Making PowerPoint presentations is truly one of life’s simple pleasures. Finding the most visually fun way to present information can make even the most boring class a little more interesting. There’s also a certain satisfaction in knowing your beautiful presentation is going to impress your whole class. After years of making PowerPoint presentations from societal injustice to Stardew Valley, I’ve picked up a few tricks. Here are just a few ways to make your PowerPoint pop.
Choose a theme
If you take anything away from this article, it’s that you should be choosing a relevant and cohesive visual theme for your presentation. Never, and I mean never just put black text on a white background. Sites like Slidesgo and SlidesCarnival have hundreds of beautiful artistic slide themes that often come with upwards of 50 slide templates. Choose a theme that matches your topic. For instance, if you’re making a presentation on Shakespeare, use a theme that has more rustic, vintage aesthetics.
Pick a color palette
Even if you don’t use a theme, you should pick a color palette for your slides. Again, consider your topic and what colors might work best. What color will your background be and how will it look with the color of your text? It’s also a general rule not to use any colors that are too harsh or bright. Also, think of how easily people will be able to read text from far away if it’s a certain color.
Explore fonts
I love Times New Roman as much as the next person, but sometimes you need to break out of the bounds of a serif font. Explore what unique fonts your software has. You’ll want something a little bolder for your headings, and one that’s more subdued for your text.
Consider placement
I heavily discourage you from adding large blocks of text to your slides. Instead, consider how you might more creatively place your information on the page. Bullet points are great, or you can align text under images. Make sure your text is quick and easy for people to read.
Add a personal touch
One of the best parts of making a PowerPoint is that you get to include your visual aesthetic. Make your favorite color a large part of your color scheme. If you love the little bouncy animations, add them! If it’s appropriate, add small sticker-like images to the corners. However, you can make your personality shine through, do it. Powerpoint is your oyster!