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12 Easy Steps to Make a Presentation Creative (+ Examples)

Learn how to make a presentation creative without PowerPoint, and draw inspiration from creative presentation examples by industry and use case.

tips creative presentation

Dominika Krukowska

9 minute read

How to make a presentation creative

Short answer

How can I make a presentation more creative?

  • Start with captivating cover videos
  • Add chapters for smooth navigation
  • Weave in personalization using dynamic variables
  • Enhance storytelling with animations
  • Highlight key points using subtle visual cues
  • Engage with interactive elements
  • Showcase ideas using vibrant images
  • Sprinkle in video narrations
  • Wrap up with a smart CTA

Boring presentations can damage your brand’s image

Boring presentations can feel like those endless meetings where one person monopolizes the conversation. You know, the ones where you’re zoning out, doodling on the side of your notes, just waiting for it to end so you could move on to something more engaging.

That's the disconnect your audience experiences when faced with a boring presentation.

What’s even worse is that when your presentation is dull, it doesn't just bore your audience—it subtly suggests that you or your brand might be, well, kind of boring too .

The good thing is that with the right tweaks and insights, every presentation holds the potential to be memorable.

In this post, we're diving deep into the heart of what makes a presentation creative. We'll explore the mistakes that lead to forgettable slides and the strategies to elevate your content.

By the end, you’ll have all it takes to transform your presentation from mundane to magnetic and have your audience engage with it from the first click to the last.

Let’s go!

What makes a presentation boring?

A boring presentation is a mix of repetitive designs and long chunks of text without a human touch. When slides come off as too generic or overly complex, or they swing between being too predictable or hard to grasp, they lose their spark.

Add in a lack of visuals, real stories, or interaction, and you've got a recipe for audience disinterest.

To truly engage, a presentation should blend interaction, emotion, and content that is relevant to the audience.

How to make a presentation creative step-by-step

Modern presentations are more than just slides—they're experiences. Gone are the days of static bullet points; today's audience craves engagement, interactivity, and a touch of the unexpected.

Let's explore how to make your presentation more creative step-by-step:

1) Add videos to break up text

Videos can set the tone, explain complex ideas, or simply entertain. By strategically placing them at key moments where you feel energy might dip, you make sure your audience remains engaged, and your message is reinforced.

Whether it's a real-life testimonial, a product demo, or a fun animation, videos can breathe life into abstract concepts, making them tangible and relatable.

And, there’s science behind it too: presentations with a video on the cover slide see 32% more engagement . But the magic of videos doesn't stop at the cover. Presentations sprinkled with videos throughout held people's attention 37% longer and even boosted the click-through rate on calls-to-action by 17%.

2) Create a non-linear flow

Who said presentations have to be a straight line? Let's mix it up! By linking slides, you're handing the remote to your audience. It's like those 'choose your own adventure' books from our childhood.

Group your slides into themes or create chapters and let them pick what they want to see next. It's a fun, interactive way to keep them on their toes and engaged.

3) Use personalization for creating tailored stories

You know those emails that greet you by name and make you feel all special? Imagine bringing that warmth to your presentations using dynamic variables.

By integrating with your CRM, you can fetch specific data about your audience and weave it into your slides. This simple trick can make your audience feel like the content was crafted specifically for them, creating a deeper connection.

If you’re making a presentation to showcase your product, you can even use dynamic variables to create a mock-up with your prospect’s name and logo design on it to make your deck stand out.

4) Use narrated design

Scrollytelling is where the magic of scrolling meets the art of storytelling. It's an interactive content experience that weaves text, images, videos, and animations into a captivating narrative.

Instead of static slides, scrollytelling guides readers through a story, allowing them to control the pace. It breaks down complex content into bite-sized chunks, enhancing engagement and retention.

Our founder, Itai Amoza, wanted everyone to enjoy this dynamic content experience. So, he joined forces with visualization expert Prof. Steven Franconeri to weave scrollytelling into Storydoc.

Thanks to their partnership, we have dedicated storytelling slides in Storydoc, like the narrator slide you can see below , designed to make content both clear and captivating for all.

Narrator slide example

5) Tell stories with videos

Videos have this unique power to turn complex ideas into simple, engaging stories. A video might break down a tricky process into fun, easy-to-follow narrative, or give us a peek into real-life examples or experiences.

It's all about making your content feel alive, relatable, and super easy to understand. Because, let's face it, everyone's a sucker for a good story.

Here's a great example of a storytelling video:

6) Use roadmap and timeline slides

Ever tried reading a long-winded description of a company's journey or a product's development process? Yawn, right?

Now, imagine swapping that snooze-fest with a vibrant roadmap or timeline. Instead of slogging through paragraphs, you get a fun, visual play-by-play.

Picture a colorful line showing a startup's journey from a garage brainstorm to its first big sale.

Or a playful timeline marking the stages of turning a wild idea into a bestselling product. It's like turning a history lesson into a comic strip—way more fun and a whole lot clearer!

You can see what it looks like below:

Video timeline slide

7) Direct attention using animations

Ever been to a theater where the spotlight focuses on the main act? That's what animations do for your presentation.

Whether it's a cheeky arrow pointing out a fun fact, a grand entrance animation for a new idea, or using grayed-out content to highlight a key point, animations are your stage directors.

They ensure your audience's eyes are exactly where you want them to be, soaking in all the important bits.

Here's a great example:

Animated slide example

8) Add interactive calculators

Who said numbers have to be boring? With interactive calculators, you're turning math into a fun game . Let your audience punch in numbers and see real-time results.

Whether they're calculating potential savings, ROI, or just playing around, it's an engaging and creative way to make your points tangible. It's like turning your presentation into a hands-on workshop.

9) Use AI-generated images

Instead of sifting through countless stock photos, thanks to the magic of AI, you can have an image that's tailor-made for your slide in seconds.

Storydoc presentation maker lets you generate any image directly in your deck - just give the AI assistant a short description and you’re good to go.

What's great is that you always get an image that matches your topic to a tee. No more "that'll do" compromises. Plus, think of all the time you save when you don't have to hunt for the right picture or take it yourself.

Here's a short video showing how it works:

Storydoc AI image generator

10) Pop into the presentation with video bubble narration

Imagine if, during a presentation, a mini version of you could pop up, share a quick tip, or clarify a point. That's video bubble narration in a nutshell.

It's like having a friendly guide accompanying your audience, ensuring they get the most out of your content. It adds a creative personal touch, making your presentation feel like a cozy chat between friends.

11) Use before-and-after to show transformation

There's something magical about witnessing a transformation. Just think about the buzz online when someone shares a 'before and after' of a design revamp, weight loss journey, or how they helped a client grow their business.

With a before-and-after slide , you're giving your audience that 'aha!' moment. Even if you can't see their reactions in real-time, you can bet they're sliding back and forth, captivated by the change.

Whether it's showcasing a product's impact, a website redesign, or a process improvement, it's a visual treat that makes your message more powerful.

Here's an example of a before-and-after slide:

Before-and-after slide example

12) Close with a smart CTA

The grand finale of your presentation deserves a touch of flair. Instead of a simple 'Thank you' slide, imagine ending with an interactive live chat prompt or a calendar invite for a follow-up. It's like the encore at the end of a concert, giving your audience a chance to engage further.

These smart CTAs aren't just functional; they're creative extensions of your narrative. By integrating them, you're not just concluding your presentation; you're opening doors to new conversations and possibilities.

Here's a great example of a smart CTA:

Next steps slide example

3 presentation opening ideas

Kicking off a presentation with a bang can set the tone for everything that follows. Here are 3 captivating ways to grab your audience's attention right from the get-go:

Dive into a story: Begin with a personal anecdote or a relatable tale. It's like inviting your audience around a campfire, setting the stage for a memorable narrative.

Pose a thought-provoking question: Challenge your viewers with a question that gets their gears turning. It's an instant engagement booster, making them active participants.

Share a startling statistic: Drop a number that makes jaws drop. When you hit them with a fact that's hard to ignore, you've got their undivided attention.

Want more insights on crafting the perfect presentation opener? Check out our article on how to start a presentation people read to the end .

3 presentation closing ideas

Wrapping up a presentation is just as crucial as the opening. It's your final chance to leave a lasting impression. Here are 3 best ways to ensure your audience walks away inspired:

Circle back to the start: Revisit your opening story or statement, bringing your narrative full circle. It's a neat way to tie everything together and reinforce your key message.

End with a Call-to-Action: End with a captivating personal video message or a lively animation. It's a unique way to engage, surprise, and guide your audience on what's next.

Share an inspiring quote: Leave them with words that resonate. A powerful quote can sum up your message and linger in their minds long after.

Here's an example of a presentation with a personal video message at the end:

Slide with a personal video message

Hungry for more tips on crafting the perfect presentation finale? Read our blog post on how to end a presentation and get people to act .

Best tools for making creative presentations

Crafting creative presentations is an art, and like any artist, you need the right tools to bring your vision to life. Here's a curated list of platforms that are pushing the envelope in presentation design:

Storydoc : Beyond traditional slides, Storydoc offers interactive web stories. It's not just about displaying content; it's about creating experiences. With dynamic visuals and interactive elements, your audience is in for a treat.

Pitch : Collaboration is Pitch's forte. Designed for teams, it offers real-time editing, customizable templates, and a sleek interface. It's where ideas transform into visually stunning stories.

Genially : From animated presentations to responsive infographics, Genially provides tools that make your content come alive on the screen.

Beautiful.ai : Automated design assistance is its claim to fame. Feed in your content, and watch as the tool intuitively crafts slides that are both coherent and captivating.

Canva : A versatile design platform, Canva boasts a variety of templates for presentations, graphics, and more. Its drag-and-drop interface ensures even design novices feel like pros.

Visme : Tailored for visual storytelling, Visme offers a rich library of assets. Think dynamic charts, data widgets, and a suite of animations that turn your data into visual narratives.

Creative presentation templates

Ever felt the weight of the cursor blinking on an empty slide, almost taunting you to come up with something creative?

It's like being handed a stage with an eager audience, but the script is yet to be written. That initial step can be the hardest, but what if you had a little nudge in the right direction?

Creative presentation templates can help you shape your story in a way that stands out in a sea of monotony. Think of them as the paint-by-numbers kits, where the structure is set, but the colors and flair? That's all you.

Grab one and see for yourself.

tips creative presentation

Hi, I'm Dominika, Content Specialist at Storydoc. As a creative professional with experience in fashion, I'm here to show you how to amplify your brand message through the power of storytelling and eye-catching visuals.

tips creative presentation

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100+ Creative Presentation Ideas You Can Steal Today

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Renderforest Staff

20 Aug 2023

11 min read  

100+ Creative Presentation Ideas You Can Steal Today

Have you ever struggled with forcing yourself to stay awake during a presentation? Don’t worry, you are not alone. 

In essence, a presentation is nothing but sharing ideas with others. Whether you intrigue and interest your audience or not depends on how interesting the topic is and how well you present it. 

Whether you plan on making a PowerPoint presentation with neatly designed slides or a video presentation with dynamic transitions, you first  need creative presentation ideas. 

That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive list of the most captivating and creative presentation ideas you can put to use. We have separated them into three main categories to make things easier for you.

Let’s dive right in!

Business and Management Presentation Ideas

Education presentation ideas, general presentation ideas.

create presentations and pitch decks

In business, presenting information and complex ideas in an easy-to-digest manner is crucial. If you already have a presentation idea, you only need to find a presentation template to bring it to life. But if you’re still looking for creative presentation ideas, read the list we’ve prepared below.

  • Corporate Presentation : Have you ever wondered what the best way is to build and communicate your company’s identity? Corporate presentations are great for promoting your brand, services, and products by simply talking about them.
  • Company Profiling : Introduce your team. Who are you? What are you passionate about? Your audience is interested to know more about your team members.
  • Company Story : What can strengthen the ties between you and your audience better than a compelling success story told through creative presentations?

Company story presentation

Use Template

  • Product Promos : Create a buzz around your new product with an engaging promo presentation.
  • Sales Pitch : Close that sale you’ve worked so hard for with a well-built sales presentation.
  • Office Tour : Present the cool interior design of your office. Show your favorite spots where you like to wind down with a cup of coffee or, hey, maybe a beer.
  • Product Features : Does your product have interesting features that not everyone knows about? Make a detailed presentation on all the hidden features of your product. Use images and videos to explain how everything functions.
  • Fundamental Principles : Choose a general topic in Business and Management and discuss it through your creative presentation. Here’s an idea: “Fundamental Principles of Strategic Planning.” Could be a great prompt to start with, right?
  • Best Strategies: Be it marketing, financial, or any other type of strategy, an overview of the best strategies can make for informative and useful presentation content.
  • Industry Introduction : Make a presentation about the industry your business operates. Use strong visuals to complement your content and introduce your industry in the best light possible.
  • Comparing Tactics : Make a presentation reflecting on and comparing various tactics.
  • Calculated Risks : We are all worried about possible risks when taking action. Risks are unavoidable. It’s a great idea to prepare your audience for the risks before they come across them. There is a multitude of ways to do it through creative presentations. Cover “Risks in Investing,” “Risks Associated With Trading Derivatives,” and so forth.
  • Advantages and Disadvantages : One never comes without the other. Introduce your team to the pros and cons of your plans, actions, and anything else you consider important.

Advantages and disadvantages presentation slide

USE TEMPLATE

  • Debates : Make your presentation even more interactive by involving the audience in debates. Plus, debates and discussions are always helpful in establishing a better understanding of a topic.
  • SWOT Analysis : You can never go wrong with a proper analysis of business strategies, marketing plans, and more. So consider making an analysis presentation to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of a specific business strategy.
  • Portfolio Presentation : Showcase your best projects and works. Why should anyone be interested in you if they haven’t seen your work? Presenting your best projects in a compelling and attractive format will increase your reputation quickly.
  • Current Trends : What are the current trends in business and management.  Always keep an eye on them to stay one step ahead of your competitors.
  • Challenges : Who doesn’t agree that challenges are tough? Making a creative presentation on challenges and the ways that you have overcome them will help you keep track of your development and also prepare for the future.
  • Reporting Progress : Why don’t you make weekly or monthly presentations on your performance, such as financial statements? Measuring and reporting your performance will smooth your path toward your goals.
  • Customer Testimonials : Present your customers’ responses and feedback on your product/service to see what steps you need to take to improve your offerings.
  • Profiles of Successful People : Encourage your team by introducing them to the experiences and achievements of successful people.
  • Tips and Tricks : If you want to cheer your audience up, provide them with hacks and tricks to deal with certain issues. This can include technical tricks and some tips on teamwork, for example.

Office tips presentation slides

  • Rules and Regulations : What are some of the rules that your company never breaks? Discuss the rules and regulations that apply to your team.
  • Top Criteria : Selecting a new quality management system is not easy, is it? Introducing the top criteria for a specific task can be a great presentation topic. How about making a presentation on “Top Criteria for Selecting a New Quality Management System?”
  • Product Development Process : Sometimes, we are interested to see how a product was created. Showcase the development process of your product through a presentation.
  • Most Effective Ways : It’s always good to be introduced not only to what to do but also to how to do it. So make a presentation on the best ways of conducting surveys, research, or anything else.

