lifesavers when working with corporate AV. It helps speed up my workflows and keeps the events on time. The option to give moderators and event producers a link for timers is a great feature. I’m very happy with the support and customer service. I recommend these tools for anyone who asks about solutions for presentation-switching and timers.

– Truls Skæveland, Eventi AS, Norway

Finding a clock-solution for Lego Masters Norway that was reliable, flexible and easy to work with in a TV setting proved to be a challenge until we came across PresentationTools and their CueTimer software. I would definitely recommend CueTimer as a countdown timer and tool to keep time in a tight program.

– Michael Thunem Berlund, Hilux A/S, Norway

A countdown timer app for physical, virtual & hybrid events

CueTimer can be used for any event that needs precise timings:

Conferences & Seminars

A monitor with a countdown-timer is very useful for someone holding a presentation. With CueTimer it is easy to control this monitor and display the timers for the different speakers that enter the stage. When the time is running out you can make the colours change to notify the speakers.

Streaming & Remote Workflows

CueTimer is well suited for the digital workflow that has evolved during the Covid 19 pandemic. We have added multiple options for viewing the timers that should cover most scenarios: you can feed the video-mixers with HDMI or NDI video, and share a webpage with the timers to remote presenters and crew-members.

Broadcasting & Gameshows

A TV-show needs a production-timer that is reliable, flexible, and easy to use. CueTimer was built to solve this demanding task. To give an example, read more  about how CueTimer was used as a countdown-timer for the season one of Lego Masters Norway.

Send the countdown anywhere

CueTimer has multiple output-options to view the timer on any device:

Presenter-window

A timer-window that lives on top of your screen but never interferes with other apps. You can place the timer on top of PowerPoint presenter-view and move it around while changing slides with the presentation-clicker.

Push the “Fullscreen” button to place the countdown on the external display. With SDI/Fibre extenders the monitor can be placed far away from the computer. The “Preview” window lets you monitor what you are sending to the Fullscreen

CueTimer has a native  NDI -output using the latest NDI 5 framework. This lets you share the countdown as graphics over the local LAN-network.

Create a webpage to share the current countdown and the schedule with a list of future timers. The page will scale automatically for all browser-sizes.

CueTimer Feature Overview

Create a list of timers from our custom spreadsheet

Multiple ouptut-options to display the timers on any device:

HDMI fullscreen output. Push the Fullscreen-button do display the timer on the external monitor.

NDI output. Send the timer-window as a native NDI source from CueTimer

Web output. Create a timer-webpage hosted on our server. Here you can also see the schedule with a list of future timers.

Widget timer-windows that are always on top and never reacts to keystrokes. Perfect for Powerpoint.

The presenter window also has controls when you hover over it, so that you can control a timer and PowerPoint from the same computer

Add 2 optional alerts to notify the speaker that the time is running out, with style-changes or OSC-commands to trigger other apps or hardware.

Options for what happens when the timer ends: go into overtime, stop the timer, or start the next timer

Change the duration by adding and subtracting minutes or manipulate the speed of the timers.

Customize the countdown-windows with colors, animations and scaling.

Change the style when the timer changes status. For example, when the timer ends, you can make the screen red, and make the countdown blink.

Send messages that is displayed on the timer-outputs. The appearance of the message is fully customisable: place it in the corner, or fill the whole screen.

Native desktop-apps for Mac and Windows that are light on system-resources. Built for demanding live-shows.

Support for multitasking: With native control over the CueTimer-windows, you can display our timers while using other apps.

Undo/Redo & Autosave. We got you covered if you accidentally start the next timer.

Use Stream Deck buttons to control CueTimer through Companion. Then you also get remote-control over the local network.

Support for multiple workflows: The timer-list can be an ordered schedule, or a selection of timer-templates that can be started easily

Import CSV & TSV files with any delimiter

Copy & paste spreadsheet-data into CueTimer

Spreadsheet-import menu where you can sort the columns you want to import

Configure the timer-list by moving and hiding columns, and add custom-columns. Hidden info can still be accessed from a separate Edit Timer window.

Export the timer-list as a CSV file

Auto-calculate timer-values so that the end of a timer becomes the start of the next. Then you only need the start-times to make a schedule with durations for all the segments.

