McGraw-Hill Public Speaking

Speaking to an audience




Using media

Visual aids add clarity and interest to your speech. However, they must be carefully chosen to enhance your presentation. Poorly designed and presented visual aids can undermine your presentation. When planning visual aids, let your content suggest visual aid types and media to support your speech.

Adapting information to visual aids

First, identify information that might be difficult for your audience to understand without a visual aid. For example, numbers, particularly large numbers, can be difficult to mentally visualize.

Second, select visual aids that will present the information most effectively. Graphs help audiences grasp the relationships between numbers. Charts summarize information (numerical or textual) in lists. Maps, models, drawings, objects, and photographs allow audiences to identify specific locations or sections of an item or place you are speaking about. Slides and transparencies allow you to emphasize your main points. Computer-generated graphics and multimedia presentations allow you to combine different visual aid types into an integrated presentation.

Third, create simple, professional visual aids help communicate your message. The visual aids should be easy to read, uncluttered, and consistent with the central idea and main points of your speech.

Types of information and media selection

Facts and statistics

Use charts to summarize facts in list format. Summarized information may be numerical or textual. Graph statistics to show relationships between numbers and to help your audience absorb large numbers. Graphs tend to deal with numerical information. Samples include line graphs, bar graphs and pie graphs. Spreadsheets and presentation packages can help you convert raw numbers into these types of graphs.

Objects or representations of objects

Physical objects, such as things, maps, models, drawings, and photographs, allow you to show your audience what you are talking about. They need to be large enough for your audience to see. If the object is too small for the speaking location or inappropriate to bring, use a representation of the object (maps, models, drawings, and photographs).

Text

Use text to highlight your central idea and main points. Common formats include outlines and bulleted lists. Limited text can keep your audience focused on your message. Text messages can be presented across a wide range of media, such as slides, transparencies, flipcharts, handouts, or computerized presentations.

Mixed information

Computer generated graphics and multimedia presentations allow you to present a combination of statistics, images, and conceptual points. These presentations are presented on an overhead screen connected to a computer or directly on a computer display, when the setting allows the full audience to view the computer display(s).

Transferring content to different types of visual aids

Charts

Limit information on your chart. Assume you want to show sales data by age group and geographic location. Your raw data groups the information by 10 different age groups within each of 50 states. Is information at that level necessary to support the point you are trying to make? Perhaps the information could be summarized in 3 broader age groups by 5 different regions of the country. When creating a chart, choose only essential categories and divisions.

Graphs

Use multiple graphs rather than combining too many elements on a single graph. Or, present complex graphs followed by a series of graphs that break down information into manageable units. Since graphs often present numerical information, be sure they present it accurately. Use consistent, meaningful scales or reference points when comparing values. For example, when comparing prices or salaries in different time periods, use a standard such as the Consumer Price Index to adjust each for inflation (and indicate that you've done so).

Objects

. Objects must be large enough to be seen by all members of your audience. Avoid passing objects around during your speech. If you believe members of the audience will want to look more closely at the object, offer them an opportunity after you are through speaking. Passing objects promotes side conversations and distracts your audience.

Maps

Maps convey locations or relationships between locations. Maps should be readable and clearly identify referenced points.

Models

Models provide a three-dimensional representation of an object. Consider models when the actual object is too large or too small for presentation, it cannot be viewed in its natural environment, or when it is inappropriate for the setting.

Drawings

Drawings provide a two-dimensional representation of an object. If you use labels on a drawing, they should be readable throughout the room.

Photographs

Photographs provide realistic illustrations. You can use them to present samples of large collections, or show items that cannot be brought into the setting. Use high-quality, clear photographs.

Slides and transparencies

Slides allow you to combine text and graphics. Use readable fonts and maintain consistent styles on all of your slides or transparencies. Do not put too much information on individual slides.

Computer generated graphics

Computer-generated graphics allow a more professional presentation of information. Computer-generated graphics can be printed for presentation on slides and transparencies or integrated into multimedia presentations.

Multimedia presentations

Multimedia presentations use presentation software to display computer-generated graphics and slides. They may also incorporate video and sound clips. Multiple display devices may be used simultaneously. Although they have the potential to be visually impressive and entertaining, they can overpower your message. Use them carefully.

Do not wait until your speech is completed to plan your visual aids. They should integrate closely with your speech. Plan them as you work on your outline.



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