Easily Resolve Powerpoint Slides Deleted After in OneDrive

This guide walks you through file corruption & recovery using Microsoft-supported steps first, with WPS only where it genuinely helps.

Problem Description: Powerpoint Slides Deleted After

I am using OneDrive Version 25.224.1116.0003 (standalone) (Apple silicon) (15.6.0) on my MacBook with Sequoia 15.6. Every time I open a PowerPoint-File from OneDrive with PowerPoint Version 16.105 (26011018), the file is completely emptied, and it just shows "Click to add Slide". If I close the file (even without saving), it shows it to be just a couple of KBs in size, even if before it was several MB. How do I fix this? I am logged into PowerPoint with the same account as in OneDrive. I also have sufficient storage in OneDrive. I do not see how this should be possible. The problem doesn't arise if I open the PowerPoint-File in the browser, and click "Open in Desktop Version" from there.

Quick Answer for Resolving File Corruption

This issue likely occurs due to an interaction between OneDrive and PowerPoint on macOS, where Files On-Demand may cause PowerPoint to open a file before fully downloading, leading to overwriting with an empty version that syncs back.

Likely Causes Behind File Corruption & Recovery

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger file corruption & recovery.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Restoring OneDrive After Errors

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. As a precaution, disable Files On-Demand or ensure files are fully downloaded before opening.

2. Open files from OneDrive in the browser and select 'Open in Desktop Version' to avoid the issue.

3. Contact Microsoft support for data recovery options.

Alternative Solutions for When OneDrive Still Fails

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: WPS Office for Local Document Work

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Safer Document Habits

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Work on copies and keep version history enabled when available.

FAQs About Common File Corruption Answers

Can WPS Office fix this file corruption & recovery issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall OneDrive before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.