The emergence of technology has evolved the education sector remarkably and changed the learning techniques in very many ways. So, it’s no wonder that PowerPoint presentations have made a place for themselves in classrooms too. Yes, millennial students are required to make these presentations for their school projects. The way one plans and executes their presentation says a lot about them. It is, in fact, often said that the ones who make impressive presentations show great leadership skills and make successful future managers. Here are the dos and don’ts students should keep in mind while making a PowerPoint presentation.
Plan your content based on the type of presentation
There are often two types of presentation: The live ones conducted in the classroom in front o teachers and peers and the ones that are home assignments submitted to the teacher alone. Students must know that the content for these two are different. While the former often needs to have more visual elements than running texts because it is more interactive in nature, the second one should have a lot of text because its sole purpose is to prove their understanding of the subject to the mentor.
Do not share too much information
Students need to understand that it is never possible to fit in all the available information in one single presentation. Presentations often have word limits and videos often have limited time-frame. Hence, they must try to include the most relevant points and leave the rest for another time, or else, the presentation will lose its focus.
Maintain hierarchy
In any presentation, there has to be a specific hierarchy. Students must arrange the relevant topics or pointers in the order of priority. Slides with no particular order are often hard to follow and won’t make a lasting impact. For example, definitions come first, followed by explanations and examples. This is a universally followed rule for any presentation and answer script too.
Never use random images
Students should go through the topic carefully and then select relevant images. Random or generic images and inappropriate format must be avoided at all cost. Moreover, coloured pictures on white backgrounds have become too old-school. Instead, they can use photo correction apps that automatically change the background and make it image-appropriate for better colour coordination.
Do not use multiple colours and overuse bullets
Contrary to the common conception, bullet points are not a standard to follow while making a PowerPoint presentation. Knowing when to use them is important. Students can often use numbers or icons instead. Similarly, using too many colours in a presentation should be avoided.