Power Point Do's and Don't's


Text 
  • Keep slides concise: 5-7 lines (not bullets) per slide and 5-7 words per line.
  • For presentations, the average title font size should be 48 and the average regular font size should be 24. 
  • Use sans-serif fonts, like Arial, that are easy to read. Steer clear of flashy or curvy fonts.


Color 
  • Limit your use of color to 2-4 colors and/or shades.
  • Use easy to read combinations. Dark backgrounds and light text work best. 
  • Stick to one color scheme and/or template.
  • Avoid red text unless used for emphasis.


Images and Shapes
  • Use 1-2 images per slide.
  • If you are using an image as a background, use the Washout feature to fade the picture. 
  • Too many graphics are distracting.
  • Use high-quality images. Low-quality images will appear grainy when presenting. 
  • Avoid cartoonish clip art when possible. 


Sound and Animation
  • Use sounds and animation wisely. They should emphasize a point or add to the message.
  • Meaningless sounds and animations are distracting and take away from your message. 


Transitions
  • Typically it is best to use the same transition, or a variation of one transition, throughout your presentation. 
  • Flashy transitions, or using multiple transitions, can be distracting. 


"PowerPoint Do's and Don'ts." Heart Rhythm Society. Web. 9 May 2011. 
http://www.hrsonline.org/Education/WomensLeadership/ProfGrowth/EffectivePres/PPT/DoDont/