Product development guidelines slide example

  • Success Factors : This is something all of us are interested in. Introduce the success factors in different areas such as managing successful teams or product design tips.
  • Cause and Effect : This simple and informative presentation structure will be ideal to dive deeper into the intricate world of cause and effect.
  • Past vs. Present vs. Future : Growth will become more visible and obvious once you start comparing what you had before to what you have now. This can turn into a great summary of the major changes within a certain time period.
  • Comparisons : Compare different products/services. It’s a good strategy that will help you emphasize the good and the bad sides of a particular thing.
  • Positive and Negative Effects : It’s always important to show the two sides of a coin. Consider presenting the positive and negative effects of a certain thing. For example, the positive and negative effects of social media is a debated topic nowadays. Pick your topic and reveal it from both perspectives.
  • Problem-Solution Presentation : Identify a relevant problem. A great presentation format would be to introduce not only the complicated problem but its solution as well.
  • Training : Your presentation can become a training session. You can organize a theoretical part and add a practical portion, too, like quizzes and discussions.
  • Graphs and Charts : One of the best ways to introduce your info is through statistical graphs and charts, combining survey and observational data. You can use visual animated scenes and infographics.

Key statistics report format

  • Popular Misconceptions : People are often mistakenly drawn from one end to another due to inaccurate data. Help your audience avoid misunderstandings about entrepreneurs, investors, and business management in general. Your presentation will guide them in the right direction, drawing the line between truth and lie.
  • Introduction to Business Topics : No matter the topic, it’s always useful to present basic ideas. Keep it short and clear. This can include an introduction to income statements, or any other important business concept.
  • Stages of a Process : Don’t leave your audience confused with theory but let them see the practical stages of how things are accomplished. (e.g., “The Stages of User Journey”)

User journey stages

  • Management : How do you efficiently manage a business? You can prepare dozens of presentations on management: be it resources, public relations, time, money, or anything else.
  • Competitor Analysis : Know your enemy! You’ve probably heard the famous saying, haven’t you? Track down your competitors and share the info with your team.
  • Appreciation : This presentation should be devoted to the team members who have done an exceptional job.
  • Unknown Facts : Pick a topic and reveal facts that are unknown to most people. What are some of the interesting and truthful facts that they don’t know about branding?

Brand recognition facts

  • Restrictions : No matter what business you have, restrictions are guaranteed. Make a presentation on the restrictions and limitations you face. (e.g. “Restrictions in Integrated Web Design”)
  • Big Breakthroughs : Want to feel proud of yourself and your team? Here is how you can do it: Reveal some cases when you have successfully overcome the toughest of obstacles and learned lessons as a result. Talk about the long path you have been on with your company.
  • Partners and Investors : Tell about your partners. Give info about investors. Cooperation is way more successful when team members are acquainted with the investors. Your presentation can have a strong influence on the performance of your team.
  • Business Ethics : As a significant part of business, it’s important to understand ethics. How about “Ethics in Marketing Research?” There are countless ethical issues.
  • Theories : Gather some of the most important theories that you find useful and prepare a good presentation with examples and visuals.
  • Product/Service Improvement : A briefing like this might include a recap of your product or service or a discussion of any possible improvement before the product is ready for the market.
  • The Rise and Fall of Brands : Don’t avoid talking about the failures and successes of other brands. Doing so can help you with your own journey.
  • Upcoming or Recent Events : Talk about exciting events that you are planning to organize or already have. For upcoming events, you can make a welcoming presentation, announcing the date and venue. Check out an example below:

Event presentation slide example

  • Inspiration : Get ready to give a professional and motivational talk to inspire your audience to take action towards targeted goals.
  • Explain Business Concepts : How does a certain idea or concept work? Give a specific and clear presentation on the concepts that not everyone is familiar with. How does a franchise work? How do partnerships work?
  • QA Presentation : Assure that your audience knows that your product/service is of the best quality.
  • Announcements : Is there a cool and intriguing event that’s coming? Give an announcement through your presentation. It can be short and clear, covering all the key points.
  • Discovery, Invention, Innovation : Share the most interesting discoveries and recent innovations in the business world.
  • How-to Presentations : If you are skilled at something, then you can make a presentation to guide others. Present a step-by-step guide for a specific task, such as conducting surveys or managing conflicts.

Whether it’s a school project or an online class presentation, you need to make it attractive and engaging. So, choose the topic wisely. Below are some education presentation ideas you can use for your next project.

  • Academic Presentation : If you want to educate and share info, then academic presentations with supporting visuals, presentation slides, and videos are what you need.
  • Explainer : Explainers are a powerful way of sharing essential information. You can make short and engaging  explainer videos  to include in your presentations.

  • Pros and Cons : Make a presentation explaining both pros and cons of a certain issue at stake.
  • Best Methods : Talk about various effective methods, be it methods of teaching, learning, or preparing for an exam.
  • Dos and Don’ts of Making Presentations : You can make a whole presentation just talking about presentation best practices . Separate what’s recommended and what’s not and then present those to your audience in a simple way.
  • Guidelines : Present the most effective guidelines for teaching, studying, and co-working.
  • Personal Experience : What can be more helpful for an audience than to learn from someone’s real-life experience? Make a presentation on your personal experience and share your most valuable insights.
  • Quiz-Presentation : Test your students. Make a presentation quizzing their knowledge and competence in a certain field. Why presentation? Because it’s both visually and technically effective.
  • Research : An attractive slideshow is one of the best ways to present your research. Try working on a visual and multimedia presentation to showcase the whole potential of your research in a visually appealing format.
  • Problem-Solving : Decide on an issue and prepare a set of solutions to offer. Don’t leave any questions uncovered. If a problem exists, so does its solution.
  • Project Proposal : How are you planning to get approval for your projects if you don’t propose the main idea and expected outcomes in a professional way? Give your project a classy presentation with this Minimal Titles Pack . 

  • Listing Presentation : Lists always work when you have big sorted data to introduce to your audience.
  • Controversial Topics : Attract your audience’s attention and keep them engaged with a controversial slide deck. Bring forward debatable issues such as euthanasia, AI, and more. Let your audience join you or argue against you.
  • Textbook Presentation : Introduce a textbook in a creative way through interesting visuals and supporting multimedia.
  • Curriculum : What if presentations are the best way of getting your audience acquainted with a curriculum. Alternatively, you can make your next presentation about how to develop a well-organized curriculum.
  • Dissertation : Prepare a presentation for your dissertation. But keep in mind that it has to be accompanied by proper supportive media.
  • Predictions Presentation : What will happen next? It’s fun to predict, isn’t it?
  • Instructions : Do you like giving instructions? Sometimes that’s what you need to do. Structure your presentation in a how-to format, giving instructions for certain actions, like “How to Work Out the Best Schedule?”
  • Precautions : Prepare your audience for the worst and hope for the best. Make a presentation on a set of warnings.
  • Case Studies : What’s the best way of demonstrating your case study? A multimedia presentation can be the answer.
  • Tricks and Hacks : Tips and tricks are always appreciated by your audience. Create an informative presentation on studying tips, time management tips, or anything else you might find interesting.
  • Success Stories : We are always eager to hear success stories. Why? Because they motivate us to move forward with hope for what’s to come. So, make a presentation, telling success stories to motivate teachers, learners, and everyone else.
  • Fact or Fiction : Draw a line between truth and lie, fact and fiction. Bust some myths about a topic of your choice to educate your listeners.
  • Data Analysis : Is a presentation the right place to start with data analysis? Not really. But once you have analyzed your data, showcase it in your presentation, demonstrating your analysis through charts and graphs.
  • Techniques : What kind of techniques can you cover? How about “Techniques for Memory Improvement,” or “ Teaching Techniques ?” You can make up a number of similar topics to share.
  • Recent Advancements : Share the recent advancement in the field of education. What are some of the newest teaching methods? What advanced methods do we need to implement to make the learning process more effective?
  • Steps in the Process : What are the best steps to take towards certain goals? Each path is different and thus requires different steps.
  • Interesting Facts : Gather a set of creative ideas and facts to cover in your presentations.

Recommended Reading

  • 35+ Best Presentation Software: Ultimate List 2023
  • The Art of Consulting Presentations
  • Timeline Presentations: Extensive Guide to Creating Visual Narratives

Here we have random presentation ideas that can inspire you. Make your next presentation a blast by introducing a new creative topic through a unique presentation design.

  • Introduction to a Topic : Often, we don’t really want to go deep into complex concepts but just need a short and clear intro to get a grasp of them. Make a presentation on the basics of the most intriguing and puzzling themes.
  • Ethics of a Certain Field : There are a number of important fields that need to be discussed in terms of ethics. For example, ethics in journalism is a very trendy and essential topic to discuss nowadays.
  • The Future : We are always interested in the future, aren’t we? We make plans for it. We carry hopes for it. Let’s make a compelling presentation that discusses the future of various fields, such as AI or the Internet.
  • Benefits : What are the benefits of a bilingual brain? Try to cover the benefits of a number of issues, such as digital transformation, or a healthy diet.
  • Risks : Discuss the risks of taking certain steps. When we know the risks we can circumvent them, can’t we?
  • Evolution : How do things evolve? It’s super important to present the ways that certain things unfold and change. How did artificial intelligence grow and evolve to such degrees?
  • Components: Pick some topics to discuss the components of. How about making a presentation on “Components of Web Applications?” Pretty interesting, isn’t it?
  • Alternatives : We always feel a need for alternatives. Make a presentation offering alternatives for different tools and objects. One example could be a presentation covering “The Best Free Alternatives to Microsoft Office.”
  • Memoir : Tell the stories of influential people or your own in a value-packed presentation.
  • Video Games : You can reveal the pros and cons of a game or just talk about the trendiest games as of now. You could also reveal statistics about the influence they have on gamers.
  • Music Album Presentation : Present a music album, composers, and musicians. You can talk about their tours, also including videos and audio files of the tracks.
  • Reviews and Reports : Do a book or a film review. Present your criticism and reflections on a book or movie of interest.

Report review presentation slide examples

  • Scientific Presentation : What are the recent scientific discoveries? Not all people are aware, right? Bring forward some intriguing info about the latest discoveries.
  • Job Interview Presentation : Impress your potential employers with a structured and clean job interview presentation. Our video portfolio editor can come in handy here.
  • Important Skills : What are the top skills needed in your industry? Create your list and share it.
  • Requirements and Qualifications : What are some requirements for a specific job position or a field in general? Share your experience and knowledge on this topic.
  • “Best of ” Compilation : Gather a list of the best movies, games, books, tools, meals, and anything else, really.
  • News : Sometimes, people don’t care to sit and listen to an hour-long news report. So, how about making a brief and informative summary of the most noteworthy news?
  • Experiments : Make a scientific or social experiment and reveal your results; they might be different from what you expected.
  • Life Story : Use presentation slides to tell about the life of a famous or personal story of an influential person. Use images, videos, and any other visual elements to make your story more vivid.

Making a compelling presentation doesn’t purely depend on presentation software , even though that’s also very important. To make an impactful presentation, one has to first figure out how to approach the topic and decide on the presentation design. 

We hope you found your topic on the list of creative presentation ideas presented above. Best of luck with creating presentations!

Ready to create your video presentation? Find hundreds of slideshow video template options, browse stock images to find a background image, use hand-drawn illustrations, add your color palette, customize your entire presentation the way you want, and share your creative presentation idea in an interesting way. You can also use a recap video template to present the main takeaways of an event or a session in the form of a summary. Click the button to get started:

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How to make an AI animation in 4 steps 

13 min read

05 Sep 2024

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tips creative presentation

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20 creative presentation ideas to captivate your audience

Get your team on prezi – watch this on demand video.

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Michael Lee June 17, 2019

The ultimate aim of every presentation is to etch a memorable mark that lingers in the minds of your audience long after the final slide fades away. Memorable presentations should be a creative blend of captivating design, innovative elements, and engaging delivery. To ignite your presentation prowess and set your creativity on fire, we’ve handpicked a treasure trove of 20 ingenious creative presentation ideas that will transform your presentations from bland to brilliantly unforgettable:

1. Experiment with color

It’s surprising what a little color can do. The way you use and pair colors in your presentation design can grab an otherwise disinterested audience member’s attention. Just make sure you do it tastefully and carry the theme across all frames. When in doubt, you can simply choose from one of Prezi’s existing content layouts , each with an appealing color palette.

Try experimenting with a two-toned design by adding different accents to your presentation background and other visual elements. You might start with a black-and-white design, then add a bright pop of one color throughout. Contrasting color palettes (think yellow and blue, pink and mint green, etc.) can also create this eye-popping effect. Alternatively, you can use neutral shades to give off a more subdued vibe.

Another idea? Add a color filter to your images to tie them into your color theme. Learn more about presentation colors in our guide.

2. Use a striking background theme

A colorful background image for a creative presentation

Looking for more presentation ideas and creative ways to present? Put some thought into your background image, as it’s what your audience will be looking at during the entire presentation. If you want to use a photo, choose one that’s beautiful, sentimental, or has action and flow. Just make sure you pick an image that has enough negative space on which to place text. You can also play around with textures and patterns, such as ripples or wood, or themes that are symbolic of your message, such as a passport, billboard, rocket launch, road trip, etc.

Additionally, make sure your chosen background image isn’t distracting. You want to keep your audience’s focus on the foreground — the graphics, text, and special effects you’ve created. Prezi already has a large library of effective and high-quality backgrounds and images you can search for when designing your presentation, so no need to source them from somewhere else.

3. Put thoughts into speech bubbles

Other creative ways to present information include using speech bubbles to communicate key points to audience members. Use them to illustrate an idea or to reveal a character’s thoughts or fears in your story. Have them pop up as notes or commentary in the frame you’re presenting. Similarly, you can use speech bubbles to show milestones on a timeline. If you’re revealing poll or survey results about a product or service, for instance, place data or participant feedback in bubbles.

But, like anything in a presentation, don’t go overboard with it. While speech bubbles can be a fantastic addition, excessive use might divert your audience’s focus from the core message. So, using speech bubbles in the right places to create impact can be effective for engaging your listeners, but scattering them throughout every slide might be a little excessive and cause the opposite effect. Balance is key when using speech bubbles. 

4. Abandon the slide-by-slide style

Prezi's PowerPoint Converter feature lets you turn slides into a dynamic Prezi presentation. It's another great creative way to present.

Free your presentations from the confines of slides. As an interactive presentation tool, Prezi allows for dynamic designs to take your audience on a journey as you tell your story. Zoom in and out on key points. Navigate between topics and sections of your presentation in any order. Go vertical instead of horizontal. Make transitions between ideas look like pathways or scenes instead of simply clicking sequentially from frame to frame. All of these elements come together to make a memorable presentation.

These types of tactics will give your presentation a cinematic feel that will captivate and inspire your audience. An open canvas design also makes it easier for you to tell a story , which people tend to process and remember more easily than straight facts. Prezi’s ready-made templates and striking graphics make it simple for you to share your narrative via one of these seemingly complex designs. If you want to transform a static PowerPoint presentation into a dynamic moving story, simply upload your file and try Prezi’s PowerPoint Converter feature .

5. Tell your story with a video

Female Video Editor Works with Footage on Her Personal Computer, She Works in Creative Office Studio.

Presenters have been incorporating video into their slide decks for decades. Video is one of the most creative ways to present projects. It allows you to tell your story using visuals instead of big blocks of text. Now, however, it’s time to elevate the video so it captures your audience’s attention and enhances your narrative. Embed videos that play automatically when you navigate to certain parts of your Prezi canvas.