Start and stop the timers with keyboard-shortcuts or large buttons

OSC messages to and from CueTimer. Trigger other devices from CueTimer events, or start and stop timers with OSC commands.

An open API that lets you control CueTimer over the local network through TCP/IP commands. Create your own controller-app, or use the ones already made for you.

Control with Companion

Companion lets you control different devices over the local network and with Streamdeck hardware-boxes. It is free of charge and more info can be found  here.  Our Companion module includes buttons for the most important commands, and it has feedback for the current timer with colors that can be set from CueTimer. With our premade presets found in the Companion menu it is easy to drag and drop the buttons where you need them. The Companion module is built on our open API which can be found here.

Or control a timer on top of Powerpoint

The presenter window is a floating timer that stays on top of your screen, and when you hover over it, controls will appear.  It’s the perfect timer for PowerPoint or Keynote presenter-view. You can place it wherever you want, and it will never interfere with the presentation-clicker, because this window doesn’t react to keyboard-strokes.  So you get an overlay timer without using hardware video-switchers and extra computers. The presenters can control the timers themselves from their own laptop, or the AV-technician can be in charge of the computer, and mirror the display to a confidence-monitor on the stage. 

Notify the speaker that the time is running out

During the countdown you get 2 alerts where the timer-style can change, and when the timer ends, add more colors. These dynamic changes can help the speaker understand when it’s time to wrap it up. Alternatively, you can send OSC messages over the network, so that you can let the end of the timer start a video, song, or even confetti.

Customize the style of the timer

Send osc to trigger other applications.

Video in 3x speed

Send messages to the presenters

The confidence-monitor with the timer is one of the few places where you can send messages to the presenter without the audience noticing it. Let them know if their microphone needs to be adjusted, if the next speaker is delayed, or use it for questions from the audience.

If you have a big monitor, place the message on the top of the screen along with the other content. Or if you really want to grab the attention of the speaker, give the message flashy colors and make it fill the whole screen. 

Import rundowns and event-schedules

You can import CSV and TSV files, or just paste spreadsheet-data into CueTimer. The new Configure List option lets you shuffle, add and hide columns so that the imported list will look similar to the original. If the schedule only consists of start-times, the option “Auto Schedule” will calculate the durations for you. Or, if you prefer to do this manually, we support that too.

Control your licences from the user-dashboard

With a subscription-licence  you  can  create an account  on this site where you can monitor your licences, release licences from activated computers, and manage your subscriptions registered to your email-address.

CueTimer articles

We have collected a wide collection of articles about CueTimer. Read how keep soundchecks on time in music-festivals, or why we decided to go for an offline desktop-app for live-event timers.

The user-guide is our reference on how to use CueTimer. We have tried to cover all related topics on how to control and configure our countdown-timer app.

Youtube-channel

If you prefer learning by watching instead of reading, then the CueTimer online-tutorial series is for you. Or get tips about how to connect CueTimer to Qlab.

Latest Posts

How to use CueTimer with OSC and NDI to create engaging countdowns

August 2, 2024

Unlocking Productivity: CueTimer as Your Ultimate Pomodoro Timer

February 26, 2024

CueTimer 3: New options for viewing timers

February 19, 2024

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3 Effective Ways to Add Timer to PowerPoint Presentation (Step-by-Step Guide)

In the world of presentations, timers are the unsung heroes of engagement and time management. But, their integration can be a puzzle. Fear not! This guide is your roadmap. It demystifies timer embedding and customization in PowerPoint, offering diverse options. Get ready to elevate your presentations with precision and captivate your audience!

Why Is It Important to Add a Timer in PowerPoint?

There are many benefits to adding a timer to your PowerPoint presentations, including:

Staying on track: A timer can help you to stay on track and deliver your presentation within the allotted time. This is especially important if you are giving a presentation in a professional setting, where you may have a limited amount of time to speak.

Keeping your audience engaged: A timer can also help to keep your audience engaged. When your audience knows how much time is left in your presentation, they are more likely to pay attention and stay focused.

Signaling transitions and breaks: A timer can also be used to signal transitions and breaks in your presentation. For example, you can use a timer to indicate when it is time for a question-and-answer session, or when it is time to take a break.

