Understanding Graphics

Design For The Human Mind

Understanding Presentation Graphics

in Brainy Stuff

Post image for Understanding Presentation Graphics

Although this piece of news could shock anyone involved in visual communication, I’ll say it anyway. It’s time to realize that audiences do not attend a presentation because of the slides. They attend because they want to hear what the speaker has to say.

With this in mind, let’s look at how and why an audience can benefit from presentation graphics. How can a designer or presenter know what to show on a slide? One straightforward approach is to first consider the purpose of the slide and then use a graphic that will meet your goal.

Meeting Your Goal

In their article, Visual-rhetoric Ethics (Manning and Amore), the authors developed a structure for thinking about visual strategies based on the rhetorical goals of philosopher Charles S. Pierce. In this approach, your visual strategy can encompass one or more of the following goals.

  • Evoking Feelings : Through choice of color, typeface and other visual attributes, the purpose of your visual is to draw on the emotions. Visual strategies that correspond to this goal are called decoratives .
  • Evoke Action: Another goal of presentation graphics can be to move an audience to take action. This is often done through the build of a bulleted list that will influence the audience to commit. These visual strategies are known as indicatives .
  • Promote Understanding: A third reason for using visuals is to promote understanding through informative visuals like charts, graphs, diagrams and tables that express a concept. Visual strategies that promote understanding are considered informatives .

By identifying the purpose of the slide you can use this structure to ensure that your visual language is effectively communicating your goal.

Timing is Essential

It’s vital to leverage the synergy of a presentation and its corresponding visuals through perfect timing. Here’s why. Within the mind of your audience members, auditory information (flowing from the speaker) is most likely processed separately from visual information (projected from the slides). If the channels are synchronized, the audience can attend to one single concept.

If the presentation and slide graphics don’t match, the audience won’t know which to follow. If they attend to and process the words of the speaker, they’ll miss the point of the visual. If they focus on the graphic, they’ll fail to process the speaker’s words. If you don’t have a graphic for every point, simply turn the slide to black when discussing something unrelated. This is how you can avoid distracting the audience. See my article on splitting attention for more on this.

Enhance Meaning

Probably in the majority of presentations, the most important aspect of the slide visual is to promote and extend the audience’s grasp of the speaker’s words. This is usually accomplished with functional graphics that can add to and refine the internal knowledge structures or schemata of those in the audience.

For example, if a presenter such as myself, is explaining how we construct schemata as a framework for understanding, listeners might have a vague idea of what I mean. If I say, “Schemata help us generalize about the world, so your schemata for the concept house helps you recognize when a structure is a house,” they may still be slightly confused. If at the same time, I show a visualization of schemata for the concept house , it serves to clarify and refine the audience’s concept of internal knowledge structures.

definition of presentation graphics

Visualization of schemata for "house"

Every presentation involves a new audience and a nuanced topic, which means it’s incredibly important to think through the visual design of a talk each time it’s presented. If you determine the goal of each slide, identify a way to use a visual to promote meaning, and ensure the visual is synchronized with the presenter’s words, then you’ll be way ahead of the game.

Reference: Alan Manning and Nicole Amare, Visual-rhetoric Ethics: Beyond Accuracy and Injury. Technical Communication, volume 53, number 2, May 2006.

Related Article: How to Avoid Designs that Split Attention

Book Recommendation: Presentation Zen Design

Tagged as: presentations , slide graphics , slide visuals , slides

{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }

' src=

I can’t hear the presenter because I’ve shut down my audio channel while trying to visualize why paneling is connected to fireplace and porch is connected to interior and meals are connected to windows.

' src=

Hi Ed, Thanks for contributing. Well, you’ve got a totally different issue! Try meditation or yoga to get yourself singly focused =)

lol. In my haste maybe I sounded grouchy because I left out the smiley. I would definitely choose to hear you speak because I enjoy your blog . The reason I read it? I’m in instructional design and consider it essential to understand the concepts of data presentation so that I may make the best choices when designing instructional messages.

I definitely get the point of your post but in this particular case my attention has been split by trying to resolve why Spanish and Federalist are connected to Architecture but Victorian is not. 😉

Not grouchy at all. I thought it was funny. Um … that theoretical visualization of what a schemata might look like is really just theoretical. I was just foolin’ around with ideas. Next time I get into Illustrator, I’ll connect Victorian to Architecture so you can sleep at night =)

And yes, data presentation for instructional designers is super important. That’s how I often come at it too. I’m going to be speaking at a few eLearning events coming up – eLearning Guild and ASTD in 2011 so maybe we can chat about visual communication and cognitive science if you’re attending. Also, you might be interested in the Society of News Design because of the infographics. Best, Connie

Leave a Comment

Previous post: Guidelines for Designing Tables

Next post: Designing Interactions for a Positive Experience

When you know how people understand graphics, yours will be more effective. That's why I wrote Visual Language For Designers . This website is an extension of my book. Hope you enjoy it! -- Connie Malamed

definition of presentation graphics

Visual Design for Learning Professionals

Top reads last month.

  • 10 Reasons to Use Color
  • Guidelines for Designing Tables
  • Visual Language of Timelines
  • Information Display Tips
  • Communicating with Animated Infographics

BROWSE BY TOPIC

  • Brainy Stuff (12)
  • Graphic Analysis (5)
  • Reviews (1)
  • Visual Design (16)
  • Visualizations (7)

Copyright ©2024 Connie Malamed. All Rights Reserved.

Critical PowerPoint Shortcuts – Claim Your FREE Training Module and Get Your Time Back!

nuts and bolts speed training logo

PowerPoint Graphics: How to Improve Your Presentations w/ Graphics

  • PowerPoint Tutorials
  • Pictures, Icons, Videos, Etc.
  • Presentation Design
  • August 21, 2018

If you’ve ever touched a PowerPoint slide, chances are that you’ve already used PowerPoint graphics already.

But you may have questions: How do you find good graphics? How do you manipulate them correctly? And how do you customize them?

That’s what this article will answer for you.

What is a PowerPoint graphic?

There seems to be a wide range of things that people label as a graphic for PowerPoint.

Here at Nuts & Bolts, we define a graphic in PowerPoint as any image that is not a picture. This includes SmartArt, which is a type of native PowerPoint graphic and has special attributes.

A PowerPoint graphic most typically refers to a grouping of shapes into an image, commonly referred to as vectors.

definition of presentation graphics

From PowerPoint’s perspective, vectors are considered to be shapes – and that means that you can customize them as you would any rectangle, circle, or freeform shape… giving you complete freedom to create the visual you need.

Vector graphics can come in the following file types:

  • EPS (Encapsulated PostScript – create by Adobe – this is perhaps the most common vector image format)

However, PowerPoint will only accept certain file types. To see which ones, go to the section on how to use vectors in PowerPoint below.

Why use a graphic in PowerPoint

As the representation of an idea, a graphic is the perfect way to help your audience immediately visualize and grasp a concept you are sharing with them.

On top of that, it’s a great way to add some flair to any presentation and a quick way to take it up a notch.

definition of presentation graphics

Graphics can be better than pictures in some situations, when you need to be able to edit elements in a visual. For example, maybe you need to remove, add or re-color a certain item.

definition of presentation graphics

You cannot do this with pictures – but with the right graphic (and in particular a vector graphic), you could potentially customize it to your heart’s content.

Where to get free graphics for PowerPoint

Getting free graphics for PowerPoint is easy – you just have to know where to look.

Here are our favorite 2 places to find free vector graphics for PowerPoint:

  • Freepik – Great database with tons of very high-quality and modern icons, flat icons, vectors, and PSD files to use. Freepik does require you to give them credit if you use their material, but they make it very easy with a simple html code.
  • Pixabay – Awesome site for 100% free and Creative Commons CC0 licensed images, illustrations, vectors, and videos.

To learn where to get more free PowerPoint graphics, images, videos, etc. check out this list of  our favorite PowerPoint resources . Another way to get free vector graphics is to create them from scratch. There are two tools that can help you do this:

  • Text-to-Outline by YouPresent – Allows you to convert text into vectors/shapes, which you can then format any way you like in PowerPoint.
  • Vector Magic – Creates a vector out of any image…truly magic!

Keep in mind that because these are all free methods for finding vector graphics for PowerPoint, you will be limited in what you find or create. If you want a very specific and professional-looking vector, you may have to go to a paid service to purchase well-designed graphics that suit your need better.

Where to buy graphics for PowerPoint

By far the easiest way to get professional & unique graphics onto your slides (especially now that ClipArt is gone) is to use a service like GetMyGraphics .

They are custom-built graphics designed for PowerPoint. All you need to do is download and insert them onto your slide and then tweak them like you would SmartArt.

Although this is a paid service, we’ve found that we’ve reused these graphics again and again, so we see it as a good investment in sharper looking slides.

How to use vector graphics in PowerPoint

Using vectors in PowerPoint depends on what file type you have. If you have an older version of PowerPoint (2013 and earlier), you can insert the following vector files types into PowerPoint:

If you have Office 365, you can no longer insert EPS files. However, you can still use EMF files, and you can also insert SVG files (except for on a Mac).

If you have an EPS file and can’t import it into your version of PowerPoint, check out our article on how to import EPS files into PowerPoint .

Note:  If you’re trying to use a file type that is not supported by your version of PowerPoint, you can try converting your file into the correct file type.

For a really good tutorial on how to convert vectors into usable PowerPoint objects without Adobe software, check out Microsoft MVP  Dave Paradi’s post on finding and using vector images in PowerPoint.

Once you have an SVG file downloaded onto your computer, you’ll want to insert it into your presentation.

There are two ways to insert a vector file onto your PowerPoint slide:

Method #1: Drag the file from wherever it is sitting on your computer and drag it onto your slide.

Method #2: Go to the Insert tab in the Ribbon and select ‘Pictures’ (make sure to select the ‘Pictures’ icon and not the ‘Online Pictures’ icon). Then find your vector file and click on ‘Open.’

Note: If you have PowerPoint 2016 with Office 365, you have a new object class, called Icons. These are also vector files (SVG).

You can insert them by going to the Insert tab in the Ribbon and selecting ‘Icons’ (or using this shortcut: Alt, N, Y1). You can learn more about the icons feature in this Office blog article .

Once you have a vector file inserted on your slide, you can manipulate its various pieces.

To do that, you’ll need to ungroup it twice. To ungroup a vector image, select it and then use one of the following methods:

  • Hit the ungroup shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + G
  • Right-click the vector and select ‘Group’ and then ‘Ungroup’
  • Go to the Drawing Tools > Format tab in the Ribbon, select ‘Group’ and then ‘Ungroup’

A pop-up box will appear, asking you if you want to ungroup it. Click on ‘Yes.’

definition of presentation graphics

And now you have a series of shapes (instead of a picture) that you can edit and format however you like, just like for regular PowerPoint shapes.

Note:   Keep in mind that some things might come out strangely as vectors in PowerPoint:

  • Gradients and shadows
  • Lines (the lines will likely come out as one object and may lose their original weight)
  • Complex artwork, such as sketching and other artistic effects

Some things you can do with your vector images now include:

  • Change the fill color
  • Add an outline with a custom weight
  • Move and resize pieces of the vector
  • Edit the points of certain pieces to change even the shape of it

And much more!

What’s next?

Related articles, about the author.

' src=

Popular Tutorials

  • How to Strikethrough Text (l̶i̶k̶e̶ ̶t̶h̶i̶s̶) in Word, Excel & PowerPoint
  • How to Make Animated Fireworks in PowerPoint (Step-by-Step)
  • Strikethrough Shortcut (l̶i̶k̶e̶ ̶t̶h̶i̶s̶) for Word, Excel & PowerPoint
  • How to Create a Flash Card Memory Game in PowerPoint (Like Jeopardy)
  • Keyboard Shortcuts Not Working: Solved

PowerPoint Tutorial Categories

  • Strategies & Opinions
  • Shortcuts & Hacks
  • New Features
  • Miscellaneous
  • Charts & Data Viz

We help busy professionals save hours and gain peace of mind, with corporate workshops, self-paced courses and tutorials for PowerPoint and Word.

Work With Us

  • Corporate Training
  • Presentation & Template Design
  • Courses & Downloads
  • PowerPoint Articles
  • Word Articles
  • Productivity Resources

Find a Tutorial

  • Free Training
  • For Businesses

We help busy office workers save hours and gain peace of mind, with tips, training and tutorials for Microsoft PowerPoint and Word.

Master Critical PowerPoint Shortcuts – Secure Your FREE Training Module and Save Valuable Time!

⌛ Master time-saving expert techniques.

🔥 Create powerful presentations.

🚀 Propel your career to new heights.

We value your privacy – we keep your info safe.

Discover PowerPoint Hacks Loved by Industry Giants - KKR, AmEx, HSBC!

Over 114,880 professionals in finance, marketing and sales have revolutionized their PPT skills with our proven methods. 

Gain FREE access to a full module of our premium PowerPoint training program – Get started today!

We hate spam too and promise to keep your information safe.

You are currently viewing a placeholder content from Facebook . To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.

  • Tech Gift Ideas for Mom
  • Hot Tech Deals at Target Right Now

Presentation Software Definition and Examples

Presentation software brings complex ideas to life, one slide at a time

  • Brock University

Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

Many software suites offer a program designed to accompany a speaker when he or she delivers a presentation. The specific presentation program in this suite of programs is usually (but not always) in the form of a slide show. This category of program is well-established; it doesn't change much, and it supports not only online visual display but also, generally, the printing of related handouts and speaker notes.

Benefits of Presentation Software

These programs make it simple and often fun to create a presentation for your audience. They contain a text editor to add your written content; they support charts and graphic images such as photographs, clip art or other objects to enliven your slideshow and get your point across crisply.

For a deeper dive into some of the leading applications in this software category, check out:

Other Forms of Presentation Software

PowerPoint and its clones work on a slide-based logic: When you move to the next point in your conversation, you advance to the next slide. An alternative model of presentations sets aside the slide model in favor of some other navigation system. Examples include:

Prezi offers a visual navigation tool that allows for zoom-in/zoom-out detail across a logical map of your presentation.

Microsoft Sway

Besides PowerPoint, Microsoft also offers Sway, which is a presentation and newsletter designer that supports simpler and more image-focused designs along a familiar linear flow path.

Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day

  • What Is an Animation in Presentation Software?
  • 5 Best Free Presentation Software Programs
  • The Definition of a Slide (or Slides) in a PowerPoint Presentation
  • How to Use Google Duet in Slides
  • What Is Microsoft PowerPoint and How Do I Use It?
  • OpenOffice Impress Review
  • The 8 Best Google Drive Add-ons for 2024
  • Embed YouTube Videos in PowerPoint 2010
  • How to Make a PowerPoint Presentation
  • What Is Microsoft PowerPoint?
  • PowerPoint Master Slide
  • The 10 Most Common Presentation Mistakes
  • An Introduction to PowerPoint
  • 9 Best Free Jeopardy Templates
  • 10 Dos and Don'ts for Technical Presentations
  • Microsoft Office vs. iWork

Logo for M Libraries Publishing

Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

14.2 Incorporating Effective Visuals into a Presentation

Learning objectives.

  • Recognize the characteristics of effective visual aids.
  • Analyze different types of visual aids and appropriate ways to use them.
  • Determine how to create original visual aids and how to locate visual aids created by others.

Good communication is a multisensory experience. Children first learning how to read often gravitate toward books with engaging pictures. As adults, we graduate to denser books without pictures, yet we still visualize ideas to help us understand the text. Advertisers favor visual media—television, magazines, and billboards—because they are the best way to hook an audience. Websites rely on color, graphics, icons, and a clear system of visual organization to engage Internet surfers.

Bringing visuals into a presentation adds color, literally and figuratively. There is an art to doing it well. This section covers how to use different kinds of visual aids effectively.

Using Visual Aids: The Basics

Good writers make conscious choices. They understand their purpose and audience. Every decision they make on the page, from organizing an essay to choosing a word with just the right connotations, is made with their purpose and audience in mind.

The same principle applies to visual communication. As a presenter, you choose the following:

  • When to show images or video for maximum impact
  • Which images will best produce the effect you want
  • When to present information using a table, chart, or other graphic
  • How much text to include in slides or informational graphics
  • How to organize graphics so they present information clearly

Your goal is to use visual media to support and enhance your presentation. At the same time, you must make sure these media do not distract your audience or interfere with getting your point across. Your ideas, not your visuals, should be the focus.

As you develop the visual side of your presentation, you will follow a process much like the process you follow when you write. You will brainstorm ideas, form an organizational plan, develop drafts, and then refine and edit your work. The following sections provide guidelines to help you make good decisions throughout the process.

What Makes Visual Aids Effective?

To help you get a sense of what makes visual media work, think about what does not work. Try to recall occasions when you have witnessed the following visual media failures:

  • Websites crammed with so many images, flashing phrases, and clashing colors that they are almost unreadable
  • Assembly instructions with illustrations or diagrams that are impossible to follow
  • Photographs that are obviously (and badly) altered with photo-editing software
  • Distracting typos or other errors in signs, advertisements, or headlines
  • Tables, charts, or graphs with tiny, dense text or missing labels

In each case, the problem is that the media creator did not think carefully enough about the purpose and audience. The purpose of images, color, or flashing text on a website is to attract attention. Overusing these elements defeats the purpose because the viewer may become overwhelmed or distracted. Tables, charts, and graphs are intended to simplify complex information, but without clear labels and legible text, they will confuse the audience.

In contrast, effective visual elements are chosen or created with the purpose and audience in mind. Although a photo shoot for a magazine article might result in dozens of images, editors choose those few that work best with the article. Web designers and video game creators have an audience test their products before they are released, to ensure that people will understand how to use them. Understanding the function of different visual aids will help you use them with purpose.

Types of Visual Aids

Visual aids fall into two main categories—images and informational graphics. Images include photographs, illustrations and clip art, and video footage. Informational graphics include tables, charts, bar graphs, and line graphs.

These visual aids serve two purposes: to add emotional impact to your presentation and to organize information more clearly. With that in mind, read to find out how specific types of visual aids achieve those purposes.

Photographs

A striking photograph can capture your audience’s attention far more successfully than words can. Consider including photographs at the beginning or end of your presentation to emphasize your main ideas or to accompany a particularly important point in the body of your presentation. Remember that, as with other types of graphics, less is often more. Two or three well-chosen photographs are more effective than a dozen mediocre ones.

When you choose photographs, ask yourself these questions:

  • What purpose does this image serve? Will it surprise the audience? Will it provoke a strong emotional response? Does it support an important point?
  • Will this photograph be more effective if shown with only a caption, or does it need additional text?
  • Will the audience understand what is happening in the photograph? Is the meaning immediately evident, or does the photo need some context?
  • Would editing the image make it more effective? Consider using image-editing software to crop the photo, change the brightness, or make other cosmetic changes. (Do not go overboard, though. A slightly imperfect but authentic image is preferable to one that has been obviously altered.)

To illustrate the sense of helplessness people felt in the midst of tragedy, a student could use a photograph that shows fear, weariness, or defeat on the face of the photograph’s subject.

Figure 14.3

An old man sitting on the street

Neil Moralee – On The Scrap Heap . – CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Illustrations

Illustrations, such as editorial or political cartoons, serve much the same purpose as photographs. Because an illustration does not capture a moment in time the way a photo does, it may have less impact. However, depending on your topic and the effect you want to achieve, illustrations can still be very useful. Use the same criteria for choosing photographs to help you choose illustrations.

Figure 14.4

A Political Cartoon about Budget Cuts

Humor Blog – Political Cartoon about Budget Cuts – CC BY 2.0.

The style of an illustration or photograph affects viewers just as the content does. Keep this in mind if you are working with the stock images available in office software programs. Many of these images have a comical tone. This may be fine for some topics—for instance, a presentation on television shows for children. However, if you need to project a more serious tone, make sure you choose images to suit that purpose. Many free (or reasonably priced) image banks are available online.

Video Footage

Even more than photographs, video footage can create a sense of immediacy, especially if your video includes sound. Showing a brief video clip can help your audience feel as if they are present at an important event, connect with a person being interviewed, or better understand a process. Again, ask yourself the following questions to ensure you are using the footage well:

  • What purpose does this video serve? (Never rely on video clips just to fill time.)
  • How much footage should be shown to achieve your purpose?
  • What will need to be explained, before or after showing the video, to ensure that your audience understands its significance?
  • Will it be necessary to edit the video to stay within time requirements or to focus on the most important parts?

Informational graphics, such as tables, charts, and graphs, do not provoke the same response that images do. Nevertheless, these graphics can have a powerful impact. Their primary purpose is to organize and simplify information.

Tables are effective when you must classify information and organize it in categories. Tables are an especially good choice when you are presenting qualitative data that are not strictly numerical. Table 14.1 “Example of Qualitative Data Table” was created for a presentation discussing the subprime mortgage crisis. It presents information about people who have held powerful positions both in the government and at one of the investment banking firms involved in the subprime mortgage market.

Table 14.1 Example of Qualitative Data Table

Sources: http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/%3Bkw=%5B3351,11459%5D ; http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/19/business/19gold.html ; http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/p/henry_m_jr_paulson/index.html?inline=nyt-per ; http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/r/robert_e_rubin/index.html?inline=nyt-per , http://www.nytimes.com/2002/12/13/us/man-in-the-news-economic-adviser-from-other-side-of-the-deficit-stephen-friedman.html ; http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/342086.stm .

If you are working with numerical information, consider whether a pie chart, bar graph, or line graph might be an effective way to present the content. A table can help you organize numerical information, but it is not the most effective way to emphasize contrasting data or to show changes over time.

Pie charts are useful for showing numerical information in percentages. For example, you can use a pie chart to represent presidential election results by showing what percentage of voters voted for the Democratic presidential candidate, the Republican candidate, and candidates from other political parties.

Figure 14.5

A Pie chart illustrating that 52.92% of people favored Obama, 45.66% favored McCain, and 1.42% favored other candidates.

Source: http://www.fec.gov/pubrec/fe2008/2008presgeresults.pdf

Bar graphs work well when you want to show similarities and differences in numerical data. Horizontal or vertical bars help viewers compare data from different groups, different time periods, and so forth. For instance, the bar graph in Figure 14.6 allows the viewer to compare data on the five countries that have won the most Olympic medals since the modern games began in 1924: Norway, the United States, the former Soviet Union, Germany, and Austria. Bar graphs can effectively show trends or patterns in data as well.

Figure 14.6

Olympic Medal Standings since 1924 show that Norway has won the most, followed by the United States, Soviet Union, Germany, and Austria

Source: http://www.nbcolympics.com/medals/all-time-standings/index.html

Line Graphs

Like bar graphs, line graphs show trends in data. Line graphs are usually used to show trends in data over time. For example, the line graph in Figure 14.7 shows changes in the Dow Jones Industrial Average—an economic index based on trading information about thirty large, US-based public companies. This graph shows where the Dow closed at the end of each business day over a period of five days.

Figure 14.7

Down Jones Industrial Average at Market Closing went down significantly from May 17, 2010 to May 20, 2010, and then raised again at May 21, 2010

Source: http://www.google.com/finance/historical?cid=983582&startdate=May+17%2C+2010&enddate=May+21%2C+2010

In this exercise, you will begin to refine your ideas for incorporating media into your presentation. Complete the following steps on your own sheet of paper.

  • Revisit the list you brainstormed for Note 14.12 “Exercise 3” in Chapter 14 “Creating Presentations: Sharing Your Ideas” , Section 14.1 “Organizing a Visual Presentation” and the annotated outline you developed for Note 14.17 “Exercise 4” .
  • Analyze the two different types of visual aids: images and informational graphics. Identify at least two places in your presentation where you might incorporate visual aids.
  • Evaluate the purpose of the visual aid. Does it create emotional impact, or does it organize information? Is the visual effective?
  • Determine whether you will be able to create the visual aid yourself or will need to find it.

Creating Original Visual Aids

You will include original visual aids in your presentation to add interest, present complex information or data more clearly, or appeal to your audience’s emotions. You may wish to create some visual aids by hand—for instance, by mounting photographs on poster board for display. More likely, however, you will use computer-generated graphics.

Computer-generated visual aids are easy to create once you learn how to use certain office software. They also offer greater versatility. You can print hard copies and display them large or include them in a handout for your audience. Or, if you are working with presentation software, you can simply insert the graphics in your slides.

Regardless of how you proceed, keep the following guidelines in mind:

  • Create visual aids with purpose. Think carefully about how they will enhance your message, and choose a form that is appropriate for your content.
  • Strive for quality. You do not need the skills of a professional photographer or designer, but do take time to make sure your visual aids are neat, attractive, and legible. Proofread for errors, too.

Using Software to Create Visual Aids

You can use standard office software to create simple graphics easily. The following guidelines describe how to work with word-processing software and presentation software.

Working with Photographs

Most personal computers come equipped with some basic image-editing software, and many people choose to purchase more advanced programs as well. You can upload photographs from a digital camera (or in some cases, a cell phone) or scan and upload printed photographs. The images can then be edited and incorporated into your presentation. Be sure to save all of your images in one folder for easy access.

Creating Tables

To create a table within a word-processing document consult your software program’s help feature or an online tutorial. Once you have created the table, you can edit and make any additional changes. Be sure that the table has no more than six to seven rows or columns because you do not want to compromise the size of the text or the readability. Aligning with precision will help your table look less crowded. Also, the row and column titles should spell out their contents.

Creating Graphs

Figure 14.8

Screenshot of powerpoint

Pie charts and bar and line graphs can also be created using standard office software. Although you can create these graphics within a document, you will need to work with both your word-processing application and your spreadsheet application to do so. The graph should visually explain the data using colors, titles, and labels. The use of color will help the audience distinguish information; however, avoid colors that are hard on the eyes, such as lime green or hot pink. The title should clearly state what the graph explains. Lastly, avoid using acronyms in the titles and other labels.

Creating Graphics in an Electronic Presentation

If you plan to work only with hard copy graphics during your presentation, you may choose to create them as word-processing documents. However, if you are using presentation software, you will need to choose one of the following options:

  • Create your graphics using the presentation software program.
  • Create your graphics within another program and import them.

Standard office presentation software allows you to create informational graphics in much the same way you would create them within a word-processing application. Keep the formatting palette, a menu option that allows you to customize the graphic, open while you use the software. The formatting menu provides options for inserting other types of graphics, such as pictures and video. You may insert pictures from an image bank available within the program, or insert images or video from your own desktop files. Shape your use of multimedia in accordance with the message your presentation is trying to convey, the purpose, and your audience.

Creating Visual Aids by Hand

Most of the time, using computer-generated graphics is more efficient than creating them by hand. Using office software programs helps give your graphics a polished appearance while also teaching you skills that are useful in a variety of jobs. However, it may make sense to use hand-created visual aids in some cases—for instance, when showing a 3-D model would be effective. If you follow this route, be sure to devote extra time to making sure your visual aids are neat, legible, and professional.

Flip charts are inexpensive and quick visual aids used during face-to-face presentations. The flip chart can be prepared before, as well as during, the presentation. Each sheet of paper should contain one theme, idea, or sketch and must be penned in large letters to be seen by audience members farthest away from the speaker.

Writing Captions

Any media you incorporate should include a caption or other explanatory text. A caption is a brief, one- to two-sentence description or explanation of a visual image. Make sure your captions are clear, accurate, and to the point. Use full sentences when you write them.

Captions should always be used with photographs, and in some cases, they can be useful for clarifying informational graphics, which represent qualitative data visually. However, informational graphics may not require a caption if the title and labels are sufficiently clear. For other visual media, such as video footage, providing explanatory text before or after the footage will suffice. The important thing is to make sure you always include some explanation of the media.

In this exercise, you will begin to develop visual aids for your presentation. Complete the steps in this exercise—and enjoy the chance to be creative. Working with visuals can be a pleasant way to take a break from the demands of writing.

  • Revisit the ideas you developed in Note 14.24 “Exercise 1” . Choose at least two ideas that you can create. ( Note: If you are using software to develop a slideshow presentation, count this as one of your self-created visual aids. Include at least one other self-created visual aid, such as an original photograph, within your slideshow.)
  • Get creative! Take your photographs, construct a 3-D model, create informational graphics, or work on your presentation slides. Develop good working drafts.
  • After you have completed drafts of your visual aids, set them aside for a while. Then revisit them with a critical eye. First, check any text included with the graphic. Make sure your facts are correct, your words are clear and concise, and your language is free of errors.
  • Next, evaluate how well your aids work visually. Are they large enough to be seen and read from a distance? Are captions and labels easy to find? Are photographs of reasonably high quality? Ask someone else for feedback, too.
  • Begin making any needed changes. As you proceed through the rest of this section, continue to revisit your work to improve it as needed.

