Create and Distribute a Class PowerPoint Presentation (I)

As an easy and dynamic presentation tool, MS PowerPoint has been a popular alternative to the traditional blackboard aid in class. For teachers, a well-planned PowerPoint presentation appeals more to students of this digital epoch than a plain lecture without illustration. For students, a class report or research project delicately composed in PowerPoint is always more organized in look and more convenient for archive. So how to make and share a wonderful class presentation? In this post, you will find useful tips on creation and distribution of class PowerPoint presentations.

Section I: Create an Effective PowerPoint presentation

We know there are geniuses of speech, but there are very few. Most of us may fear to speak in public unless very very well-prepared. Never risk a successful class to a hasty PowerPoint presentation. Instead, build a written summary of your course carefully in PowerPoint. Here are several points you should bear in mind when composing a class presentation.

1. Define the topic
To give a persuasive presentation, you need to keep in mind what you are conveying to the audience. Make sure you have a thorough understanding of the class topic. How long do you have to make your presentation? Are you able to use visual aids or handouts? You don't have to become an expert, or read every book or website ever written about your topic, but you should be able to answer any questions your teacher or classmates might give you.

2. Know the style
To be classic or to be trendy? It depends on both the course stuff and the targeted audience. For example, if you are going to tell a serious subject to a group of college students, take on a PowerPoint template of lofty color; if it is a DIY class to kids less than 8, employ a colorful background along with funny animations in your presentation. Be sure the style and the subject matches in the class presentation. Click here for free PowerPoint templates and backgrounds

3. Picture & animate it
As the saying goes, "A picture is worth a thousand of words". So do animations, video clips, and background sounds. A decent use of all those visual effects can bring a dramatic impact to your class PowerPoint presentation. Try to add some dynamics to set your class presentation off.

4. Less is more
The key is simplicity. Use less stuff to convey more ideas. Avoid abuse of PowerPoint components, esp. animations and wipes. Include in each slide points of 3-7, in each bullet words of 3-7. Never put all points in one slide at once, or the audience will lose interest in listening further to your presentation. Use simple sentences rather than long complete ones. Keep one theme or background, one font set and one text animation effect.

5. Edit by rehearsal
Rehearse your class presentation once done. Ask someone to comment on your rehearsal so that you can edit the PPT presentation for improvement.