Add a PowerPoint Clock | Flash Clock for PPT

A real-time clock can be a key element to add to your PowerPoint presentation. A clock can help your audience keep track of time while keeping them engaged. This way, they don’t need to check a wall clock or watch.

A PowerPoint clock also helps you stay on schedule, making your presentation smoother and more professional. Here, you’ll learn 2 easy ways to add a real-time PowerPoint clock to your presentations.

Here are the topics we'll cover:

Can I add a clock to my PowerPoint?

Certainly. In fact, you should! Adding a PowerPoint feature to show time can be really useful.

For example, at big conventions with many different presentations and events, adding a PowerPoint real-time clock can help your audience manage their time better. If your presentation has a time limit, adding a PowerPoint clock to show time can also help you ensure you don’t exceed the established schedule.

Keep reading to learn how to add it!

Inserting a real-time clock in PowerPoint

How to insert a live clock in PowerPoint?

Adding a PowerPoint real-time clock is very easy! Here you’ll find 2 easy ways to show time in your presentation slides.

Option 1: Insert clock in PowerPoint with built-in feature

Luckily, if you want your PowerPoint presentation to show time, there’s a built-in function. You just need to go to the Insert tab > Date &Time option (in the ‘Text’ group).

Then, a dialog box will appear to customize the information you want to display. Check the box Date and time and use the arrow to choose between different ways to convey your date/time. Finally, verify that the Update automatically option is checked too.

The clock will appear in the bottom left corner as a footer. Remember that you can always change its font color, style, and size.

How to customize a live clock in PowerPoint

Consider that this PowerPoint real-time clock will only update when you change slides in presentation mode. If you plan to stay on the same slide for a long time, it’s probably not what you’re looking for.

Also, since it’s a footer option, there are not many customization options. Still, it’s a great option for those looking for a simple and effective way to show time in your PowerPoint without it being too distracting for your audience.

Option 2: Add a live clock in PowerPoint using macros

If the option above doesn’t meet your needs for displaying time in PowerPoint, don't worry! You can create your own customized real-time clock for your presentations.

This method consists of using coding to transform a text box into a PowerPoint real-time digital clock.

Step 1: Create a Macro-Enabled Presentation:

Open PowerPoint and select File > Save As.
Choose PowerPoint Macro-Enabled Presentation (*.pptm).
Enter a name for your presentation and click Save.

Step 2: Enable the Developer Tab

Go to File > Options > Customize Ribbon and check the Developer box.

Step 3: Create the Macro

Go to the Developer tab and click on Macros.
Name your macro (e.g., "Clock") and select Create.
In the Visual Basic Editor, paste the this code. Then, close the window.

Step 4: Insert a Text Box and Assign the Macro

Go to Insert tab > Tex Box. Draw a text box on your slide and type "clock."
Highlight the text box and go to Insert > Action. Choose "Run Macro" and select your macro.

How to insert clock in PowerPoint presentation

Step 4: Run Your Presentation

Start your presentation and click the text box to activate the live clock.

Running a macro to add a clock in PowerPoint

Finally, customize your PowerPoint clock by adjusting the font, adding animations, or applying a background to make it stand out.

Tip: Create the live clock first, then add content to avoid functionality issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I insert a flash clock for PPT?

No, you can’t insert a Flash clock for PPT anymore because Adobe Flash is obsolete and no longer supported. Microsoft removed Flash support, starting with PowerPoint 2016.

Flash clocks used to be a great option, but due to Microsoft’s restrictions, the best alternative now is to use a real-time clock. This article covers two simple methods to add it: using PowerPoint’s built-in feature or Macros.

Can I use a live clock in a PowerPoint presentation without macros?

Yes, you can insert a live clock in PowerPoint without macros by using built-in features.

Go to the Insert tab > Date &Time. Then, check the Date and time box and choose what you want to display. Verify that the Update automatically option is checked and click “Apply to All.” Your clock will appear as a footer.

Is it possible to add animations to the live clock in PowerPoint?

Yes, here are some methods depending on how you added the live clock:

Animating a Live Clock Created with Macros

Step 1: Create a text box where the time will be displayed.
Step 2: Select the text box, go to the Animations tab, and choose an animation effect.
Step 3: Use the Animation Pane to adjust the timing and order of animations. You can make it start automatically or by clicking on it.

Using PowerPoint Built-in Features.

Step 1: Insert the clock (Insert > Date & Time).
Step 2: Select the text box, go to the Animations tab, and select an animation effect.
Step 3: Customize the animation settings in the Animation Pane.

How do I insert a live date in PowerPoint?

Step 1: Go to Insert > Date & Time (in the ‘Text’ group).
Step 2: Check "Date and time" and select "Update automatically."
Step 3: From the dropdown menu, select your preferred date format (e.g., "Friday, January 31, 2025").
Step 4: Click "Apply to All" to add it to every slide.

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