Using Slides Effectively | Visual Aids and Technology Tutorial

Effective Public Speaking: Visual Aids & Technology - Using Slides Effectively

Slides are aids, not the speech. They support your message, they don't deliver it. You are the presenter, the slides are a visual reinforcement.
Focus on audience understanding. Slides should clarify complex ideas, illustrate points, and enhance retention.
Avoid reading your slides. This disengages the audience and undermines your credibility. They can read faster than you can!
Think of slides as billboards. Quick, impactful, and easily digestible.

The 6x6 Rule (a guideline): No more than 6 lines of text per slide, and no more than 6 words per line. Adapt as needed, but prioritize brevity.
Key Phrases, Not Sentences: Use keywords and phrases to trigger your memory and guide your explanation.
One Idea Per Slide: Avoid cramming multiple concepts onto a single slide. This leads to confusion.
Data Visualization:
- Charts & Graphs: Choose the right chart type for your data (bar, pie, line, etc.). Label clearly!
- Simplify Complex Data: Highlight key takeaways. Don't present raw data dumps.
- Tell a Story with Your Data: Explain the meaning of the data, not just the numbers.
Images & Visuals:
- High-Quality Images: Use professional, relevant images. Avoid pixelated or cheesy stock photos.
- Visual Metaphors: Images can powerfully illustrate abstract concepts.
- Image Copyright: Ensure you have the rights to use any images. (Creative Commons, purchased licenses, etc.)
Avoid:
- Large blocks of text.
- Excessive animation/transitions (see section IV).
- Clutter.
- Irrelevant images.

Color Scheme:
- Contrast: Ensure sufficient contrast between text and background. (Dark text on light background is generally best).
- Limited Palette: Stick to 2-3 complementary colors. Avoid jarring combinations.
- Accessibility: Consider colorblindness. Avoid relying solely on color to convey information.
Font Choice:
- Readability: Use clear, sans-serif fonts (e.g., Arial, Helvetica, Calibri) for body text.
- Font Size: Ensure text is large enough to be read from the back of the room. (Minimum 24pt for headings, 18pt for body text).
- Consistency: Use the same fonts throughout your presentation.
Layout:
- White Space: Use white space (negative space) to create visual breathing room.
- Alignment: Align elements consistently for a clean, professional look.
- Visual Hierarchy: Use size, color, and placement to guide the viewer's eye.
Branding: If appropriate, incorporate your organization's logo and branding guidelines.

Software Options: PowerPoint, Google Slides, Keynote, Prezi (consider audience familiarity).
Animation & Transitions:
- Subtlety is Key: Use animations and transitions sparingly. They should enhance, not distract.
- Purposeful Animation: Use animation to reveal information gradually or emphasize a point.
- Avoid Distracting Effects: Spinning, flying, or overly elaborate transitions are generally unprofessional.
Remote Control/Presenter View: Practice using a remote control or presenter view to navigate slides smoothly.
Backup Plan: Always have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties (e.g., a PDF version of your slides, printed handouts).
Practice with the Technology: Familiarize yourself with the equipment and software before your presentation.
Don't Turn Your Back: Maintain eye contact with the audience as much as possible. Use presenter view to see your notes without turning away.
Timing: Pace yourself and ensure your slides align with your speaking time.

Alt Text for Images: Add alternative text descriptions to images for visually impaired audience members using screen readers.
Sufficient Contrast: As mentioned before, crucial for those with low vision.
Clear and Concise Language: Avoid jargon and complex sentence structures.
Captions for Videos: Provide captions for any videos included in your presentation.
Large Font Sizes: Helpful for everyone, especially those with visual impairments.