I recently had to restore my laptop, completely re-installing windows 7 and office 2010.  Now, powerpoint will not allow me to enter text on the slides.  It will allow the insertion of objects, pictures, etc. but upon attempt to edit or enter text, it locks up and shuts down entirely.

I am afraid to try to reinstall / repair office entirely as I don't want to lose all my outlook settings.  What is the best way to solve this? 

HI,

First, try to repair Office to check the issue.

Of repairing cannot solve the issue, then try to start PowerPoint in safe mode to check whether the issue is caused by some add-ins.