Taking the Overwhelm out of the PowerPoint Presentation

PowerPoint Presentations are still one of the most used tools for delivering presentations.But as widely used as it is, the word ‘PPT’ still sends shivers down people’s spines. The idea of putting together thoughts and information onto a few slides can be overwhelming.

Even though there is material everywhere on how to make a great, engaging PPT, I’m breaking down the five key points and simplifying it further for you.

1.  The most common overwhelm is simply having too many slides. For a presentation of 10minutes, the number of slides must be 10 to 15 at the most. But most people think having more slides will help contain more information, without a thought as to whether the audience can absorb or retain it.                                                                                                               
2.  The second, similar reason is too much clutter inside each slide. You can avoid this kind of overwhelm by limiting each slide to 3 main points, three images, or three colours. The rule of 3 is a simple principle, but a powerful one because information is easier to remember and process when presented in groups of three.                                                                   
3.  The third overwhelm is when presenters forget that they are the presentation, and the PowerPoint is merely a visual aid. Avoid passing the centre stage to the PowerPoint. You are the centre stage. For that, you need to be well-versed with the information that you’re presenting. You should allude to the slide only to present facts or for illustrations.     
4.  One of the lessons I learnt through experience is more of a counterpoint. This overwhelm is all about not over-preparing. Even though you may be well-versed in your content, leave a little room for spontaneous delivery, feedback from the audience or a moment of humour just to lighten the mood of the room.                                                   
5.  Unreadable text and blurred visuals are other reasons for the audience to be overwhelmed. Imagine trying hard to focus, and then the frustration of not being able to read the print. The audience will lose interest and switch off. So, it is important to use sharp visuals, clear text and colour schemes that are easy to read.