Laura W. answered • 05/14/19
Microsoft Office Trainer and Author
I would be careful not to overload the slides. I've seen too many slideshows with too much info, too many animations, too many design elements. Leave lots of white space (doesn't necessarily have to be white--just lots of breathing room) on each slide so that your audience can see the main points. If you need to, use more slides with less information on each slide.
You can use animation carefully to make main points stand out and direct the eye. But be careful with some of the animation styles - they can make people dizzy. Also, try not to go too fast so that people can keep up, especially if they're taking notes.
Don't forget some humor. It will keep people engaged, but again, don't go overboard.
Be tasteful, use consistent formatting. If you use slides with headings on each slide, try to keep them in the same location as you go from slide to slide. I like to check the positioning to see if headings are all at the same vertical location.
Try not to jump from one theme to another in the same presentation. Consistency will make your audience feel comfortable. It's more about getting the point across than it is about showing your own design skills, but work on those skills and your presentation will show it.