Just be sure to use videos that aren’t distracting and that work with the rest of your presentation’s flow. They should still complement your presentation’s overall design theme and message. If you’re not producing a video yourself, you can find thematic ones from stock video sites or on YouTube. Just be aware that you might need permission to use some videos.

It’s important to select videos beforehand and place them strategically so that they hit hard in the right places. Selecting the perfect videos is like choosing gems to adorn your presentation’s crown. These videos should harmonize seamlessly with your content, elevating the story you’re weaving.

Imagine, for instance, using a time-lapse video of a bustling cityscape to represent the rapid pace of change in the business world during your presentation on industry trends. Blending your videos with the theme of your topic in this way goes beyond just catching your audience’s eye, it actually adds depth to your story while also making your message more impactful.

6. Bring your story to life with audio

Another presentation idea to minimize text and maximize audience engagement is to add sound to your presentation. Tell your story using pre-recorded audio. This creative presentation style turns the viewer experience into just that — an experience. While the audio plays, you can move around the stage and navigate to various parts of the presentation that support the narrative visually. Again, the effect is almost movie-like.

Another auditory presentation tool is music. Use music to set the tone of your talk, or inject it periodically to regain the audience’s attention. The appropriate song choice can get the entire audience into the mood of your presentation. Choose upbeat tunes to convey excitement or dramatic ones that will trigger an emotional response . Plus, if you play a catchy tune that sticks in people’s heads, that’ll help them remember your presentation that much more.

7. Add animations

Another creative way to present is by bringing an otherwise static design to life is animation. Go beyond video by borrowing from stop-motion principles for your presentation. Stop motion is a technique in which you film objects one frame at a time to simulate motion in a scene or a story. You can recreate this effect in Prezi by using zoom, fade, and pan animations to tell a moving story frame by frame.

Animations can inspire and engage your audience, but just be sure to use them sparingly and as a complement to your story or message.

7.1. Make it fun with GIFs

Adding animated GIFs to your presentation can not only make it more fun but also help catch your audience’s eye. Because they’re trendy and often reference pop culture or common emotions, GIFs can help you get your point across without having to use just words.

However, it’s crucial to exercise moderation when employing these elements. While animations and GIFs can enhance engagement, excessive use of them can become distracting. There’ll be certain presentation topics or subjects where GIFs will look misplaced, so just make sure you think carefully about whether they correlate with your message before you use them. However, GIFs are a great way to inject humor and light-heartedness right after slides filled with heavy information. When executed skillfully, animations and GIFs transform your presentation into a dynamic and interactive visual journey, leaving an enduring impression on your audience.

8. Create a timeline

The timeline is nothing new. It’s how you apply it to a presentation that can really wow an audience. Prezi’s dynamic designs let you use the timeline as the basis or focal point of the presentation and then navigate along as you tell your story or plan of action.

Zooming in on specific elements of your timeline as you discuss them adds another layer of clarity and focus. It helps make sure your audience stays on track with your story and doesn’t get lost in the details or complexities. This laid-back way of highlighting key moments or steps keeps people interested and makes it easier for them to remember what you’re talking about.

Timeline dashboard example from Prezi Design

9. Use maps

Deliver a creative presentation with maps, especially if there’s a geographic or location-based topic in your content. Set a map as your background or focal point, and prompt different regions to change colors or pop out as you navigate over them. When it comes to designing maps , make sure you’re purposefully selecting colors, as the color palette you choose can change the way people respond to your data. Don’t pick colors that are too similar when you’re making comparisons, for example. Use Prezi’s zoom function to zero in on areas for more details, or pull back to reveal the larger context.

You can also go the thinking map route, which is a visual learning technique that can convey complex ideas simply and creatively. Start with a central theme, then branch out into paths or surrounding points. The eight variations of thinking maps include circle maps, bubble maps, flow maps, treemaps, and more. These can be effective interactive aids in educational presentations as well as for small businesses.

10. Do away with bulleted lists

Avoid bullet points. Instead, use a canvas layout for your presentation ideas. One of the best creative ways to present.

To truly transform your presentations, consider stepping away from the conventional bullet-point lists that often lead to passive learning. Instead, harness the power of visuals to inspire active engagement from your audience. Visual content stimulates the brain’s cognitive processes, making your message more memorable. Engage your listeners by replacing bullet points with visuals .

Prezi’s open canvas design is a valuable tool in this transformation. It shifts the focus from passive delivery to interactive engagement. By using visuals, you prompt your audience to actively process and respond to your content, fostering a deeper understanding and connection with your message. This shift from traditional bullet points to a visually driven, interactive approach can significantly enhance the impact of your presentations.

11. Communicate with images

Presentation images are nothing new. However, when standing alone, photographs, paintings, and other images can have a really powerful effect. Instead of trying to talk over an image, use it as a stepping stone in your presentation, a point of reflection. Once in a while, let visuals do the talking.

Also, a study has found that people process visuals 60,000 times faster than text . So, incorporating more images will make your presentation more memorable.

Androgynous Black woman sitting with dog near mural

However, be careful with your selection of images – make sure that they’re relevant to the topic and aren’t just filling up an empty space.

Also, If you’re using Prezi for your presentation, you can access a huge library of images that takes away the headache of finding that one perfect shot. It’s like having a cheat code for making your presentation pop. So dive into the library and pick out visuals that’ll make your presentation not just informative, but engaging.

12. Play with transitions

Using slide transitions is one of the simple yet creative ways to present a project. They create visual continuity and add movement to slides. However, choosing the right page transition for your slides is truly a form of art. You have to consider the topic, tone of voice, and your presentation design. Page transitions should match the overall design, create flawless continuity, highlight key areas in your presentation, and do all that without stealing the show. Ultimately, you want it to compliment your presentation.

If you are looking for inspiration, check out Prezi Present ‘s wide selection of templates . You can play with transitions by adding additional animated elements that will make your presentation even more dynamic.

13. Swap for an infographic

To truly stand out and make a lasting impression, consider departing from the traditional slide-based approach and exploring infographics. Infographics are powerful visual tools that condense complex information into digestible, visually appealing formats. Instead of the conventional slide-by-slide progression, imagine scrolling through your presentation, seamlessly transitioning from one section to the next. This fluid movement allows you to verbally expand on key points while displaying the core information visually.

Onboarding infographic example

When you’re adding infographics, aim for designs that are easy to understand but also match your brand’s vibe. You want something that looks good and fits well with the rest of your presentation, so everything feels like it’s part of the same story. This helps make your presentation both easy to follow and hard to forget.

14. Get social

Employing a unique hashtag associated with your brand can significantly amplify the impact of your presentation, extending its reach far beyond the confines of the physical venue. This hashtag acts as a vital link between your presentation and the vast world of social media. Inviting your audience to dive into the live-tweet action with a dedicated hashtag during your talk isn’t just a savvy move; it’s a dynamic double play. You expand your reach, drawing in more eager participants, while simultaneously igniting a thriving online symphony of ongoing discussions and insights.

This approach effectively transforms your presentation into an active, two-way conversation. As you speak, people can immediately share their thoughts, favorite parts, and main lessons, creating a sense of togetherness and active involvement. Furthermore, the utilization of a branded hashtag allows you to monitor and engage in these conversations, strengthening your connection with your audience and providing an avenue for addressing questions or feedback. 

Even after your presentation concludes, these online discussions continue to thrive, ensuring that your message remains fresh in the minds of your audience members long after they’ve left the physical venue. This lively and extended interaction adds an exciting twist to your presentations, transforming them from just informative sessions into lively hubs of ongoing conversation and learning.

15. Use creative props

Physical props add a memorable dimension to your talk. Props serve as powerful visual aids, helping to illustrate key points, provide tangible examples, and offer visual cues. Props can be particularly useful for educational presentations, especially if you need to demonstrate an example. Another situation where props are paramount is if you are a brand that’s launching a new product and doing a promotional presentation. 

African man standing by whiteboard and giving presentation to startup team at office. Man explaining marketing strategy using statistical graphs to colleagues at office.

With Prezi’s creative tools at the forefront of your presentation along with your latest product at hand- you’re bound to persuade your audience. Integrating props at the right time in connection to your current presentation can really create a connection between you and your listeners. Put yourself in your audience’s shoes, would you take in the information by just reading and listening, or would seeing and touching physical props add a layer of interest that enhances your mental absorption?

16. Utilize virtual reality (VR)

VR technology allows you to transport your audience into a different environment or scenario closely related to your presentation topic. Transforming your presentation into a new virtual world takes it far beyond the expectations of mundane slide-by-slide presentations.

With VR, you can engage your audience with a dynamic three-dimensional world where they become active explorers, engaging directly with your content. Picture this: You’re showing off architectural wonders, recreating epic historical events, or unraveling the inner workings of intricate systems. VR takes your presentations to a whole new level, letting your audience not only see and hear but also experience and genuinely feel your message. It’s like inviting them to step right into the heart of your story.

17. Use gamification

Picture turning your presentation into an exhilarating game that dares to captivate and thrill your audience. When you add a little playfulness to your presentation, your audience is going to absorb your information without it feeling like a chore. Making aspects of your talk into fun learning experiences is going to keep your audience switched on throughout the whole presentation. 

You can achieve this by incorporating various interactive elements like puzzles, questions, or interactive storytelling that turn your presentation into an immersive and educational game. Encouraging your audience to think and respond will result in active participants rather than passive observers. 

Young woman sharing her view during team building session at startup office. African woman talking with colleagues sitting in circle at a coworking office.

18. Employ live demonstrations

Incorporating live demonstrations into your presentation is a potent strategy for effectively conveying your message. Whether you’re showcasing a product’s functionality, conducting a captivating science experiment, or engaging your audience in a hands-on activity, live demonstrations actively involve your audience and leave an enduring mark.

Live demonstrations can transform presentations into captivating journeys where your audience doesn’t just listen but also witnesses concepts coming to life before their eyes. This physical approach creates curiosity and entices active participation, effectively transforming your message into something tangible. When people can see, touch, or take part in live demonstrations, it makes a strong connection. It brings your audience right into your content and makes sure they take the message away with them afterward. 

19. Design comic-style frames 

Using comic strips as a presentation style is great when you want to make your presentation engaging and easy to remember. It works well for topics where you want to tell a story, explain things step by step, or simplify complex information. Comic strips contain the best of both worlds, combining visuals with storytelling. This means they’re versatile for various topics, such as education, marketing, and product demos.

The clever approach of comic strips crafts an animated, captivating experience that keeps your audience glued to their seats and sparks their eagerness to participate. Not only that, but it also makes your message highly memorable.

Colorful Set of Comic Speech Bubbles in Pop Art Style Template.

Creating a comic strip in Prezi is straightforward. Start by planning your content and breaking it down into bite-size sections that will be arranged in sequence. Then, use Prezi’s features to design each section as a comic frame, inserting relevant visuals and images. Prezi’s text and shape tools help you add speech bubbles or captions to guide the story you’re telling. As you present, take on the role of a storyteller, guiding your audience through each frame of your comic strip presentation with captivating explanations that hold their attention.

20. Emulate the style of TED talks

The TED-style approach is a powerful method of delivering presentations that revolves around the core principles of clarity, simplicity, emotional resonance, and compelling storytelling. In this approach, speakers focus on distilling complex ideas into easily digestible narratives, using relatable language and impactful visuals to engage their audience. TED-style talks typically center on a single compelling idea , conveyed with passion and authenticity, making them concise, memorable, and inspiring for a wide range of viewers.

Learn how you can excel in storytelling and develop TED Talk presentation skills in the following video:

Staying current with creative presentation ideas

Just as technology and communication methods constantly change, so do presentation audience preferences and expectations. Keeping your creative presentation ideas fresh and aligned with contemporary trends can significantly impact your effectiveness as a presenter.

Why keeping up matters

Adapting to audience expectations.

This is the key to making a memorable impact with your presentations. In the modern world, audiences want more than the ordinary; they seek thrilling, dynamic experiences. To make this happen, you must wholeheartedly embrace cutting-edge technologies and innovative concepts to make your presentations highly engaging. So, why stick with the mundane when you can captivate your audience’s imagination and curiosity with creative presentation ideas? Break free from the conventional and explore new concepts using Prezi. 

Maintaining relevance

Staying relevant is the cornerstone of success. To connect deeply with your audience, demonstrate your strong dedication to delivering top-notch content consistently. Your presentations should stand out with innovation and creativity, signaling that you’re not merely keeping pace with the times – you’re setting the tempo. With Prezi’s toolbox, you’ll be ready to explore a range of creative presentation ideas that leave a lasting impression on your audience. 

Fueling engagement

Elevating your presentations from mere information-sharing sessions to immersive experiences can be a game-changer. By staying in the loop on fresh creative presentation ideas and cool interactive tricks, you’re all set to captivate your audience. Adding some of these new, interactive touches can help you grab and keep people’s attention way better than just repeating the same slideshows.

Where to get your inspo 

If you’re ready to improve your creative game, there are plenty of helpful blogs, webinars, and online courses about fun presentation ideas you can dive into. Prezi offers a lot of useful tips for making your presentations stand out. Think of Prezi as your toolbox, always within reach to unlock your presentation’s potential and make a lasting impression. For presentation inspiration , check out Prezi’s presentation gallery and explore our highly engaging and creative templates .

Watch this video and learn more about creative presentation ideas:

Get inspired for more presentation ideas

The world isn’t flat, and your presentations shouldn’t be, either. Step outside your comfort zone, and play around with these 20 creative ways to present. Better yet, come up with your own creative ways to present and incorporate them into one of Prezi’s dynamic content layouts. Using this presentation software’s open canvas approach, you can tell your story conversationally and spontaneously so that audience members will engage with and remember.

tips creative presentation

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10 Top PowerPoint Presentation Tips for Beginners (2022 List)

10 Top PowerPoint Presentation Tips for Beginners (2022 List)

Written by: Heleana Tiburca

tips creative presentation

Creating a PowerPoint presentation can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t need to be.

In this list, you’ll find the best practices and tips for creating a powerful PowerPoint presentation for beginners.

You’ll learn how to:

  • Create a professional-looking slideshow presentation
  • Keep your Powerpoint presentation design cohesive
  • Make your slides interactive
  • Animate text and graphics

So without further ado, let’s jump right in.

10 Tips for Effective PowerPoint Presentations

Tip #1: choose an interesting topic, tip #2: do some deep research, tip #3: use an amazing presentation tool, tip #4: pick out a presentation template, tip #5: keep your audience in mind, tip #6: add eye-catching headings and text, tip #7: keep it engaging with animations, tip #8: make your powerpoint interactive, tip #9: add visuals to your presentation, tip #10: practice presenting your slideshow.

So, you need to create a PowerPoint presentation but don’t know where to start. The very first and most important thing you’ll need to do is to decide on your topic.

You’ll want to make sure that the topic you choose is interesting and engaging for those who will be listening to you present your slideshow.

If you’re not in control of your topic and you’ve been assigned a task to present, don’t worry. There are lots of different ways that you can capture your audience’s attention, and transform a boring topic into an incredibly interactive and engaging presentation.

You can do this by using an effective PowerPoint presentation template that will capture your audience’s attention, no matter how bland the subject.

Learn more about PowerPoint templates and how you can use them to your advantage in tip #4!