Here are some specific examples of how to use a timer in your PowerPoint presentations:

Quizzes: If you are including a quiz in your presentation, you can use a timer to indicate how much time your audience has to answer each question. This will help to create a sense of urgency and keep your audience engaged.

Timed activities: If you are leading a group activity during your presentation, you can use a timer to ensure that everyone has an equal amount of time to participate. This is especially helpful for activities such as brainstorming or problem-solving.

Q&A sessions: If you are having a question-and-answer session during your presentation, you can use a timer to indicate how much time is remaining. This will help to ensure that everyone has a chance to ask a question, and that you are able to stay within your allotted time.

Breaks: If you are giving a long presentation, you may want to include breaks to give your audience a chance to rest and recharge. You can use a timer to indicate when the break will start and end. This will help to keep your audience informed and ensure that everyone is ready to start again when the break is over.

Overall, adding a timer to your PowerPoint presentations can be a great way to improve your delivery and keep your audience engaged.

Different Types of Timers

There are two main types of timers in PowerPoint: built-in timers and add-in timers. Built-in timers are simple countdown timers, while add-in timers offer more features, such as multiple timers on a single slide or custom appearance.

Here are some examples of different types of timers that you can use in PowerPoint:

Countdown timer

Progress bar

Stopwatch timer

You can also use PowerPoint to create your own custom timers.

Using a timer in your PowerPoint presentations can help you to stay on track, keep your audience engaged, and deliver a more professional presentation.

Method1: Download Premade Timer Templates Online for Free (Easy & Quick)

Premade timer templates are pre-designed slides with built-in timers, making it easy to add a countdown to your presentation. They offer convenience and save time for presenters looking to enhance their slides with dynamic timing elements.

Features of Premade Timer Templates:

Ready-Made Design: These templates come with visually appealing designs, ensuring your timer complements your presentation's overall look.

Customizable Timer Settings: Most templates allow you to adjust the timer duration, style, and appearance to suit your specific needs.

Varied Styles: You can find a range of timer styles, from simple countdowns to more elaborate visual elements that add flair to your presentation.

To Download Premade Timer Templates Online for Free:

Step 1 : Go to a website that offers free timer templates, such as Freepik, Canva, or PowerPoint Templates.

Step 2 : Browse the selection of templates and find one that you like.

Step 3 : Click on the template to download it.

Step 4 : Save the template to your computer and open the template in a program such as PowerPoint, Google Slides.

Step 5 : Customize the template to your needs and save the customized template. Then you can use the timer template in your presentation or project.

Make sure that the template you download is compatible with the software you are using.

Be sure to customize the template to your needs before you use it.

Use timer templates to create countdown timers for presentations or events, track your time while working on projects, or create timers for workouts, exercise routines, study sessions, or breaks.

Method2: Use Free Timer Add-ins

Timer add-ins from the Office Add-ins store seamlessly integrate with PowerPoint, allowing for easy inclusion of dynamic timers.

Here is Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1 : Browse Add-ins: Visit the Office Add-ins store and select a timer add-in.

Step 2 : Install Add-in: Click 'Get it now' or 'Add' to install the chosen add-in into PowerPoint.

Step 3 : Open Presentation: Launch your PowerPoint presentation.

Step 4 : Access Add-in: Look for the add-in icon under 'Insert' or 'Add-ins' in the PowerPoint ribbon.

Step 5 : Select Timer: Click the add-in icon and choose the type of timer (e.g., countdown, stopwatch).

Step 6 : Customize Settings: Adjust timer duration, style, and appearance if available.

Step 7 : Place Timer: Click on the slide to insert the timer.

By following these steps, you'll effortlessly incorporate a timer add-in into your presentation. Don't forget to save your changes!

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Method3: Customize Your Own PowerPoint Timers Step-by-Step

Creating custom timers in PowerPoint allows you to design unique and tailored countdowns to suit your presentation style.

Here is the step-by-step guide:

Step 1 : Open PowerPoint: Go to the slide where you want the timer.

Step 2: Insert Shape: Under 'Insert', choose 'Shapes' and select your desired shape.

Step 3 : Draw Shape: Draw it on the slide; this will be your timer's visual representation.

Step 4: Format Shape: Right-click, choose 'Format Shape', and apply effects like glow or soft edges.

Step 5: Adjust Size: In 'Format Shape', under 'Size & Properties', set the dimensions.