Collaboration

Please share the first version of your visual aids with a classmate. Examine what they have produced. On a separate piece of paper, note both the elements that catch your attention and those that would benefit from clarification. Return and compare notes.

Testing and Evaluating Visual Aids

Regardless of how you create your visual aids, be sure to test-drive them before you deliver your presentation. Edit and proofread them, and if possible, show them to someone who can give you objective feedback. Use the following checklist.

Checklist 14.1

Visual Aid Evaluation Checklist

  • Visual aids are clearly integrated with the content of the presentation
  • Photographs and illustrations suit the overall tone of the presentation
  • Images and text are large and clear enough for the viewer to see or read
  • Images are shown with explanatory text or a caption
  • Informational graphics include clear, easy-to-read labels and headings
  • Text within informational graphics is easy to read (Watch out for wordiness and crowded text or a font that is too small and hard to read.)
  • Formatting choices (color, different fonts, etc.) organize information effectively
  • Any text within graphics is free of errors
  • Hyperlinks within slides function properly
  • Display text for hyperlinks is concise and informative (Never paste a link into a slide without modifying the display text.)

Writing at Work

Office software includes many options for personalizing a presentation. For instance, you can choose or create a theme and color scheme, modify how one slide transitions to the next, or even include sound effects. With so many options, students and employees sometimes get carried away. The result can seem amateurish and detract from, rather than enhance, your presentation.

Remember, you are delivering a presentation, not producing a movie. Use the customization options to help give your presentations a consistent, polished, appearance. However, do not let these special effects detract from the substance of your slides.

Using Existing Visual Media

Depending on your topic, you may be able to find images and other graphics you can use instead of creating your own. For instance, you might use photographs from a reputable news source or informational graphics created by a government agency. If you plan to use visual aids created by others, keep the following guidelines in mind:

  • Set a purpose before you begin your search. You will search more efficiently if you start with a general idea of what you are looking for—a line graph of unemployment rates for the past twelve months, for example, or a video clip of the most recent State of the Union address.
  • Filter out visual aids that are not relevant. You may come across eye-catching graphics and be tempted to use them even if they are only loosely related to your topic, simply because they are attention getting. Resist the temptation. If the graphic is not clearly connected to your point, it does not belong in your presentation.
  • Read carefully. In addition to reading labels, headings, and captions, read any text that accompanies the visual. Make sure you understand the visual in its original context. For informational graphics, make sure you understand exactly what information is being represented. (This may seem obvious, but it is easy to misread graphic information. Take the time to examine it carefully.)
  • Evaluate sources carefully and record source information. When you look for visual media to complement your presentation, you are conducting research. Apply the same standards you used for your research paper. Choose reliable sources, such as reputable news organizations, government and nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions. Verify data in additional sources. Finally, be sure to document all source information as you proceed.

Searching Efficiently for Visual Media

You will probably find it most efficient to use the Internet to search for visual aids. Many students begin by typing keywords into a search engine to locate related images. However, this search technique is not necessarily efficient, for several reasons:

  • It often pulls up hundreds or even thousands of images, which may be only loosely related to your search terms.
  • It can sometimes be difficult to understand the image in its original context.
  • It can be hard to find copyright information about how you may use the image.

A more efficient strategy is to identify a few sources that are likely to have what you are looking for, and then search within those sites. For instance, if you need a table showing average life expectancy in different countries, you might begin with the website of the World Health Organization. If you hope to find images related to current events, news publications are an obvious choice. The Library of Congress website includes many media related to American history, culture, and politics.

Searching this way has the following advantages:

  • You will often find what you are looking for faster because you are not wasting time scrolling through many irrelevant results.
  • If you have chosen your sources well, you can be reasonably certain that you are getting accurate, up-to-date information.
  • Images and informational graphics produced by reputable sources are likely to be high quality—easy to read and well designed.

If you do choose to use a search engine to help you locate visual media, make sure you use it wisely. Begin with a clear idea of what you are looking for. Use the advanced search settings to narrow your search. When you locate a relevant image, do not download it immediately. Read the page or site to make sure you understand the image in context. Finally, read the site’s copyright or terms of use policy—usually found at the bottom of the home page—to make sure you may use the material.

If you are unable to find what you are looking for on the Internet consider using print sources of visual media. You may choose to mount these for display or scan them and incorporate the files into an electronic presentation. (Scanning printed pages may lower the quality of the image. However, if you are skilled at using photo-editing software, you may be able to improve the quality of the scanned image.)

Inserting Hyperlinks in an Electronic Presentation

If you are working with images, audio, or video footage available online, you may wish to insert a link within your presentation. Then, during your presentation, you can simply click the link to open the website in a separate window and toggle between windows to return to your presentation slides.

To insert a hyperlink within your presentation, click on insert in the toolbar and then select hyperlink from the menu. Doing so will open a dialogue box where you can paste your link and modify the accompanying display text shown on your slide.

Copyright and Fair Use

Before you download (or scan) any visual media, make sure you have the right to use it. Most websites state their copyright and terms of use policy on their home page. In general, you may not use other people’s visual media for any commercial purpose without contacting the copyright holder to obtain permission and pay any specified fees.

Copyright restrictions are somewhat more ambiguous when you wish to download visual media for educational uses. Some educational uses of copyrighted materials are generally considered fair use —meaning that it is legally and ethically acceptable to use the material in your work. However, do not assume that because you are using the media for an educational purpose, you are automatically in the clear. Make sure your work meets the guidelines in the following checklist. If it does, you can be reasonably confident that it would be considered fair use in a court of law and always give credit to the source.

Checklist 14.2

Media Fair Use Checklist

  • You are using the media for educational purposes only.
  • You will make the work available only for a short period and to a limited audience. For instance, showing a copyrighted image in a classroom presentation is acceptable. Posting a presentation with copyrighted images online is problematic. In addition, avoid any uses that would allow other people to easily access and reproduce the work.
  • You have used only as much of the work as needed for your purposes. For video and audio footage, limit your use to no more than 10 percent of the media—five minutes of an hour-long television show, for example. Image use is harder to quantify, but you should avoid using many images from the same source.
  • You are using the media to support your own ideas, not replace them. Your use should include some commentary or place the media in context. It should be a supporting player in your presentation—not the star of the show.
  • You have obtained the material legally. Purchase the media if necessary rather than using illegally pirated material.
  • Your use of the media will not affect the copyright holder or benefit you financially.

By following these guidelines, you are respecting the copyright holder’s right to control the distribution of the work and to profit from it.

In some fields, such as teaching, job applicants often submit a professional portfolio to a prospective employer. Recent college graduates may include relevant course work in their portfolios or in applications to graduate school. What should you do if your course work uses copyrighted visual media?

This use of media is acceptable according to fair use guidelines. Even though you are using the work for your personal professional advancement, it is not considered an infringement on copyright as long as you follow the additional guidelines listed in the previous checklist.

Crediting Sources

As you conduct your research, make sure you document sources as you proceed. Follow the guidelines when you download images, video, or other media from the Internet or capture media from other sources. Keep track of where you accessed the media and where you can find additional information about it. You may also provide a references page at the end of the presentation to cite not only media and images but also the information in the text of your presentation. See Chapter 13 “APA and MLA Documentation and Formatting” for more information on creating a reference page.

Write captions or other explanatory text for visual media created by others, just as you would for media you created. Doing so helps keep your audience informed. It also helps ensure that you are following fair use guidelines by presenting the media with your commentary, interpretation, or analysis. In your caption or elsewhere in your presentation, note the source of any media you did not create yourself. You do not need to provide a full bibliographical citation, but do give credit where it is due.

In this exercise, you will locate visual aids created by others and continue developing the work you began earlier. Complete these steps.

1. Revisit the ideas you developed in Note 14.24 “Exercise 1” . Choose at least two ideas for which it would make more sense to find the visual aid than to create it yourself. 2. Use the search tips provided in this section to locate at least two visual aids from reputable sources that you can use. Prepare them for your presentation by adding clarifying text as needed. Be sure to credit your source. 3. Incorporate the visual aids you created in Note 14.26 “Exercise 2” and Note 14.32 “Exercise 3” into your presentation. This may involve preparing physical copies for display or inserting graphic files into an electronic presentation.

4. Take some time now to review how you will integrate the visual and verbal components of your presentation.

  • If you are working with presentation software, refine your slides. Make sure the visual approach is consistent and suits your topic. Give your text a final proofread.
  • If you are not using presentation software, review the annotated outline you created in Note 14.24 “Exercise 1” . Update it as needed to reflect your current plan. Also, determine how you will physically set up your visual aids.

Key Takeaways

  • Visual aids are most effective when they are chosen with the purpose and audience in mind. They serve to add emotional impact to a presentation and to organize information more clearly.
  • Visual aids should always be clearly related to the presenter’s ideas. Captions, labels, and other explanatory text help make the connection clear for the audience.
  • Like writing, developing the visual components of a presentation is a process. It involves generating ideas, working with them in a draft format, and then revising and editing one’s work.
  • Visual aids can be divided into two broad categories—image-based media and informational graphics.
  • Widely available software programs make it relatively easy to create visual aids electronically, such as photo images, charts, and graphs.
  • When using visual aids created by others, it is important to apply good research skills, follow guidelines for fair use, and credit sources appropriately.

Writing for Success Copyright © 2015 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

August 8, 2023

Michael C. McKay

Understanding Presentation Software: Definition and Real-Life Examples

allows users , create visually , their slides , users create , visually appealing , your presentation

What is Presentation Software? Definition and Examples

Presentation software is a computer program or application that allows users to create and present visual aids, slideshows, and presentations. It is a powerful tool that combines design, technology, and software to enhance communication and engage audiences. The most well-known presentation software is PowerPoint, which is widely used in education, business, and other professional settings.

Presentation software provides a platform for users to create and organize slides and content. Users can add text, images, videos, charts, and other media elements to their slides, making their presentations visually appealing and informative. The software also offers various design templates and themes, allowing users to customize the look and feel of their presentations.

One of the key features of presentation software is its ability to display slideshows on external screens or projectors. Presenters can connect their computer to a projector or a large screen to showcase their presentations to a live audience. The software provides tools for navigating through slides, zooming in on specific content, and controlling the flow of the presentation.

In addition to offline programs, there are also online presentation software platforms available. These web-based tools allow users to create and share presentations online, eliminating the need for installation and providing easy access from any device with an internet connection. Online presentation software often includes collaboration features, enabling multiple users to work on a presentation simultaneously and share feedback in real-time.

Overall, presentation software is a valuable tool for creating and delivering engaging and professional presentations. Whether in a classroom, boardroom, or conference hall, this application enhances communication by combining visuals, text, and media to effectively convey information and captivate audiences.

  • 1.1 Overview of Presentation Software
  • 2.1 Slide Creation
  • 2.2 Formatting Options
  • 2.3 Interactive Elements
  • 3.1 Microsoft PowerPoint
  • 3.2 Google Slides
  • 4.1 Visual Aid
  • 4.2 Engagement
  • 4.3 Efficiency
  • 5 FAQ about topic “Understanding Presentation Software: Definition and Real-Life Examples”
  • 6 What is presentation software?
  • 7 What are some examples of presentation software?
  • 8 What are the benefits of using presentation software?
  • 9 Can presentation software be used for purposes other than making presentations?

What is Presentation Software?

Presentation software is an application or software tool that enables users to create and deliver visual presentations to an audience. It is commonly used in business, education, and other professional settings to convey information, ideas, and data through a combination of graphics, text, and media.

One of the most popular presentation software programs is Microsoft PowerPoint, which revolutionized the way presentations are created and delivered. It provides a user-friendly interface and a wide range of design templates and slide layouts to help users create visually appealing and engaging presentations.

Presentation software allows users to create slides that consist of text, images, charts, graphs, and other visual elements. These slides can be arranged in a logical sequence and displayed one by one using a projector or shared online.

With advancements in technology, presentation software has evolved to offer more features and capabilities. Many presentation software applications now include media integration, animation, and interactive elements to make presentations more dynamic and interactive.

Online presentation platforms have also become popular, allowing users to create and deliver presentations over the internet. These platforms offer cloud storage, collaboration features, and access from any device with an internet connection.

In summary, presentation software is a powerful tool for creating and delivering visual presentations. It provides users with the ability to design and organize slides, incorporate multimedia elements, and engage the audience with compelling visuals and content.

Overview of Presentation Software

Presentation software is a type of software that allows users to create and deliver multimedia presentations. It provides a platform for combining text, graphics , and other forms of media to create visually engaging slideshows. One of the most popular presentation software programs is PowerPoint , which is widely used in business, education, and other fields.

With presentation software , users can design and organize their slides to effectively convey information to an audience . Each slide can contain text, images, videos, charts, and other visual elements to enhance the message being presented. The software also provides tools for adding transitions between slides, animating objects, and incorporating audio to further engage the audience .

One of the key features of presentation software is its ability to create slides that can be projected onto a screen using a projector or displayed on individual devices via online platforms and technologies. This allows presenters to deliver their presentations to large or small groups, whether in a classroom, conference room, or remote location.

Whether you are a student, business professional, or educator, presentation software is a valuable tool for creating engaging and informative slideshows. It provides a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features to help you organize, design, and deliver your presentation effectively. By leveraging the power of technology and visual storytelling, presentation software allows you to communicate your ideas and messages in a compelling and memorable way.

Features of Presentation Software

Presentation software is a powerful tool that allows users to create visually stunning and interactive presentations. With the advent of online platforms, presentation software has become even more accessible and easy to use. Whether you are presenting in front of a room full of people or sharing your presentation virtually, presentation software offers a variety of features to engage your audience.

One of the most important features of presentation software is the ability to create visually appealing slides. This includes the option to choose from a wide range of pre-designed templates or to create your own custom design. With the help of graphics, colors, and fonts, you can make your presentation stand out and capture the attention of your audience.

