POWER POINT SLIDE DESIGN PRINCIPLES

1) FONTS

• Select sans-serif fonts such as Arial or Helvetica.
• Avoid serif fonts such as Times New Roman or Palatino as they are sometimes more difficult to read.
• Use different size fonts for main points and secondary points
  - secondary point font is 24-point
  - main point font is 28-point
  -Title font is 38-point
• No more than 6-8 words per line.
• For bullet points, use the 6 x 6 Rule. One thought per line with no more than 6 words per line and no more than 6 lines per slide.
• Use a single sans-serif font for most of the presentation. Use different colors, sizes and styles (bold, underline) for impact.
• Use dark text on light background or light text on dark background.
• However, dark backgrounds sometimes make it difficult for some people to read the text.
  

2) COLOUR

• Do not use too many colour .
• Use contrasting colours : Light on dark OR dark on light.
• Use complementary colours to make it clear.

3) BACKGROUND

• Use backgrounds that are attractive but simple.
• Use backgrounds which are light.
• Use the same background consistently throughout your presentation.
• Do not go overboard with the colorful background.
• Avoid choose backgrounds that are distracting or difficult to read font.
  

4) CHART SLIDES

• Use graphs rather than words and tables if possible.
• Data in graphs is easier to comprehend & retain than is raw data.
• Trends are easier to visualize in graph form.
• Always title your graph.

5) GRAPHICS AND DESIGN

• Try to use the same style graphics throughout the presentation (e.g. cartoon, photographs).
• Limit the number of graphics on each slide.
• Check all graphics on a projection screen before the actual presentation.
• Limit the number of transitions used. It is often better to use only one so the audience knows what to expect.
• Avoid flashy graphics and noisy animation effects unless they relate directly to the slide.
  

6) SLIDE LAYOUT

• Simple and uncluttered.
• There can be a single title line.
• Use quality clip art and use it sparingly.
• Slide area should be available for text.
• Do not extend your text area to the very edges of the slide
  
  
  Keep It Short & Simple

References:

http://teachingtechnology.suite101.com/article.cfm/powerpoint_lectures#ixzz0OKspI2TP
http://www.cheney268.com/Training/PowerPoint/PowerPointTips.htm
http://teachingtechnology.suite101.com/article.cfm/powerpoint_lectures
http://mason.gmu.edu/~montecin/powerpoint.html