Creating an Engaging Presentation

Creating an Engaging presentation

Creating PowerPoint (or other presentation software) slides is an art and it is important to make your presentation slides "catching" so your viewers stay engaged throughout the whole presentation. As you design slides, consider these factors (also see Style for Students).

• Use Images, Not Text: Keep your slide simple by using graphics, videos, figures, and maps instead of text. This also allows you to create an engaging narrative instead of relying on slide text. You can use images when presenting data, demonstrating trends, simplifying complex issues, and visualizing concepts/ideas.
• Simple: Keep your slides as simple as possible. If you have complex slides, use transitions and animations to direct your viewer's eye to focus on the point being emphasized
• Titles: Generally, it is recommended to avoid using titles, since the large font size directs the user's eyes from the primary content of the slide. However, there are several ways to guide your research through the sections of your slides with titles.
  1. Don't use titles, but explain each slide appropriately.
  2. Create a "work plan" at the bottom and highlight each section as you move through each slide (e.g. Background > METHODS Results).
• Rule of 4s: If you are using text, only include bullet points. The rule of 4 says to include no more than 4 works per line and no more than 4 lines per slide.
  • Bullets: If you use bullet points, consider adding animation/transitions so each point appears as you discuss it, to keep your audience engaged
• Color: Make sure the colors are readable, particularly based on the background color you choose (light background, use dark text and/or dark borders around images if necessary)
• Proofread: Make sure you don't have any spelling errors!

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