Microsoft Office Specialist: PowerPoint

The Microsoft Office Specialist: PowerPoint Associate (Office 2016) exam is designed to validate the foundational skills and knowledge of individuals working with Microsoft PowerPoint 2016, a leading presentation application in the business communication and training industry. This certification demonstrates a candidate’s ability to leverage PowerPoint’s key features—such as creating and managing presentations; inserting and formatting text, shapes, images, tables, charts, SmartArt, and media; and applying transitions and animations—to produce professional‐grade slide decks for sales pitches, employee training, instructional materials, and kiosk presentations.

The exam focuses on critical aspects of PowerPoint that drive effective storytelling and audience engagement, including:

• Creating and managing presentations
• Inserting and formatting text, shapes, and images
• Inserting tables, charts, SmartArt, and multimedia
• Applying transitions and animations
• Managing multiple presentations and delivery modes

Candidates are evaluated through performance-based tasks in a 50-minute, proctored, closed-book exam with interactive components that mirror real-world workflows—ensuring certified professionals can efficiently produce polished presentations under time constraints.

Preparing for the MOS PowerPoint Associate exam requires a solid foundation in core PowerPoint functionality plus extensive hands-on practice with its primary tools. Studying key workflows—such as building and reusing custom slide layouts, embedding and formatting multimedia, configuring Slide Masters and themes, applying transitions and animations, and using Presenter View—will help candidates succeed. Earning this certification not only showcases essential presentation skills but also reflects a commitment to professional excellence in today’s communication-driven workplace. Review the full exam objectives and download the skills outline here