A remote control or ‘pickle’ is used by presenters to change presentation slides manually. This allows them to advance slides at their own pace, without having to tell someone else to do it for them. Many presenters feel more comfortable using a pickle remote instead of having to advance slides by using a laptop keyboard. It is also more convenient, and lets you keep talking while a slide changes on the screen.

Why is it Called a Pickle?

You might be wondering why its called a ‘pickle’. Well, it kinda looks like a pickle I suppose.

Remote - Logitech Wireless Presenter R400 -- FreePowerPointTemplates

You Can Also Use Its Laser Pointer

Using a remote has other advantages. For example, most of these remotes have a built-in laser pointer in them. This is pretty handy when you want to point something out without using a mouse pointer. By the way, did you know that a mouse pointer can also be used as a laser pointer in PowerPoint. Read more about how to use it here.

Some Tips on Using a Pickle Remote

Many of these devices use a transmitter that you need to connect to your presentation computer. This means that you need to keep track of two devices. Make sure to store the transmitter carefully or you might lose it. Many of these devices come with their own storage for the USB transmitter.

You don’t need to point the transmitter at the computer or the screen. Your pickle remote will most probably use RF or bluetooth technology. This means that you only need to push a button to make it work. It should work in any direction.

You can also use slide animation effects in combination with the remote. When used together, they can be used to create an illusion of touch activation. Click here to see a video demonstration of this concept.