Preparing and Presenting Slide Presentations

These slides were initially devloped by Dr.Kremer but never presented. They were revised by Dr.Iz. Refer also to the web link provided by Dr.Kremer on the Resources section of Blackboard: "Tips for Effective Powerpoint Presentations"

 Preparation Do's

  • Do not wait until the last minute to prepare slides.
  • Go over material - i.e. practice before presentation.
  • Use slides that are short and contain key words only.
  • Use pictures supported by words, not words supported by pictures.
  • Use color on the slides for emphasis
  • Proofread your slides before the talk. Check spelling.
  • Round values to show a reasonable number of significant digits.
  • Use fonts that are as large as possible.
  • Use the Floor Test - Can you read a printout on the floor from a standing position?
  •  Do not use bright letters on a dark background.
  •  Make the fonts on each of the slides approximately the same size to offer continuity to your presentation.
  • Keep unity of design from slide to slide.
  • Minimize or Avoid animated text, sounds and fancy transitions.
 Goal is to focus attention by minimizing distractions

 

 Speaking Do's

  • Have a clear focus and purpose in your mind.
  • If the moderator does not introduce you, introduce yourself.
  • Specify the main purpose of your presentation.
  • Give a brief overview of the contents of the presentation.
  • Specify assumptions.
  • Tell in advance when you are about to change topics. (Give the audience some road signs.)
  • Give a brief conclusion to your talk.
  • End by thanking the audience and asking if there are questions.
  • Leave enough time for questions.
  • Before answering a question, repeat it.
  • If you cannot answer a question, defer it to a team member who can.
  • Keep within the time allocated to you.
  • Speak clearly and loudly enough to be heard.
 Sell your ideas with enthusiasm.

 

Non-verbal Do's

  • Keep eye contact with the audience.
  • Spend as little time as possible changing slides (overheads), and talk while changing slides to introduce what the next slide involves.
  • Have a slide on the screen at all times except possibly at the beginning or end of the presentation.
  • When describing hardware, show a figure or sketch of the actual device before showing detatils.
  • Use a pointer to identify points on the slides. Be careful with it.
  • Dress professionally for the presentation.