Once you’ve chosen your PowerPoint presentation topic, you need to make sure that you get all of your facts straight.

Do a deep dive into your research and come up with useful and interesting information that you can use at your next presentation.

Once you’ve gathered up some information, it’s time to make a bullet point list of topics you want to cover, to make sure you don’t leave anything important out in your presentation.

After you’ve created a bullet point list full of your main points and all the important points that you want to convey, you can then make an outline of your speech.

This can be a rough draft, or you can write out in great detail your entire “script”, so to say. If you’re a spontaneous writer, then you may want to write directly in the slideshow editor of your choice.

If not, you can write it all out on a document, so that you’re ready to copy and paste right onto your slideshow presentation.

The best way to create an amazing slideshow is by using an equally amazing slideshow tool.

A tool like Visme will help you create a professional-looking and exciting PowerPoint presentation efficiently and quickly, even as a beginner.

tips creative presentation

Visme is a slideshow presentation maker that lets you easily create your entire presentation from start to finish. You can even import existing PowerPoint presentations into Visme and edit them there. When you’ve finished editing, you can export editable PowerPoints to present offline.

Visme is a diverse tool that does so much more than just create PowerPoint presentations. You can create anything design-related there, including videos, social media posts, ebooks, manuals, infographics and more.

tools to create infographics - flowcharts visme

Other than hundreds of slide templates and fully designed presentations, you also get access to advanced editing tools to make your presentation unique and creative.

Add and replace backgrounds, tap into free libraries of photos, videos, icons and illustrations, add pre-animated assets or manually animate objects and text, and switch up the color scheme with a single click.

With Visme, creating presentations that stand out is as easy as 1-2-3.

Now, let’s jump into the specifics of how to make an effective presentation.

Ready to create your own presentation in minutes?

  • Add your own text, images and more
  • Customize colors, fonts and everything else
  • Choose from hundreds of slide designs and templates
  • Add interactive buttons and animations

Next on our list of PowerPoint tips for beginners is picking out the perfect template.

Visme is an amazing presentation software that has an abundance of slideshow presentation templates that you can choose from and customize.

We have modern PowerPoint templates, data-driven presentation templates, colorful templates and everything in between. Just scroll through all the templates and we’re confident you’ll find the perfect one for you.

tips creative presentation

If you want, you can even design templates of your own and save them for future slideshows that you want to create in a similar fashion.

You can also browse through our presentation themes, which include hundreds of pre-made slides you can mix and match to create your own presentation deck.

export powerpoint visme - slide-themes

Once you pick out your template, you can edit every single design aspect, from the overlays to images, to the color scheme, clipart and stickers, slide transitions and more.

We recommend finding a template that resembles the presentation that you need so that the design process goes as smoothly and easily for you as possible. Creating a presentation should be enjoyable, and Visme makes that process possible.

If you are feeling confident and you don’t want to use one of our professionally designed slideshow templates, you can start from scratch and create your own. Add and remove as many pages are you want and benefit from our stock images and videos, stickers, text templates and more.

Once you’ve chosen your template, you need to think of your audience. Not every presentation design is going to be appropriate for every audience.

In order to make an effective PowerPoint, you need to get in your audience’s head. Ask yourself, “What do they want to see?” or “What value can I bring to them?”.

The design approach you take will greatly impact the results of your audience’s retention. You want to make sure that you please your audience as much as possible and keep them engaged with what you’re trying to convey to them.

If you need to create a report-based, data-driven presentation, then you need to add lots of charts. But not just any type of boring chart. You can use one of Visme’s beautiful charts and edit the values, axis, legend, colors, appearance and more.

tips creative presentation

If you already have your data in an Excel sheet or Google sheet, you can import them into Visme’s editor and they will automatically be turned into visual data.

You can also add charts and graphs, diagrams, tables, maps and data widgets. Whatever you need, Visme has it.

You want to make sure that your PowerPoint slideshow’s readability is on point. You can do this by choosing the clear and engaging fonts that go with your presentation topic and theme.

In Visme, you can customize the font, style, size and color of your text. Adjust spacing, borders and even animate the text to make your slides more engaging.

We have tons of typefaces for you to choose from, from Helvetica to Calibri and Arial, to sans-serif and serif fonts, we know you’ll find the perfect one to create a great presentation.

tips creative presentation

Remember, less is more when it comes to a seamless design. Instead of lines upon lines of text, you should be strategic about your text design.

Make sure not to use more than 3 different typefaces per slide. This will keep your design looking sleek and not overloaded.

You can do also use premade text templates created by our professional designers. Simply scroll through all the different text templates, find one you like, and drag and drop it onto your slide. From there, you can customize it as much as you please.

It’s important to keep all the design elements and text on your slideshow aligned, so take advantage of our grid and keep everything visually pleasing and aligned.

You can drive your main points home with a large heading, and align other, smaller text boxes beneath to make sure you stay on track and don’t deter from your main points.

One way you can make your text stand out is to incorporate shapes. If you want to make your text pop out and come to life, add a shape behind them.

tips creative presentation

Make sure the shape color you choose is a good contrast to the text color so that you can easily see what is written out without having to squint your eyes and decipher what’s written.

You can also take advantage of negative space in your design. If you feel like there’s an empty spot in your slide that looks a little awkward, it’s the perfect place to add some text.

Using negative space for showcasing text is always visually appealing, so use those blank spaces to your advantage!

Another great way you can keep your audience engaged with your presentation is by animating objects. Instead of just showing them a boring, static slide, why not animate the text and objects to bring everything to life?

In Visme’s editor, you can animate any object with just the click of a button.

tips creative presentation

Make any element slide in and out, bounce, fade in or fade out, spin, appear from thin air and more. There are so many ways you can animate objects and fit your design style to make your presentation stand out from the rest.

You can even go through our library of professionally designed animated graphics and drop them onto your slide. Choose from animated characters, illustrations, icons, special effects and avatars.

Once you add an animated graphic to your design, you can customize them in many different ways, such as editing the pose, speed, repetitions and colors.

Instead of just having your next slide show up as a static image, use a transition between the two slides in order to make the transition seamless.

Visme has lots of elegant and modern transitions to choose from. Scroll through our transition presets and try them out to see which one suits your style best. You might like the zoom-in transition, slide-in or fade.

There are so many transitions for you to choose from, but we recommend you find the one you like most and use it for all slide transitions for the entire slideshow presentation. This will keep your design cohesive and easy on the eyes.

Don’t forget, you can also use sound effects in your presentation when necessary and you want to grab your audience’s attention!

Throughout the entire presentation, you’ll want to make sure that you keep things interactive and entertaining for your audience.

Even though PowerPoint is widely used for creating slideshows, there are many different presentation softwares you can use.

If you use Visme’s presentation maker, you can make your slideshow interactive. One way you can do that is by adding external links to any graphic in the presentation. This way, you can quickly access different pages and documents without ever needing to leave the slideshow.

tips creative presentation

Another amazing interactive feature of Visme’s is the interactive maps and data visualizations. You can have your viewers simply scroll and hover over an object and more information will pop up.

For example, if you want to create a map with statistics regarding each state, you could add the information to each state in the chart, and then when someone hovers over the state, the statistic will pop up.

This is very convenient for conveying lots of information in an organized way.

You can’t have a good presentation without adding high-quality images, videos, stickers and clipart to your presentation. Without engaging visuals, you’ll quickly lose your viewer’s attention, and risk having a boring PowerPoint presentation.

Visme makes it incredibly simple to add your own multimedia. If you want to upload your own photos, video or audio, you can do so by clicking on “photos” or “media” and clicking “upload.”

Once you click on the “upload” button, you can upload your multimedia from your computer, then find it in your Visme library.

If by chance you aren’t happy with the media you have, or you don’t have any images to upload at all, there’s no need to worry.

Visme is loaded full of high-quality videos and images that are free for you to use in your presentation designs.

tips creative presentation

If you want to browse through millions of stock videos and stock images, just click on “photos” in the left menu toolbar. This will take you to all of our stock images. To search for a specific image, type a keyword in the search bar to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Once you find the perfect image or video, you can drag and drop it onto your presentation. You can then add shapes and frames to your image for a modern, geometric look.

If you’d like to edit and enhance your chosen image, you can do so in the Visme editor. You can change the brightness, contrast, colors, shadows and more. You can add and customize filters to your images for a cohesive color scheme.

For a highly effective and great presentation, you need to feel confident when presenting.

Firstly, You can rest assured that after creating a PowerPoint presentation in Visme, your design will be professional and engaging for your crowd, but now it’s up to you.

You need to be as engaging and exciting as your presentation is, so don’t wait until the last minute to practice your public speaking. Rehearsing your slideshow presentation will simplify the public speaking process and things will go much better if you practice.

Having a bulleted list next to you so you stay on track and making eye contact with your audience will help them pay attention, and will make a good presentation an excellent one.

The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll be with your presentation. So make sure to run through it a few times and you’ll be good to go.

Ready to Level Up Your Presentations?

The best way you can create a powerful Microsoft PowerPoint presentation is by using a tool that isn’t necessarily PowerPoint.

Visme is an all-in-one design tool that will aid you in not only creating slideshows but any other type of visual content that you need, such as infographics, social media posts and documents.

Give Visme a go and create a free account today . You might become addicted to its awesomeness, so use it at your own risk!

We know that after reading all these tips, your presentation skills have gone through the roof. You’re practically a master slide-maker by now.

If want even more information and tips that can help you create modern PowerPoint designs, you can check out some of our tutorials on our YouTube channel .

We hope this article was helpful to you and we wish you the best of luck on your upcoming presentation. We know you’re going to smash it!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We have received lots of questions regarding PowerPoint presentations and we want to make sure you get the answers you're looking for.

So let’s dive into your questions.

Q1. What is the 10-20-30 Rule of PowerPoint?

The 10 20 30 Rule of PowerPoint suggests that each presentation should have 10 slides, shouldn’t last any more than 20 minutes in total and all fonts should be at least 30 points or larger.

This is a great rule of thumb to keep in mind when creating a PowerPoint presentation.

Q2. What is the 5 by 5 rule in PowerPoint?

The 5 by 5 rule was put in place to help keep your audience from feeling overwhelmed by text.

The text on each slide should be short and to the point and have no more than five words per line and no more than five lines of text per slide.

Q3. How do you make a good PowerPoint presentation?

A good PowerPoint presentation is created in a great design tool like Visme.

Choose an engaging template, know your main points, use engaging images and animations, and drive home your main points by practicing presenting your presentation before going public with it.

Q4. What makes an effective PowerPoint presentation?

You can create an effective PowerPoint presentation by using no more than 10 slides, not overwhelming your audience with big chunks of text, having all your design elements aligned, using a great template, knowing your main points and driving them points home with a great closing argument.

Q5. What are the advantages of PowerPoint templates?

Some of the advantages to using PowerPoint templates are that you get professionally designed slideshows without having to know how to design and you can quickly copy and paste your text into the text boxes already set up for you.

But you don’t have to use PowerPoint to create PowerPoint presentations. You can use a design tool like Visme to create amazing PowerPoint Presentations.

Q6. How to make a PowerPoint presentation attractive?

One powerful way you can make your PowerPoint presentation attractive is by using high-quality visuals. This includes having high-quality images, videos, stickers, transitions, animations and more.

One easy way you can do this is by using a Visme PowerPoint presentation PowerPoint and customizing it to suit your needs.

Q7. What should a PowerPoint presentation include?

A good PowerPoint presentation should include about 10 slides full of useful information, engaging visuals, interactive elements and high-quality images among other important things.

You text should be clear and easy to read, the images shouldn’t be blurry, your main points need to be easy to spot as soon as you open the slide and you should include seamless transitions.

Q8. What’s the best alternative to PowerPoint?

The best alternative to PowerPoint in our opinion is Visme.

Visme is a presentation maker, but it's also much more than that. You can create animated slideshows, documents, infographics, social media posts, videos, and more quickly and easily.

Unlike other tools, Visme gives you the most value for your money. You can also tap into features like data visualization, brand management, team collaboration, customizable animated assets like illustrations, icons and characters, and much more.

Ready to get started? Sign up for a free Visme account today and take it for a test drive for as long as you like.

Create beautiful presentations faster with Visme.

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What It Takes to Give a Great Presentation

by Carmine Gallo

tips creative presentation

Summary .   

Never underestimate the power of great communication. It can help you land the job of your dreams, attract investors to back your idea, or elevate your stature within your organization. But while there are plenty of good speakers in the world, you can set yourself apart out by being the person who can deliver something great over and over. Here are a few tips for business professionals who want to move from being good speakers to great ones: be concise (the fewer words, the better); never use bullet points (photos and images paired together are more memorable); don’t underestimate the power of your voice (raise and lower it for emphasis); give your audience something extra (unexpected moments will grab their attention); rehearse (the best speakers are the best because they practice — a lot).

I was sitting across the table from a Silicon Valley CEO who had pioneered a technology that touches many of our lives — the flash memory that stores data on smartphones, digital cameras, and computers. He was a frequent guest on CNBC and had been delivering business presentations for at least 20 years before we met. And yet, the CEO wanted to sharpen his public speaking skills.

Partner Center

120 Presentation Topic Ideas Help You Hook Your Audience

Jenny Romanchuk

Updated: August 15, 2024

Published: August 09, 2023

Cooking is easy. The puzzle is figuring out what to eat. As soon as you know that, you can get started. The same holds for presentations. The sooner you can whip up a good, informative, and catchy topic, the easier the rest of the process becomes.

 man presents presentation topics to a group

Pick a good topic that resonates with you and your audience to set a strong foundation. But select the wrong topic, and it becomes difficult to connect with your audience, find mutual interests, or hold their attention.

So, let’s learn how to develop thought-provoking and relevant topics for your presentations. You’ll also find some best practices to make your presentation memorable.

tips creative presentation

Free Presentation & Public Speaking Kit

Everything you need to become more comfortable and effective during your next presentation, including:

  • Free Guide on Best Practices
  • PowerPoint Presentation Templates
  • Video Examples of Great Speakers

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Great Presentation Topic in 5 Steps

120 presentation topic ideas, 5 presentation tips.

How to Choose a Great Presentation Topic. Be novel. Begin with the end in mind.

4. Choose an appropriate presentation style.

There are many ways to present a topic. Your personality, the topic at hand, and your audience’s personas will help you determine which style would best fit you and your audience.

Select a presentation style that will communicate the main idea clearly and have a lasting impact on your audience.

For instance, explore a freeform style presenter by Sir Ken Robinson.

5. Engage with your audience.

Work on your presentation skills to make a strong connection with your audience, get through to them and leave a mark.

Think of the presenter as the link between the topic and the audience. A strong or a weak presenter can make a difference between a presentation being a thriving success or a boring failure.

Hone your skills by engaging and interacting with your audience. Make them feel like a part of the presentation and not just spectators. 70% of marketers have found presentations with interactive content to be more effective than those without.

Here are a few ways you can make your presentation interactive:

  • Start your speech with uncommon questions to your audience. Involve them from the get-go, like ask to raise their hands if X.
  • Make eye contact to build credibility and show confidence. Don’t stare at your slides or notes. Smile occasionally and talk to the audience directly.
  • Have an active and confident body language. Don’t stand in the same place the entire time. Move around the stage.
  • Don’t be monotonous. Speak as you would to a colleague — with enthusiasm.
  • Ask close-ended questions in between to keep the audience engaged without losing time. Address them using their names to keep things interesting.
  • Share personal experiences and stories that your audience will find fascinating and relatable.
  • Practice thoroughly before you present so you’re fluent with the material and delivery.
  • Energy and excitement can be quite contagious. Make sure you exude enough to spread some to your audience.