Step 6 : Add Text: Insert a text box to display the countdown.

Step 7 : Customize Text: Format the font, size, and color.

Step 8 : Animate Timer: Under 'Animations', select an animation style and adjust settings.

Step 9: Preview: View the slide to see the timer in action.

By following these steps, you'll create a custom timer in PowerPoint. Don't forget to save your presentation.

Best Free Alternative to Microsoft Office - WPS Office

WPS Office is a free and open-source office suite that includes word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and PDF tools. It is compatible with Microsoft Office formats, so you can easily open, edit, and save files created in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Advantages of WPS Office :

Free:  WPS Office is completely free to download and use.

Compatible:  WPS Office is compatible with Microsoft Office formats, so you can easily open, edit, and save files created in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Lightweight:  WPS Office is a lightweight software that does not take up much space on your computer.

Online documents:  WPS Office allows you to create and edit documents online, so you can access them from anywhere.

User-friendly:  WPS Office has a user-friendly interface that is easy to learn and use.

Features that Microsoft Office does not offer for FREE:

Co-editing:  WPS Office allows you to co-edit documents with other users in real time.

Group sharing:  You can share documents with a group of people and allow them to edit the documents with your permission.

Formulas in Microsoft Excel can smoothly function with WPS Spreadsheet. This means that you can open and edit Excel files in WPS Spreadsheet without any problems.

Overall, WPS Office is a great alternative to Microsoft Office. It is free, compatible, lightweight, and user-friendly. It also offers some features that Microsoft Office does not offer for FREE, such as co-editing, group sharing, and WPS AI.

 1. How do you add real time clocks to a PowerPoint presentation?

How to add a real-time clock to a PowerPoint presentation in short:

Method 1: Using a built-in timer

Step 1 : Go to Insert > Date & Time.

Step 2: Select the Update automatically checkbox.

Step 3 : Select the desired format for the clock.

Step 4 : Click OK.

Method 2: Using an add-in

Step 1 : Go to File > Add-ins and click on the Get Add-ins button.

Step 2 : Search for "clock" or "timer" and select the add-in that you want to install.

Step 3 : Follow the instructions provided by the add-in developer to add a real-time clock to your presentation.

Choose a clock that is easy to read and that matches the style of your presentation.

Place the clock in a prominent location on the slide so that your audience can easily see it.

Consider setting an alarm to sound when the timer expires.

Use a real-time clock to create a sense of urgency in your presentation

 2. Can I use Microsoft PowerPoint templates in WPS Office?

Yes, you can use Microsoft PowerPoint templates in WPS Office. To do this, simply open the template file in WPS Presentation.

Here are some tips:

Make sure the template is compatible with your version of WPS Office.

If you have trouble opening or editing a template, try converting it to a WPS Presentation file format.

You can save the edited template as a WPS Presentation file or as a Microsoft PowerPoint file.

Overall, using Microsoft PowerPoint templates in WPS Office is a great way to create professional-looking presentations without having to spend a lot of time on design.

 3. Will the timer work in PowerPoint when I present on different devices or platforms?

Yes, the timer should work in PowerPoint when you present on different devices or platforms, provided that the device or platform supports timers.

Test the timer on the device or platform that you will be using before your presentation.

Display the timer in a prominent location on the screen so that you can easily see it.

Set an alarm to sound when the timer expires.

Be aware of the different settings for timers on different devices or platforms.

Overall, using a timer when presenting on different devices or platforms can help you to stay on track and deliver a more professional presentation.

This guide outlines three practical methods to integrate timers into PowerPoint presentations for improved engagement and time management. It covers downloading templates, using free add-ins, and customizing timers within PowerPoint. Clear instructions and visuals are provided for easy implementation. This resource empowers presenters to enhance their presentations with dynamic timing elements, ultimately elevating their delivery and audience impact.

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15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.

How to Insert a Timer in PowerPoint? [Step-by-Step Guide!]

By: Author Shrot Katewa

Having a timer in your PowerPoint presentation can be extremely useful. There are many use cases for it for instance when you are conducting a workshop, you may want to insert a timer for break time. Likewise, you can also add a timer before the first slide to let your audience know when the presentation will start!

Whatever the case may be, the important question is – how to insert a timer in PowerPoint?

