The scientific evidence is clear that text on a screen is ineffectual and distracting. Images are perfect for supporting the message of the story. The temptation for speakers is then to attempt to illustrate every single step and detail in the message. The result is akin to a graphic novel.
The supportive media (p2) should not be able to stand alone. Its purpose is to illustrate the message, not mirror it. Rather than choosing to highlight every individual step within a message there is value in sparingly highlighting themes and important sections. Thus the media is supportive.
[…] Data slides are a huge challenge in themselves. They need to be interpretable within 3 seconds as this is a presentation not the scientific paper. Think adverts. Importantly it is NOT up to the audience to interpret the data. Make it clear. And never consider apologising. The red rectangle is never helpful, nor will a laser pointer be of value. Unless you are a Jedi Knight. And please, no pies! They are just fashion! They are really hard to interpret and 1:9 men are colourblind. Now, get rid of half of the slides. It’s illustrations, not a comic novel. […]