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Fix PowerPoint for Mac Option-Drag Not Duplicating Objects
Question details
Users are unable to duplicate objects in PowerPoint for Mac using the traditional Option-drag shortcut due to a recent update changing the default keybinding.
- Product
- PowerPoint for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Trying to quickly duplicate shapes, text boxes, or images while working on a presentation slide.
- Observed behavior
- The Option-drag action no longer duplicates the selected object, disrupting established workflows and reducing productivity for users, particularly those who are left-handed.
Check your PowerPoint for Mac version by clicking 'PowerPoint' in the top menu bar and selecting 'About PowerPoint'. This specific shortcut change applies to version 16.90 and later.
Use the New Control-Drag Shortcut
Adapt to the recent PowerPoint update by using the newly designated keyboard shortcut to duplicate objects.
Starting with PowerPoint for Mac version 16.90, Microsoft changed the default modifier key for duplicating objects from 'Option' to 'Control'.
Click on the shape, text box, or image you want to duplicate on your slide.
Press and hold the 'Control' key on your Mac keyboard. Ensure you are no longer pressing the 'Option' key.
While holding 'Control', click and drag the object to a new position on the slide. A duplicate will be created automatically.
Hold both 'Control' and 'Shift' simultaneously while dragging. This will duplicate the object and keep it perfectly aligned horizontally or vertically with the original.
Submit Feedback to Microsoft
Since shortcuts cannot be natively remapped in PowerPoint for Mac, submitting feedback is the best way to request the return of the Option-drag feature.
Experience Classic Productivity with WPS Office for Mac
Frustrated by sudden interface and shortcut changes in PowerPoint for Mac? Switch to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and user-friendly presentation tool that keeps your workflow consistent and efficient without unexpected disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Microsoft change the Option-drag shortcut in PowerPoint for Mac?
Microsoft periodically updates application shortcuts to align with new features or standardize cross-platform behaviors. However, the exact reason for replacing Option-drag with Control-drag in version 16.90 was not heavily publicized, leading to confusion among long-time Mac users.
Can I remap the Control-drag shortcut back to Option-drag?
Unfortunately, PowerPoint for Mac does not natively support remapping mouse-modifier shortcuts like click-and-drag. You are currently restricted to the default shortcuts designated by the software version you are using.
Does Control-drag duplication work exactly the same way as Option-drag?
Yes, functionally it performs the same action. Holding Control while dragging will instantly duplicate the selected object, just as Option-drag did in previous versions.
How does the shortcut change affect left-handed Mac users?
Many MacBook models do not feature a right Control key. Left-handed users who operate the trackpad or mouse with their left hand must awkwardly reach across the keyboard to hold the left Control key with their right hand, making the new shortcut highly inconvenient.
