Why do you have slides in your presentation? Whether this is an in-person or online presentation, the answer to this question is foundational to any changes one would consider in the construction of a presentation. Using slides as a script, as an aide memoire, as the handout or as a combination of all of the above is not a valid reason. Slides are there purely to add to the message, supportive media. The answer to “why do you have slides?” is the reason you will find improving presentations difficult.
Adopting the p cubed approach to presentations will clarify your message and its construction. This will fundamentally affect how the message is illustrated in the supportive media (p2), and together, this will change the nature of delivery. The presentation paradox describes the problem that most audiences dislike the way presentations are constructed and delivered. Yet, when it comes to their turn to present, they often adopt the same disapproved techniques. A large part of the paradox is contained in the answer to the question, “why do you have slides?”
If slides are there as a script, this will disengage the audience due to the twin evils of cognitive load and dual processing. If the slides are there as an aide memoire for the presenter, the audience will still read the slides; this is the problem of Schrodinger’s slides and adds cognitive load and conflict in dual processing. If the slides are there principally as a handout, it will be overly complex compared to the spoken word and will increase the cognitive load and cause further conflict in dual processing. If one believes that a complex slide can explain complex data, one will be sorely disappointed, as you were as an audience member, and in addition, this will make the cognitive load and dual processing issue even greater. Why do you have slides? If the answer is all of these reasons, one might easily surmise the result.
The psychological and educational sciences are clear about the results of these issues. The lived experiences of audiences are further proof. The purpose of a slide must be determined in advance, and a clear, evidence-based approach applied to the construction of each slide. Slides should be limited in number, specific in purpose and limited in their exposure time. The supportive media should add to the message. It cannot be the message, nor presentation aids.
It is essential to understand why do you have slides? They should elevate the message and engage the audience. The script should be only within the presenter. A handout should be prepared separately. An understanding of the true purpose of slides will change how they are constructed.