For Power Point Presentations

• Limit content and avoid making slides too busy.
  • Limit topics to one per slide.
  • Have a maximum of 3-5 one-line bullets on a slide.
  • Avoid having more than 50 words on a slide (use key words that will trigger/reinforce discussion).
  • Limit total number of slides to maximum of 50% number of minutes of presentation.
    
    
• Make content large enough to be clearly seen in the back of the room.
  • Use 32-point for text and 40-point for headings.
    
    
• Keep it simple and consistent.
  • Use all caps for headings only.
  • Avoid using too many different colors, fonts, forms of emphasis.
  • In general, make background, fonts, sizes, transitions, etc. consistent throughout.
  • Avoid overuse of animation, sounds, video, and other "bells and whistles." Ensure that they contribute to rather than distract from your message.
    
    
• Use colors effectively.
  • Avoid very bright colors and nerve-jarring color combinations.
    o Use dark colors on a light background or light colors on a dark background.
    
    
• Use pictures and graphics to best advantage.
  • Avoid cluttering the slide with too many graphics (preferably 1 picture/table/graph per slide).
  • Use graphics to emphasize/reinforce a point, or to replace text.
  • Ensure that graphic has a purpose and an obvious connection to text/discussion, and that it contributes to the achievement of your objectives.
    
    
• Proofread to ensure accuracy of content and grammar, spelling, punctuation.
  
  
• Become adept at using the equipment. Set up and test before the presentation.



• Be ready to deal with any equipment malfunction; have alternate plans ready in the event you cannot present the media as planned.