Slide Notes Disappear When saving File

  • Thread starter Thread starter Phil
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Phil

We have a file that we created in PowerPoint 2004. No 2004 specific
effects or anything, just content on slides. We saved it to PP '97 (at
client's request) and have since been editing in 97. Now if we open the
file, make an edit (doesn't matter to what; notes, slide content, or
changing the BMP on the notes page) the notes for the pages get wiped
out. If we edit one slide only (say #16), then from #17 until the end the
notes get wiped. If we make a global edit (like changing the view and
then saving) we loose all the notes. We have no idea why this is
happening or how to control it. ANY help would be appreciated. Please
forward ideas to the email address. Thanks in advance!

-Phil
(e-mail address removed)
 
Phil,

Losing the notes pages was an issue with powerpoint 97 way back a long time ago. It was fixed with what was called
"service pack1" for powerpoint 97. I seem to remember that always saving the file in "normal/slide" view helps...and
turn off fast saves (tools > options)

Cheers
TAJ Simmons
microsoft powerpoint mvp

awesome - powerpoint backgrounds,
free powerpoint templates, tutorials, hints and tips etc
http://www.powerpointbackgrounds.com
 
There is no PPT 2004, so I assume you're talking about PPT 2003?

I believe the problem is that when you save in PPT 97, you're probably
saving while in Notes view. If you change to Normal/Edit view, you shouldn't
lose the notes.

I think this was fixed in PPT 2000 with one of the service packs, but those
of us who have used PPT for a long time have simply developed the habit of
never saving while in Notes Page view.

Also, turn off Allow Fast Saves in Tools/Options.

http://www.rdpslides.com/pptfaq/FAQ00063.htm

Finally, what do you mean by you "saved it to PPT 97"? See, if your client
is using PPT 97, there's no reason to back save. PPT 97 can open files
created with PPT 2000, 2002 (aka PPT XP), and 2003 just fine, as these
versions all share the same file format.

Here's the deal: There *is* no "save as PPT 97" even in existence on your
Save As type dropdown. Look again at that choice, willya? It really says
something like, "Save as PPT 2003-97 AND 95." That **and 95** part is what
kills you, and it simply is not necessary.
http://www.rdpslides.com/pptfaq/FAQ00542.htm

So, you may need to educate your clients a little. Or just tell them you did
save as 97, but in reality just save as a regular presentation (which is the
same thing).

For all I know, that *and 95* part of the save could also affect the issue
with your notes. Plus it usually makes for huge file sizes.

--
Echo [MS PPT MVP]

We have a file that we created in PowerPoint 2004. No 2004 specific
effects or anything, just content on slides. We saved it to PP '97 (at
client's request) and have since been editing in 97. Now if we open the
file, make an edit (doesn't matter to what; notes, slide content, or
changing the BMP on the notes page) the notes for the pages get wiped
out. If we edit one slide only (say #16), then from #17 until the end the
notes get wiped. If we make a global edit (like changing the view and
then saving) we loose all the notes. We have no idea why this is
happening or how to control it. ANY help would be appreciated. Please
forward ideas to the email address. Thanks in advance!

-Phil
(e-mail address removed)
 
We have a file that we created in PowerPoint 2004.
Click to expand...

PowerPoint 2004 is the as-yet unreleased Mac version.
2003, maybe? ;-)
effects or anything, just content on slides. We saved it to PP '97 (at
client's request) and have since been editing in 97. Now if we open the
file, make an edit (doesn't matter to what; notes, slide content, or
changing the BMP on the notes page) the notes for the pages get wiped
out. If we edit one slide only (say #16), then from #17 until the end the
notes get wiped. If we make a global edit (like changing the view and
then saving) we loose all the notes. We have no idea why this is
happening or how to control it. ANY help would be appreciated. Please
forward ideas to the email address.
Click to expand...

Sorry, email defeats the purpose of newsgroups.

For starters, what exactly do you mean by "saved it to PP '97"?
PPT doesn't have that option; it DOES have the ability to save to '95 or to a
hybrid '95 & Current version format, but you don't need either of these to open
the presentation in '97.

So don't do that. Save normally, open in '97, you should be fine. And doing
that might eliminate at least some of your woes.

Next, the early releases of '97 had a tendency to lose notes text, especially
if you saved the presentation while in notes view. If you can still find
service releases on microsoft.com, I'd apply those.

But at the very least, do ALL the stuff outlined here:

Do this before using PowerPoint seriously
http://www.rdpslides.com/pptfaq/FAQ00034.htm

and pay attention to the suggestions here:

Don't do this with PowerPoint. Seriously.
http://www.rdpslides.com/pptfaq/FAQ00511.htm

Between the two, that should clear up your problems.
 
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