• Prepare for a presentation

The success of your presentation often depends not just on what you include, but on how you present it and—just as importantly—what you leave out.

Think about presentations you’ve attended. Have you ever seen slides so crowded with text that you stopped paying attention to the speaker? Or animations so flashy they distracted from the message? Let’s explore how to avoid these common pitfalls and create presentations that truly serve their purpose.

The way you design your presentation should match its intended use. Let’s consider two common scenarios:

1. Live Presentations (In-person or Virtual):
   1. Use visuals, charts, and brief points to complement your speaking
   2. Keep text minimal to maintain audience attention on you
   3. Use tables and charts to illustrate data clearly
   4. Apply subtle transitions and animations that support your message
2. Standalone Documents (Shared Reports):
   1. Include more detailed information since there’s no presenter
   2. Use comprehensive tables and charts with clear labels
   3. Add necessary context and explanations
   4. Consider converting to PDF to maintain formatting

In the upcoming module, you’ll learn specific techniques for:

• Creating and formatting professional tables to organize information
• Using charts effectively to visualize data
• Applying appropriate transitions and animations
• Using templates and internet tools to enhance your presentations
• Adapting your presentation style for different purposes

Remember that these tools are meant to enhance your message, not overshadow it. Whether you’re presenting quarterly sales data, project proposals, or training materials, your goal is to communicate clearly and effectively with your audience.

4 Tips for Success in Google Slides

1. Consistency is key: Use the same fonts, colors, and layouts throughout your presentation to maintain a cohesive look.
2. Use high-quality images: Blurry or pixelated images can make your presentation look unprofessional. Always use high-quality visuals.
3. Avoid overcrowding slides: Keep text minimal on each slide, and use visuals to enhance your message. The goal is to supplement your speech, not overload the audience with information.
4. Backup your presentation: While Google Slides automatically saves your work, it’s a good idea to download a copy of your presentation as a PDF or PowerPoint by going to File > Download.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a visually appealing, organized, and professional slideshow that effectively communicates your ideas. Whether working individually or collaborating with classmates, Google Slides offers the tools you need to succeed.