Writing and Designing Effective Slide Presentations

Class Summary

This program was developed to provide immediate help to individuals who write and design slide presentations for themselves or others.  It focuses on the techniques that will deliver a compelling story that blends clear writing with informative graphics.  Participants will learn how to “deep-dive” into content to ensure clarity and maximum impact.

PRO210 6.0
One 8-hour session

Anyone who prepares slide presentations for themselves or others.

  • Increased confidence in your ability to communicate effectively through slide presentations.
  • Greater productivity in meetings where slide presentations are employed.
  • An enhanced reputation for professionalism in presentation settings.

By the end of this program, you will be able to:

  • Understand why information presented in PowerPoint/Keynote software needs to look and read differently than a textbook or report.
  • Create a content summary statement for a slide presentation.
  • Capture ideas that help you develop key speaking points.
  • Develop a logical hierarchy of information for your specific audience.
  • Use basic design tools to develop visually interesting and engaging slides.
  • Critically appraise visuals for use in your presentation.
  • Introduction and overview
  • PowerPoint–what it can do, what it should do
    • The three basic skills needed for PowerPoint
    • Group exercise
  • Presentations are primarily written documents
    • Planning is critical
    • What’s your purpose
    • What does your reader need
    • 10 common mistakes and how to avoid them
  • The first secret to creativity
  • The second secret to creativity
  • Build your story step-by-step
    • Storyboard sample
    • Steps in developing your story
      • Brainstorming
      • Identifying themes and hierarchy
      • Storyboard
      • Now it’s time for software
  • Slide design that holds attention
    •  Rule of Thirds
    • Contrast
    • Repetition
    • Alignment
    • Proximity
  • Presentations need presenters
  • Review and final exercise