Here are quick fixes for two common problems with PowerPoint slides:
Problem: Text is Not Legible
The font size may look legible on your laptop and computer screen, but not when it's projected onto a large screen at the front of the room.
Quick Fixes:
• Make the font larger than you think you need to• Use less text on each slide
• Split the text onto multiple slides
• Test the slides in the room before you present, when you still have time to fix them
Problem: Bottom Half of the Screen Can't Be Seen
When the floor is flat (as opposed to inclined) and the screen is not mounted up on the wall or on a stage, the bottom part of the screen can get blocked by the people/chairs in the audience, so the people behind them can't see it.
Quick Fixes:
• Elevate the screen
• Put the most important information on the top half of the slide
• Don't cram the slide so full of information and words that you need the bottom part of the slideAnd the ultimate fix? Ditch the slides. Do you really need them for a 20-minute presentation? The slides are just there to help you and they are not required. Instead, you are the presentation and what you say is required.
Gilda Bonanno's blog www.gildabonanno.blogspot.com