How to Fix PowerPoint for Mac Error 53 Caused by MathType
Question details
The user needs to fix Error 53 in PowerPoint for Mac, which occurs when the application cannot locate the MathType MTMacOLEshim file during startup.
- Product
- Microsoft PowerPoint 2021
- Device & OS
- macOS (M1 Mac)
- Scenario
- Launching PowerPoint after updating Office or macOS when an older MathType add-in is still present on the system.
- Observed behavior
- PowerPoint displays Error 53 at startup because it tries to connect to a missing MathType add-in file (MTMacOLEshim).
Ensure you have administrator access to your Mac, as you will need to navigate to hidden Library folders to remove the problematic startup files.
Remove or Update the MathType Add-in
Clear the Error 53 message by removing the outdated MathType add-in files left behind from a previous installation.
Error 53 typically occurs because PowerPoint is attempting to load a legacy MathType integration file (MTMacOLEshim) that is no longer compatible with newer Apple Silicon (M1) Macs or Office 2021. Removing these leftover files from the Office Startup folder will stop PowerPoint from searching for them.
Ensure Microsoft PowerPoint is completely closed before attempting to remove any startup files from your Mac.
Open Finder, click on 'Go' in the top menu bar, hold down the 'Option' key to reveal the hidden 'Library' folder, and click it.
Go to Group Containers > UBF8T346G9.Office > User Content > Startup > PowerPoint.
Locate any files related to MathType in this folder and move them to the Trash.
If you actively use MathType and need it to work, visit the official Wiris documentation to download the latest M1-compatible version or follow their specific removal guide.
Avoid Add-in Errors with WPS Office for Mac
Tired of troubleshooting legacy add-in errors and compatibility issues on your M1 Mac? WPS Office provides a seamless, highly compatible, and lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office. Enjoy a built-in equation editor and flawless presentation design without the hassle of broken third-party plugins.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the installation package designed for Mac.
- 2. Install the Application: Open the downloaded file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder.
- 3. Open Your Presentations: Launch WPS Presentation and easily open your existing .pptx files to continue working error-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Error 53 mean in PowerPoint for Mac?
Error 53 is a run-time error indicating that PowerPoint is trying to load a dynamic link library or add-in (such as MathType's MTMacOLEshim) that cannot be found in the designated startup folder.
Can I still use MathType on an M1 Mac with Office 2021?
Yes, but you need to ensure you have the latest version of MathType that is specifically updated for Apple Silicon and the newest Microsoft Office builds. Contact MathType (Wiris) support to obtain the correct installer.
How do I access the hidden Library folder on macOS?
Open Finder, click on the 'Go' menu at the very top of your screen, and press and hold the 'Option' key. The 'Library' option will magically appear in the dropdown list for you to click and access.