Feeling Inspired Yet?

Now you have all the right ingredients for choosing amazing topics and a hundred ideas to drive inspiration from. So, go ahead and start cooking presentations that will blow your audience away.

Don’t forget to choose a super-relevant topic and add meaty information. Do it with excitement to make it enjoyable for you and your audience. Best of luck!

Don't forget to share this post!

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Small Business Trends

20 incredible presentation ideas to wow your audience.

Every presenter knows the pulse-racing thrill of a captive audience; it’s the oxygen for our ideas and the electricity in our words. But the art of electrifying an audience isn’t simply about unleashing a tornado of information or leaning on stock presentation templates mixed with an elevator pitch . It’s about crafting a narrative that captivates, illuminates, and motivates. This article explores 20 presentation ideas and successful presentation tips that aim to wow your audience and turn them into active participants in your narrative journey.

tips creative presentation

Table of Contents

20 of The Best Presentation Ideas for Engaging Your Audience

Below we explore 20 of the best creative presentation ideas. We examine personal touches, humor, simplicity, breaks, and group activities. We’ll also tap into the power of demonstrations, metaphors, pace variation, and lasting takeaways. Here we go!

Storytelling Techniques

Storytelling paints pictures with words, weaving a narrative that resonates emotionally. It is also about transforming data or marketing materials into vivid narratives. For example, illustrate a sales growth report through the journey of a single customer, or explain company history by telling the founder’s story. These techniques humanize information, making your presentation more engaging and relatable.

Interactive Elements

Interactive elements are the spark plugs of your presentation engine. Deploy live polls to gauge audience sentiment, quizzes to reinforce key points, or hold spontaneous Q&A sessions. For instance, quiz the audience after explaining a complex concept to ensure understanding and retention. Interactivity keeps the audience invested and alert.

Visual Aids

Visual aids are your presentation’s secret sauce. They transform complex visual elements into digestible formats. Incorporate infographics to break down data, use compelling images to evoke emotions, or play short videos for a dramatic effect. For example, replace a bulleted list of product features with a stunning infographic. Visuals add vibrancy and captivate attention.

presentation ideas

Audience-Driven Content

Audience-driven content is the bridge between the presenter and the listener. Understand your audience’s interests, problems, and preferences to achieve this. For instance, if you’re presenting to a tech-savvy crowd, incorporate the latest industry trends and technologies into your narrative. Tailored content resonates, engages, and holds relevance.

Creative Presentation Formats

Traditional formats often cage the potential of a business presentation. Experiment with formats like PechaKucha ( 20 slides or images that are displayed for 20 seconds each) , Ignite ( 5 minute long presentation with 20 slides ), or TED-style talks (18-minute insights). For instance, PechaKucha can be perfect for a product launch, keeping the narrative concise and impactful. You can even make a PowerPoint into a video , or experiment with other features. For example, you could create a roadmap in Powerpoint or create a poster in Powerpoint or other tools. These formats bring novelty, maintain interest, and enhance information delivery.

Personal Anecdotes

Personal anecdotes inject authenticity into your presentation. They humanize you, making the audience relate to your journey. For instance, share your first-hand experiences of overcoming challenges if you’re discussing entrepreneurship. This creates an emotional connection, making your presentation both relatable and memorable.

Thought-Provoking Questions

Thought-provoking questions are the catalysts for audience reflection and engagement. They inspire critical thinking, stimulate discussion, and create a dialogue. For example, if presenting on climate change, ask, “How can your individual actions contribute to a sustainable future?” Or in a marketing strategy talk, pose, “How would you differentiate this product in a saturated market?” Let the power of curiosity drive your presentation.

presentation ideas

Incorporating Humor into Creative Presentations

Humor is the magic wand that can transform the atmosphere of your presentation. It breaks the ice, lifts spirits, and boosts engagement. A well-placed joke can lighten complex subjects. For instance, if you’re discussing a tough financial quarter, you might say, “We’re in the red, but at least it’s our company color.” Remember, a laughing audience is an engaged audience. You may even get creative with business cartoons or animated videos for business .

Use of Technology and Multimedia

Incorporate modern technology and multimedia elements like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), or interactive digital content. This not only modernizes your presentation but also creates an immersive experience for the audience.

Incorporate Case Studies and Real-World Examples

Utilize case studies or real-world examples relevant to your topic. This approach helps in illustrating points more concretely and makes your presentation more relatable and practical for the audience.

Expert Guest Speakers or Interviews

Inviting guest speakers or showing interviews with experts can add credibility and variety to your presentation. This can be particularly effective for topics requiring specialized knowledge.

Use of Infographics and Data Visualization

Complex data can be made more accessible and engaging through well-designed infographics and data visualization tools. These help in breaking down information into more digestible pieces.

Interactive Workshops or Hands-On Demonstrations

Turn part of your presentation into an interactive workshop or include hands-on demonstrations. This approach is especially effective for educational and instructional content, as it allows the audience to apply what they learn in real-time.

Minimalist Presentation Slides

Minimalist slide design directs the spotlight where it belongs: on the speaker and the message. Clean, uncluttered slides avoid overwhelming the audience and allow them to focus on your words. For a PowerPoint presentation, use simple visuals and limited text. In a video presentation, consider a minimalist backdrop with minimal on-screen elements. By embracing simplicity, you amplify the impact of your message.

Utilizing Breaks and Intermissions to Keep the Audience’s Attention

Long presentations can be mentally draining for both the presenter and the audience. Incorporating well-timed breaks or intermissions becomes vital to maintain audience focus and energy. These pauses allow participants to recharge and process information. By providing intentional breaks, you promote audience engagement, ensuring they remain attentive throughout the presentation.

Collaborative Activities

Group activities and collaborative exercises are potent tools for audience interaction and learning. Incorporate brainstorming sessions, group discussions, or small team activities to foster engagement.

Demonstrations

Live demonstrations and examples breathe life into your presentation. They provide tangible evidence and make concepts more relatable. By showcasing a product in action or illustrating a process firsthand, you capture the audience’s attention and maintain interest. Demonstrations engage multiple senses, leaving a lasting impression and enhancing the overall impact of your presentation design.

presentation ideas

Analogies and Metaphors

Analogies and metaphors are the translator’s toolkit for simplifying complex concepts. By comparing abstract ideas to relatable experiences, you make them more accessible and memorable. For instance, describing a computer virus as a “digital flu” helps the audience grasp the concept of its spread and impact. Analogies and metaphors create vivid mental images that enhance audience understanding and retention.

Varied Presentation Pace

Varying the pace of your presentation is key to keeping the audience engaged and avoiding monotony—shift between slower and faster segments to maintain attention and create dynamic momentum. For example, during a data-heavy section, slow down to emphasize crucial points and then pick up the pace during a story or interactive activity to infuse energy. By modulating the tempo, you keep your audience on their toes and enhance the overall presentation impact.

Memorable Takeaways

Memorable takeaways are the lasting gems that linger in your audience’s minds. Provide actionable insights, key messages, or practical tips that they can apply after the presentation. For example, in a leadership talk, offer a “5-step framework for effective decision-making” or share a memorable quote that encapsulates your main message. These takeaways empower the audience to take action and ensure that your presentation has a lasting impact beyond the event itself.

The Power of Storytelling in Presentations

Storytelling has been an integral part of human communication since ancient times. It’s a powerful tool that captivates and engages audiences, making it a crucial element in modern presentations. Here’s why storytelling is essential and how to harness its potential:

  • Emotional Connection: Stories evoke emotions and create a sense of empathy, allowing the audience to connect with the message on a deeper level.
  • Memorable Impact: People remember stories far better than dry facts and figures. A well-told story leaves a lasting impression.
  • Relatability: Stories humanize information, making complex concepts relatable and understandable for the audience.
  • Engaging Narrative: A well-crafted story keeps the audience hooked, driving them to actively participate in the presentation.
  • Illustrating Concepts: Use storytelling to illustrate abstract ideas, turning them into vivid mental images that stick with the audience.
  • Overcoming Objections: Address objections or concerns through storytelling, showcasing how others have overcome similar challenges successfully.
  • Persuasive Communication: A story with a clear message is persuasive, motivating the audience to take action.
  • Fostering Empowerment: Stories that highlight real-life achievements empower the audience to believe in their potential.
  • Building Trust: Sharing personal experiences builds trust and credibility with the audience.
  • Enduring Legacy: Well-crafted stories are often retold, spreading your message beyond the immediate audience.
AspectDescription
Emotional ConnectionStories evoke emotions and create a sense of empathy, allowing the audience to connect with the message deeply.
Memorable ImpactPeople remember stories better than dry facts and figures. A well-told story leaves a lasting impression.
RelatabilityStories humanize information, making complex concepts relatable and understandable for the audience.
Engaging NarrativeWell-crafted stories keep the audience hooked, driving active participation in the presentation.
Illustrating ConceptsStorytelling turns abstract ideas into vivid mental images, aiding audience understanding and retention.

Incorporate storytelling into your presentations to elevate them from mere information-sharing sessions to captivating and unforgettable experiences.

presentation ideas

Recap: Essential Tips for a Successful and Engaging Presentation

To create a presentation that lingers in minds and sparks a fire of engagement, embrace the magic of storytelling, interactive zest, captivating visuals, and audience-centric content. Pepper it with personal tales, mind-bending queries, and well-placed humor. Keep it sleek with minimalist slides, revitalize it with timely breaks, and foster collaboration. Add flair with demos, analogies, and metaphors. Vary the tempo, leaving the crowd craving more. And don’t forget those unforgettable takeaways that ignite action.

Why Presentation Ideas Matter

Business presentations, when armed with creative presentation ideas, become dynamic tools. They capture the audience’s attention, amplifying the impact of your message. Creativity isn’t mere decoration; it’s the engine of engagement, turning listeners into active participants in your business narrative.

The Power of Creative Presentation Ideas

Creative presentation ideas are more than a splash of brilliance; they are the lighthouse that guides your audience through your narrative. These ideas imbue an experience, a human element that resonates beyond mere data. They invite your audience on a journey, making them co-authors rather than mere spectators of your story. This inclusion boosts retention, as information becomes not just absorbed but lived. And when an audience is engaged, participation is no longer a chore, but a natural response, a dialogue that enriches both speaker and listener. Remember, a presentation is an exchange of ideas, and creative ideas make this exchange a memorable event.

FAQs: Presentation Ideas

Looking for more guidance on presentation ideas? We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to address common concerns and provide presentation tips on crafting remarkable presentations.

How Do I Choose the Right Creative Presentation Idea for My Topic?

Choosing the right presentation idea starts with understanding your presentation topic and audience. Consider the nature of your content and the desired impact. For a data-driven presentation, infographics or visualizations may be effective. For a storytelling approach, personal anecdotes can engage the audience. Tailor your choice to align with your message, goals, and the preferences of your audience. Experiment, adapt, and find the idea that best resonates with your topic.

How Can I Ensure My Entire Presentation Stays Engaging Throughout?

To maintain engagement throughout your presentation, utilize a variety of techniques. Start strong with a captivating opening to hook your audience. Incorporate interactive elements like polls, quizzes, or short activities to keep them involved. Vary your delivery style, pacing, and tone to maintain interest. Use visuals, storytelling, and relevant examples to illustrate your points. Keep the content concise and focused, avoiding information overload. Lastly, conclude with a powerful ending that leaves a lasting impression.

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating a Creative Presentation?

Some key mistakes to avoid include overwhelming slides with excessive text or complex visuals. Steer clear of relying solely on monotonous delivery without engaging the audience. Avoid cramming too much information into a single presentation and neglecting to practice and rehearse. And find the right presentation tools for sales marketing to compliment your content. For example, PowerPoint is often best for standard content, while a Canva presentation may be ideal for those with lots of unique visuals. Lastly, don’t forget to tailor the content to your specific audience and their interests

How Can I Improve My Presentation Skills to Deliver a More Engaging Presentation?

Improving your presentation skills takes practice and intentional effort. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to identify areas for improvement. Practice your delivery, focusing on clarity, body language, and vocal variation. Utilize visual aids strategically to enhance your message. Engage in public speaking opportunities to gain confidence.

How Can I Adapt My Presentation to Suit Different Audience Types?

Adapting your presentation to different audience types requires understanding their needs and preferences. Research your audience beforehand to gather insights. Tailor your language and examples to resonate with their industry or background. Adjust the level of technicality or complexity based on their knowledge. Incorporate relevant anecdotes or case studies that relate to their interests. By adapting your presentation to suit different audience types, you demonstrate attentiveness and increase the chances of engaging and connecting with them effectively.

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  • Presentations

How to Make Creative PowerPoint PPT Presentations (With Unique Ideas + Video)

Andrew Childress

  • Bahasa Indonesia

Want to learn how to make a creative PowerPoint presentation ? Figuring out how to make your PowerPoint creative can be a real challenge. Learning how to make a cool PPT is easier when you leverage pre-built designs.

MULCH Creative Powerpoint Presentation

You may not consider yourself a creative, but you can still build creative PowerPoints. Creativity is a great solution, when considering how to make PowerPoint interesting. By using creative PowerPoint themes and slide inspiration, you will be ready for your next presentation.

In this tutorial, we'll walk through how to make a creative PowerPoint. We'll also look at some ways how to make PPT creative design choices to make things more interesting. You'll see some creative presentation ideas. You'll also learn how to create your own innovation presentation in PowerPoint step by step. 

Guide to Making Great Presentations (Free eBook Download)

Before you read on, be sure to grab our free eBook:  The Complete Guide to Making Great Presentations . It'll help you master the presentation process. It takes you from initial idea, to writing, design, and delivery. It's a great, free resource that can help you further learn how to make a unique PowerPoint presentation.

Free eBook PDF Download Make a Great Presentation

Jump to content in this section:

How to Make a Creative PowerPoint Presentation (Quickstart Video)

What not to do in your presentation, how to get inspiration for your presentation, how to be creative (even when you aren't), 5 quick tips make your powerpoint presentations more attractive, 5 top creative ppt templates (from envato elements), more creative powerpoint templates (powerpoint ideas and downloads), inspiration: more creative powerpoint templates from envato elements (video), how to make attractive ppt presentations.

Are you in a hurry to make a PowerPoint presentation? Don't worry, we've got your tips for making creating PowerPoints in the quickstart video below:

tips creative presentation

Now, let's look at how to avoid some common presentation missteps: 

Whether you're a student or business professional, you've probably endured some boring presentations. Too many presenters lean on PowerPoint instead of using it as a presentation aid. Don't focus so hard on how to create creative PowerPoint presentation designs that you forget this vital point.

Because of this, PowerPoint often gets a bad reputation. Keep in mind that PowerPoint is just a tool that you can use to share your message with an audience. 

