01The shape of a good talk
- Opening: why this matters to this audience, in one or two slides.
- Roadmap: the three things you will cover.
- Main points: one idea per section, each with a claim, evidence and an example.
- Summary: the three points again, in one slide.
- Ask or next step: what you want the audience to do or remember.
02How many slides
- 5 minutes: 5 to 7 slides.
- 10 minutes: 8 to 12 slides.
- 20 minutes: 12 to 18 slides.
- Aim for about one slide per minute, fewer if each one needs explaining.
03Write the outline before opening PowerPoint
- Write each slide’s main message as a full sentence ("Sales rose 12% after the redesign").
- Read only those sentences in order. If they tell the story, the deck works.
- Then add the chart, image or number that proves each sentence.
Tip A slide title should be the message, not the topic. "Q3 results" is a topic. "Q3 revenue beat the plan by 8%" is a message.
04Common mistakes
- Reading the slide aloud: put the details in your voice, not on the slide.
- More than one idea per slide.
- Ending on "Questions?" instead of the point you want remembered.
Q&AFAQ
How do I start a presentation?
Open with the problem your audience has, a surprising number or a short question. Do not open with your name and the agenda.
How much text per slide?
Aim for a title sentence plus one visual or three short points. If you need more, split the slide or move it to handout notes.
Rather have it done for you?
PowerPoint design service, from about us$16. Your content turned into a clear, consistent deck for class, project or pitch, usually the same day.