Making an Excellent Powerpoint Presentation

Before Microsoft Powerpoint, you had to know the principles of graphic art to have the ability to make an effective presentation. There was film development, art properties, and entire teams of people necessitated to create, adjust, and change these presentations. Needless to say, Powerpoint takes away the need for that experience, and gives anyone the ability to make a great presentation. Here are some helpful hints to making your presentation memorable and effective.

1. Use "the golden means". When you divide a slide into thirds going vertically and horizontally, it creates 9 rectangles on the slide. Now, envision that center rectangle. It is generally known that the eye is drawn to each corner of that center rectangle. So, if you have something you want to display and be remembered, (a picture, a point, etc.) put it at one of the corners of that center rectangle.

2. Use Powerpoint's spellchecker. Checking spelling is not just for research papers. And the last thing you want as a presenter is a Powerpoint riddled with mistakes. It detracts from the presentation and ruins your credibility.

3. When you make a Powerpoint, keep in mind that the slides are relatively small. So, Increase the text size so that everyone can see it. Basically, make it with the back row in mind.

4. When actually presenting, always remember those taking notes, that is, if it is a note taking situation. Be sure you can elaborate on your points so you aren't burning right through the slides. Your viewers' wrists will thank you.

5. Use a universal font in case you have to transfer the Powerpoint to another computer. If you used a strange font because it looks neat, there is a possibility that the computer you transfer it to won't have that font. Not only will you lose the font, but the automatic changes the new computer makes so the Powerpoint works will put your format in disarray.

6. Keep your points simple. A slide with an essay written on it will turn off the viewers, and you will lose their attention. 3 sentences is a good general guideline to limit the text to. If you absolutely need to give them more information that isn't oral, make handouts.

7. Never, ever use the applause sound effect. Not only is it cheesy, but it is also cheering. Unless you are presenting wih the goal of torturing your audience, stay away from this one.

8. Avoid reading the screen at all costs. This is a presentation, not a group reading. The ability to tear your eyes from the Powerpoint and look at your audience will both gain their attention and help establish your credibility.

With a little hard work and effort (and these tips, of course) the Powerpoint program allows anyone to create and give a great presentation. Remember, gear everything you do toward the audience, and have fun with it!