To insert a timer in PowerPoint, you can use add-ins such as “Easy Timer”, “Breaktime”, or “Slice Timer”. You can also create your own timer using the animation feature within PowerPoint using the “Fly out” or “Wheel” animation depending on the type of timer you want to add in PowerPoint.

In this article, we shall do a deep dive on this subject. I will share with you a few easy suggestions first to add a timer to your PowerPoint presentation. Plus, I will also show you how you can build your own timer later in the article!

So, let’s get started!

1. How to Add a Timer in PowerPoint?

In Microsoft PowerPoint, you can add a countdown timer to a slide either through add-ins or by creating a timer yourself. We shall take a look at the easier process first i.e. using the add-ins.

Then, I will also help you understand how to create your own timer in PowerPoint using animations.

Method 1 – Insert a Timer in PowerPoint Using Add-ins

Using add-ins is the quickest way to insert a timer in a Microsoft PowerPoint slide. These are mostly easy to insert and provide your slides with a professional look.

There are quite a few add-in options for adding a timer to your slides in PowerPoint. I’ve found the following add-ins to be the most effective.

In the Easy Timer add-in, you can access three different types of countdown timers. You can add either the analog clock, the digital clock, or the bar countdown timer to your slide. All you need to do is insert the timer and set your preferred time.

Slice Timer

The Slice Timer add-in has a very clean look and is easy to use. All you have to do is click on the add-in and it will appear in the opened slide. You can put in your preferred duration for the timer.

The Breaktime timer is specifically designed for taking a presentation break. All you have to do is insert the timer in the slide and select your preferred break time. It also allows you to customize the timer background with various design options.

How to Insert a Timer Add-in in PowerPoint?

To insert a timer add-in in PowerPoint, first click on the “Insert” tab. Then, from the ribbon, click on “Add-in”. From the dropdown, click on “Get Add-in”. A new window will pop up. Search for “timer” using the search bar. Finally, click on “Add” to install the add-in to your PowerPoint.

The complete process is described in a step-by-step process below –

Step-1: Click on the “Insert” menu

The first step is to open the “Insert” menu. To do so, click on the “Insert” tab in the menu ribbon located at the top of the screen.

Step-2: Click on “Get Add-ins”

In the “Insert” menu, click on the “Add-ins” button to open a dropdown menu. Click on the “Get Add-ins” option. This will open a dialogue box.

Step-3: Click on the “Search box”

In the “Office Add-ins” dialogue box, click on the “Search box” on the upper left side. Type in “Timer” and click on the search icon beside the “Search box” .

You can alternatively search for a specific timer by typing in “Slice Timer” , “Easy Timer” , “Breaktime” , etc.

Step-4: Click on the “Add” button

Now you can click on the “Add” button beside your preferred timer. This will prompt another dialogue box.

Click on the “Continue” box to add the timer add-in.

After this, once the process is complete, the add-in will be loaded to your PowerPoint presentation.

How to Insert a Countdown Timer Using an Add-in?

Now that you have installed the timer add-in in PowerPoint, the next step really is to simply insert a timer on your slides.

Step-1: Click on the “My Add-ins” option

In the “Insert” menu, click on the “Add-ins” option again. Click on the “My Add-ins” option from the dropdown menu.

In the secondary dropdown menu, click on the newly added timer add-in to insert it in the slide.

Step-2: Add the duration to the timer

The next step is to simply add the duration that you want to set for the timer!

Remember, most timer add-ins will have a separate field for hours, minutes, and seconds. So, the right-most field is usually for seconds.

To add a 5-minute timer, click on the middle field, and from the dropdown, click on “5”. Finally, click on “ Start “.

And that’s it! You will see the timer doing a reverse counting from 5 minutes!

2. How to Create Your Own PowerPoint Timer?

In Microsoft PowerPoint, you can also make your own timer, apart from inserting a timer from Add-ins.

To create a custom timer in PowerPoint, first, insert a bar shape on the slide. Then, using the “Fly Out” animation, set the bar shape to disappear from the slide slowly. Adjust the duration of the animation to match the duration of your timer for the best effect.

You can insert a shape from the “Shapes” option and use the “Animation” menu to turn the shape into a “Bar Countdown Timer” or a “Clock Countdown Timer” .

