3 Tips on Creating a Successful Powerpoint Presentation

Avoid paragraph blocks.

Having long paragraphs in slides of your presentation can cause confusion and laziness from your listeners. Not only can it overwhelm your audience, it can bore them as well!

Utilize bullet points and concise statements. These statements can be broad headings such as, “How to Network”. Your listeners can simply copy and paste paragraphs of your Powerpoint and learn nothing, but, if you utilize bullet points, they tend to be more attentive and alert throughout your presentation. Simplicity is key in a clear, effective Powerpoint.

Get Visual!

Be sure to recognize who your audience will be and add in visuals that appeal to them. For example, high school students may be more attentive if the Powerpoint has interesting photos and videos. On the other hand, business Powerpoints are more effective if there are charts, graphs, and images that clearly illustrate your statements.

Part of creating a visually appealing Powerpoint requires organization. Always organize your points, headings, fonts, colors, and slide themes. When small organizational mistakes are made, it can distract your audience.

Know your audience.

What does my audience want to see in my presentation (Numbers? Data points? Photographs?)?  How in depth should my presentation actually be? What will my listeners get out of my Powerpoint presentation? How can I most effectively communicate the information on my Powerpoint? Having the answers to these questions will help you execute your presentation with confidence. Be sure to know your audience and where they are coming from. In some cases, you may have to research different customs or provide extra visual aids such as brochures to satisfy your audience.