Learn how to make a cool PPT by avoiding missteps. Here are the biggest issues to watch out for when it comes to PowerPoint and speaking:

  • Don't read directly from your slides . There's no faster way to lose your audience's attention than using the slide as a teleprompter.
  • Don't use the stock PowerPoint themes .   The built-in PowerPoint themes are too bland and overused to stand out from the crowd. If you want to get creative, use a custom PowerPoint theme with creative slides.
  • Don't create cluttered slides .   Slides that are packed form edge to edge with content can overwhelm your audience and obscure your point.
  • Don't overdo it with animations .   Too many boxes or objects flying off and on the slide will distract the audience from your message. It's better to keep your animations simple.

Sometimes it's easier to think about what  not  to do when you're about to create creative PowerPoint presentation designs. Artistic PPT's avoid faux pas. Check out these helpful tips for even more to keep in mind:

tips creative presentation

There's nothing wrong with looking for inspiration when you're building a presentation. You can find unique presentation ideas by browsing through some of the top presentations online.

In fact, it can be a great way to figure out how to make creative PowerPoints. Here are some great creative, unique slide decks (from SlideShare ) to check out when you make your own PowerPoint presentation:

  • The Dungeons & Dragons Guide to Marketing . This fun, engaging slide deck applies lessons from the popular game Dungeons & Dragons to the business of marketing.
  • 24 Books You've Never Heard Of - But Will Change Your Life . Ryan Holiday's roundup of these powerful, lesser-known books inspired me to add several to my reading list.
  • A Non-Technical Introduction to ChatGPT - SEDA . Artificial intelligence is a hot topic the world over. This inspiring slide deck provides a robust overview that’s easy to understand.
  • The Future of Wearables - Explained .   This insightful presentation shares the latest innovations in wearable technologies. The artistic PPT includes simple photos and text overlays.
  • Pixar's 22 Rules to Phenomenal Storytelling . Lessons from the animation studio Pixar are outlined here. It’s a great example of slide design and offers ways to tell stories that are more creative and engaging.
  • The Secret Psychology of Snapchat . Another simple presentation that shares the secrets behind the addictiveness of Snapchat.

All these presentations are simple and use tools that are built into PowerPoint. They might seem simplistic, but they're designed to support the speaker's presentation, not replace it. Discover more great SlideShare presentation presentations in our featured Envato Tuts+ article. Or looks at one of these tutorials for inspiration:

tips creative presentation

Creative PowerPoint Template Designs

Grab a creative PPT template to get a quick start to a great presentation design. Here are some of the best, trending PowerPoint templates with creative slides built-in and ready to use: 

tips creative presentation

PowerPoint can bring out creative anxiety in even the most seasoned presenter. Even in you've learned how to make a PPT creative, it can be tough to figure out where to being. When you open a new presentation file, you're faced with a blank slide and many decisions about how to lay out your content.

PowerPoint's basic, built-in themes are a good starting point. But they lack the ideas and inspiration that pro presentation themes include. My favorite solution is to use premium PowerPoint themes  with creative designs. These are professional, high quality themes that are made by talented graphic designers. It takes some of the mystery out of how to make creative PowerPoints,

Let's build an artistic PPT. We're going to use a creative PowerPoint presentation,  available through Envato Elements. 

Mulch creative PowerPoint

This theme has a collection of PowerPoint slide designs inside. They're perfect for showcasing your creative ideas. There are many versions of the presentation included with different color schemes.

These let you build totally different presentation styles using the very same template! You can drop your own content into any of these slide layouts quickly. Using a premium theme is a great way to borrow creativity from a graphic designer and get a great result.

Mulch how to make a cool PPT

Instead of designing a presentation from scratch, I'd rather focus my time on preparing to speak. I think of premium themes to save countless hours of design work while preparing for a presentation.

How to Make a Creative PowerPoint Presentation (Quickly)

Let's walk through how to make a creative PPT quickly and easily with a professional PowerPoint template. Note, there are so many ways to make creative PPT designs, and you could push your template in any direction you prefer. They are completely customizable, so the sky's the limit. Consider it a starting point, or, if you're in a hurry, it could be a complete solution.

1. Grab Your Audience's Attention

First impressions count. If you want to get off on the right foot, you need an opening slide that creates interest. Presentation topics on PowerPoint set the tone with strong hooks.

Less is more when it comes to an opening slide. It's better to make a spoken statement that captures an audience from the beginning than load up the opening slide.

Creative PowerPoints

2. Introduce Your Team

I'm a big believer that audiences connect to the individuals behind products. Visit any startup or small company and they almost all feature a "Team" page. These showcase the members of the company. These are also vital if you're looking to bring in investors with a presentation pitch deck .

Increasingly, I find myself buying from companies with teams that have interesting stories. Pair this with the right experience and you have a compelling reason to make a purchase. It’s a powerful way to make a PowerPoint presentation work for you.  

How to make a cool PPT

Even if your team can't join for the presentation in person, this slide can build familiarity. A slide that introduces the team will get your audience familiar with their work and build a sense of connection. It's a great opportunity to give credit where credit is due.

3. Share Your SWOT Analysis

Now that you've introduced the team, you can start building toward your big product reveal. One of my favorite ways to assess a business is to use a  SWOT  analysis . It's where you list the  Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats  that exist.

This creative PowerPoint presentation template has slides that you can use to share your SWOT with the audience. Check out this example from Slide 28:

How to make a cool PowerPoint

The SWOT analysis can help your audience understand why you developed your product, and how it fits with other products in your niche. Basically, consider what need your product fills that isn't already met?

This slide is a great example of how to make a cool PPT. You might not have thought of the SWOT method on your own, but the built-in template can spark your creativity.

4. Unveil The Product

So, we've been hinting at our product up until now and it's time to pull the curtain back on what it is. This would be a great time to use a screenshot or a video to show off your product. Make a PowerPoint presentation your big reveal!

Artistic PPT

At this point, I would expect you to leave PowerPoint and showcase a product demo, either direct inside the app itself or with a video demo. This template has some slides where you can showcase an image within a phone, screen, or laptop mockup.

5. Show Your Product Roadmap

A product roadmap is where you share the features you plan to add to your product. Apps or services often launch with just the basics, so you want to give the audience a vision for the future. It's a technique you can use as you learn how to make a cool PPT.

Consider using infographics or a visual representation of a timeline. This helps creatively illustrate progression. Here's an example from this creative PowerPoint template. Notice how it visually implies a continuation.

Presentation topics on PowerPoint

Chronological times help you connect presentation topics on PowerPoint. They show you how creative unique ideas fit together. Make a PowerPoint presentation with a timeline, and your audience will connect the dots.

6. Give the Audience "One More Thing"

There's nothing wrong with borrowing creative presentation ideas from others. A great way is to use a famous Steve Jobs technique. Jobs always wowed audiences by saving a key feature for the very end of the presentation.

You can use a very simple slide design with just a text box for this purpose. For our product, I'm announcing that the audience can start using the app right away inside their web browser. This is a way to entice the audience into giving the content a try, right now. 

Make a PowerPoint presentation

Each slide design played off the built-in, innovative layouts in our template. I used a fictitious app to show that you can use slide designs to get creative. But remember: you could use this same presentation for practically any purpose.

Creative, unique presentations are easier to create when you feel inspired. Get more creative presentation ideas for your next presentation: 

tips creative presentation

You can also find more information in our eBook on making great presentations . Grab this PDF Download now for FREE with your subscription to the Tuts+ Business Newsletter:

Grab the Free PDF Make Great Presentations eBook

There are simple tweaks that you can make to your creative PowerPoints to help them come to life. With just a few inspirations for adjustments, you'll learn how to make a cool PowerPoint!

Here are five tips that'll transform your presentation into an artistic PPT:

1. Start With a Strong Title Slide

It can be difficult to start your presentation with a strong point. As you learn how to share presentation topics on PowerPoint, don't forget the power of a title slide.

It's a great idea to use the title slide to help you set the tone properly. In creative PowerPoints, always find a way to make a title slide so your slide deck stands out!

Luckily, there are creative ways to build a title slide that does just that. For examples of creative title slides, check out the tutorial below:

tips creative presentation

2. Make Your Presentations Interactive

The normal format of a presentation is this: someone stands up in front of an audience and speaks to them. The audience listens until the speaker is finished.

But that isn't the only way to give a presentation. What if you involved the audience, and opened the presentation up as an open dialogue?

Here are seven techniques you can use to turn your presentation topics on PowerPoint into a two-way interaction:

tips creative presentation

3. Use Infographics to Tell Data Stories

Data and quantitative facts help you make a strong case. The problem is that most people find statistics and data tables overwhelming.

That's why we use  infographics  in our creative PowerPoint presentations. Infographics can help you combine the best of both worlds by showing data combined with visuals. A good infographic helps bridge that gap and makes data understandable to practically anyone. 

Check out the tutorial below to learn how to use templates to showcase infographics:

tips creative presentation

4. Animate Key Elements

Animation can help you bring key elements onto your creative PowerPoint slides in a way that makes an impact. Instead of showing everything on your slide all at once, using animation will add an extra bit of flair to your presentation. 

If you're making a big point that provides a surprising angle, using animation can help you save key points as a "punchline" in your presentation. Use the guide below to learn creative PowerPoint animation techniques:

tips creative presentation

5. Give Your Presentation a Strong Close

A fitting way to end this section is by recommending techniques that end your creative PowerPoint with a strong close.

Most presentations will quickly be forgotten by the attendees. That's why it's so crucial to set yourself apart with a strong close. Using a combination of slide designs and speaking techniques, you can leave your audience with a memorable conclusion.

Check out the comprehensive article below to learn more:

tips creative presentation

Still thinking about how to make a unique PowerPoint presentation for your project? Check out the PowerPoint creative ideas in these templates. These  creative PowerPoint templates  from Envato Elements are chock full of ideas. Use them to create presentations that are sure to stand out. 

Above all, they include pre-built slide designs that are easy to update with fresh content. What's best: you don't need strong design skills! It's easy to make a creative PowerPoint presentation template work for you.

1. Dogopia Creative PowerPoint Template

Dogopia how to make a cool PPT

The minimalist, airy design of Dogopia perfectly embodies the creative style. They'll help your presentation stand out. Creative, unique designs don't have to be overloaded with content.

Each slide design brings something a bit different to your presentation. Show your content in a way that's sure not to be overlooked by your audience.

2. Klaudia PowerPoint Template

Klaudia creative presentation apps

If you want variety in your presentation, look no further than the Klaudia PowerPoint template. You can use it to make a PowerPoint presentation with minimal but varied designs. More than 60 creative slide designs come together to help you bring your visuals to life while speaking.

Best of all, both 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios are included to help your slides make the most of their screen real estate. It's a design that's as functional as it is creative, thanks to minimalist designs and bold elements. 

3. Buxe Creative PowerPoint Template

Buxe make a PowerPoint presentation

That means that you can use it again and again as you design presentations, and never use the same slide twice! You can even customize the color schemes to make sure that your slides stay on brand.

The strong typography in this template is the perfect way to highlight creative titles for presentations. Fill in the placeholders with creative, unique intros for the most impact.

4.  Sunflowers - Creative PowerPoint Presentation

4 Sunflower creative titles for presentations

If you're looking for PowerPoint ideas that incorporate stylish, trendy layouts, this one is for you. This creative PowerPoint designs contains over 50 slides that you can mix, match, and remix in any way you like. It could be the perfect starting point for a wide variety of projects. 

5.  Bowman - Creative PowerPoint

5 creative Presentation apps

Aren't these creative PowerPoint slides stylish? Easily add your own imagery, adjust colors, and add in your content for a creative PowerPoint presentation in a snap. Or use this creative template to help jumpstart your design process. You can add, change, and customize this as much or as little as you like.

Looking for even more PowerPoint ideas for your next creative PowerPoint presentation? It's easy to make PowerPoint slides interesting and visually appealing! Use these inspiring collections of creative PowerPoint slides to get started:

tips creative presentation

Love using PowerPoint to share your big ideas? It's certainly one of the top creative presentation apps. We have you covered with even more creative, unique designs.

See some of these creative PowerPoint templates in action. Discover a handful of helpful, creative PowerPoint presentation design tips. Check out even more ways how to make attractive PPT presentations.

Check out some of our best PowerPoint templates with creative ideas from Envato Elements in this quick video:

tips creative presentation

Want even more examples of how to make PowerPoint interesting and creative? For even more great examples of creative PowerPoint templates. You can use them to leverage the design process, check out the two articles below with creative PowerPoint slides:

tips creative presentation

This tutorial should make you realize that creativity is a skill that can be borrowed. Using custom, creative PowerPoint themes from talented artists is a professional shortcut. When considering how to make your PowerPoint creative, remember, you can always expand on a template in a new direction. You can use them as a springboard for PowerPoint ideas.

If the Mulch PowerPoint theme I used in this tutorial isn't your style, no problem. Take the time to check out other creative themes on Envato Elements. Each of these templates includes unique PowerPoint presentation ideas and ready-made layouts. They help you make your creative presentation quickly.

Creative presentation apps like PowerPoint empower you. Now that you know how to make a creative PowerPoint presentation, you're ready to get started. Download your favorite creative PowerPoint theme and make your own.

Editorial Note : T his post was originally published in February of 2019. It's been comprehensively updated with special help from Daisy Ein and Andrew Childress . A tutorial video has been added by Andrew Childress .

Andrew Childress

Innovative Presentation Ideas: Captivate Your Audience with Creative Approaches

blog asset

Creating an engaging presentation requires more than just delivering information—it’s about capturing your audience's attention, making your message memorable, and encouraging interaction. To help you stand out and leave a lasting impression, here are some innovative presentation ideas that can elevate your content and captivate your audience.

1. Interactive Polls and Q&A Sessions

Engagement through interaction.

Integrating interactive elements such as live polls or Q&A sessions can significantly increase audience participation and engagement. These tools make your presentation more dynamic and allow you to tailor your content based on real-time feedback.

How to Implement:

  • Live Polls: Use platforms like Slido or Mentimeter to conduct live polls where the audience can vote on questions or provide opinions. Display the results immediately to spark discussions.
  • Q&A Sessions: Allocate time for a Q&A segment where the audience can ask questions. Consider using a tool that allows anonymous submissions to encourage more candid questions.

Scenario: During a marketing strategy presentation, start with a live poll asking the audience about their biggest marketing challenges. Use the poll results to shape the rest of your presentation, addressing the most common issues.

2. Storytelling with Visuals

Bring your message to life.

Storytelling is a powerful technique for making your presentation memorable. Combine storytelling with compelling visuals to create a narrative that resonates with your audience and makes your message more impactful.

  • Narrative Arc: Structure your presentation as a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Introduce characters, conflicts, and resolutions to make your content relatable.
  • Visual Aids: Use high-quality images, videos, and infographics to illustrate key points and evoke emotions. Tools like Canva or Adobe Spark can help create visually appealing content.

Scenario: In a pitch for a new product, start with a story about a customer’s journey before and after using your product. Use images and video clips to illustrate the transformation, making the benefits of your product tangible and relatable.

3. Gamification

Make learning fun.

Gamification involves incorporating game-like elements into your presentation to make learning more engaging. This approach can turn routine information into an interactive experience, boosting motivation and retention.

  • Quizzes and Challenges: Include quizzes or challenges throughout your presentation. Award points or prizes for correct answers to keep the audience engaged.
  • Interactive Scenarios: Create scenarios or simulations where the audience can make decisions and see the outcomes. This can be particularly effective in training or educational presentations.