2.1 Method 1 – Bar Countdown Timer

Here’s what a typical bar countdown timer looks like –

Let’s make a similar bar countdown timer which is easier than the above slide to create. Follow the easy steps mentioned below.

Step-1: Click on the “Shapes” option

The first step is to click on the “Insert” tab in the menu ribbon located at the top of the screen. Then click on the “Shapes” option to open a dropdown menu and select a shape under the “Rectangles” option.

Draw the rectangle bar touching the border of the slide on both sides.

Step-2: Remove the Shape Outline

Once you have inserted the shape, you need to format the shape first.

Select the shape. Then, the “ Shape Format ” tab will appear on the top. Click on it. Next, click on the shape outline option (as indicated in the image above).

From the dropdown, click on the “ No Outline ” option. This will remove the outline of the shape.

Step-3: Change the Shape Color to White

The next step is to change the shape color to a different color than the background. In this case, since I have a teal background, I’d change the color of the shape to white.

To do that, click on the shape, and open the “ Shape Format ” tab. Then, click on the “ Fill Color ” option, and from the dropdown, click on the “ White ” color.

Step-4: Create a Copy of the Shape and Change the Shape Color

In this next step, we shall create a copy of the shape and change the color of this shape to something other than white and the slide background.

To create a copy of the curved rectangle, click on the shape. Then, copy and paste the shape on the slide using the Ctrl+C (for copy) and Ctrl+V (for paste) shortcuts.

Once the copy is created, select the second shape by clicking on it. Then, click on the “ Shape Format ” tab. From the ribbon, click on the “ Fill Color ” option.

From the color dropdown that appears, choose a color other than white and that of the slide background.

Step-5: Align the Shapes Together

The next step is to make sure that the two shapes align on top of each other. We shall use the align tool in PowerPoint to accomplish this.

First, select the two shapes together by holding the “ Ctrl ” key on your keyboard, and clicking once on both the shapes one by one.

Then, click on the “ Shape Format ” tab. From the “ Align ” option, first, click on the “ Align to Left ” option. Then, click on the “ Align ” tab once again, and from the dropdown, choose the “ Align to Top ” option this time!

You will notice that both the shapes are now overlapping with the colored shape on top of the white one.

Step-6: Click on the “Animations” menu

Now we shall add the animations. To do that, first, make sure that only the colored shape on the top is selected.

Then, click on the “Animations” option in the menu ribbon. In the “Animations” menu, click on the “Add Animations” option.

After that, click on the “Fly Out” option under the “Exit” animation section from the dropdown menu.

Step-7: Click on the “Effects” option

The next step is to click on the “Effects” option in the “Animations” menu. In the dropdown menu under the “Effects” option, click on the “To Left” option.

This will apply the fly out animation effect to the shape and it will fly out towards the left part of the slide.

Step-8: Select your preferred duration

Now all you have to do is click on the “Duration” box in the “Timing” section. Enter the duration of the animation.

Remember – the duration of the animation should be the same as the length of the timer. Type in your preferred time for the timer. It will now appear as a “Bar Countdown Timer” in the “Slide Show” view.

Here’s a quick preview of how this bar countdown timer looks –

2.2 Method 2 – Clock Countdown Timer

You can also add a clock countdown timer in the Microsoft PowerPoint slide. Here’s what it shall look like –

Now let us understand how to build this clock-shaped circular countdown timer in a step-by-step manner.

Here’s what we need to do –

Step-1: Click on “Shapes”

The first step is to create a clock shape. Click on the “Insert” menu from the menu ribbon. Then click on the “Shapes” option and select the “Oval” shape from the “Basic Shapes” section in the dropdown menu.

Then, hold the “Ctrl” key on your keyboard and drag the cursor in one direction. This will help you create a perfect circle on the slide.

In the next step, you need to remove the outline of the shape.

To remove the shape outline, first, select the shape. Then, click on the “ Shape Format ” tab. Next, click on the “ Shape Outline ” button. Finally, from the dropdown, click on the “ No Outline ” option.

Now, we need to change the shape color to white. Changing the color will help you separate the circle from the background.

To change the color of the shape to white, first, select the shape. Then, click on the “ Shape Format ” tab. Next, click on the “ Fill Color ” option. Finally, from the dropdown, select the color of your choice.

