Office Compatibility Issues

Fix PowerPoint Presenter View Not Working with Rehearse Timings

Jason MillerJason Miller Oct 29, 2026 868 views

Question details

Users are unable to use PowerPoint Presenter View concurrently with the Rehearse Timings or Rehearse with Coach features.

How to Fix PowerPoint Presenter View Not Working with Rehearse Timings or Coach
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.
Before you start

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.

Solution 1Recommended

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.

1
Navigate to the Feedback Menu

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.

2
Initiate a Feature Suggestion

Click on the 'Send a Frown' or 'I Don't Like Something' option, depending on your specific version of Office.

3
Describe and Submit the Issue

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.

Report the Compatibility Limitation to Microsoft
Response Time: Your suggestion goes directly to the PowerPoint product team. While they review all feedback, you may not receive a personalized reply regarding your submission.
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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.