How To Change the Presentation Background in Keynote Difficulty - Easy Step 1 - Open the "Document Format" Menu Select the paint brush in the top right of your screen to change the formatting.  Make sure no other items are selected when opening the menu. Step 2 - Select "Background Settings" In the menu just opened, select "Background". Step 3 - Select a New Background Select a mode for your background (Standard or Dynamic) and select your desired background. Dynamic backgrounds change throughout the presentation.