Whether presentations form a regular or occasional part of your life, take a look at Microsoft PowerPoint, which is a truly excellent presentation tool.

Biggest isn't always best, but in this case, kudos has to go to Microsoft for developing a tool that is both hugely comprehensive and very user-friendly. Microsoft PowerPoint features the ubiquitous 2010 ribbon interface, which makes it very easy to navigate and use. The interface is totally customizable, and as you click on the different elements of your presentation the appropriate set of editing tools appear.

Microsoft PowerPoint features all the editing tools you would expect of an Office product, as well as an impressive selection of presentation-specific options, such as transitions and animations. You can also add and edit a variety of other non-text elements, such as images, video, audio, hypertext and graphs. Where possible, Microsoft PowerPoint also supports drag and drop, making adding information and interesting elements to your presentation especially easy.

From a preparation point of view, Microsoft PowerPoint also excels. Under the file tab you'll find a document summary, including all the information - and tools to modify - non-presentation elements, such as security, compression and sharing and co-authoring options. The program includes functions for rehearsing your presentations to the minutest detail, while you can also record it to watch as a video. SharePoint is supported, and you can access a web version of your presentation via Windows Live.

All in all, Microsoft PowerPoint is an impressive product. User-friendly enough for everyone, but with the advanced features needed to produce really professional presentations, it's hard to think of a situation where Microsoft PowerPoint would not be a great option for users.

Microsoft PowerPoint is a great example of an excellent piece of software. Your presentations will never be the same again!