Change PowerPoint units from inches to centimeters and vice versa

PowerPoint 2016
PowerPoint uses local Windows settings to show grid spacing, figure sizes, etc. This can be an issue if you prepare the presentation for different or multiple locales. Fortunately, you can temporarily change the measurement units if you have strict style guide requirements.

When you work with PowerPoint rulers or gridlines, you can see different units:

Grid and Guides inches in PowerPoint 365    or   Grid and Guides centimeters in PowerPoint 365

Or when you format any picture, shape, etc.:

Size group inches in PowerPoint 365    or   Size group centimeters in PowerPoint 365

If you need to change measurement units, you need to make changes in Control Panel in your Windows system. See how to change measurement settings from inches to centimeters and vice versa.

Note: PowerPoint should be restarted to use new measurement settings.

See also this tip in French: Comment changer les unités PowerPoint de pouces en centimètres et vice versa.

How to change the size of slides in Microsoft PowerPoint

How to change the size of slides in Microsoft PowerPoint

When you prepare your presentation, you should adapt it to the device used for projecting it. Some devices or even laptops can have different sizes, so you can need to change the sizes of your presentation.
How to customize your local PowerPoint for better productivity

How to customize your local PowerPoint for better productivity

PowerPoint is rarely used by the average Microsoft Office user, but those who use it frequently might find these simple time-saving tips helpful.
Automatically show your presentation

Automatically show your presentation

Instead of opening your PowerPoint presentation file and then clicking F5 or using other ways to start the presentation, you can save your PowerPoint file in the PowerPoint Show format. Also, this format prevents changes in the presentation.

We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners who may combine it with other information you’ve provided to them or they’ve collected from your use of their services.

Learn more