How to Put M4A Files in PowerPoint
By Christina Shaffer
Whether you’re a student or a professional, using sound in one or more PowerPoint slides can produce a more vivid, interactive presentation for your intended audience. PowerPoint 2010, however, is not compatible with M4A files and accepts only a handful of audio formats, including MP3, WMA and WAV. To use your preferred songs in the presentation, use a free Web-based conversion service to convert the M4A files to a compatible audio format.
Convert M4A File
Navigate to a file conversion site, such as Convert Files, Free File Converter or Online Audio Converter (links in Resources).
Click the “Browse” button and upload your preferred M4A file.
Select an output format, such as MP3, WMA or WAV, from the Output Format drop-down menu. Depending on the service you use, you may also have the option to select an audio quality. Select a high-quality bitrate, such as 192kbps or 256kbps.
Click the “Convert” button. When the process is complete, a download link displays on the page.
Click the download link and save the file to your PC.
Import to PowerPoint
Open your PowerPoint presentation and navigate to the slide on which you want to include music.
Click the “Audio” button on the Insert toolbar and select the “Audio from File” option from the drop-down list. Choose the audio file you created online and click the “Insert” button.
Click and drag the inserted audio file to the location you need on the slide. Preview the song by clicking the “Play” button.
References
Resources
Writer Bio
Christina Shaffer is a freelance writer based in New Jersey and has been writing arts and entertainment articles since 2005. Her articles have appeared in "Philadelphia City Paper." Shaffer received a B.A. in journalism and gender studies at Rutgers University.