Another key feature of presentation software is the ability to add multimedia elements to your slides. This can include images, videos, and audio files, which can help to enhance the overall impact of your presentation. By incorporating multimedia elements, you can make your presentation more engaging and memorable.

Presentation software also offers various tools for organizing and structuring your content. This includes the ability to create and rearrange slides, add transitions and animations, and incorporate interactive elements such as quizzes and polls. These features can help to create a more dynamic and interactive presentation.

One of the defining features of presentation software is the integration with other applications and technologies. For example, many presentation software platforms allow you to import and export slides from other applications such as PowerPoint. This enables users to work across different platforms and collaborate with others.

Whether you are presenting in a boardroom or using a projector in a conference hall, presentation software provides the flexibility to adapt to different presentation environments. This includes the ability to adjust the size and resolution of your slides to fit the screen, as well as the option to present in fullscreen mode for a more immersive experience.

In summary, presentation software is a versatile tool that allows users to create visually engaging and interactive presentations. With features such as customizable designs, multimedia integration, organizational tools, and compatibility with other applications, presentation software is an essential tool for effective communication and presentation in today’s digital age.

Slide Creation

Slide creation is one of the main features of presentation software. It allows users to design and create visual slides that are used to present information to an audience. With the help of presentation software, users can easily create slides by adding text, graphics, and media elements such as images and videos. The program provides a platform for users to organize and structure their content in a visually appealing way.

When creating slides, users have the option to choose from a variety of pre-designed templates or create their own custom designs. Many presentation software applications, such as Microsoft PowerPoint, offer a wide range of built-in slide templates that users can customize to fit their needs. These templates provide a starting point for users to create their slides and help them maintain a consistent design throughout their presentation.

Furthermore, slide creation tools often include features that allow users to enhance their slides with animations, transitions, and multimedia elements. For example, users can add slide animations to make the content appear more engaging and visually appealing. They can also insert audio or video files to incorporate media into their slides. Presentation software typically provides a user-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality, making it easy for users to organize and arrange their slides in a logical sequence.

During a presentation, slides are typically displayed on a projector or large screen using the presentation software’s slideshow mode. This enables the presenter to deliver the content to the audience in a visually appealing and structured manner. With the advancement of technology, many presentation software also offer online platforms where users can create and share their slides. This allows users to collaborate with others and access their slides from any device with an internet connection.

Formatting Options

When using presentation software, there are various formatting options available to enhance the visual appeal of your slides. These options allow you to create professional and engaging presentations that effectively communicate your message. Here are some formatting options commonly found in presentation software such as PowerPoint.

  • Themes: Themes provide a set of pre-designed visuals that can be applied to your slides, offering a cohesive and professional look to your presentation. Themes may include color schemes, font styles, and background designs.
  • Templates: Templates are pre-designed slide layouts that can be customized with your own content. They save time and effort by providing a structure for your presentation, while also ensuring a consistent design throughout.
  • Transitions: Transitions are the visual effects that occur when moving between slides. They add a dynamic element to your presentation and can help maintain audience engagement. Popular transition options include fades, slides, and flips.
  • Animations: Animations allow you to add movement to individual elements within a slide. They can be used to highlight important points or create visual interest. Animations can include entrance effects, exit effects, and emphasis effects.
  • Fonts: Fonts play a crucial role in the overall design of your presentation. Presentation software often offers a variety of font options to choose from, including different sizes, styles, and colors. It’s important to select fonts that are readable and appropriate for your content.
  • Graphics: Graphics can be incorporated into your slides to enhance visual appeal and convey information effectively. Presentation software may provide tools for inserting and customizing graphical elements such as images, charts, diagrams, and icons.
  • Arrangement: The arrangement of your slides can greatly impact the flow of your presentation. Presentation software usually allows you to reorder slides, create sections, and group slides together based on content or themes. This can help you organize your presentation and make it easier for your audience to follow along.

These formatting options, among others, contribute to the versatility and creative capabilities of presentation software. Whether you’re using a desktop program, an online platform, or a mobile application, the availability of such formatting options allows you to create visually appealing and engaging presentations that effectively communicate your message to your audience.

Interactive Elements

Interactive elements are a crucial component of a presentation to engage the audience. These elements can be incorporated into various slides and design layouts using presentation software applications. Through the use of interactive elements, presenters can create a dynamic and captivating presentation experience.

One popular interactive element is the inclusion of multimedia, such as videos or audio clips. This can be achieved by embedding media files into the slides, allowing the audience to directly interact with the content. Additionally, interactive elements like hyperlinks can be used to navigate between different slides or external sources, enhancing the overall flow and accessibility of the presentation.

Interactive elements can also be used to foster collaboration and audience participation. Polls, quizzes, or surveys can be integrated into the presentation software, enabling real-time feedback and interaction with the audience. This not only keeps the audience engaged but also provides valuable insights for the presenter.

Furthermore, presentation software provides various interactive tools and features that allow presenters to create visually appealing and interactive slides. These tools may include drag-and-drop functionality, animation effects, or interactive charts and diagrams. By utilizing these tools, presenters can enhance the visual appeal of their slides and create an engaging experience for the audience.

With the advancements in technology, presentation software has evolved to include online platforms and cloud-based solutions. These platforms enable real-time collaboration and interaction, allowing multiple presenters or participants to contribute to the presentation simultaneously. This fosters teamwork and enhances the overall interactive experience for both presenters and audience members.

In summary, interactive elements play a vital role in presentation software, allowing presenters to create engaging and dynamic presentations. These elements provide opportunities for audience interaction, multimedia integration, and collaboration. By utilizing these interactive features, presenters can captivate their audience and deliver impactful presentations.

Popular Presentation Software Examples

Popular Presentation Software Examples

There are several popular presentation software examples available that offer a wide range of features and capabilities to create visually appealing slides. These platforms provide tools to design attractive presentations using graphics, media, and interactive features.

PowerPoint: Microsoft PowerPoint is one of the most widely used presentation software applications. It offers a variety of templates and slide layouts to create professional and engaging presentations. With PowerPoint, users can easily insert visuals, graphics, and multimedia elements to enhance their slides.

Prezi: Prezi is an online presentation tool that allows users to create dynamic and non-linear presentations. It offers a unique zooming feature that allows presenters to navigate through different slides and sections, providing an engaging experience for the audience. Prezi also provides a wide range of templates and design options to create visually appealing presentations.

Google Slides: Google Slides is a cloud-based presentation software that allows users to collaborate and create presentations online. It offers a range of templates, themes, and design options to create professional-looking slides. Google Slides also allows users to easily share and present their slides with others, making it a popular choice for team collaborations.

Keynote: Keynote is a presentation software developed by Apple for Mac users. It offers a variety of themes, transitions, and animations to create visually stunning presentations. Keynote also allows users to collaborate and share their presentations with others using iCloud, providing seamless access across devices.

These presentation software examples offer powerful tools and features to create visually appealing and engaging presentations. Whether it’s for business, education, or personal use, these platforms provide the necessary tools to captivate and inform the audience with effective visuals and designs.

Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft PowerPoint is a presentation software program developed by Microsoft. It is a powerful tool that allows users to create and deliver presentations using a computer and a projector. PowerPoint provides a platform for designing and presenting visual and media-rich presentations that captivate the audience.

With PowerPoint, users can create slideshows that include text, images, videos, audio, and other media. This software application offers a wide range of features and tools to customize the design and layout of slides, including transitions, animations, and effects. Users can also add charts, tables, and graphs to present data and information in a visually appealing and easy-to-understand way.

One of the key advantages of Microsoft PowerPoint is its user-friendly interface and easy-to-use features. It enables users to create professional-looking presentations without the need for advanced design skills or coding knowledge. With PowerPoint’s drag-and-drop functionality and pre-designed templates, anyone can quickly create a visually impressive presentation.

In addition, Microsoft PowerPoint offers online collaboration features, allowing multiple users to work on a presentation simultaneously. This makes it easy for teams to collaborate on projects and share their ideas and feedback. PowerPoint also allows users to save their presentations in various formats, making it accessible across different devices and operating systems.

In summary, Microsoft PowerPoint is a widely used software application for creating and delivering presentations. Its intuitive interface, powerful features, and flexibility make it a preferred choice for individuals, students, educators, and professionals who want to communicate their ideas effectively and engage their audience.

Google Slides

Google Slides is an online presentation software that allows users to create, edit, and present slides using a web browser. It is a powerful tool for creating visually engaging presentations that can be easily shared with an audience.

With Google Slides, users can create professional-looking slides with a wide range of graphics, including images, charts, and diagrams. The application provides a variety of templates and themes to choose from, making it easy to create visually appealing presentations.

One of the advantages of using Google Slides is its online platform, which allows for easy collaboration and sharing of presentations. Users can work on a presentation simultaneously with others, making it ideal for group projects or team presentations.

Google Slides also integrates seamlessly with other Google products, such as Google Drive and Google Docs, allowing users to easily import and embed media from these platforms into their presentations. This makes it easy to incorporate videos, images, and other multimedia elements into a presentation.

In conclusion, Google Slides is a powerful presentation software that provides users with a wide range of tools and features to create visually appealing and engaging presentations. Its online platform and integration with other Google products make it a versatile and convenient choice for both individual and collaborative presentations.

Prezi

Prezi is a presentation software that offers a unique approach to creating and delivering presentations. Unlike traditional presentation programs like PowerPoint, Prezi allows users to create dynamic and interactive presentations that engage the audience and tell a story.

With Prezi, users can design their presentations on a single canvas, zooming in and out to highlight different elements and create visual connections between ideas. This non-linear approach to presentation design allows for a more fluid and engaging experience for the audience.

Prezi can be accessed online, making it a convenient and versatile platform for creating and sharing presentations. Users can create, edit, and present their slides from anywhere with an internet connection, which is especially useful for remote or team collaborations.

One of the key advantages of Prezi is its emphasis on visuals and graphics. Users can easily add images, videos, and other media to enhance their presentations and make them more visually appealing. The software also offers a variety of templates and customization options to help users create professional-looking slides.

With its innovative technology and user-friendly interface, Prezi has become a popular choice for individuals and businesses looking to create engaging and interactive presentations. Whether it’s a sales pitch, a training session, or a conference talk, Prezi offers a dynamic and visually impressive way to captivate and inform the audience.

Benefits of Using Presentation Software

Enhanced visuals: Presentation software allows you to create visually appealing slides using graphics, images, and videos. These visual elements help to capture the audience’s attention and make the presentation more engaging.

Easy design: Presentation software provides user-friendly tools and templates that make it easy to design professional-looking slides. You can choose from a variety of themes, layouts, and fonts to create a visually cohesive and attractive presentation.

Wide application: Presentation software can be used in various settings, including business meetings, educational presentations, and even personal projects. It is a versatile platform that allows you to customize your slides to fit the specific needs of your audience.

Online accessibility: With the advancement of technology, many presentation software programs offer online platforms. This enables you to create and access your presentation from anywhere, making it convenient for collaboration and remote presentations.

Real-time edits: Presentation software allows you to make real-time edits to your slides. This means that you can easily modify the content, rearrange the order of slides, or add new elements during a presentation, without interrupting the flow of your presentation.

Integration with multimedia: Presentation software seamlessly integrates with multimedia elements such as videos, audio, and interactive media. This allows you to enhance your presentation with rich media content, making it more dynamic and engaging for your audience.

Compatibility with projectors: Presentation software is compatible with projectors, making it easy to display your slides on a larger screen for a larger audience. This feature is especially beneficial for presentations in conferences, classrooms, or large meeting rooms.

Visual aids are an integral part of presentations and serve as a powerful tool to enhance audience engagement and understanding. PowerPoint, an online program commonly used to create presentations, offers a variety of features that allow presenters to design visually appealing slides.

With the help of PowerPoint or any other presentation software application, presenters can easily incorporate multimedia elements, such as images, videos, and audio, into their slides, creating a visually appealing and dynamic presentation. These visual aids help to captivate the audience’s attention and provide additional information and context to the presenter’s message.

Using presentation software as a visual aid also allows presenters to organize their content in a structured and logical manner. The use of different slide layouts, themes, and templates makes it easier to present information in a clear and visually appealing way.

Moreover, presentation software provides tools for adding graphics, visuals, and animations to the slides, making it easier to convey complex ideas or data to the audience. Presenters can emphasize key points or highlight important information through the use of visuals and animations, ensuring that the audience stays engaged and follows the presentation.

Visual aids can also be used in conjunction with technology such as projectors to display the presentation slides on a larger screen, making it easier for the audience to see and understand the content being presented. This combination of technology and visuals enhances the overall impact of the presentation and ensures that the audience can fully experience and comprehend the information being shared.

Engagement is a vital aspect of any presentation, and presentation software serves as a valuable tool in achieving it. With the advancements in technology, online presentation software has made it easier for presenters to captivate their audience through visually appealing design and interactive features.

One of the definitions of engagement in the context of presentation software is the ability to hold the attention of the audience and create a meaningful connection. The use of tools like projectors and PowerPoint programs allows presenters to project their slides onto a larger screen, making it easier for the audience to follow along and stay engaged.

Engaging presentations often include multimedia elements such as graphics, videos, and interactive features. Presentation software provides a platform for presenters to create visually stunning slides that enhance the overall message and captivate the audience’s attention.

Additionally, online presentation software enables presenters to easily collaborate with others, allowing for seamless teamwork and the creation of more engaging presentations. Presenters can share their work with others, receive feedback, and make improvements, all within the same software application.

Overall, engagement in presentations is crucial for conveying information effectively and keeping the audience interested. Presentation software provides the necessary tools and features to create captivating slides that enhance engagement and make presentations more impactful.

In the world of presentations, efficiency plays a crucial role. Presentation software is designed to streamline the process of creating and delivering presentations, making it easier and faster for presenters to communicate their ideas to an audience.

Thanks to advancements in technology, presentation software has evolved from traditional offline tools like PowerPoint to online platforms and applications. This shift to online presentation tools has allowed for greater flexibility and accessibility, as presenters can now create, edit, and share their presentations from anywhere with an internet connection.

One of the key advantages of using presentation software is its ability to enhance visuals and deliver impactful messages. With features like slide templates, graphics, and media integration, presenters can create captivating and engaging presentations that grab the attention of their audience.