Scenario: During a workshop on project management, organize a team-based challenge where groups compete to solve a case study. Use a leaderboard to track progress and provide rewards for the winning team.

4. Live Demonstrations and Showcases

Show, don’t just tell.

Live demonstrations can make your presentation more engaging by providing practical, hands-on examples of your product or concept. This approach allows your audience to see your ideas in action and better understand their application.

  • Product Demos: If you’re presenting a new product, demonstrate its features and benefits live. Allow the audience to interact with the product if possible.
  • Live Simulations: For educational or technical presentations, conduct a live simulation to showcase how a process works in real time.

Scenario: In a tech conference presentation, perform a live demo of your software, showing its key features and benefits. Allow the audience to ask questions and interact with the software during the demo.

5. Audience Participation Activities

Encourage active involvement.

Involving your audience in activities can make your presentation more interactive and memorable. Participation activities can range from group discussions to hands-on exercises, depending on your presentation’s goals.

  • Breakout Sessions: Divide the audience into small groups to discuss specific topics or solve problems. Have each group share their findings with the larger audience.
  • Interactive Exercises: Incorporate activities such as role-playing, brainstorming sessions, or creative workshops to engage the audience actively.

Scenario: During a leadership training session, organize a role-playing exercise where participants act out different leadership scenarios. Facilitate a discussion afterward to reflect on the exercise and extract key lessons.

6. Incorporating Augmented Reality (AR)

Enhance the presentation experience.

Augmented Reality (AR) can create immersive experiences that captivate your audience and bring your content to life. This technology can be particularly effective for presentations involving complex data or concepts.

  • AR Apps: Use AR applications to overlay digital content onto physical objects or environments. Tools like Zappar or ARKit can help integrate AR into your presentation.
  • Interactive Models: Create interactive 3D models that the audience can explore using AR, enhancing their understanding of the subject matter.

Scenario: In a presentation about architectural design, use AR to allow the audience to view 3D models of building projects through their smartphones or tablets, giving them a better sense of the design and layout.

7. Utilizing Data Visualization

Simplify complex information.

Effective data visualization can help simplify complex information and make it more accessible. Using charts, graphs, and infographics can enhance understanding and retention.

  • Infographics: Create infographics that summarize key data points and trends. Tools like Piktochart or Tableau can assist in designing effective visualizations.
  • Interactive Charts: Use interactive charts and graphs that allow the audience to explore data in real time.

Scenario: During a financial report presentation, use interactive charts to display revenue trends and projections. Allow the audience to filter the data by different criteria to explore various scenarios.

8. Incorporating Live Feedback

Adapt and improve in real time.

Collecting live feedback during your presentation allows you to adjust your content based on audience responses and interests. This approach can help you address the most relevant issues and maintain engagement.

  • Live Feedback Tools: Use tools like Mentimeter or Slido to gather real-time feedback from your audience. Pose questions or request opinions throughout the presentation.
  • Instant Polls: Conduct quick polls to gauge the audience’s understanding or interest in specific topics, and adjust your content accordingly.

Scenario: In a product launch presentation, use live polls to ask the audience about their preferences or concerns regarding the product. Use the feedback to address these points in real time.

Innovative presentation ideas can significantly enhance your ability to engage and captivate your audience. By incorporating interactive elements, storytelling, gamification, live demonstrations, audience participation, AR, data visualization, and live feedback, you can create a presentation that is not only informative but also memorable and impactful. Tailor these ideas to fit your presentation’s goals and audience to ensure a successful and engaging experience.

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35+ Creative Presentation Ideas and Tips to Ensure a Captivating Delivery

35+ Creative Presentation Ideas and Tips to Ensure a Captivating Delivery

Presentations

Imagine stepping onto a stage, the spotlight shining brightly on you, and you’re about to deliver a presentation that will change the minds of your audience.

You’re not just providing information; you’re telling a story, painting a picture, and inspiring action.

But how do you create a truly captivating presentation? How do you make sure your audience is hanging on to your every word, long after you’ve stepped off that stage?

That’s where this guide comes in.

We’ll share with you 35+ creative presentation ideas and tips that will help you craft presentations that are both informative and engaging. You’ll learn how to structure your presentation, use visuals effectively, and deliver your message in a way that resonates with your audience.

So whether you’re a seasoned presenter or a complete novice, this guide has something for you. By the end, you’ll be armed with the knowledge and skills you need to create presentations that will leave a lasting impression.

Let’s get started.

How to brainstorm creative presentation ideas?

There is nothing more important than thinking of presentation ideas before you start creating content. Why? Because a well-planned strategy keeps you on track and restricts you from making mistakes that could hamper your content delivery. Let us share some tips with you that will help with brainstorming presentation ideas.

Before delving into specific topics, take a moment to ponder the overarching purpose of your presentation. What do you hope to achieve? Are you aiming to inform, educate, persuade, or entertain? Having a clear understanding of your WHY will guide your brainstorming process and ensure your content remains aligned with your goals.

Who are you presenting to? Understanding your audience’s background, interests, and expectations is paramount. Tailor your ideas to resonate with their level of knowledge and capture their attention. For instance, if presenting to a group of experts, you’ll delve into intricate details, while for a general audience, you might adopt a more simplified approach.

If you have chosen a topic, check if people are interested in it or not, you can use Google Trends to understand this.  Enter your topic in the search bar and observe the graph showing search volume over time. If the volume is consistently high, people are interested. Scroll down to see related terms and rising queries for insights into specific aspects gaining traction.

Humans are naturally drawn to stories. Infuse your presentation with anecdotes, case studies, or personal experiences to bring your message to life.  Stories have the power to connect with your audience on an emotional level, making your content more memorable and impactful.

Don’t limit yourself to a single source of inspiration. Explore books, articles, podcasts, documentaries, and even conversations with experts in your field. Diverse perspectives can spark unexpected ideas and enrich your presentation’s content.

Sketch out your ideas on paper, mind maps, or digital platforms. Visualizing your thoughts can help you organize your content, identify connections, and uncover new possibilities. Remember, brainstorming is an iterative process. Don’t be afraid to revisit your ideas, refine them, and discard those that don’t align with your overall vision. With a bit of creativity and a well-structured approach, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a presentation that captivates your audience and leaves a lasting impression.

List of Creative Presentation Ideas and Tips to Make a Striking Appearance

Use your visuals smartly.

Consider using high-quality images, infographics, and charts that complement your message. Visuals not only break the monotony but also provide a memorable anchor for your audience. Use them as storytelling tools, guiding your narrative and emphasizing key points. 

Don’t shy away from incorporating multimedia elements, like videos or animations, to add dynamism.

When in doubt, turn to the experts at Design Shifu . Enjoy perks like same-day delivery, unlimited designs, and unlimited revisions, all backed by a 100% 14-day money-back guarantee. 

With a dedicated designer and easy integrations with Canva, Trello, Slack, and more, Design Shifu provides an intuitive dashboard for all your design needs. Elevate your presentations effortlessly – click now to book a demo and discover a world of design possibilities!

Now, back to you designing your presentation yourself, ensure that your visuals are cohesive and align with your overall theme, creating a seamless and visually appealing experience for your audience. 

Remember, a well-balanced and thoughtfully curated visual presentation can leave a lasting impression and make your message more impactful.

Make use of infographics

Choose vibrant colors and intuitive design elements to make your infographics pop. Whether it’s illustrating statistics, timelines, or comparisons, infographics provide a powerful visual narrative that captivates your audience. Arrange information in a logical flow, guiding your viewers through a seamless understanding of your message. 

This visual aid not only adds aesthetic appeal but also serves as a memory aid, ensuring that your key points linger in the minds of your audience long after the presentation concludes.

Incorporate humor

Humor not only breaks the ice but also creates a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and ensure that your jokes align with the context of your message. 

A well-timed quip can not only capture attention but also enhance information retention. Consider using relatable humor that resonates with your audience, turning your presentation into an engaging experience. Remember, a dash of humor can transform a mundane presentation into a memorable one, fostering a positive and receptive atmosphere among your listeners.

Don’t just stick to PPT

There is no rule to using Microsoft PowerPoint while delivering presentations. Explore alternative tools like Keynote or Prezi to inject innovation into your delivery. Keynote, with its sleek interface and unique transitions, offers a seamless experience for Mac users, allowing you to create visually stunning slideshows. 

Alternatively, platforms like Prezi enable dynamic, non-linear presentations, fostering a more interactive and engaging experience for your audience. 

Experiment with these tools to add a layer of creativity and uniqueness to your delivery, steering away from the conventional PowerPoint approach. 

Add maps when discussing locations

Visualize data spatially to provide a clearer understanding of your message. Whether highlighting global reach, regional impact, or specific site locations, maps serve as powerful visual aids. 

Choose clear and concise map designs, and ensure they align with your overall presentation theme. By incorporating maps, you not only make your content more visually appealing but also facilitate a better comprehension of the spatial relationships within your narrative. 

From pinpointing key areas to illustrating trends across different regions, maps can be instrumental in conveying complex location-based information in a way that is both informative and visually engaging.

Play with Fonts and Colors

Select fonts that align with your message and theme, experimenting with different styles to create hierarchy and emphasis. Bold headers, italicized quotes, or playful fonts can add dynamism to your slides.

Similarly, leverage a thoughtfully chosen color palette to evoke specific emotions or align with your brand identity. Use contrasting colors for text and background to ensure readability, and employ consistent color schemes for a polished look. 

The strategic use of fonts and colors not only enhances aesthetics but also contributes to the overall cohesiveness of your presentation, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

Use contrasting colors

Opt for a palette that combines light and dark hues, ensuring clarity and readability. Utilize high-contrast combinations for text and background to enhance legibility, making your content stand out. 

Contrasting colors not only add visual interest but also guide the viewer’s attention to key elements on your slides. Consider incorporating complementary colors to create a harmonious balance or use bold contrasts for a striking effect. 

By thoughtfully employing contrasting colors, you not only enhance the overall aesthetics of your presentation but also contribute to a more engaging and memorable viewing experience for your audience.

Use flow charts

Utilize standardized shapes and connectors to create a clear visual hierarchy, guiding viewers through each stage of the process. Flow charts not only enhance understanding but also provide a logical flow to your narrative. 

Incorporate color-coded elements to emphasize different branches or decision points, adding an extra layer of clarity. By integrating flow charts, you not only enhance the visual appeal of your presentation but also facilitate a more efficient and comprehensible transfer of information, ensuring that your audience can easily grasp intricate details.

Add creativity to your deck

You can consider integrating interactive elements, such as clickable buttons or hyperlinks, to create a more engaging user experience.

For instance, you can design a clickable menu that navigates to different sections of your presentation, adding an interactive twist. 

Experiment with custom illustrations or graphics that align with your content, making your slides visually distinct. 

Infographics , as mentioned earlier, can be creatively designed to convey information in a visually appealing manner. 

Additionally, try incorporating multimedia elements like short video clips, GIFs, or audio snippets to break the monotony and add a dynamic touch. By thinking outside the traditional slide format, you can transform your presentation into a visually stimulating and memorable experience for your audience.

Choose themes that align with your message, creating a cohesive and immersive experience. For a presentation on environmental sustainability, opt for a “Green Innovation” theme, featuring eco-friendly colors, plant motifs, and recycled paper textures. In economic discussions, a “Financial Horizon” theme could utilize sleek, modern design elements and currency symbols. 

Addressing health topics, like cancer awareness, a “Hopeful Healing” theme may incorporate calming colors, supportive imagery, and symbols of resilience. 

Tailor your themes to evoke the right emotions and associations, ensuring that your visuals not only captivate but also reinforce the essence of your presentation content.

Use striking colors to get noticed

Opt for vibrant hues that not only align with your brand or theme but also stand out against a background, ensuring visibility. Consider contrasting color combinations to create visual interest and emphasize key elements. 

For example, use a combination of deep blues and bright yellows or rich purples and energetic oranges. Experiment with color psychology, choosing shades that evoke the desired emotions or reactions from your audience. 

Striking colors not only enhance the visual appeal of your slides but also help create a memorable and impactful presentation that commands attention from the moment you begin.

Maintain a consistent presentation layout

Choose a clean and organized template that aligns with your theme or branding. Ensure that fonts, colors, and graphic styles remain uniform across all slides, creating a visually cohesive experience for your audience. 

Consistency in layout helps guide the viewer’s focus and enhances the overall flow of information. Whether it’s the placement of titles, bullet points, or images, a consistent layout provides a visual rhythm that makes your presentation easy to follow. 

By adhering to a unified structure, you not only convey a polished and well-thought-out image but also contribute to a smoother and more seamless delivery of your content.

Try bold and upper-case letters

Bold text commands attention and emphasizes key points, ensuring that your audience doesn’t overlook critical information. Combine this with upper-case letters for a powerful visual impact, making your text stand out with a bold and assertive tone. However, use this formatting sparingly to avoid overwhelming your audience; reserve it for headlines, key takeaways, or impactful statements. 

This combination of bold and upper-case letters can effectively highlight the most crucial aspects of your presentation, leaving a lasting impression and reinforcing the significance of your message.

Use duotones

Duotones involve overlaying two contrasting colors to create a striking and harmonious effect. Select a dominant color for your images and apply a second color to create a cohesive yet visually dynamic look. 

For instance, you can use a combination of deep blue and vibrant orange for a bold and energetic feel. Duotones not only enhance the overall aesthetic but also add a contemporary touch to your presentation. 

Experiment with different color combinations that resonate with your theme or message, and watch as duotones transform your visuals into a visually captivating experience for your audience.

Try handwriting fonts

Infuse a touch of personalization and creativity into your presentation by doing this. Choose a style that aligns with your message and adds a human touch to your slides. 

Handwriting fonts convey a sense of authenticity, making your content feel more relatable and approachable. Whether it’s for headers, quotes, or specific emphasis, using handwritten fonts can break away from the formal tone of standard presentations. 

However, ensure readability by using these fonts sparingly and pairing them with a clean, sans-serif font for body text. Handwriting fonts can add a unique charm to your presentation, making it memorable and fostering a more engaging connection with your audience.

Select memes that align with your content and audience, adding a light-hearted touch to break the ice. Integrate memes strategically, perhaps to emphasize key points, provide commentary, or even add a touch of wit to statistics or quotes. 

Ensure the memes are relevant to your message and won’t be misinterpreted. Memes can be a creative way to connect with your audience, making your presentation more enjoyable and memorable. 

Just remember to use them in moderation, as abusing them may detract from the professionalism of your presentation. Choose memes wisely, and watch as they add a fun and memorable element to your delivery.

Bind people using emotions

Share relatable stories, anecdotes, or real-life examples that resonate with the emotions you want to evoke. Whether it’s joy, empathy, or inspiration, appealing to emotions creates a memorable and impactful experience. 

Use visuals that tug at heartstrings, incorporate testimonials that elicit empathy, or narrate personal experiences that convey authenticity. 

By fostering an emotional connection, you not only capture your audience’s attention but also leave a lasting impression. Remember, people are more likely to remember how you made them feel rather than the specific details of your presentation. 

Embrace the emotional dimension to create a presentation that not only informs but also moves and inspires your audience.

Implement storytelling through your slides

Begin with a captivating introduction that sets the stage and grabs your audience’s attention. Structure your content with a clear beginning, middle, and end, guiding your audience through a coherent and engaging storyline. Introduce characters, whether they’re real individuals, case studies, or even hypothetical personas, to humanize your message. 

