Slide Rules
The big idea of any PowerPoint presentation is that is should be simple and clear.

Here are some ways  to make sure you have a simple presentation:

  1. Use as little text as possible
  2. Use as few slides as possible
  3. Use large type (at least 30 pt.)
  4. Do not use bullet points
  5. Use stock images, not clip art
  6. Use simple graphics

Examples
Check out the following versions of a statistic slide.  Notice what works in a slide.
Picture
Bad
  • Too many words
  • Boring clip art
  • Picture has no connection to statistic

Picture
Still Bad
  • Boring background
  • Chart is hard to read

Picture
Great
  • Few words
  • Clear chart
  • Relevant background
  • No clip art

Picture
Great
  • Few words
  • Important info is highlighted
  • Relevant background

Picture
Great
  • Even fewer words
  • Important info is highlighted
  • Relevant background

Picture
Great
  • Few words
  • Relevant background

Images taken from here.

Charts and Graphs
Picture
Use ChartGo to create any graphs you might need.

Picture
Kidz Zone Create A Graph is easier to use, but the graphs don't look quite as nice. 

Picture
If you have enough data, you can use Easelly to create awesome looking info graphics.


Don't be a Bozo
Finally, check out this video on how to give a good presentation using PowerPoint.  Make sure to pay special attention to the second half of the video, which is all about how not to be a bozo.

Note that we will be speaking for 5 minutes and have about 7 slides.  (Not 10 slides and 20 minutes.)  The bozo stuff you still need to listen to, though. :)
Zari
12/5/2012 08:36:08 am

Thank-you Mr. Swedberg. It helps a lot ;-) What is a bozo?


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