How to make (and use) Visual Aids for Presentations

*Note: I am going to use the term “slideshow”, but you can use any software you want – MS PowerPoint, Google Slides, Prezi, Apple Keynote, or something else completely! 

There are three main philosophies for how we should make/use slideshows:

#1: “Death by PowerPoint”

#2: Carefully-used slideshows

#3: Minimalist/modern approach

(This is a big deal.)

*Note: “Death by PowerPoint” is a well-known concept, but the other two names are ones I made up to describe well-known concepts that don’t have names yet.

#1: “Death by PowerPoint”

• This is a sarcastic nickname given to any slideshow that uses too much content and not enough images and/or design.
• Slideshows that are too long, have too many slides, do not involve or engage the audience, or are presented in a boring way.

3 Philosophies of Slideshows

#2: Carefully-used slideshows

• Slightly better than “Death by PPT”, this is a slideshow that is still fairly traditional BUT uses less text and better design/ images.
• Prezi can fall into this category when used well.
• This is a good starting point to break stereotypes about PowerPoint!

3 Philosophies of Slideshows

#3: Minimalist/modern approach

• As many images as possible, OR as little text as possible on one screen.
• The goal is that the slides SUPPORT a specific point you’re making, but do not contain all of the text FOR you. (You’re still responsible for verbally stating the message!)

3 Philosophies of Slideshows

What to do WITH your slideshow

• Don’t turn your back on your audience.
• Memorize your content OR make note cards.
• Practice flipping through the presentation, while standing.

Using it correctly

You made one. Now what?

Top 3 Things to Remember

• Slides with memorable, appealing images
• Simplicity and engagement are valued today
• Use it effectively with your clicker & body

What you SHOULD do

Image source

Top 3 Things to Avoid

• Too much text, including outlining/bullet points – it’s a sign that the slide is doing the work FOR you.
• Relying on the screen (or reading directly off of it instead of speaking to the crowd)
• Distracting, flashing, or illegible designs

What you should NOT do

A final note…

If the presenter is monotone,

didn’t practice,

does distracting fidgeting, goes too slowly,

or is a weak presenter for another reason,

the visual aid can’t completely save him/her.

You are still responsible for pulling off a great presentation!

Practice, confidence, and professionalism still matter.

The visual aid is only as good as the person using it.