Furthermore, presentation software provides a structured format that guides presenters through their content, ensuring a cohesive and organized flow. Presenters can easily arrange their slides, add transitions, and incorporate multimedia elements to enhance their overall message.

Additionally, presentation software allows presenters to present their slides on a variety of devices, from laptops and tablets to projectors and large screens. This versatility allows for seamless integration with different presentation environments and enhances the overall effectiveness of the presentation.

In conclusion, presentation software is a powerful tool that helps presenters create and deliver engaging presentations efficiently. Its diverse range of features and capabilities make it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to communicate their ideas effectively to an audience.

FAQ about topic “Understanding Presentation Software: Definition and Real-Life Examples”

What is presentation software.

Presentation software is a computer program that allows users to create and display visual presentations. It provides tools and features for designing slides, adding text and images, and incorporating multimedia elements such as videos and animations. The software allows presenters to organize and structure their content in a visually appealing and professional manner.

What are some examples of presentation software?

Some examples of presentation software include Microsoft PowerPoint, Apple Keynote, Google Slides, Prezi, and Adobe Spark. These programs offer a wide range of features and templates to help users create dynamic and engaging presentations.

What are the benefits of using presentation software?

Using presentation software has several benefits. Firstly, it allows presenters to create visually engaging slides that can capture the audience’s attention. Secondly, it provides tools for organizing and structuring content, making it easier for presenters to communicate their ideas effectively. Thirdly, it allows for the incorporation of multimedia elements, such as videos and animations, which can enhance the overall presentation experience. Finally, presentation software often offers features for collaboration, allowing multiple users to work on a presentation simultaneously.

Can presentation software be used for purposes other than making presentations?

Yes, presentation software can be used for purposes other than making presentations. For example, it can be used to create interactive educational materials, such as tutorials or e-learning modules. It can also be used to design product demos or prototypes. Additionally, some people use presentation software to create visual resumes or portfolios to showcase their work. The versatility of presentation software makes it a valuable tool for various creative and professional projects.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Featured articles

definition of presentation graphics

September 29, 2023

T1 Line Costs: Pricing, Providers, and Comparison

definition of presentation graphics

DSO Decoded: Understanding the Meaning Behind the Acronym

definition of presentation graphics

What Are Toggle Keys: Understanding and Using Toggle Keys on Your Keyboard

Computer Hope

Presentation graphics

Presentation graphics is any graphic used during a presentation in place of data. A good example is a graphic of a chart , rather than the actual data it represents.

Graphic , Video terms

definition of presentation graphics

  • Onsite training

3,000,000+ delegates

15,000+ clients

1,000+ locations

  • KnowledgePass
  • Log a ticket

01344203999 Available 24/7

What is PowerPoint: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

What is PowerPoint? This blog provides the essence of PowerPoint, a versatile presentation software by Microsoft. Discover its features, uses, and the art of crafting compelling slideshows. Whether you're a student, professional, or simply curious, explore the power of PowerPoint and learn how to create impactful presentations effortlessly.

stars

Exclusive 40% OFF

Training Outcomes Within Your Budget!

We ensure quality, budget-alignment, and timely delivery by our expert instructors.

Share this Resource

  • Microsoft Dynamics 365 Fundamentals (ERP) MB920
  • Microsoft Access Training
  • Microsoft Dynamics 365 Fundamentals (CRM) MB910
  • Microsoft Word Course
  • Microsoft Dynamics 365 Marketing MB220

course

According to Glassdoor , a PowerPoint designer's average salary in the UK is about £37,811 annually. In this blog, you will learn What is PowerPoint, its key features, its benefits, and how to use it, as well as learn some tips for creating effective presentations.   

Table of contents       

1)  What is PowerPoint?  

2)  Understanding the PowerPoint Interface  

3)  Key Features of PowerPoint 

4)  How to use PowerPoint to create a presentation? 

5)  Benefits of PowerPoint  

6)  Tips for Creating Effective PowerPoint Presentations 

7)  Conclusion      

What is PowerPoint?   

PowerPoint is a versatile and popular presentation software developed by Microsoft (MS). It is a part of the Microsoft Office Suite and offers various features and tools to create visually appealing and engaging presentations. MS PowerPoint allows users to combine text, graphics, multimedia elements, and animations to convey information effectively .   

Evolution of PowerPoint   

Microsoft Office Training

Understanding the PowerPoint Interface   

The PowerPoint interface provides a user-friendly environment for creating and editing presentations. Familiarising yourself with its essential components will help you navigate the software efficiently. Here's a breakdown of the MS PowerPoint interface:   

1)  Ribbon : The Ribbon is located at the top of the MS PowerPoint window and consists of multiple tabs, such as Home, Insert, Design, Transitions, and more.    

2) Slides pane : The Slides pane is on the left side of the PowerPoint window. It displays thumbnail images of your presentation slides, allowing you to navigate and rearrange them easily. You can add, delete, duplicate, or hide slides from this pane.   

3)   Notes pane : The Notes pane is located below the Slides pane. It provides space for adding speaker notes or additional information related to each slide.    

4)  Slide area : The Slide area occupies the central part of the PowerPoint window. It displays the selected slide, where you can add and arrange content such as text, images, charts, and multimedia elements .    

5)  Task panes : Task panes are additional panels on the PowerPoint window's right side. They offer various functionalities such as formatting options, slide layouts, animations, etc. Task panes can be opened or closed based on your specific needs.   

Understanding the MS PowerPoint interface will help you navigate the software effectively and make the most of its features. Whether you are creating slides, adding content, or applying formatting, having a good grasp of the interface ensures a smooth and productive experience .  

Key Features of PowerPoint  

When it comes to creating captivating and professional presentations, MS PowerPoint stands out as versatile and feature-rich software. Its array of tools and functionalities enables users to bring their imagination and ideas to life. Moreover, it also helps engage their audience effectively .    

What are PowerPoint's key features

1) Slide Templates : PowerPoint provides a collection of pre-designed templates that make it easy to create visually appealing slides.   

2)  Slide Master : The Slide Master feature allows users to define the overall layout, font styles, and colour scheme for the entire presentation .   

3)  Animations and transitions : PowerPoint offers various animation effects and slide transitions to add visual interest and captivate the audience .   

4)  Multimedia integration : Users can embed images, videos, and audio files directly into their presentations, enhancing the overall impact .   

5)   Collaboration tools : MS PowerPoint allows multiple users to work on a presentation simultaneously, making it ideal for team projects and remote collaboration .   

6) Presenter View : The Presenter View feature gives presenters access to speaker notes, a timer, and a preview of upcoming slides, enabling a seamless presentation experience .   

These features collectively contribute to PowerPoint's versatility and make it a powerful tool for developing engaging and impactful presentations.  

How to use PowerPoint to create a presentation?   

Creating a presentation in PowerPoint is a straightforward process. Whether it's simple animations or explainer videos learning H ow to use PowerPoint is an extremely valuable skill. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create a presentation:   

1)  Launch PowerPoint and choose a template or start with a blank slide. 

2)  Add slides by clicking "New Slide" or using the shortcut key (Ctrl + M). 

3) Customise slide content by entering text and inserting visuals.  

4)  Rearrange slides for a logical flow by dragging them in the slide navigation pane.  

5)  Apply slide transitions for visual effects in the "Transitions" tab.  

6)  Add animations to objects in the "Animations" tab.  

7)  Preview your presentation by clicking "Slide Show".   

8)  Save your presentation and choose a format (.pptx or .pdf).  

9)  Share your presentation via email, cloud storage, or collaboration tools.   

By following these steps, you can create a well-structured and visually appealing presentation in Microsoft PowerPoint. Remember to keep your content concise, use engaging visuals, and practice your presentation skills to deliver an impactful presentation .   

Benefits of PowerPoint   

What is PowerPoint's key benefits

1) Visual appeal : Microsoft PowerPoint allows you to create visually appealing presentations with its wide range of design tools and features. You can use templates, themes, and customisable layouts to make your slides visually engaging and professional .   

2)  Easy to use : PowerPoint has a user-friendly interface, making it accessible to users of all levels. The intuitive tools and straightforward navigation make it easy to create, edit, and deliver presentations efficiently .   

3)   Flexibility : PowerPoint provides flexibility in terms of content creation. You can include various types of content, such as text, images, charts, graphs, videos, and audio files, to enhance your message and engage your audience effectively.   

4)   Organisation and structure : PowerPoint offers features to help you organise and structure your content. You can create multiple slides, use slide masters for consistent formatting, and arrange the sequence of slides to create a logical flow .   

5)  Presenter tools : PowerPoint includes built-in presenter tools that aid in delivering presentations smoothly. You can use presenter view to see your notes and upcoming slides while your audience sees only the presentation. Additionally, features like slide transitions and animations add visual interest and help you control the flow of information .   

6)  Collaboration and sharing : PowerPoint allows for easy collaboration and sharing of presentations. Several users can simultaneously work on the same presentation, making it convenient for team projects. You can also share your presentations via email, cloud storage, or online platforms, ensuring easy access for viewers .   

7)   Integration with other tools : PowerPoint can seamlessly integrate with other Microsoft Office applications, such as Word and Excel. You can import data and charts from Excel or copy and paste content between different Office applications, saving time and effort .  

8)   Presenter-audience interaction : PowerPoint provides features that facilitate interaction between the presenter and the audience. You can include interactive elements like hyperlinks, buttons, and quizzes to engage your audience and make your presentations more dynamic.   

9)   Portable and accessible : PowerPoint presentations can be saved in various formats, such as .pptx or .pdf, making them easily accessible on different devices. This portability allows you to deliver presentations on laptops, tablets, or even projectors without compatibility issues .   

10)  Time and effort savings : PowerPoint simplifies the process of creating presentations, saving you time and effort. The pre-designed templates, slide layouts, and formatting options enable you to create professional-looking presentations efficiently .   

Unleash your creativity to deliver captivating presentations that leave a lasting impact with our Microsoft PowerPoint Masterclass – Sign up now!   

Tips for Creating Effective PowerPoint Presentations   

What is PowerPoint Tips for creating presentations

1) Simplicity is key : Keep your slides clean and uncluttered. Use concise bullet points and simple visuals to convey your message effectively .   

2)  Visuals matter : Incorporate relevant, high-quality visuals such as images, charts, and diagrams to enhance understanding and engagement .   

3)  Limit text : Avoid overwhelming your audience with excessive text on slides. Use brief phrases or keywords to communicate key points .   

4)  Choose legible fonts : Opt for clear and readable fonts that are easy to read, even from a distance. Maintain consistency in font styles throughout your presentation .   

5)  Consistent design : Maintain a consistent design theme, including colours, fonts, and layout, to create a visually appealing and professional presentation.   

6)  Emphasise important points : Use visual hierarchy techniques, such as font size, colour, and formatting, to draw attention to essential information .   

7)  Use transitions and animations sparingly : Incorporate slide transitions and animations thoughtfully, focusing on enhancing content and transitions without distracting the audience .   

8)  S lide notes for guidance : Utilise the slide notes feature to include additional details, explanations, or reminders for a well-prepared and confident presentation.   

9)  Practice and time yourself : Rehearse your presentation to ensure smooth delivery and stay within the allocated time. Practice helps you refine your content and delivery.   

10)  Engage the audience : Encourage audience participation through interactive elements, questions, or discussions to foster engagement and make your presentation more memorable.   

By implementing these tips, you can create effective MS PowerPoint presentations that capture attention, communicate information clearly, and engage your audience effectively.  

Conclusion      

We hope this blog has helped you understand What is PowerPoint and how it can help you. It offers powerful features with a user-friendly interface for creating visually appealing presentations. With its tools for organising information, incorporating text and visuals, and delivering impactful content, PowerPoint is a valuable tool for beginners to communicate their ideas effectively .   

Master the art of effective communication and productivity and unlock your potential with our comprehensive Microsoft Office Training – Sign up now!  

Frequently Asked Questions

Upcoming office applications resources batches & dates.

Thu 16th May 2024

Thu 6th Jun 2024

Thu 4th Jul 2024

Thu 8th Aug 2024

Thu 5th Sep 2024

Thu 10th Oct 2024

Thu 7th Nov 2024

Thu 5th Dec 2024

Get A Quote

WHO WILL BE FUNDING THE COURSE?

My employer

By submitting your details you agree to be contacted in order to respond to your enquiry

  • Business Analysis
  • Lean Six Sigma Certification

Share this course

Our biggest spring sale.

red-star

We cannot process your enquiry without contacting you, please tick to confirm your consent to us for contacting you about your enquiry.

By submitting your details you agree to be contacted in order to respond to your enquiry.

We may not have the course you’re looking for. If you enquire or give us a call on 01344203999 and speak to our training experts, we may still be able to help with your training requirements.

Or select from our popular topics

  • ITIL® Certification
  • Scrum Certification
  • Change Management Certification
  • Business Analysis Courses
  • Microsoft Azure Certification
  • Microsoft Excel & Certification Course
  • Microsoft Project
  • Explore more courses

Press esc to close

Fill out your  contact details  below and our training experts will be in touch.

Fill out your   contact details   below

Thank you for your enquiry!

One of our training experts will be in touch shortly to go over your training requirements.

Back to Course Information

Fill out your contact details below so we can get in touch with you regarding your training requirements.

* WHO WILL BE FUNDING THE COURSE?

Preferred Contact Method

No preference

Back to course information

Fill out your  training details  below

Fill out your training details below so we have a better idea of what your training requirements are.

HOW MANY DELEGATES NEED TRAINING?

HOW DO YOU WANT THE COURSE DELIVERED?

Online Instructor-led

Online Self-paced

WHEN WOULD YOU LIKE TO TAKE THIS COURSE?

Next 2 - 4 months

WHAT IS YOUR REASON FOR ENQUIRING?

Looking for some information

Looking for a discount

I want to book but have questions

One of our training experts will be in touch shortly to go overy your training requirements.

Your privacy & cookies!

Like many websites we use cookies. We care about your data and experience, so to give you the best possible experience using our site, we store a very limited amount of your data. Continuing to use this site or clicking “Accept & close” means that you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more about our privacy policy and cookie policy cookie policy .

We use cookies that are essential for our site to work. Please visit our cookie policy for more information. To accept all cookies click 'Accept & close'.

We use essential cookies to make Venngage work. By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.

