The word “template” is used inconsistently, so it’s important to start by explaining what I’m talking about when I say “design template.”įirst, as a reminder, I’m specifically talking about using design templates in presentations. That’s not a judgment or an insult-I’m just trying to be honest that this advice is not applicable in ALL presentation design contexts. If you are fine with a presentation that’s “just okay “ or “gets you by,” and you just need to create presentations as fast as possible with little-to-no effort because you’re mostly “checking a box,”…then you may not find this blog post helpful. Give a stellar job talk or teaching demo, or some other high stakes presentation (e.g., conference keynote). Leave a lasting, positive impression long after the presentation is over.Ĭreate a presentation that is powerful, memorable, and will inspire their audience to both remember and use the material.Įnjoy creating and giving presentations, instead of dreading them. This blog post is for academics, scientists, evaluators, and researchers who want to: If you want to create better presentations, check out my FREE training video >Īnd as one last disclaimer before we get started… Echo Rivera and I train academics, scientists, researchers, and evaluators how to create engaging presentations. What to do instead of using a design template.īefore we dive in, I’d like to say hello :) I’m Dr. The main reasons to stop using design templates in your presentations. Why presentations don’t meet those criteria. When does it make sense to use design templates? This surprises a lot of people, which is why I finally decided to write a detailed blog post about this topic. And the first step towards that goal is to stop using PowerPoint design templates in your presentations.

I know it’s not the answer you wanted, but I’m here to help you create engaging and effective presentations.

“I have an important presentation coming up (e.g., job talk, conference presentation), what’s the best PowerPoint template I should use?”Įxcept, it’s also the wrong question to ask.īecause the answer is: the best PowerPoint template is the one you make for yourself. I’m often tagged into threads on Twitter where someone asks something like: It’s time stop using slide design templates: Here’s why.Ĭhances are you found this blog post because you are an academic, scientist, researcher, or evaluator who has a simple question: what is the best PowerPoint template to use?

Slide design