What is the proper way to add a background pattern to a slide?

Adding a background pattern to a slide is most effectively accomplished by selecting a pattern within the Format Background options. This method allows for a more refined control over the background design and ensures consistency across your slides if you choose to apply the same pattern to multiple slides. The Format Background feature provides various options for patterns, colors, and textures that enhance the overall aesthetic of the presentation.

Using the other methods listed, such as dragging an image onto the slide, while it may visually change the background, does not provide the structured format and customizable options that the Format Background feature offers. Accessing the clip art gallery for backgrounds might not yield specific pattern options, as clip art is primarily for images rather than structured backgrounds. Selecting a color fill option in the Design menu allows only for color changes and does not incorporate patterns, which are typically more textured and visually complex.

Thus, using the appropriate option ensures that your slide backgrounds are not only visually appealing but also aligned with presentation best practices.