In this case, we shall click on the “ White ” color option.

Step-4: Create a Copy of the Circle and Change the Shape Color

Now, in this step, we shall use the copy and paste functions in PowerPoint to create a copy of the circle that we just created.

Then, change the color of this new circle to something other than that of the slide background and white.

Step-5: Align the Two Circles

Now, we shall align the two circles such that they fit on top of each other.

To do that, hold the “Ctrl” key on your keyboard and select the two circles by clicking on them just once one-by-one.

Then, click on the “ Shape Format ” tab and click on the “ Align ” tool. From the dropdown, first, click on the “ Align to Left ” option. Then, click on the “ Align to Top ” option.

This will ensure that both the circles align properly.

Step-6: Insert a Line

The next step is to click on the “Shapes” option again and click on the “Line” option in the “Lines” section. Then, insert a small line at the 12 o’clock position.

Step-7: Insert more lines

Repeat the process mentioned in step 7 and add more lines such that the lines make the shape appear like a clock.

Step-8: Add the “Wheel” Animation

Now, we shall add the animation.

On the slide, first, select the colored circle shape on the top. Click on the “Animations” tab in the menu ribbon.

In the “Animations” menu, click on the “Add Animations” button to open a dropdown menu. From there, click on the “Wheel” option from the “Entrance” section.

Step-9: Set the Animation Duration

Now all you have to do is click on the “Duration” box in the “Timing” section in the “Animations” menu. In the “Duration” box, type in your preferred time for the clock countdown timer.

3. How to Insert a 5-minute Timer in PowerPoint?

In Microsoft PowerPoint, you can easily set the duration of the timer inserted in a slide. The best and the fastest way to insert a 5-minute timer in PowerPoint is by using an add-in.

Step-1: Click on the “Easy Timer” add-in

In the menu bar at the top of the screen, click on the “Insert” option. Then click on the “Add-ins” option and select “Easy Timer” under the “My Add-ins” option in the dropdown menu. This will insert a timer in the slide.

Step-2: Click on the “Duration” box

In the Easy Timer box in the slide, click on the “Duration” box. Click on the downward-facing arrow in the “Minutes” box and select “05” from the dropdown menu.

Then click on the arrow pointing downwards in the “Seconds” box and select “00” from the dropdown menu. This will be automatically saved.

You can also insert a 5-minute timer in PowerPoint either by using the other add-ins mentioned earlier in this article or by creating your own timer manually. All you have to do is set the duration to 5 minutes.

Credit to Wayhomestudio (on Freepik) for the featured image of this article (further edited).

NYC council approves reparations bill creating 'truth and reconciliation process'

by JACKSON WALKER | The National Desk

NEW YORK CITY (TND) — The New York City Council on Thursday passed a bill which will address its “legacy and impact of slavery and racial injustices” by introducing a “Truth, Healing and Reconciliation process” within the city.

In 2023, councilmembers weighed a slew of anti-racism proposals, including acknowledging the city's history of slavery and removing statues of slave owners. Included in those proposals was a truth and reconciliation process to “empower affected persons” and hold public displays related to the city’s history of slavery.

The council said it will initiate a reparations study, place historical signage at the site of the city’s first slave auction and begin the creation of a “freedom trail” recognizing abolitionists.

“The legacy of slavery and systemic racism has impacted all facets of our society today, and it’s important that our city recognizes and takes steps to redress these longstanding harms,” Speaker Adrienne Adams said. “By creating new processes to fully examine the present-day impacts of injustices inflicted on Black New Yorkers and communities, we are advancing necessary efforts to consider potential remedies that can lead to healing and reconciliation.”

The legislation came after New Yorkers approved the city Racial Justice Commission’s Roadmap for Racial Justice recommendations. That group also called for city leaders to publicly “acknowledge and repair” the city’s racist past.

The State of New York approved the creation of a reparations commission last year.

“In New York, we like to think we're on the right side of this. Slavery was a product of the South, the Confederacy,” Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, said." What is hard to embrace is the fact that our state also flourished from that slavery. It's not a beautiful story, but indeed it is the truth.”

Follow Jackson Walker on X at @_jlwalker_ for the latest trending national news. Have a news tip? Send it to [email protected].

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