How to clear PowerPoint cache

Learn how to clear your PowerPoint cache. We’ll show you how to delete the document and add-ins cache to fix issues with your application.

When you have trouble with your web browser, clearing the cache can solve the problem. Similarly, if you are having issues with a PowerPoint add-in, we’ll show you how to clear the PowerPoint cache.

You can clear both the Microsoft Office document cache and add-ins cache to see if this resolves your problem.

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Why clear PowerPoint cache?

There are a few reasons that you may want to clear the cache in PowerPoint.

  • You may notice that the application is running slowly.
  • You may have damaged or corrupted files.
  • You may see Office apps not syncing correctly when closing.

While you may have your own reasons for wanting to clear it, we’ll show you how to delete the document and add-on cache.

Warning: It’s important to note that these steps apply to all Microsoft Office apps, not just PowerPoint. Microsoft doesn’t currently provide a way to clear only the PowerPoint cache. Additionally, you may experience errors after you delete the cache when looking for files in your Office applications.

Clear the document cache

With PowerPoint open, follow these steps to delete the Office Document Cache.

  1. Go to the File tab and select Options.
  2. In the pop-up window, select Save on the left.
  3. Move down to Cache Settings on the right.
  4. Click the button for Delete cached files.
  5. Select OK to finish and close the window.

Clear the add-ins cache

For add-ins, you’ll actually set the cache to clear when you next open the Office application. This removes “all previously-started web add-ins cache.”

  1. Go to the File tab and select Options.
  2. In the pop-up window, select Trust Center on the left.
  3. Click Trust Center Settings on the right.
  1. In the subsequent window, pick Trusted Add-in Catalogs on the left.
  2. Check the box for Next time Office starts, clear all previously-started web add-ins cache on the right.
  3. Select OK, and OK again to save and close the window.

Create powerful presentations with Plus AI for PowerPoint

Once you clear your cache, it’s time to get to work on that next PowerPoint presentation. And there’s no better way to get started than with Plus AI!

Plus AI for PowerPoint is a smart add-in that helps you create and edit slideshows. You can choose from an attractive collection of templates, enter a prompt or upload a file, and receive a slideshow that’s ready to go in just minutes.

For more on Plus AI, its features, and to start your trial, head to the Plus AI website.

Conclusion

Hopefully deleting the cache has you back in business with Microsoft PowerPoint. If you’re still experiencing problems, consider visiting the Microsoft Support site for additional assistance.

And remember, if it’s creating and editing presentations that you’re struggling with, Plus AI is there to help!

FAQs

Why has my PowerPoint presentation disappeared?

The most common reason for a vanishing PowerPoint file is that it wasn’t saved before the application closed. This is especially aggravating if the reason for the closure is a power failure, application crash, or unexpected shutdown for another reason.

Open PowerPoint, select File > Home, and click Recover Unsaved Presentations. You’ll then see the AutoRecover folder where you can look for your PowerPoint file.

Why is my PowerPoint taking up so much space?

There are many reasons that your PowerPoint file is larger than you might expect. When it comes to size, consider the length of the presentation and if you’re using a template along with images, audio files, videos, and similar elements on your slides.

To reduce the size of your file, learn how to compress a PowerPoint presentation.

Does PowerPoint AutoSave?

If you subscribe to Microsoft 365, you can take advantage of AutoSave in PowerPoint as well as Word and Excel. Turn on the AutoSave toggle in the title bar of the PowerPoint window. Then, select your OneDrive or SharePoint account, name the document, and click OK. Moving forward, all changes you make to your presentation are saved automatically.

If you run into trouble using the feature, check out the Microsoft Support page for AutoSave.

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