How PowerPoint handles graphics differently than word

Word uses a single layer for all objects by default. That means, in Word, inserted graphics push text out of the way. It is like placing a stone in a pan of water. The water moves out of the way to make room for the stone. Word allows users to set text to wrap around objects like graphics in a variety of ways.

PowerPoint uses multiple layers by default. That means that in PowerPoint, each object (text box or graphic) is like a playing card on a table. The objects must sit side-by-side to be fully visible. If objects overlap, one will be behind the other. PowerPoint text does not wrap around graphics. The designer manually reshapes text boxes to sit beside graphics.

Example of text object
arranged beside graphic object

Example of text object behind graphic object	Example of graphic object behind text object	Example of two graphics overlapped

 

In order to shuffle overlapping objects, you need to use the Order menu, found inside the Draw menu, found on the Drawing... toolbar, which should be at the bottom of your PowerPoint screen.

If you don't have a Draw option, it could be that your Drawing Toolbar is not open. Open the Drawing... toolbar by selecting from the top text menu:
View > Toolbars >Drawing...

Note: Word has a layers option. It is just not the default setting when graphics are inserted. To use layers in Word to overlap words and/or graphics, double click on any graphic to open the Format Picture window. Select the Layout Tab and chose Behind Text or In Front of Text.