Slide Map: Plan Before You Build
Plan every slide before you open PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Canva. Fill in each slide below, then print or save as a PDF to use as your blueprint.
Slide design basics
One main point per slide
Don't try to cover too much ground. Your audience is there to listen, not read.
Follow the 5x5 rule
No more than 5 bullets per slide, no more than 5 words per bullet. Three-word bullets are even stronger. Slides support your talk. They don't replace it.
Use large text
Anything under 24pt is hard to read on a screen. When in doubt, go bigger.
Captivating visuals
A strong image can boost retention significantly. Cite all images properly.
Use quotes well
Don't open or close with someone else's words. Verify accuracy and give context.
Use data wisely
Simplify. Use recent data. A clear chart beats a table full of numbers.
Plan your slides
For each slide, plan what appears on screen, not what you'll say. Use short phrases, not sentences.