Writing Center: Checklist For PowerPoints

Introduction 

• Contains a title slide with the name of the presentation and the name of the presenter 
• Includes an introduction slide that outlines what will be covered in the presentation 
• Presentation is focused on the topic that it is said to address in the title slide
• Grabs the attention of the audience 

Conclusion 

• Summarizes the presentation 
• Contains a “thanks for listening” note 
• Contains an “any questions” note and allows the audience to ask questions

Content

• Information has been fact-checked
• References and source information is included at the end of the presentation 
• Text is simplified and only includes the most important information. Text is not overloaded and too long
• Includes the information needed to understand the topic
• Information is organized in a clear, logical way

Formatting & Visual Aids

• Choice of the theme is appropriate for the topic 
• Font and font size is professional and appropriate 
• Font formats (color, bold, italics) are used to enhance the presentation and do not distract 
• Text color is easy to read and appropriate for presentation 
• Background does not make text or graphics hard to read
• Font, font size, colors, background, and transitions are consistent and coherent 
• All caps text is kept to a minimum 
• Visual aids, such as transitions, are kept to a minimum and enhance the presentation without distraction
• Free of spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors
• Graphics are appropriate in size and color and support the presentation 
• The layout is visually appealing and fits the message of the presentation 

Presentation 

• The presenter looks at the audience when presenting
• The presenter avoids looking at and reading from slides
• The presenter presents with confidence and enthusiasm 
• The presenter speaks with a clear voice and appropriate volume 
• The presenter uses interactive methods to make the audience engaged
• The presenter’s tone is varied and engaging  
• The presenter keeps long pauses and verbal fillers, such as “um,” to a minimum