PowerPoint: Beginner Level Pointers

Mrs. L. Paschitti

Color & Design

• Use a dark background with light text for presentations on computer screens

• Use a light background with dark text for presentations on an overhead

• Use colors that contrast

Typography

• For headings San Serif fonts are easier to read, Verdana or Ariel

• All CAPS is difficult to read; combining upper and lower case is easier to read

• Limit text slides to 6 bullets or less on a slide

• Try not to use a font size smaller than 24 (default is 32)

Graphics

• Sources for graphics include: clip art; scanned images, and images from the Web

Animation

• Should be used sparingly and for a purpose

• Should be used to demonstrate an idea to your audience

• Too many effects are distracting and take your audience's attention away from the presentation

Spell Check

• Always proofread and check the spelling of your presentation

Keys to a good presentation

• Focus on your presentation content, not the PowerPoint software

• Put your slides in a clear, logical order• Be consistent throughout your presentation in

terms of typography, graphics, design and colors• Minimize clutter• Test your presentation• Always save frequently while creating your

presentation

Books & Websites with Tips

• Beyond Bullet Points: Using Microsoft PowerPoint to create presentations that inform, motivate, and inspire, by Cliff Atkinson

• The Cognitive Style of PowerPoint, by Edward R. Tufte