Effective Use of Visual Aids
Purpose
Both the quality and number of visual aids should enhance, not distract from the message. Display or distribute an outline to help audience follow long or group presentations. Use variety to increase interest; remember the value of pictures, graphs, symbols and objects.
Appearance
Never use a transparency of a typewritten page -- use a plain, sans serif font of substantial size (18 point or more). If you use color, don't use more than three colors. Ask yourself, "Can the audience quickly and easily grasp what they see?" and "Are they spending time reading and not listening?"
Format: Text
Make one, and only one, key point per visual, unless the audience is very familiar with the subject. Organize material into natural categories and contrasts, such as before vs. after, problem and solution, advantages vs. disadvantages, beginning to end, and costs vs. benefits. Include no more than three or four points under one heading. Don't use whole sentences or paragraphs. Use bulleted words or short phrases only, except for quotes.
Format: Graphics
No more than three curves on a line chart or graph. Don't use a page full of numbers -- translate complex numbers into representative pie charts or bar graphs. Use diagrams or models to present complex concepts. Use multiple charts to illustrate different stages or parts of the full model. Start with a simple framework and build components successively into the full model or process.
Be Careful
- Don't block the audience's vision; limit the time your back is to the audience;
- Make sure you know how to operate the equipment; practice with it ahead of time. Have backup cords, bulbs, adapters, et cetera;
- Make sure you know the lighting requirements for your equipment. Know where the switches are and what settings are needed. Bring a small penlight in case the room has to be darkened and you need to see notes or equipment.
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