Office Settings & Configuration

How to Change the Pen Pointer Shape in PowerPoint

Maira Mehtab Oct 10, 2026 872 views

Question details

The user wants to replace the default dot-shaped pointer with a pen-shaped pointer while drawing on slides.

How to Change the Pen Pointer Shape in PowerPoint

Product: Microsoft PowerPoint
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Drawing with a graphics tablet outside of Slide Show mode.
Observed behavior: The pointer remains a small dot and there is no built-in option to customize its shape into a pen.

Before you start

Check your graphics tablet control panel (e.g., Wacom or Huion settings) to ensure your device drivers are fully updated, as some tablets offer custom cursor overlays.

Solution 1Recommended

Understand PowerPoint's Current Pointer Limitations

Currently, Microsoft PowerPoint does not support changing the pointer shape while drawing in the standard edit mode.

When using a graphics tablet to draw or write outside of Slide Show mode, PowerPoint strictly defaults to a dot-shaped pointer. There is no hidden or built-in setting within the application's user interface to change this cursor into a pen shape.

Verify your current mode

Confirm whether you are in the standard editing view or Slide Show mode, as pointer customization options differ drastically between the two.

Explore Windows cursor settings (Optional)

Navigate to Windows Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mouse > Additional mouse settings > Pointers. While you can change the system-wide cursor, it usually will not override PowerPoint's dedicated inking dot.

Understand PowerPoint's Current Pointer Limitations

Slide Show Mode: If you are presenting in Slide Show mode, you can right-click the screen and choose 'Pointer Options' to switch between a Laser Pointer, Pen, or Highlighter.

Solution 2

Submit a Feature Request to Microsoft

Since the feature is currently missing, you can formally request Microsoft to add custom pen pointers in future software updates.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Presentation for Your Slide Creation Needs

If you are frustrated by customization limitations in Microsoft PowerPoint, WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and highly capable alternative. Enjoy seamless presentation editing with an intuitive interface and reliable drawing tools.

1. Download and install: Download WPS Office for free from the official website and complete the installation.
2. Open your presentation: Launch WPS Presentation and open your existing PowerPoint files without losing any formatting.
3. Access drawing tools: Navigate to the 'Insert' or 'Tools' tabs to utilize various annotation tools for your presentation.

Fully compatible with Microsoft PowerPoint formats (.ppt, .pptx).Free, lightweight, and fast to launch on Windows, Mac, and Linux.Built-in drawing and annotation tools that work smoothly with graphics tablets.Familiar ribbon-style interface that requires no learning curve to master.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the pen color or thickness while drawing in PowerPoint?

Yes. In the Draw tab on the ribbon, you can select different pen types. Click on your selected pen again to open the drop-down menu where you can adjust both the ink color and the line thickness.

Does the cursor change when presenting in Slide Show mode?

Yes. When you are presenting in Slide Show mode, you can change the standard mouse pointer to a laser pointer, pen, or highlighter. Simply right-click the presentation screen, hover over 'Pointer Options', and select your desired tool.

Can third-party software change the PowerPoint pen cursor?

Some advanced graphics tablet driver applications or third-party cursor utilities can override basic system cursors. However, Microsoft Office's dedicated inking cursor (the small dot) is generally hard-coded into the application and resists being changed by external software.

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