QUALITY POWERPOINT PRESENTATIONS
1. Avoid using patterned backgrounds because they can reduce readability.
2. Use contrasting colors for text and background. Light text on a dark background is best.
3. Use great-quality images that reinforce and complement your message. Ensure that your image maintains its impact and resolution when projected on a larger screen.
4. Make sure the slides are readable from the back row seats. Text and graphic images should be large enough to read but not so large as to appear “loud.”
5. Have a Plan B in the event of technical difficulties.
6. Practice with someone who has never seen your presentation. Ask them for honest feedback about colors, content, and any effects or graphic images you’ve included.
7. Do not read from your slides. The content of your slides is for the audience, not for you, the presenter.
8. Know your audience.
9. Select a single sans-serif font such as Arial or Helvetica. In addition, avoid serif fonts such as Times New Roman or Palatino because these fonts are sometimes more challenging to read.
10. It is more effective to have bulleted points appear one at a time so the audience listens to the presenter rather than reading the screen
11. Speak comfortably and clearly.
12. BE YOURSELF.
13. SHOW YOUR PASSION for the work your organizations offers to people in need. People can easily sense genuine, heartfelt presentations.
PRESENTATION LIMITATIONS
1. Limit punctuation and avoid putting words in all-capital letters. Empty space on the slide will enhance readability.
2. Limit the number of slides. Presenters who constantly “flip” to the next slide will likely lose their audience. A good rule of thumb is one slide per minute.
3. Simplify and limit the number of words on each slide. Use key phrases and include only essential information.