Manage Cookies

Cookies and similar technologies collect certain information about how you’re using our website. Some of them are essential, and without them you wouldn’t be able to use Venngage. But others are optional, and you get to choose whether we use them or not.

Strictly Necessary Cookies

These cookies are always on, as they’re essential for making Venngage work, and making it safe. Without these cookies, services you’ve asked for can’t be provided.

Show cookie providers

  • Google Login

Functionality Cookies

These cookies help us provide enhanced functionality and personalisation, and remember your settings. They may be set by us or by third party providers.

Performance Cookies

These cookies help us analyze how many people are using Venngage, where they come from and how they're using it. If you opt out of these cookies, we can’t get feedback to make Venngage better for you and all our users.

  • Google Analytics

Targeting Cookies

These cookies are set by our advertising partners to track your activity and show you relevant Venngage ads on other sites as you browse the internet.

  • Google Tag Manager
  • Infographics
  • Daily Infographics
  • Graphic Design
  • Graphs and Charts
  • Data Visualization
  • Human Resources
  • Training and Development
  • Beginner Guides

Blog Infographics

What is an Infographic? Examples, Templates & Design Tips

By Midori Nediger , Oct 12, 2023

what is an infographic Venngage

Since infographics exploded onto the graphic design scene about 15 years ago, they’ve become a staple for communication in classrooms, in the workplace, and across the web.

But if you’re new to the world of design, the term “infographic” might still be foreign to you.

You might wonder: what are infographics?

Today, I’ll give you a crash course on infographics and infographic design to answer all of your questions and more. Don’t worry if you’re no designer — I’ll also show you how you can easily customize designs with Venngage’s Infographic Maker and easy-to-edit infographic templates .

Your guide to infographics 101:

What is an infographic.

  • Why use infographics?

12 infographic examples for different use cases

How do i create an infographic, what is the importance of using visual elements in an infographic, what are the different types of infographics, what makes an infographic design effective, faqs about creating infographics.

According to the Oxford English Dictionary , an infographic (or information graphic) is “a visual representation of information or data”.

But the meaning of an infographic is something much more specific.

An infographic is a collection of imagery, data visualizations like pie charts and bar graphs, and minimal text that gives an easy-to-understand overview of a topic.

As in the example below, infographics use striking, engaging visuals to communicate information quickly and clearly.

what is an infographic: an infographic on how to eat healthily and the types of food you should eat.

Infographics are a valuable tool for visual communication . The most visually unique, creative infographics  are often the most effective because they grab our attention and don’t let go.

But it’s crucial to remember that the visuals in an infographic must do more than excite and engage.

They must help us understand and remember the content of the infographic, as seen in this infographic about employee resignation announcements:

Infographic On How To Send Employee Resignation Announcements

Ready to dive right in and create your first infographic? Check out our ultimate infographic design guide for everything you need to get started.

Why should you use infographics?

Infographics are great for making complex information easy to digest. They can be helpful anytime you want to:

  • Provide a quick overview of a topic
  • Explain a complex process
  • Display research findings or survey data
  • Summarize a long blog post or report
  • Compare and contrast multiple options
  • Raise awareness about an issue or cause

When you need to give someone a really quick rundown on something that can be hard to explain in words alone, an infographic is a good way to go.

Ever noticed infographics can be useful in pretty much any industry? It’s true! They can explain tough topics, show off cool data or just grab your attention, depending on what you’re after.

Here are just some of its use cases:

  • Infographics for marketing
  • Infographics for consulting and freelancing
  • Infographics for small businesses and entrepreneurs
  • Infographics for government
  • Infographics for nonprofits
  • Infographics for education

Marketing infographics

What are infographics used for in marketing?

Marketers use infographics  to build brand awareness and boost engagement about topics important to the company, such as this infographic on diversity and inclusion:

Diversity infographic

Marketers can use infographics to:

  • Showcase your business’s achievements on a landing page or downloadable one-pager
  • Send a visually striking newsletter to deliver news, showcase a new product or service or demonstrate thought leadership
  • Improve their online courses or course handouts
  • Drive interest on social media . Share snippets on Instagram or the full infographic on Pinterest.
  • Make a roundup infographic. Collect quotes from influencers, compile them into an infographic and write a blog post on that. Here’s an example: 61 Women In Tech Speak Up [Infographic]
  • Summarize key points in a white paper or ebook .

Informational infographic examples, like this one about the effect of excess sodium, are great tools for educating a variety of audiences.

informational infographic about the effect of excess sodium

Consulting and freelancer infographics

Consultants use timeline infographics to visualize project timelines and to simplify new or industry-specific topics to their clients:

Project Plan Timeline Infographic

Consultants use infographics to:

  • Present data in a fresh way in client presentations
  • Strengthen your argument and visualize timelines in client proposals
  • Deliver progress reports to clients. Include an infographic in your report to visualize project timelines or progress “by the numbers”

Small business and entrepreneurship infographic examples

Small businesses and entrepreneurs use infographics to reach new audiences and increase brand awareness :

This brand style guide cheat sheet is a great infographic example for small businesses. It’s visual and compact, which helps readers absorb the information faster.

Branding Infographic Template

Lists are a common type of document that all businesses have. But long lists can get tedious to read. It’s unlikely that readers will even remember the items on the list.

Businesses can use infographics to visualize lists for better learning retention, like this colorful infographic example below.

what is an infographic

Or this list infographic which discusses three different change styles:

Employee Change Style Indicator Spectrum

A business may also want to visualize processes and activities. This infographic example on supply chain analysis could easily have been a boring document. Instead, the topic is covered more thoroughly and succinctly in an infographic:

What Is Porter's Value Chain Analysis Infographic

Small businesses and entrepreneurs can use infographics to:

  • Create their brand style guide
  • Highlight their offerings and past successes in flyers and  brochures
  • Promote their business or demonstrate thought leadership on social media
  • Better showcase products/services and past successes on their website’s  sales page  or in a downloadable one-pager
  • Showcase your company’s history on their website’s about page
  • Send creative newsletters
  • Create more interesting webinars

Government infographics

What are infographics used for in the governmental sector? Governments use infographics to share statistics and census data, like in this visual from the Government of Canada :

what is an infographic - government example

Government can also use infographics to spread useful healthcare information , such as vaccine infographics which promote accurate vaccine information and increase vaccination rates. Here’s an example:

informational vaccine infographic about barriers to covid 19 vaccines

Nonprofit infographics

Nonprofits use infographics to promote events and raise awareness for their causes or to showcase their successful fundraising efforts:

Nonprofit Education Thermometer Fundraiser Timeline Template

Nonprofits use infographics to:

  • Make data and information about a given cause easy to understand. This can be applied to a newsletter , social media campaign , donation page , poster, and more.
  • Plan a campaign strategy
  • Show the impact of a fundraiser that can be sent to donors in an email
  • Highlight results in an annual report
  • Showcase successes in an impact report or case study
  • Visualize information in crisis communications

Education infographics

Educators and trainers use infographics  to make content more memorable for students and employees:

K-12 Schools Tips List Infographic

Need to explain a complex process? Our  process infographics  can help communicate cumbersome processes in a visual way.

Remote Learning Infographic

Infographics can be useful whenever you need to communicate information quickly, or any time you want to make an impact with your data or your message.

If I’ve convinced you that infographics are a tool you should be using, you’re probably wondering how you can create your own infographic.

Our step-by-step guide on how to create an infographic  is a great resource to design an infographic.

No matter how excited you are to get started making your very first infographic, you shouldn’t jump into the design process without a game plan.

Instead, start by creating an infographic outline.

  • Organize your information with an infographic outline
  • Pick an infographic template
  • Customize your infographic

1. Organize your information with an infographic outline

The process of creating an outline will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that your content will work in an infographic.

Create an infographic outline from existing content using these 4 steps:

  • Determine the key takeaways of your content
  • Determine the title, headers, subheaders, and facts
  • Consider the length of paragraphs and points
  • Include notes for the designer

what is an infographic - steps for creating an infographic

Starting with an outline in this format will ensure that the rest of the design process goes smoothly.

For a more detailed run-down of this process, check out our guide on how to create an infographic outline .

2. Pick an infographic template

Once you’ve got an outline, you’re ready to pick an infographic template .

Pre-made infographic templates (like the one below) can give you the design inspiration you need to get your infographic rolling. Even just using them as a jumping-off point can be helpful.

Stress Infographic Template

There’s a lot to consider when picking an infographic template, including the colors, fonts, length, size, and style of each template, and how well each of those factors aligns with your content.

But most importantly, you need to pick the right type of infographic template for your content.

3. Customize your infographic

Once you’ve chosen an infographic template, you can start customizing it to your needs. This infographic can be adapted for other types of lists with the Venngage editor.

Pandemic Refugee Crisis Timeline Infographic Template

Here are a few ways to adapt the infographic examples in this post:

  • Change the background and text colors
  • Adjust the text to suit your message
  • Add or swap out icons that are relevant to your story
  • Add your brand logo in the footer
  • Increase or decrease the size of the list

Want more information about creating infographics? This video guide will show you how you can make an infographic in just 5 steps:

The use of visual elements in an infographic can help enhance the overall effectiveness of the communication. Here are some key points highlighting the importance of using visual elements in an infographic:

  • Enhanced comprehension: Visual elements, such as graphs, charts and illustrations can simplify complex information, making it easier for the audience to understand the data presented.
  • Improved retention: Human beings tend to remember visual information more effectively than text alone. By incorporating visual elements, infographics can improve the retention of information, ensuring that the key points are more likely to be remembered by the audience.
  • Increased engagement: Visual elements in infographics make the content more engaging and appealing. People are naturally drawn to visuals, and the use of color, images and graphics can capture the audience’s attention, encouraging them to spend more time interacting with the information.
  • Facilitated comparison: Infographics often involve the presentation of data sets, comparisons or contrasts. Visual elements can effectively facilitate such comparisons, enabling the audience to discern patterns, trends and differences more easily.
  • Universal understanding: Visual elements can transcend language barriers, making infographics a powerful tool for communicating with diverse audiences across different cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
  • Aesthetic appeal: Infographics that are well-designed and visually appealing are more likely to be shared and distributed widely, especially in the context of social media and online platforms. Aesthetically pleasing visual elements can attract more attention and help the infographic reach a broader audience.
  • Storytelling: Visual elements can contribute to the storytelling aspect of an infographic, allowing for the creation of a narrative that flows logically and is visually engaging. By combining text and visuals, infographics can effectively communicate a compelling story or message.

In summary, the use of visual elements in infographics is critical for conveying complex information in a more accessible and engaging manner, enhancing comprehension, improving retention, and increasing overall audience engagement and appeal.

At Venngage, our library of infographic templates is sorted into 9 different categories:

  • Statistical infographics
  • Informational infographics
  • Timeline infographics
  • Process infographics
  • Geographic infographics
  • Comparison infographics
  • Hierarchical infographics
  • List infographics
  • Resume infographics

This video summarizes these 9 types of infographics and when to use them:

Each type of infographic is tailored to visualize a different type of content .

Informational infographics , for example, are typically more text-heavy than the other types of infographics.

Like this example from Course Hero below, they work best as summative, standalone pieces that provide a high-level explanation of a topic.

tom sawyer - what is an infographic

There are also informational infographics that explain something niche, but very simply. These are handy to have as visual references for topics that are new and unfamiliar.

TalentLyft’s infographic on recruitment metrics is a great example – a short and sweet summary of the six key recruitment metrics hiring managers should understand and track.

TalentLyft 6 Recruitment Metrics Infographic with Icons

Statistical infographics , on the other hand, are more focused on numbers and data visualizations, charts, and data, for example:

Demographic Infographic Template

They tend to contain much less text than informational infographics and have less of a narrative flow.

Instead, they make a statement with big numbers and standalone facts, like this infographic from the Internet of Things .

internet of things-what is an infographic

Similarly, this sample infographic from Podia on the “ State of the Side Hustle ” uses numbers and stylization to make its most important points prominent with sparse supporting text.

Podia - what is an Infographic

Choosing the right type of template for your content is one of the keys to a successful infographic.

For a full description of each type of infographic, and when to use them, check out this guide to the 9 types of infographic templates .

When it comes to designing an effective infographic, it’s important to recognize that our brain seeks patterns in visual information to help us make sense of the world.

We can use this idea to structure our information visually and create patterns that will enhance the message that we’re trying to communicate.

Let’s run through some infographic design best practices to help you create infographics that are as effective as they are beautiful.

Also, check out our post on 7 ways to customize your infographic template for more easy hacks on how to make your design pop.

Use lines, borders, and shapes to group related information

Even something as simple as the position and grouping of elements on a page can influence the way our readers understand our graphics.

If we use basic design elements like borders, lines, circles, and squares to visually organize our content, our readers will find it easier to interpret that content.

For example, we can enclose related elements within an outline or a shape. Most infographics, like the sample below, use this tactic to break up the design into multiple sections, making the graphic easier to scan.

Work From Home Infographic

Alternatively, when the structure of the information is the main focus of the infographic (like in an organizational chart or a flow chart ) it can be helpful to explicitly connect related elements with lines. Like in this marketing flow chart infographic:

Corporate Healthcare Organizational Chart Template

Click the template above to make an organizational chart . Edit the template to your liking — no design experience needed.

Want more tips on organizing your information in an infographic? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to summarize information and present it visually .

Use contrasting colors to guide your readers’ attention

Another major design element to think about is color. We’re naturally inclined to use color to make infographics look pretty, but color can also be used as a powerful communication tool .

Just like lines and borders, colors can be used to indicate information groupings, as seen in the business strategy infographic example below:

Yellow Business Mind Map Template

But more importantly, we can use color to draw attention to particular pieces of information and push supporting information into the background.

Pick one color that contrasts with all of the other colors in the graphic, and use it to make the most important information stand out.

Take the infographic below, for example. The bright teal icons contrast with the plain white background to make the icons (the most important visual aspect of the graphic) stand out.

Healthcare Course Training Program Infographic Template

This strategy also happens to be highly trendy. Pops of color are one of the biggest graphic design trends of 2022 .

Need some infographic color scheme inspiration? Check out our guide on how to pick colors for infographics .

Create a text hierarchy with three different font styles

Fonts are one of the first things people notice when they first look at an infographic. If chosen poorly, fonts can ruin an otherwise great infographic.

