Change PowerPoint units from inches to centimeters and vice versa
PowerPoint
2016
PowerPoint is using local Windows settings to show grid spacing, figure sizes, etc. This can be an issue if
you prepare the presentation for different or multiple locales. Fortunately, you can temporarily change the
measurement units if you have strict style guide requirements.
When you work with PowerPoint rulers or gridlines, you can see different units:
![Grid and Guides inches PowerPoint 2016 Grid and Guides inches in PowerPoint 2016](/images/tips/388_2016/1.png)
![Grid and Guides centimeters PowerPoint 2016 Grid and Guides centimeters in PowerPoint 2016](/images/tips/388_2016/2.png)
Or when you format any picture, shape, etc.:
![Size group inches PowerPoint 2016 Size group inches in PowerPoint 2016](/images/tips/388_2016/3.png)
![Size group centimeters PowerPoint 2016 Size group centimeters in PowerPoint 2016](/images/tips/388_2016/4.png)
If you need to change measurement units, you need to make changes in Control Panel in your Windows system. See how to change measurement settings from inches to centimeters and vice versa.
Note: PowerPoint should be restarted to use new measurement settings.
See also this tip in French: Comment changer les unités PowerPoint de pouces en centimètres et vice versa.