Keep each slide focused on one core idea.
Use plenty of white space to reduce visual overload.
Follow a consistent layout across all slides.
Use a clean, modern font that’s easy to read.
Maintain a minimum font size of 24–28pt for body text.
Use high-contrast text and backgrounds.
Choose a colour palette of 2–4 colours max.
Keep text left-aligned for better readability.
Use headlines that summarise the message, not the topic.
Break complex ideas into digestible chunks.
Use visuals to support the message, not decorate it.
Use icons to simplify and quickly communicate concepts.
Keep slides uncluttered and breathable.
Use bullet points sparingly (3–5 per slide max).
Use real images, not generic clip-art.
Compress images to avoid large file sizes.
Ensure all images are high-resolution.
Use consistent image styles (colour, tone, shape).
Stick to a grid layout — it improves visual balance.
Use intentional alignment, never random placement.
Add subtle animations only when they enhance clarity.
Use slide transitions sparingly and purposefully.
Use data visualisation that is accurate and simple.
Label all charts clearly.
Highlight the key data point you want the audience to notice.
Use storytelling flow — beginning, middle, end.
Make your slides scannable in under three seconds.
Use callouts or bolding to emphasise key points.
Test readability from the back of a room.
Keep colour meanings consistent (e.g., red = risk).
Standardise spacing between elements.
Use master slides to maintain consistency.
Use templates that match the brand or message.
Test your slides on different screens.
Ensure your slide deck works even without narration.
Add alt text to images for accessibility when needed.
Use speaker notes for details, not the slide itself.
Use diagrams to simplify complex logic.
Keep slide numbers visible.
Use section header slides to reset attention.
Open with a visual hook or powerful statement.
End with a strong summary or call-to-action.
Prioritise clarity over creativity.
Edit ruthlessly — remove anything unnecessary.
Use proportional, consistent margins.
Use colour to group related information.
Use contrast to direct attention.
Practice the presentation with the slides.
Ask someone else to test for clarity and flow.
Always design with the audience in mind — not yourself.
Don’t overload slides with paragraphs of text.
Don’t center-align long blocks of text.
Don’t mix too many font styles.
Don’t place text too close to the edges.
Don’t use low-contrast colours (e.g., yellow on white).
Don’t use every colour in the rainbow.
Don’t stretch images out of proportion.
Don’t use blurry images.
Don’t use distracting stock photos.
Don’t use decorative fonts that are hard to read.
Don’t use long lists of bullet points.
Don’t read the slides word-for-word.
Don’t put every talking point on the slide.
Don’t use unnecessary sound effects.
Don’t use wild transitions like “Origami” or “Airplane”.
Don’t crowd the slide with too many visuals.
Don’t use complex charts that require explanation to decode.
Don’t show irrelevant statistics.
Don’t position images randomly.
Don’t switch between inconsistent design styles.
Don’t rely solely on stock templates.
Don’t overuse drop shadows or 3D text.
Don’t use gradients unless subtle and intentional.
Don’t place text on busy backgrounds.
Don’t ignore accessibility needs.
Don’t use excessive abbreviations or jargon.
Don’t assume your audience can see tiny text.
Don’t use more than two animation types in one deck.
Don’t animate every single element.
Don’t put full sentences on the slide.
Don’t use inconsistent icon sets.
Don’t include logos on every slide unless required.
Don’t rely on colour alone to convey meaning.
Don’t use untested videos (always test audio).
Don’t overcrowd charts and graphs.
Don’t include unnecessary decorative borders.
Don’t place important information at the very bottom.
Don’t ignore alignment — misalignment breaks UX.
Don’t place elements without spacing between them.
Don’t use clashing colours that hurt the eyes.
Don’t use moving backgrounds.
Don’t put too many key messages on one slide.
Don’t include outdated branding or logos.
Don’t rely on default theme colours.
Don’t forget to proofread — typos destroy credibility.
Don’t skip the opening story or context.
Don’t overestimate how much your audience can remember.
Don’t leave the deck without a clear conclusion.
Don’t design slides for yourself — design for the user.
Don’t forget that less is more in slide UX.