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I just started reading Rick Altman’s totally irreverent – and totally relevant book this past weekend. I love this book! Even better, I love the advice that Rick share with his audience.

How many time have you sat in the audience while the presenter proceeded to read the slide – “word-for-word.?”

Better question – How many times have you – the presenter – read your slides “word-for-word?”

The answer to both questions – “Way too many times!”

Now, we can’t directly change how other people choose to present – unless they are are one of our direct reports; or, they come to us seeking coaching on their presentations. However, we can implement “Preventive PowerPoint Practices” to improve our own presentations.

Rick helps us with 2 “Universal Axiom’s:

Universal Axiom #1:

“If a slide contains complete sentences, it is practically impossible for even the most accomplished presenters to avoid reading the entire slide word for word.”

Universal Axiom #2:

“When you read your slides word for word, you sound like an idiot.”

So what is the solution? How can you implement”Preventive PowerPoint Practices?”

Simple – Do not put complete sentences on your slides!

I can attest to this first hand. From time to time, I deliver training using PowerPoint slides created by my client. Many of the slides contain complete sentences hiding as “bullet points.” I have to really force myself to not look at the slides lest I succumb to the temptation to “read the slide word-for-word.” And I am an experienced presenter. I have to consciously remind myself to look at the audience and not at the slide!

It is so much easier when you implement “Preventive PowerPoint Practices” – Do not put complete sentences on your slides!

The Four-by_Four Rule

In an earlier post, I demonstrate the “Four-by-Four Rule for PowerPoint”

1. No more than “Four” Bullet Points per Slide.
2. No more than “Four” words per Bullet Point.

Read Rick Altman’s Book – “Why Most PowerPoint Presentations Suck… And How You Can Make Them Better.”

Go back to ALL of your PowerPoint Presentations and remove Every Complete sentence. Now – before you forget.

There is one exception to this rule: If you are using a quotation on your slide. A good quotation is usually brief. Just make sure that you choose a quotation that complements your point.

News! My new DVD, “The 50 Best Tips for PowerPoint 2007” is available for purchase. Visit my online store for details.