Presenting Media  |   Visual Graphics
Preparing  |   When Presenting

Visual Presentations

   To create an easy-to-read presentation...
      create contrast.

   Use a big, bold typeface for titles and lighter
      typeface for all other information.

   Important information should "jump out" at the
      viewers.

   Text and informational graphics should
      contract significantly with the background.

   The background:
   Use very light text / very dark background
   Use very dark text / very bright background

   Top combinations:

   White or yellow on navy blue background
   Burgandy or dark green on white
      of light grey background

   As graphic elements such as geometric
      shapes, lines, logo should contrast less with
      the background.

   Choose lighter or darker shade of
      background if graphics are to be subtle.

   Do not use too many colors on each frame,
      since it causes too much distraction.

Visual Graphics

   Consider a border along one or more sides
      to add interest and definition to the layout.

   Try using rule or series of dots to separate
      title from rest of text.

   If logo is used - Keep other aesthetic
      elements to minimum.

   Charts and Graphs

   Make them prominent. colorful, and
      easy to understand.

   Consider using different colored
      background than other frames (helps
      them stand out).

 Presenting Media

   Create audience handouts/speaker notes

   Helps reinforce visual learners.
   Allows tactial leaners to make notes.

   After updating presentation materials, make
      sure there are no discrepancies with the
      handouts.

   When presenting to a small group, use slides
      overhead transpariencies or use a portable
      Personal Computer / PC (facing the group).

   With larger groups, it might be wise to use a
      LCD projector.  Remember to allot enough
      time to hook the machine up, acquaint
      yourself with it, and deal with any problems.

Preparing for Presentations

   In event of nervousness:

   Relax throat by taking 3 deep breaths;
      inhaling very slowly though your nose
      and then exhale very slowly through
      your mouth.

   Fear / discomfort tends to make
      people speak very quickly.  Make
      yourself slow down and breathing will
      become more regular.

When Presenting

   Pay attention to the tone of your voice since it
      reflects your state of mind.

   Listen to the way you enunciate, pronounce
      and accent words,

   Control your voice pitch.
      Elevated pitch = tension + excitement

   Listen to your volume.  Nervousness can
      produce a loud, stressed voice.

   Project enthusiasm and energy.  Be vibrant
      with vitality.

   Listen to your rhythm.

   Control your pace.  Beware of too rapid or too
      slow.

   Do not be afraid to move around a bit.   But be
      careful of nervous, jerky movements.

   Look around and make eye contact with
      everyone in the group.

   Do not try to adopt a presentation style(s)
      with which you are not confortable.

   Never apologise during a presentation since it
      sets a negative tone.

   If something goes wrong, find a way to
      maximize it into a positive tone.
   Example: If you are late due to
      weather, try:
      "Good morning (or afternoon/
      evening)... I came through this
      snow storm to be with you today!"

   Make sure it is said with a
      positive tone, upbeat attitude
      and positive body language.

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