Presentation Design Rules

A slide should communicate one main idea. Avoid filling it with too much text, too many images, or unnecessary decorations.

• Focus on one main topic per slide.
• Remove unnecessary information.
• Use short sentences and clear headings.
• Leave enough empty space around content.

Choose fonts that are easy to read from a distance. Simple fonts generally work well for classroom and business presentations.

• Use readable fonts such as Arial, Aptos, or Calibri.
• Avoid using too many different font families.
• Use bold formatting for important words.
• Avoid decorative fonts for long paragraphs.

Text must be large enough for the audience to read comfortably. The right size depends on the room, display, and presentation format.

• Slide title: Often around 28–36 pt.
• Main content: Often around 20–28 pt.
• Small labels: Use only when necessary and keep them readable.

These are practical starting points, not strict requirements. Test your slides on the display you will use.

Choose a small set of colors and use them consistently across the presentation.

• Choose one primary color.
• Use one or two supporting colors.
• Use a contrasting color for important information.
• Avoid using too many bright colors on one slide.

Contrast is the difference between the text color and its background. Good contrast makes information easier to read.

Avoid combinations that make text difficult to read, such as pale yellow text on a white background.

The 6 × 6 guideline is a simple reminder to limit the amount of text on a slide. A common interpretation is about six bullet points with roughly six words per bullet.

For example:

• Computers process data quickly.
• Hardware includes physical components.
• Software provides instructions to computers.
• Input devices send information.
• Output devices display results.

Relevant images help explain concepts and make slides more engaging.

• Use clear, high-resolution images.
• Choose pictures related to the slide topic.
• Avoid stretched or distorted images.
• Keep image styles consistent where practical.
• Use images that you have permission to use.

Example: Use a picture of a keyboard when explaining input devices instead of an unrelated decorative image.

Alignment makes slides look organized and professional. Text boxes, pictures, icons, and shapes should have a clear relationship to one another.

• Align headings with the main content.
• Keep related objects lined up.
• Use PowerPoint's Align tools.
• Use guides and gridlines when helpful.
• Keep spacing between objects consistent.

A consistent presentation uses a common visual style from the first slide to the last.

• Use a consistent title style.
• Keep fonts and colors coordinated.
• Use similar margins and spacing.
• Keep logos in consistent positions.
• Use Slide Master to manage repeated design elements.

Consistency helps the audience focus on the information rather than adjusting to a different design on every slide.

Animations can emphasize important information, but excessive effects can distract the audience.

• Use animations when they serve a purpose.
• Keep effects simple and consistent.
• Avoid animating every object unnecessarily.
• Check animation order and timing.

Transitions control how one slide changes to the next. A simple transition usually works well for educational and business presentations.

• Choose transitions that support the presentation style.
• Use similar transitions throughout the deck.
• Avoid distracting effects.
• Keep transition durations reasonable.

Charts and diagrams help the audience understand information that may be difficult to explain using text alone.

• Use bar charts to compare categories.
• Use line charts to show changes over time.
• Use pie charts for simple parts-of-a-whole comparisons.
• Use flowcharts to explain a process.
• Label charts clearly and avoid unnecessary decoration.

Select the chart type that best communicates the data.

Accessible slides are easier for a wider range of people to understand.

• Use readable fonts and sufficient contrast.
• Do not rely on color alone to communicate meaning.
• Add alternative text to meaningful images when appropriate.
• Use clear slide titles.
• Keep reading order logical.
• Use captions for important video content where possible.

The design of a presentation should match its audience, purpose, and environment.

• Students: Use simple language and helpful examples.
• Business meetings: Highlight key findings and decisions.
• Training sessions: Include steps and practical demonstrations.
• Large audiences: Use large text and clear visuals.

Before designing, ask: Who will see this presentation, and what should they learn or do afterward?

Create a five-slide PowerPoint presentation on Computer Fundamentals.

1. Create a title slide.
2. Use one consistent theme.
3. Choose readable font sizes.
4. Use a small, coordinated color palette.
5. Add relevant pictures or diagrams.
6. Align all text boxes and images.
7. Use simple transitions.
8. Review the presentation in Slide Show mode.