Fix PowerPoint Presenter View Not Working with Rehearse Timings
Question details
Users are unable to use PowerPoint Presenter View concurrently with the Rehearse Timings or Rehearse with Coach features.

- Product
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- A presenter is trying to practice their slideshow using Rehearse Timings or Speaker Coach while simultaneously reading speaker notes in Presenter View.
- Observed behavior
- Presenter View fails to display or activate alongside the rehearsal features, forcing the user to choose between using the Coach/Timings tool or viewing their presenter notes.
Ensure your Microsoft Office application is updated to the latest version, as Microsoft occasionally releases feature patches, though this specific limitation may persist by design in current builds.
Report the Compatibility Limitation to Microsoft
Since this is a known compatibility limitation within PowerPoint, the most effective action is to submit direct feedback to Microsoft so their development team can prioritize a fix.
Microsoft relies on user telemetry and direct feedback to determine which features to update. By sending a detailed report, you help escalate the demand for full compatibility between Presenter View and Rehearsal features.
Launch Microsoft PowerPoint, open any presentation, click on the 'File' tab in the top-left corner, and select 'Feedback' from the bottom of the left-hand menu.
Click on the 'Send a Frown' or 'I Don't Like Something' option, depending on your specific version of Office.
In the text box provided, explain that Presenter View does not work when using Rehearse Timings or Rehearse with Coach. Mention how this impacts your workflow, and click 'Submit' to send it to the development team.

Use Standard Slide Show Mode as a Workaround
Until Microsoft resolves the compatibility conflict, you can modify your rehearsal workflow by disabling Presenter View during your coaching sessions.
Try WPS Presentation for Seamless Slideshow Management
Struggling with feature limitations and compatibility conflicts in Microsoft PowerPoint? WPS Office offers a free, robust alternative for your presentation needs. Enjoy a lightweight interface, powerful slideshow features, and seamless document transition without paying expensive subscriptions.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free software suite for your operating system.
- 2. Open Your Presentation: Launch WPS Presentation and open your existing .pptx files seamlessly without losing your formatting.
- 3. Explore Slide Show Tools: Navigate to the Slide Show tab to utilize WPS Presentation's built-in rehearsal and presenter tools for an optimal practice session.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Presenter View close when I click Rehearse with Coach?
In current versions of Microsoft PowerPoint, Rehearse with Coach and Presenter View are not fully compatible to run simultaneously. Activating the coach feature will default your screen to the standard presentation mode.
Can I use dual monitors to bypass the Rehearse Timings limitation?
Even with dual monitors connected, initiating Rehearse Timings or Coach often overrides the standard dual-screen Presenter View behavior. You may still need to rely on alternative note-viewing methods like printing your notes.
Is there a built-in toggle to force Presenter View during a rehearsal?
Currently, there is no built-in toggle or hidden setting to force Presenter View while Rehearse with Coach is active. Users are strongly encouraged to submit feedback to Microsoft via the File menu to request this capability in future updates.




