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Fix Shift+Option Drag Not Duplicating Objects in PowerPoint Mac 16.90
Question details
Users are unable to duplicate objects using the traditional Shift+Option+drag keyboard shortcut after updating PowerPoint for Mac to version 16.90.
- Product
- Microsoft PowerPoint for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS Sequoia 15.0.1
- Scenario
- Attempting to quickly duplicate a shape, image, or text box on a slide by holding keyboard modifiers while dragging the object with the mouse.
- Observed behavior
- The Shift+Option+drag shortcut fails to duplicate the object in version 16.90, despite functioning correctly in previous versions such as 16.89.
Verify your current PowerPoint version by opening the app and clicking 'PowerPoint' > 'About Microsoft PowerPoint' in the top Apple menu bar to confirm you are on version 16.90.
Use the Updated Control + Drag Shortcut
Microsoft appears to have changed the default keybinding for object duplication in version 16.90. You can now use the Control key instead.
According to current PowerPoint for Mac behavior on version 16.90, the Option key modifier has been replaced by the Control key for dragging and duplicating objects.
Click on the shape, image, or text box you want to duplicate on your PowerPoint slide.
Press and hold the 'Control' key on your Mac keyboard.
While holding Control, click and drag the object to a new position. Release the mouse click to drop the duplicated object.
Use the Fn + Control + Drag Combination
If the standard Control+drag does not work due to specific Mac keyboard settings, adding the Function (Fn) key often resolves the issue.
Temporarily Downgrade to PowerPoint Version 16.89
If the new shortcut disrupts your muscle memory and workflow, you can revert to the older version where Option+drag still functions properly.
Experience Hassle-Free Presentations with WPS Office for Mac
Tired of sudden shortcut changes and limitations in PowerPoint for Mac? WPS Office offers a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative with familiar keyboard shortcuts, ensuring your presentation workflow remains fast and uninterrupted.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free Mac installation package.
- 2. Install the Application: Open the downloaded file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Mac's Applications folder.
- 3. Open Your Presentations: Launch WPS Presentation and open your existing .pptx files to continue working with reliable shortcuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize built-in keyboard shortcuts in PowerPoint for Mac?
No, built-in keyboard shortcuts in PowerPoint for Mac cannot be customized or remapped natively within the application. If a shortcut behavior changes after an update, you must either adapt to the new shortcut or use macOS system settings/third-party tools to remap keys.
Is there another way to quickly duplicate objects without dragging?
Yes. You can select the object and press Command+D on your Mac keyboard to instantly duplicate it. Alternatively, use the standard Command+C to copy and Command+V to paste.
How do I stop PowerPoint for Mac from automatically updating?
To disable automatic updates, open PowerPoint (or any Office app), navigate to the top menu bar, and select Help > Check for Updates. In the Microsoft AutoUpdate window, uncheck the box that says 'Automatically keep Microsoft Apps up to date'.
Why did the duplicate shortcut change in version 16.90?
Microsoft frequently updates Office applications to streamline features or align Mac shortcuts more closely with Windows counterparts. The shift from Option to Control for object duplication in version 16.90 reflects these ongoing developmental adjustments.
