Presentations
by @anthropics
Type
Instruction
Platforms
Claude CodeClaude.aiAPI
Best for
writerdeveloper
Resources
Presentations
Create, read, edit, combine, and split slide decks and presentations (.pptx)
How it works
PPTX Skill
Quick Reference
| Task | Guide |
|---|---|
| Read/analyze content | python -m markitdown presentation.pptx |
| Edit or create from template | Read editing.md |
| Create from scratch | Read pptxgenjs.md |
Reading Content
# Text extraction
python -m markitdown presentation.pptx
# Visual overview
python scripts/thumbnail.py presentation.pptx
# Raw XML
python scripts/office/unpack.py presentation.pptx unpacked/
Editing Workflow
Read editing.md for full details.
- Analyze template with
thumbnail.py - Unpack → manipulate slides → edit content → clean → pack
Creating from Scratch
Read pptxgenjs.md for full details.
Use when no template or reference presentation is available.
Design Ideas
Don't create boring slides. Plain bullets on a white background won't impress anyone. Consider ideas from this list for each slide.
Before Starting
- Pick a bold, content-informed color palette: The palette should feel designed for THIS topic. If swapping your colors into a completely different presentation would still "work," you haven't made specific enough choices.
- Dominance over equality: One color should dominate (60-70% visual weight), with 1-2 supporting tones and one sharp accent. Never give all colors equal weight.
- Dark/light contrast: Dark backgrounds for title + conclusion slides, light for content ("sandwich" structure). Or commit to dark throughout for a premium feel.
- Commit to a visual motif: Pick ONE distinctive element and repeat it — rounded image frames, icons in colored circles, thick single-side borders. Carry it across every slide.
Color Palettes
Choose colors that match your topic — don't default to generic blue. Use these palettes as inspiration:
| Theme | Primary | Secondary | Accent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midnight Executive | 1E2761 (navy) | `CADC... |