How to Open PowerPoint File Using PowerShell

Tagged: PowerShell

Introduction#

Having ability to open PowerPoint file such as ppt or pptx from PowerShell is extremely useful. It can save your time and energy by allowing you to automate opening the file so we can avoid repetitive tasks.

In this article, we’ll walk through how to use PowerShell commands to open PowerPoint file.

Solution#

Using Start-Process#

Once you are in PowerShell environment, you can type in Start-Process followed by the path of your PowerPoint file.

In this case, we are going to open the file that is physically located at C:\Presentation\Presentation1.pptx, you would type following script into PowerShell.

Start-Process 'C:\Presentation\Presentation1.pptx'

The Start-Process command will launch the file immediately.

Using Invoke-Item#

Another useful command is Invoke-Item which can also be used to open specific file. To use this command, simply enter it followed by the path of the file.

Invoke-Item 'C:\Presentation\Presentation1.pptx'

This will automatically launch the file.

Using Call Operator (&)#

Call Operator & can also be used to open the file. The pattern is the same with previous example where the operator must be followed by the path of PowerPoint file.

& 'C:\Presentation\Presentation1.pptx'

Conclusion#

Using Windows PowerShell commands makes opening PowerPoint file incredibly easy and efficient, just remember we can use Start-Process, Invoke-Item or Call Operator & command to open the application.