Microsoft PowerPoint is a powerful tool that can help you communicate ideas and information effectively. Here are some tips for setting up a successful presentation.
Steps
Step 1. Be as concise as you can
Use as few words as possible, but include important details and detailed explanations if necessary. Be aware of your audience's average attention, and avoid excessively long presentations.
Step 2. Know your audience
Structure your presentation so that it fits your listener. A board of directors will expect a clear and professional presentation that focuses on matters relevant to its members. A presentation for a class of children, on the other hand, should be fun and engaging.
Step 3. Use graphics and animations wisely
Images can be extremely helpful in helping you convey information. Graphic elements, thanks to the help of the internet, are now available in abundance. Use images appropriate to the context in which the presentation will take place (unless you have permission to make humor!) And present them in an easily understandable way. Make moderate use of animations, but remember that if you use simple ones, they can effectively show data changes, motions, growths, etc.
- Keep the charts and tables simple, but include all necessary details. Make sure the information is up to date and accurate.
- Appropriately credit the sources of the images you use.
Step 4. Add background music or play a soundtrack to make the presentation interesting
For example, you could choose understated instrumental music to keep your audience from being distracted by the pop hits of the moment.
Step 5. Make use of colors, study a design and a style
If you need inspiration, look for professionally designed shade assortments, or use colors that are complementary in nature. Use legible fonts, but within this range try experimenting to give your presentation a new look. Remember that words and information can be arranged in countless ways within the rectangular space of a slide.
Step 6. Insert links to videos or websites
Depending on the equipment available during the presentation, you can insert links to videos, photos, news articles, etc. that are accessible directly from the slide. Before the presentation, make sure you have a stable internet connection and the necessary equipment to reproduce the sound.
Step 7. Structure your presentation
Organize it logically: At the beginning, present a map that can help listeners understand roughly how the discussion will proceed. This allows the audience to know what to expect and to create expectations for the topics you will cover.
Step 8. Practice repeating the presentation
Make sure you look authoritative and natural. You should also be able to answer any questions you may have about the topic you are dealing with, and move quickly between the slides.
Step 9. Show your interest in the topic, so that your audience can sense why they should care too
Use hard facts to support your views. If you are passionate about a certain aspect, explain the reasons that can make it important to each of those present in the room.
Step 10. Dress appropriately and let your personality emerge
Your audience is watching you - give them something interesting to watch. Make eye contact with each of the sectors in the audience.
Step 11. Be energetic
Before raising an issue, let listeners know why it matters and why the topic should involve them too. Be a dynamic presence in the room: if possible, walk in front of the audience during the presentation. This can help you loosen up so that you can gesticulate or speak improvise if needed.
