W&L

University Library

Visual Research Communication

Help with designing posters, slides, and more

Creating Effective Slide Decks

slide deck, n. = visual aid; something to support or enrich your verbal presentation; should NOT include all planned verbal content of presentation 

a dog presenting an academic poster
Example of an extraneous image that does not support the message of this webpage. © Emily Cook.

When crafting your slide deck, regardless of software used, consider the following:

  1. Plan your message ... what are the key takeaways?
  2. Consider your audience and your physical environment.
  3. Use organizational and design best practices to craft visually appealing, well-composed slides.
  4. Eliminate barriers to effective communication, such as:
    • Extraneous images/content on your slides that do not support your message
    • Too many bells and whistles (rapid transitions, animations) ⚡🌟✨
    • Too much text.
    • Too small text
    • Low color contrast
  5. Practice your presentation and get a second opinion.
    • Reserve The HARTE Center Presentation Practice Space (Leyburn 140) through 25Live.