Change the default action when opening PowerPoint

[Sally Sibthorpe]

Is there a way to open powerpoint WITHOUT opening a new file at the same
time? When I go in to PowerPoint, a new file always pops up. I'd rather it
didn't...would rather just open the application wtihout any file opening.

 

[ciw2otv]

If you start powerpoint from a shortcut, an addition of a switch can
give you some control. Right click on the icon of the shortcut, choose
properties, add /c to the end of the target.
An example for PPT 2003 might be:
"C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\OFFICE11\POWERPNT.EXE" /c

/c: Starts a new instance of PowerPoint with no presentation open.

 

[Sally Sibthorpe]

The target field is greyed out, and does not contain a path anyway. It only
says Microsoft Office Professional Edition 2003.

 

[ciw2otv]

Are you working on a networked machine? If so, the IT department will
probably need to make changes for you.

 

[Sally Sibthorpe]

I am, but the network team does not support applications and their
pecularities. I do have admin privleges on this machine.

Anyhow, I figured it out...I had to recreate a shortcut from the actual
executable file rather than creating one from the shortcut menu. That way, I
got a path that I could edit per your suggestion.

Thank you for your assistance!