Our roundup of popular font types  will steer you on the right path.

The key to using fonts correctly in infographics is to create a clear text hierarchy with three different font styles–one for the main heading, one for the section headings, and one for the body text.

what is an infographic font styles

The main header font should be the biggest and can be the most stylized. Think of it as the way to set the mood of your infographic.

The font for the section headers should be a bit smaller and less stylized, but it should still stand out on the page.

Finally, the font for the body text should be the smallest, and not stylized at all. It needs to be as easy to read as possible.

Not sure what a readable font looks like? Here’s a quick reference guide to fonts that are great for body text:

Body Font Infographic Template

For more infographic font tips and best practices, check out our guide all about choosing infographic fonts .

Use images, icons, and illustrations to make key takeaways memorable

Last but certainly not least, make sure that the focus of your infographic is on visuals like images, symbols , icons, illustrations , and data visualizations like charts and graphs.

Visuals are crucial for making your information engaging and memorable. The best infographics have an equal balance of text and visuals.

The easiest way to make sure you have enough visuals in your graphic is to add an icon to represent each header, as seen in the example below:

what is an infographic - icons and headers

Or even better, create visual examples of each main point in the infographic, as seen in this sample infographic from Elle & Company :

what is an infographic elle & company

It’s important to have fun with your design, too. It doesn’t need to be strictly business-y and serious.

Infographics are supposed to be engaging and memorable, and illustrations are great story-telling devices.

Making a data-heavy infographic and need help visualizing your data? Check out our guides on designing effective charts and choosing the best charts for your infographic .

What does infographic mean?

The word “infographic” is a combination of two words (you guessed it!): “information” and “graphic”.

Simply put, an infographic is a graphic that presents information and/or data — most importantly, in an easy-to-understand way.

What is an infographic example?

An infographic example is a visual representation of information. Infographics examples include a variety of elements, such as images, icons, text, charts, and diagrams to convey messages at a glance.

What is the purpose of an infographic?

The purpose of an infographic is to visually present information and data in a clear and engaging manner, making complex concepts more understandable.

Are infographics limited to one page?

Infographics are not limited to one page and can vary in length. That said, they are often designed to be concise and easily digestible, frequently fitting on a single page for optimal accessibility.

What are infographics used for?

An infographic has numerous uses in different industries. Infographics can be used to convey complicated data in a simple visual format. They are also visual tools to tell stories.

Visual information graphics help people understand information quickly and more accurately.

Infographics can also be used to show changes or comparisons in data, time, and place, as well as statistics, maps, and hierarchies.

What are the five types of infographics?

We’ve mentioned the nine major infographic categories, among which these are the most common types of infographics are:

  • Statistical
  • Informational

Different types of infographics require specific elements. Timeline infographics need to include the date and time stamps. A comparison infographic usually includes columns and rows.

The infographic examples in this post will help you understand what type you need to use for your message so you can make the right choice.

Do you need quantitative data to make an infographic?

Simple answer: No! You don’t need quantitative data (numbers) to create an infographic. Infographics are meant to convey information in an easy-to-understand way, and that applies whether the information you have on hand is purely qualitative:

comparison infographic showing the types of inclusive language you should use in agreements and contracts

Or quantitative:

statistical infographic comparing demographic data between employees and CEOs working remotely

Or a combination of both, like in this infographic example:

statistical informational infographic about instagram growth trends

Conclusion : Create an infographic to make the most out of your knowledge and data

The best infographics use a combination of text, images, and data to inform and engage.

If you’re ready to create infographics that strike the perfect balance between fun and educational, make sure you follow these infographic design best practices:

  • Use lines, borders, and shapes to group related information.
  • Use one contrasting color to draw attention to key information.
  • Create a text hierarchy with three different font styles.
  • Use images, icons , and illustrations to make key takeaways memorable.

For more help getting started on your first infographic, check out this guide: How to make an infographic in 5 steps .

Not a designer? No problem. Create an infographic today using our easy-to-edit templates and simple online editor.

All Formats

Table of Contents

Presentation definition & meaning, what is a presentation, 10 types of presentations, presentation uses, purpose, importance, what’s in a presentation parts, how to design a presentation, presentation vs. deck, what’s the difference between a presentation, representation, & speech, presentation sizes, presentation ideas & examples, graphic design, presentation.

Presentations are staple communication tools in school, business, or any professional matter where presenters impart topics to an audience. Often presented as a slideshow or digital animation, relaying a well-thought-out presentation to an audience is a creative and compelling way to share content while making discussions fun and engaging.

definition of presentation graphics

Multipurpose Business Presentation

multipurpose business presentation

PowerPoint Slide Presentation

powerpoint slide presentation

Software Product Presentation

software product presentation

Business Timeline Presentation

business timeline presentation

University Presentation

university presentation

Dashboard Presentation

dashboard presentation

Animated Presentation

animated presentation

Fall Wedding Planners Presentation

fall wedding planners presentation

Trucking Logistics Presentation

trucking logistics presentation

Gantt Chart PowerPoint Presentation

gantt chart powerpoint presentation

Audiovisual Content

Multi-faceted presentations, flexibility for effective communication, not limited to slide presentations, collaboration features, mode of presentation.

  • Formal Business Presentation Ideas and Examples
  • Creative Real Estate Presentation Ideas and Examples
  • Wedding PowerPoint Presentation Ideas and Examples
  • Music PowerPoint Presentation Ideas and Examples
  • Glossy Business Presentation Ideas and Examples
  • Education Presentation Ideas and Examples
  • Poster PowerPoint Presentation Ideas and Examples
  • Simple Work From Home Presentation Ideas and Examples
  • Chalkboard Presentation Ideas and Examples
  • Modern Real Estate Presentation Ideas and Examples

What does a presentation convey?

Who are the two main parties of a presentation, what are examples of presentations, what consists of a presentation, what are the types of presentations, what are some tips to make a presentation, what are the 5ps of a presentation, what are the top three elements of a presentation, what makes a good presentation, what are the 4ps for oral presentations, more in graphic design, esport gaming presentation template, project presentation template, simple chart presentation template, architecture infographic presentation template, health presentation template, exploring the earth presentation template, electric bike campaign presentation template, graduation presentation template, marketing agency presentation template, fashion designer portfolio presentation template.

  • How To Make/Create an Invitation in Google Docs [Templates + Examples]
  • How To Create an ID Card in Google Docs [Template + Example]
  • How to Make an ID Card in Microsoft Word [Template + Example]
  • How To Make a Letterhead in Google Docs [Template + Example]
  • How To Make a Letterhead in Microsoft Word [Template + Example]
  • How To Create a Chart Design in Google Docs [Template + Example]
  • How To Create a Chart Design in Microsoft Word [Template + Example]
  • How To Make/Create a Calendar Design in Google Docs [Templates + Examples]
  • How To Make/Create a Calendar Design in Microsoft Word [Templates + Examples]
  • How To Make/Create a Book Cover in Google Docs [Templates + Examples]
  • How To Make/Create a Book Cover in Microsoft Word [Templates + Examples]
  • Vacancy Sizes
  • Wedding Album Ideas
  • Tarot Ideas

File Formats

Word templates, google docs templates, excel templates, powerpoint templates, google sheets templates, google slides templates, pdf templates, publisher templates, psd templates, indesign templates, illustrator templates, pages templates, keynote templates, numbers templates, outlook templates.

Graphical Representation of Data

Graphical representation of data is an attractive method of showcasing numerical data that help in analyzing and representing quantitative data visually. A graph is a kind of a chart where data are plotted as variables across the coordinate. It became easy to analyze the extent of change of one variable based on the change of other variables. Graphical representation of data is done through different mediums such as lines, plots, diagrams, etc. Let us learn more about this interesting concept of graphical representation of data, the different types, and solve a few examples.

Definition of Graphical Representation of Data

A graphical representation is a visual representation of data statistics-based results using graphs, plots, and charts. This kind of representation is more effective in understanding and comparing data than seen in a tabular form. Graphical representation helps to qualify, sort, and present data in a method that is simple to understand for a larger audience. Graphs enable in studying the cause and effect relationship between two variables through both time series and frequency distribution. The data that is obtained from different surveying is infused into a graphical representation by the use of some symbols, such as lines on a line graph, bars on a bar chart, or slices of a pie chart. This visual representation helps in clarity, comparison, and understanding of numerical data.

Representation of Data

The word data is from the Latin word Datum, which means something given. The numerical figures collected through a survey are called data and can be represented in two forms - tabular form and visual form through graphs. Once the data is collected through constant observations, it is arranged, summarized, and classified to finally represented in the form of a graph. There are two kinds of data - quantitative and qualitative. Quantitative data is more structured, continuous, and discrete with statistical data whereas qualitative is unstructured where the data cannot be analyzed.

Principles of Graphical Representation of Data

The principles of graphical representation are algebraic. In a graph, there are two lines known as Axis or Coordinate axis. These are the X-axis and Y-axis. The horizontal axis is the X-axis and the vertical axis is the Y-axis. They are perpendicular to each other and intersect at O or point of Origin. On the right side of the Origin, the Xaxis has a positive value and on the left side, it has a negative value. In the same way, the upper side of the Origin Y-axis has a positive value where the down one is with a negative value. When -axis and y-axis intersect each other at the origin it divides the plane into four parts which are called Quadrant I, Quadrant II, Quadrant III, Quadrant IV. This form of representation is seen in a frequency distribution that is represented in four methods, namely Histogram, Smoothed frequency graph, Pie diagram or Pie chart, Cumulative or ogive frequency graph, and Frequency Polygon.

Principle of Graphical Representation of Data

Advantages and Disadvantages of Graphical Representation of Data

Listed below are some advantages and disadvantages of using a graphical representation of data:

  • It improves the way of analyzing and learning as the graphical representation makes the data easy to understand.
  • It can be used in almost all fields from mathematics to physics to psychology and so on.
  • It is easy to understand for its visual impacts.
  • It shows the whole and huge data in an instance.
  • It is mainly used in statistics to determine the mean, median, and mode for different data

The main disadvantage of graphical representation of data is that it takes a lot of effort as well as resources to find the most appropriate data and then represent it graphically.

Rules of Graphical Representation of Data

While presenting data graphically, there are certain rules that need to be followed. They are listed below:

  • Suitable Title: The title of the graph should be appropriate that indicate the subject of the presentation.
  • Measurement Unit: The measurement unit in the graph should be mentioned.
  • Proper Scale: A proper scale needs to be chosen to represent the data accurately.
  • Index: For better understanding, index the appropriate colors, shades, lines, designs in the graphs.
  • Data Sources: Data should be included wherever it is necessary at the bottom of the graph.
  • Simple: The construction of a graph should be easily understood.
  • Neat: The graph should be visually neat in terms of size and font to read the data accurately.

Uses of Graphical Representation of Data

The main use of a graphical representation of data is understanding and identifying the trends and patterns of the data. It helps in analyzing large quantities, comparing two or more data, making predictions, and building a firm decision. The visual display of data also helps in avoiding confusion and overlapping of any information. Graphs like line graphs and bar graphs, display two or more data clearly for easy comparison. This is important in communicating our findings to others and our understanding and analysis of the data.

Types of Graphical Representation of Data

Data is represented in different types of graphs such as plots, pies, diagrams, etc. They are as follows,

Related Topics

Listed below are a few interesting topics that are related to the graphical representation of data, take a look.

  • x and y graph
  • Frequency Polygon
  • Cumulative Frequency

Examples on Graphical Representation of Data

Example 1 : A pie chart is divided into 3 parts with the angles measuring as 2x, 8x, and 10x respectively. Find the value of x in degrees.

We know, the sum of all angles in a pie chart would give 360º as result. ⇒ 2x + 8x + 10x = 360º ⇒ 20 x = 360º ⇒ x = 360º/20 ⇒ x = 18º Therefore, the value of x is 18º.

Example 2: Ben is trying to read the plot given below. His teacher has given him stem and leaf plot worksheets. Can you help him answer the questions? i) What is the mode of the plot? ii) What is the mean of the plot? iii) Find the range.

Solution: i) Mode is the number that appears often in the data. Leaf 4 occurs twice on the plot against stem 5.

Hence, mode = 54

ii) The sum of all data values is 12 + 14 + 21 + 25 + 28 + 32 + 34 + 36 + 50 + 53 + 54 + 54 + 62 + 65 + 67 + 83 + 88 + 89 + 91 = 958

To find the mean, we have to divide the sum by the total number of values.

Mean = Sum of all data values ÷ 19 = 958 ÷ 19 = 50.42

iii) Range = the highest value - the lowest value = 91 - 12 = 79

go to slide go to slide

definition of presentation graphics

Book a Free Trial Class

Practice Questions on Graphical Representation of Data

Faqs on graphical representation of data, what is graphical representation.

Graphical representation is a form of visually displaying data through various methods like graphs, diagrams, charts, and plots. It helps in sorting, visualizing, and presenting data in a clear manner through different types of graphs. Statistics mainly use graphical representation to show data.

What are the Different Types of Graphical Representation?

The different types of graphical representation of data are:

  • Stem and leaf plot
  • Scatter diagrams
  • Frequency Distribution

Is the Graphical Representation of Numerical Data?

Yes, these graphical representations are numerical data that has been accumulated through various surveys and observations. The method of presenting these numerical data is called a chart. There are different kinds of charts such as a pie chart, bar graph, line graph, etc, that help in clearly showcasing the data.

What is the Use of Graphical Representation of Data?

Graphical representation of data is useful in clarifying, interpreting, and analyzing data plotting points and drawing line segments , surfaces, and other geometric forms or symbols.

What are the Ways to Represent Data?

Tables, charts, and graphs are all ways of representing data, and they can be used for two broad purposes. The first is to support the collection, organization, and analysis of data as part of the process of a scientific study.

What is the Objective of Graphical Representation of Data?

The main objective of representing data graphically is to display information visually that helps in understanding the information efficiently, clearly, and accurately. This is important to communicate the findings as well as analyze the data.

  • Trending Now
  • Foundational Courses
  • Data Science
  • Practice Problem
  • Machine Learning
  • System Design
  • DevOps Tutorial
  • BCA 4th Semester Syllabus (2023)

Computer Graphics and Multimedia Application

Introduction to computer graphics.

