is for VISUALS

The key word here is "appeals" - when it comes to things to look at, it is good to remember that LESS CAN BE MORE. They serve your presentation best when used to illustrate or clarify your point.

Tom Kirby gives excellent guidance in his 117 Ideas for Better Business Presentations:

-When using a prop such as a book, magazine, picture, etc., be sure to hold it up long enough for the audience to see.

- Use a few well-conceived visuals that are memorable rather than many ordinary, boring charts or slides.

-Use color to highlight key points.

-Explain exactly what each item means so the audience doesn't have to guess. Even if it's fairly obvious what's on a chart, it's a good habit to repeat it verbally, thus adding reinforcement to key points. [If being recorded, it helps the listening audience to "see" your presentation!]

-When possible use your hand to point. Most speakers misuse pointers, especially the retractable types. (Have you ever seen a speaker with a retractable pointer who didn't play with it at least once?)

-After you're through, cover it up. Don't give the audience something to distract from what you're now saying.

-When possible, do not turn your back to audience to read the screen.

-3 bullet points works best, six maximum.

-Make points brief. Don’t use whole sentences.

FLIP CHARTS:

o 1 inch letters for 30 feet or less

o 2 inch letters for more than 30 feet

o 3-inch letters for more than 50 feet