How do I get out of "read only" mode in PowerPoint?

If a PowerPoint file opens as read-only, you may not be able to save changes to the original file. This can happen because the file is marked as read-only in Windows or because editing restrictions were turned on in PowerPoint.

Resolution

Try Method 1 first. If the file is still opening as read-only, continue to Method 2.

Method 1: Remove the Read-Only File Setting

Use this method if the file is marked as read-only in Windows.

1.      Right-click the PowerPoint file, then select Properties.

2.      On the General tab, find the Attributes section.

3.      Clear the Read-only checkbox.

4.      Select Apply, then select OK.

5.      Reopen the file and confirm that you can edit and save changes.

Method 2: Turn Off Read-Only Mode in PowerPoint

Use this method if the presentation was set to always open as read-only from within PowerPoint.

1.      Open the PowerPoint file.

2.      Select File, then select Info.

3.      Select Protect Presentation.

4.      If Always Open Read-Only is selected, select it again to turn it off.

5.      Save the file, close it, and reopen it to confirm the read-only setting has been removed.