POWERPOINT

GUIDELINES

a. Font size

All slides must be readable, even at the back of the room. The content text should not be smaller than 24 point.

b. Limit bullet points & text

Use the PowerPoint to enhance the presentation, not be the presentation. Avoid trying to fit all of the information from the speaker notes onto the slide. Some of the best PowerPoint slides are useless without the speaker. Slides should only list key terms and essential information.

c. Limit transitions or animations and avoid background images or too many images

Use no more than 1-2 transition effects or animations in a PowerPoint presentation. They can become distracting and detract from the message being presented.

d. Limit use of too many images or icons on slides and avoid busy background images

Use no more than 1-2 images or icons per slide and avoid using busy background images. These can become distracting and detract from the message being presented. Select only key images/icons.

e. Use high-quality graphics

Avoid using distorted, grainy, or pixelated images or graphics. Reference Iconography (pg 10) and Photos (pg 11) for more details.

f. Use project specific PowerPoints (when available)

When giving a presentation, use PowerPoints specifically designed for the project when available. If there is no option for the project then use the general PPC PowerPoint. In the absence of a template, reach out to the design staff for their input on the design and layout of the slides.

g. Proofing & Polishing

Be sure to leave time for proofing all slides prior to presenting. This includes checking for grammatical errors, readability/contrast issues, image quality, design/layout issues, and the overall appearance of the slides.