  • Applications of Computer Graphics
  • Interactive Graphical Techniques in Computer Graphics
  • Hard-Copy Devices in Computer Graphics
  • Display Processor in Computer Graphics
  • Raster-Scan Displays
  • Random-Scan Display
  • Line Clipping | Set 2 (Cyrus Beck Algorithm)
  • Mid-Point Line Generation Algorithm
  • Computer Graphics - 3D Translation Transformation
  • Composite Transformation in 2-D graphics
  • Window to Viewport Transformation in Computer Graphics with Implementation
  • Computer Graphics Curve in Computer Graphics
  • Polygon Mesh in Computer Graphics
  • Cubic Bezier Curve Implementation in C
  • Binary Space Partitioning
  • What is Multimedia?
  • CD-ROM Full Form
  • Computer Animation

Operating System

  • What is an Operating System?
  • Batch Processing Operating System
  • Memory Management in Operating System
  • Difference between Demand Paging and Segmentation
  • Page Replacement Algorithms in Operating Systems
  • Allocation of frames in Operating System
  • Process Schedulers in Operating System
  • CPU Scheduling in Operating Systems
  • Introduction of Process Synchronization
  • Introduction of Deadlock in Operating System
  • Functions of Operating System
  • Storage Structure in Operating Systems
  • Swap-Space Management in Operating system
  • File Systems in Operating System
  • Free space management in Operating System

Software Engineering

  • Introduction to Software Engineering - Software Engineering
  • Activities involved in Software Requirement Analysis
  • Software Design Process - Software Engineering
  • Design and Implementation in Operating System
  • Software Maintenance - Software Engineering
  • System configuration management - Software Engineering

Optimization techniques

  • Linear Programming
  • Queuing Models in Operating System
  • Optimal Page Replacement Algorithm
  • Job Sequencing Problem
  • Johnson's Rule in Sequencing Problems

Mathematics 3

  • Complex Numbers
  • Mathematics | Sequence, Series and Summations
  • Fourier Series Formula
  • Differential Equations
  • Second Order Linear Differential Equations
  • BCA 1st Semester Syllabus (2023)
  • BCA 2nd Semester Syllabus (2023)
  • BCA 3rd Semester Syllabus (2023)
  • BCA 5th Semester Syllabus (2023)
  • BCA 6th Semester Subjects and Syllabus (2023)
  • BCA Full Form
  • Bachelor of Computer Applications: Curriculum and Career Opportunity

Graphics are defined as any sketch or a drawing or a special network that pictorially represents some meaningful information. Computer Graphics is used where a set of images needs to be manipulated or the creation of the image in the form of pixels and is drawn on the computer. Computer Graphics can be used in digital photography, film, entertainment, electronic gadgets, and all other core technologies which are required. It is a vast subject and area in the field of computer science. Computer Graphics can be used in UI design, rendering, geometric objects, animation, and many more. In most areas, computer graphics is an abbreviation of CG. There are several tools used for the implementation of Computer Graphics. The basic is the <graphics.h> header file in Turbo-C, Unity for advanced and even OpenGL can be used for its Implementation. 

The term ‘Computer Graphics’ was coined by Verne Hudson and William Fetter from Boeing who were pioneers in the field. 

Computer Graphics refers to several things:

  • The manipulation and the representation of the image or the data in a graphical manner.
  • Various technology is required for the creation and manipulation.
  • Digital synthesis and its manipulation.

Types of Computer Graphics

  • Raster Graphics: In raster, graphics pixels are used for an image to be drawn. It is also known as a bitmap image in which a sequence of images is into smaller pixels. Basically, a bitmap indicates a large number of pixels together.
  • Vector Graphics: In vector graphics, mathematical formulae are used to draw different types of shapes, lines, objects, and so on.

Applications

  • Computer Graphics are used for an aided design for engineering and architectural system- These are used in electrical automobiles, electro-mechanical, mechanical, electronic devices. For example gears and bolts.
  • Computer Art – MS Paint.
  • Presentation Graphics – It is used to summarize financial statistical scientific or economic data. For example- Bar chart, Line chart.
  • Entertainment- It is used in motion pictures, music videos, television gaming.
  • Education and training- It is used to understand the operations of complex systems. It is also used for specialized system such for framing for captains, pilots and so on.
  • Visualization- To study trends and patterns.For example- Analyzing satellite photo of earth.

Please Login to comment...

Similar reads.

  • computer-graphics
  • Computer Subject
  • Google Introduces New AI-powered Vids App
  • Dolly Chaiwala: The Microsoft Windows 12 Brand Ambassador
  • 10 Best Free Remote Desktop apps for Android in 2024
  • 10 Best Free Internet Speed Test apps for Android in 2024
  • 30 OOPs Interview Questions and Answers (2024)

Improve your Coding Skills with Practice

 alt=

What kind of Experience do you want to share?

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

business-jargons-site-logo

Business Jargons

A Business Encyclopedia

Presentation

Definition : A presentation is a form of communication in which the speaker conveys information to the audience. In an organization presentations are used in various scenarios like talking to a group, addressing a meeting, demonstrating or introducing a new product, or briefing a team. It involves presenting a particular subject or issue or new ideas/thoughts to a group of people.

It is considered as the most effective form of communication because of two main reasons:

  • Use of non-verbal cues.
  • Facilitates instant feedback.

presentation

Business Presentations are a tool to influence people toward an intended thought or action.

Parts of Presentation

structure-of-presentation

  • Introduction : It is meant to make the listeners ready to receive the message and draw their interest. For that, the speaker can narrate some story or a humorous piece of joke, an interesting fact, a question, stating a problem, and so forth. They can also use some surprising statistics.
  • Body : It is the essence of the presentation. It requires the sequencing of facts in a logical order. This is the part where the speaker explains the topic and relevant information. It has to be critically arranged, as the audience must be able to grasp what the speaker presents.
  • Conclusion : It needs to be short and precise. It should sum up or outline the key points that you have presented. It could also contain what the audience should have gained out of the presentation.

Purpose of Presentation

  • To inform : Organizations can use presentations to inform the audience about new schemes, products or proposals. The aim is to inform the new entrant about the policies and procedures of the organization.
  • To persuade : Presentations are also given to persuade the audience to take the intended action.
  • To build goodwill : They can also help in building a good reputation

Factors Affecting Presentation

factors-affecting-presentation

Audience Analysis

Communication environment, personal appearance, use of visuals, opening and closing presentation, organization of presentation, language and words, voice quality, body language, answering questions, a word from business jargons.

Presentation is a mode of conveying information to a selected group of people live. An ideal presentation is one that identifies and matches the needs, interests and understanding level of the audience. It also represents the facts, and figures in the form of tables, charts, and graphs and uses multiple colours.

Related terms:

  • Verbal Communication
  • Visual Communication
  • Non-Verbal Communication
  • Communication
  • 7 C’s of Communication

Reader Interactions

Abbas khan says

October 2, 2022 at 11:33 pm

Thank you so much for providing us with brief info related to the presentation.

Farhan says

February 23, 2023 at 9:45 am

yusra shah says

July 3, 2023 at 2:04 am

it was helpful👍

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

IMAGES

  1. How to Compose a Presentation

    definition of presentation graphics

  2. The 6 types of presentation (And why you need them)

    definition of presentation graphics

  3. 20+ Best PowerPoint Templates and Infographics PPT Designs for

    definition of presentation graphics

  4. 100+ Free PowerPoint Graphics For Better Presentations [Free PPT

    definition of presentation graphics

  5. PPT

    definition of presentation graphics

  6. The 5 Types of Presentations

    definition of presentation graphics

VIDEO

  1. Technical Definition Presentation

  2. Graphics Meaning

  3. Presentation on how graphics enhance

  4. Presentation Graphics Concepts

  5. Diagrammatic and Graphical Representation

  6. Computer Graphics

COMMENTS

  1. What are Presentation Graphics?

    Presentation graphics provides predefined backgrounds and simple page layouts to help in the creation of slides. These slides can be moved automatically within seconds. Slides: Slides mean we have text, graphics, audio clips, video clips, animations, and other effects Presentation graphics is also known as Presentation Software.

  2. What is Presentation Graphics Program? definition & meaning

    A presentation graphics program is an application designed to create and enhance charts and graphs so that they are visually appealing and easily understood by an audience through the use of a slideshow. A full-featured presentation graphics package such as Lotus Freelance Graphics or Microsoft PowerPoint includes facilities for making a wide ...

  3. What is presentation software?

    presentation software (presentation graphics): Presentation software (sometimes called "presentation graphics") is a category of application program used to create sequences of words and pictures that tell a story or help support a speech or public presentation of information. Presentation software can be divided into business presentation ...

  4. Definition of presentation graphics

    Presentation graphics software provides predefined backgrounds and sample page layouts to assist in the creation of computer-driven slide shows, which, in combination with a data projector, made ...

  5. What is Presentation Graphics?

    Presentation Graphics. A type of business software that enables users to create highly stylized images for slide shows and reports. The software includes functions for creating various types of charts and graphs and for inserting text in a variety of fonts. Most systems enable you to import data from a spreadsheet application to create the ...

  6. Understanding Presentation Graphics

    Every presentation involves a new audience and a nuanced topic, which means it's incredibly important to think through the visual design of a talk each time it's presented. If you determine the goal of each slide, identify a way to use a visual to promote meaning, and ensure the visual is synchronized with the presenter's words, then you ...

  7. PowerPoint Graphics: How to Improve Your Presentations w/ Graphics

    Method #1: Drag the file from wherever it is sitting on your computer and drag it onto your slide. Method #2: Go to the Insert tab in the Ribbon and select 'Pictures' (make sure to select the 'Pictures' icon and not the 'Online Pictures' icon). Then find your vector file and click on 'Open.'. Note: If you have PowerPoint 2016 ...

  8. Presentation program

    In computing, a presentation program (also called presentation software) is a software package used to display information in the form of a slide show. It has three major functions: [1] an editor that allows text to be inserted and formatted. a method for inserting and manipulating graphic images and media clips.

  9. Presentation Software Definition and Examples

    Benefits of Presentation Software. These programs make it simple and often fun to create a presentation for your audience. They contain a text editor to add your written content; they support charts and graphic images such as photographs, clip art or other objects to enliven your slideshow and get your point across crisply.

  10. 14.2 Incorporating Effective Visuals into a Presentation

    Exercise 2. In this exercise, you will begin to develop visual aids for your presentation. Complete the steps in this exercise—and enjoy the chance to be creative. Working with visuals can be a pleasant way to take a break from the demands of writing. Revisit the ideas you developed in Note 14.24 "Exercise 1".

  11. Understanding Presentation Software: Definition and Real-Life Examples

    Presentation software is an application or software tool that enables users to create and deliver visual presentations to an audience. It is commonly used in business, education, and other professional settings to convey information, ideas, and data through a combination of graphics, text, and media. One of the most popular presentation ...

  12. What Are Presentation Graphics?

    Presentation graphics. Updated: 10/17/2017 by Computer Hope. Presentation graphics is any graphic used during a presentation in place of data. A good example is a graphic of a chart, rather than the actual data it represents. Graphic, Video terms. Was this page useful? Yes No. Computer dictionary definition for what presentation graphics means ...

  13. What is PowerPoint?

    PowerPoint is a complete presentation graphics package. It gives you everything you need to produce a professional-looking presentation. PowerPoint offers word processing, outlining, drawing, graphing, and presentation management tools- all designed to be easy to use and learn. The following gives you a quick overview of what you can do in ...

  14. What is PowerPoint?: Introduction, Features, Uses & Benefits

    PowerPoint is a versatile and popular presentation software developed by Microsoft (MS). It is a part of the Microsoft Office Suite and offers various features and tools to create visually appealing and engaging presentations. MS PowerPoint allows users to combine text, graphics, multimedia elements, and animations to convey information ...

  15. How to Use Graphics in Your Presentation

    RIGHT: 2. Use graphics to simplify rather than more complex. If your data contains multiple elements (like sales over time), a graph is the best way to communicate. However, don't crowd the slide ...

  16. What Is Computer Graphics? A Guide to Getting Started

    Computer graphics refers to a technology that generates images on a computer screen. It's used in digital photography, film and television, video games, and on electronic devices and is responsible for displaying images effectively to users. Think of computer graphics as the intersection of design and computer science, with the purpose of ...

  17. What Are Effective Presentation Skills (and How to Improve Them)

    Presentation skills are the abilities and qualities necessary for creating and delivering a compelling presentation that effectively communicates information and ideas. They encompass what you say, how you structure it, and the materials you include to support what you say, such as slides, videos, or images. You'll make presentations at various ...

  18. What is an Infographic? Examples, Templates & Design Tips

    An infographic is a collection of imagery, data visualizations like pie charts and bar graphs, and minimal text that gives an easy-to-understand overview of a topic. As in the example below, infographics use striking, engaging visuals to communicate information quickly and clearly. CREATE THIS INFOGRAPHIC TEMPLATE.

  19. Presentation

    Presentations are staple communication tools in school, business, or any professional matter where presenters impart topics to an audience. Often presented as a slideshow or digital animation, relaying a well-thought-out presentation to an audience is a creative and compelling way to share content while making discussions fun and engaging.

  20. When and Why to Use Graphics and Visuals

    Common visuals for professional and technical writing include: graphs. charts. tables. photographs. diagrams. maps. Graphics and visuals such as these can help the reader understand a complicated process or visualize trends in the data. They can also draw attention to key points or present information quickly.

  21. Graphical Representation

    Graphical representation is a form of visually displaying data through various methods like graphs, diagrams, charts, and plots. It helps in sorting, visualizing, and presenting data in a clear manner through different types of graphs. Statistics mainly use graphical representation to show data.

  22. Introduction to Computer Graphics

    The term 'Computer Graphics' was coined by Verne Hudson and William Fetter from Boeing who were pioneers in the field. Computer Graphics refers to several things: The manipulation and the representation of the image or the data in a graphical manner. Various technology is required for the creation and manipulation.

  23. What is Presentation? Definition, Parts and Factors

    Definition: A presentation is a form of communication in which the speaker conveys information to the audience. In an organization presentations are used in various scenarios like talking to a group, addressing a meeting, demonstrating or introducing a new product, or briefing a team. It involves presenting a particular subject or issue or new ideas/thoughts to a group of people.