Use visuals and anecdotes to illustrate key points, creating a sense of connection and resonance. Build suspense, highlight challenges, and conclude with a satisfying resolution or call to action. 

By infusing your presentation with storytelling elements, you not only make your content more memorable but also captivate your audience on a deeper level, fostering a more profound understanding and appreciation of your message.

Try retro visuals and typography

Choose a vintage color palette, featuring muted tones or bold, vibrant hues reminiscent of bygone times. Integrate retro-inspired imagery, such as old advertisements or iconic symbols, to add a touch of nostalgia. 

When it comes to typography, select fonts that reflect the styles prevalent in the retro era, whether it’s the bold and geometric designs of the ’70s or the sleek and streamlined fonts from the ’50s. 

This aesthetic not only adds a unique visual flair to your presentation but also taps into the emotional appeal of nostalgia, creating a memorable and distinctive experience for your audience. 

Experiment with retro visuals and typography to infuse your presentation with a charming and timeless vibe.

Make use of transitions

Thoughtfully chosen transitions can add a dynamic layer to your delivery, creating a seamless and engaging flow. Experiment with subtle fades, slides, or creative animations to transition between key points. 

However, use transitions judiciously, ensuring they complement rather than distract from your content. Align the transition style with the tone of your presentation; for a professional setting, opt for smooth transitions, while a more creative presentation may benefit from playful animations. 

Well-executed transitions not only enhance visual appeal but also contribute to a more polished and professional presentation, keeping your audience focused and intrigued as you navigate through your content.

Use real people

Incorporate images, testimonials, or video clips of individuals relevant to your message—whether it’s satisfied customers, team members, or individuals impacted by your work. 

Humanizing your content fosters a stronger connection with your audience. Share personal stories or experiences to add a relatable touch, allowing your audience to connect emotionally with the real-life aspects of your presentation. 

By showcasing real people and their experiences, you not only build trust but also make your content more engaging and memorable. Remember to respect privacy and seek permission when using personal stories or images to ensure a positive and ethical presentation experience.

Use icons for every pointer

Icons serve as intuitive visual cues, making information easily digestible for your audience. Select icons that align with the content of your presentation—whether it’s data, actions, or concepts—and use them consistently for uniformity. 

For instance, employ a lightbulb icon for ideas or innovation, a calendar icon for timelines, or a gear icon for processes. This approach not only adds a touch of creativity to your slides but also aids in conveying complex information quickly. 

Icons act as visual anchors, guiding your audience through your presentation and reinforcing key points in a visually compelling manner.

Keep 1 topic per slide

Dedicate each slide to a single, clearly defined concept or key point. This strategy helps prevent information overload and ensures that your audience can easily absorb and retain the content. Embrace succinct headlines, supported by relevant visuals or concise bullet points, to convey your message effectively. 

By adhering to a one-topic-per-slide structure, you not only streamline your presentation but also provide a more digestible and engaging experience for your audience. This approach allows each concept to stand out distinctly, facilitating better understanding and retention of the information you’re conveying.

Use only 1 visual per slide

Focus each slide on a single compelling image, infographic, or chart that directly supports your key point. This approach minimizes visual clutter, allowing your audience to absorb and appreciate each visual element without distraction. 

Whether it’s a striking photograph, an informative graph, or an illustrative icon, let each visual take center stage, reinforcing the clarity and effectiveness of your message. 

This streamlined approach not only enhances visual appeal but also ensures that your audience stays engaged and retains the essential information presented on each slide.

Experiment with your design

Play with unconventional layouts, explore asymmetry, or incorporate unique graphic elements to add visual interest. Consider breaking the traditional grid structure and arranging content in unexpected ways to capture attention. 

Experiment with bold color combinations, gradients, or even texture overlays to give your slides a distinct and memorable look. Don’t be afraid to mix and match fonts to create a visually dynamic composition. 

By pushing the boundaries and experimenting with design elements, you not only make your presentation visually engaging but also showcase a sense of creativity and innovation, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

Build a strong narrative

Progress logically, building tension and anticipation as you delve into key points. Use each slide as a chapter, seamlessly connecting ideas and creating a narrative flow. 

Introduce relatable characters or real-world examples to add a human touch, making your narrative more engaging. Conclude with a satisfying resolution or a clear call to action, leaving a lasting impact on your audience. 

A well-crafted narrative not only makes your presentation more memorable but also ensures that your audience follows a cohesive and compelling journey from start to finish.

Make your presentation interactive

Encourage audience participation through polls, quizzes, or open-ended questions to foster active involvement. Use clickable buttons or hyperlinks to navigate through specific sections, allowing your audience to explore topics at their own pace. 

Consider incorporating interactive multimedia elements such as videos, clickable images, or dynamic charts to enhance engagement. Facilitate discussions by inviting audience input or feedback at strategic points. 

By making your presentation interactive, you not only capture attention but also create a dynamic and participatory environment, ensuring that your audience remains actively engaged throughout the session. This approach fosters a more memorable and impactful experience, turning your presentation into a two-way communication rather than a one-sided delivery.

Use only black and white colors

This simplistic approach can make you stand out. It will go great if your topic is related to the art of photography.

Use contrasting shades to emphasize key points, and leverage the interplay between light and dark for visual impact. This restrained color scheme not only conveys a sense of elegance but also ensures that your audience’s focus remains on the content itself. 

Consider incorporating high-quality images or graphics with strong contrasts to enhance visual appeal. By opting for black and white, you not only achieve a timeless and classic look but also communicate a sense of clarity and professionalism in your presentation.

Add videos to your presentation (In Full Screen)

Utilize videos to add a dynamic and immersive element, capturing your audience’s attention and enhancing overall engagement. 

Whether it’s a product demonstration, customer testimonials, or a narrative sequence, incorporating full-screen videos provides a cinematic experience that complements your message. 

Ensure the videos are high-quality and relevant to the content, seamlessly integrating them into your slides to maintain a professional and polished look. 

By strategically placing full-screen videos at key points, you not only diversify your presentation format but also create a memorable and visually compelling experience for your audience.

Add a timeline to explain event

Use a visual timeline format to provide a clear overview of the sequence of events, whether it’s project milestones, historical developments, or a company’s growth trajectory. 

Place the timeline prominently on a slide, and use distinct markers or milestones to represent significant points in time. Include concise descriptions or visuals alongside each event to provide additional context. 

This visual representation not only aids in comprehension but also helps your audience grasp the temporal progression of your narrative. 

Timelines are versatile tools that can be applied across various themes, making them an effective visual aid for conveying temporal sequences in a presentation.

Use nostalgia

Incorporate elements that bring back memories, triggering familiar experiences and emotions. This could include vintage imagery, retro design elements, or references to cultural touchstones from the past. 

Nostalgia can be a powerful storytelling tool, allowing you to tap into shared experiences and sentiments. Share anecdotes or examples that resonate with a collective sense of nostalgia, making your presentation more relatable and memorable. 

However, be mindful of your audience and ensure that the nostalgic elements align with the overall tone and purpose of your message, creating a presentation that not only informs but also resonates on a deeper, emotional level.

Make your deck mobile-friendly

With an optimized design, recipients can easily view and navigate through the slides on their smartphones or tablets, providing a convenient and seamless experience. 

Whether you’re distributing the presentation via email, cloud storage, or presentation-sharing platforms, a mobile-friendly format ensures that your audience can access and review the content effortlessly, even when on the go. 

This adaptability enhances the overall accessibility and usability of your presentation, making it a practical choice for sharing and collaboration after the initial delivery.

Incorporate your social proof

Showcase testimonials, positive reviews, or endorsements from satisfied clients, customers, or industry experts to validate your message. This could include quotes, statistics, or even visual representations of social media mentions or endorsements. By integrating social proof, you not only add authenticity to your presentation but also build trust and confidence with your audience. 

Ensure that the social proof aligns with the theme and objectives of your presentation, using it strategically to reinforce key points and enhance the persuasiveness of your message. 

Whether it’s a case study, success story, or client testimonial, social proof adds a compelling layer to your presentation, influencing your audience’s perception positively.

Add the QR code of your socials

Place QR codes strategically on your slides, enabling your audience to quickly and easily connect with you on various social platforms. 

This interactive addition allows viewers to scan the code using their smartphones, instantly directing them to your social media profiles. Whether it’s LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, or other platforms relevant to your presentation, this integration fosters seamless networking and engagement. 

Including QR codes of your socials not only simplifies the process of connecting with your audience but also encourages post-presentation interaction and collaboration. It’s a modern and practical way to bridge the gap between your presentation and online presence.

Share your slide deck for reference after the presentation

Provide your audience with a downloadable link or a shareable file through email or a cloud storage platform. 

This not only allows attendees to revisit the content for a deeper understanding but also serves as a valuable resource for those who couldn’t attend. Ensure the file format is widely compatible, and consider creating a PDF version to maintain the layout and formatting integrity across different devices. 

Sharing your slide deck post-presentation demonstrates transparency, reinforces key points, and enables your audience to share the information with others, extending the reach and impact of your message.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What can i make a slideshow about.

Creating a slideshow offers a versatile platform for various topics. You might consider developing a presentation on a personal interest, such as your favorite hobby or travel experience, allowing you to share your passions with others.

Alternatively, professional achievements and career journeys can be effectively communicated through a well-crafted slideshow. 

For a more creative approach, consider compiling a visual representation of historical events, science and technology advancements, or even a visual book or movie review.

What is a good 5-minute presentation?

Crafting a compelling 5-minute presentation requires a balance between brevity and substance. Quick tutorials or how-to guides are excellent choices, providing valuable information without overwhelming the audience. Short stories with a moral or lesson can capture attention and leave a lasting impression. 

Another effective approach is to highlight key points of a more extensive topic, ensuring that the essential information is conveyed within the time constraint. Additionally, presenting a thought-provoking question can spark discussion and engagement within a limited timeframe.

What can I make a fun presentation about?

Fun presentations are an excellent way to captivate your audience. Consider delving into your favorite childhood memories, injecting humor into a typically serious topic, or sharing unusual facts and trivia to entertain and educate simultaneously. 

Funny pet stories or videos often resonate well with audiences, as do hilarious personal anecdotes that showcase your personality. You can also explore comedy or parody presentations, offering a lighthearted and entertaining perspective on common subjects.

What is in a good presentation?

A good presentation encompasses several key elements. A clear structure, consisting of a well-defined introduction, body, and conclusion, helps guide the audience through your message. Organizing content logically ensures that your presentation flows smoothly. 

Engaging visuals, such as images, graphs, or videos, enhance understanding and maintain interest. Including relevant and interesting information is crucial, while delivering the content with confidence and enthusiasm captivates the audience. 

Encouraging audience interaction or participation fosters a more dynamic and memorable experience, and ending with a call to action or key takeaway leaves a lasting impression.

What are some interesting topics to talk about for a presentation?

When selecting a presentation topic , consider the interests and preferences of your audience. Engaging topics might include discussions on the impact of technology on society, environmental conservation efforts, or raising awareness about mental health. 

Exploring the future of artificial intelligence, sharing insights into space exploration and discoveries, or promoting cultural diversity and inclusion are also compelling options. Innovative solutions to common problems and explorations of historical mysteries or unsolved cases can captivate an audience’s curiosity and stimulate meaningful discussions.

Make Design Shifu your presentation design partner

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With a dedicated designer at your service and seamless integrations with Canva, Trello, Slack, and more, Design Shifu is your comprehensive solution for Print and digital Graphics, Logo and branding, Infographics, Merchandise, and even Presentation Decks! Ready to revolutionize your design game? 

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Creative Presentation Ideas to Impress Your Audience

Keeping an audience captivated during a presentation. It’s a task many find daunting. Whether you’re delivering a basic PowerPoint to your fellow students in a classroom or sharing a  pitch deck with potential investors , you may wonder how you can ensure your presentation will be memorable and exciting.

Keep reading if so. While your main goal should be to deliver a presentation that thoroughly covers your chosen topic, experimenting with different creative presentation ideas can also help you ensure your speech captures an audience’s attention in the first place. 

The following are just a few ideas worth considering. They’ll transform a bland speech into one that truly resonates.

Creative Presentation Ideas: How to Make the Right Impression

Tell a story.

Incorporating storytelling into a presentation is often an effective way to engage an audience. Instead of relying solely on dry facts, you can convey your idea through:

  • Case studies
  • Testimonials

Also, consider how different types of visual content might help you tell a story and forge an emotional connection with audience members. For example, a graph or chart may be ideal for a slide whose purpose is to share objective facts and data. On the other hand, if your goal is to tell a story, you might incorporate video.

Keep this in mind when choosing a presentation maker. The tool you work with should allow you to include all types of content that might enhance your speech.

Be aware, research indicates video content is  more engaging  than other forms of online content. It’s therefore safe to assume that such content would also drive engagement in the context of a presentation.

( Tip:  A video presentation doesn’t merely need to consist of live-action footage. You can also include animation to illustrate a unique idea or topic.)

Make it Interactive

One of the key reasons many dread giving presentations is simple: fear of public speaking is  among the most common anxieties  many people share.

Luckily, when presenting to an audience, you don’t technically need to be the only one doing the talking. You can give yourself breaks by designing and delivering an interactive presentation.

Ways to do so include:

Again, when coming up with creative presentation ideas, your main goal may be to ensure your audience members don’t lose interest in your speech. One simple way to achieve this goal is to provide those audience members with frequent opportunities to participate directly.

Be Dramatic

No, not in the way you may be thinking! We’re not recommending you get up in front of a group and start crying to get their attention.

(Although, to be fair, that could work.)

Not everyone feels comfortable exercising their acting and improv chops during a presentation. Additionally, not every presentation idea lends itself to this type of creativity.

However, if you believe your audience would be receptive to this approach, and you’re not afraid to get into character, adding an element of drama or role-playing to your presentation can help clarify complex concepts and make your message more engaging. 

This is another way in which you might make a presentation more interactive. While you don’t want to make anyone uncomfortable, depending on the circumstances, you could ask for volunteers to join you in acting out certain scenarios. This can lighten the mood and keep everyone engaged.

Use Visual Aids

You likely already appreciate how certain types of visual aids can boost the effectiveness of a presentation. For example, if you’re sharing data, you can help viewers digest it with an infographic.

However, it’s worth considering how less traditional visual aids could also prove useful. Examples to consider include:

  • Hand-drawn illustrations

On a related topic, it’s also important to customize your presentation’s visuals so they represent your brand. This may involve:

  • Using a branded color scheme
  • Choosing the right font for text sections of slides
  • Working with a template that allows you to modify all major visual elements

That said, the visual elements of a presentation may not be the only aspects that reflect your brand. Remember, you can include video, which means you can also include audio. Consider how such elements as the right music can potentially strengthen the link between your brand and your presentation.

Make a Mobile-Friendly Version

The day of your presentation doesn’t need to be your one shot to impress your audience! Sometimes, it might be wise to also create a separate mobile-friendly version of a presentation that audience members can view later on their phones and tablets. In some instances, audiences might appreciate the option to see a slide again, watch a video a second time, etc.

Bonus Hint: Use a Template

This may seem counterintuitive. If your goal is to flex your creative muscles, using presentation templates might seem to limit your ability to create something fresh and exciting.

This is a fair assumption to make. However, it’s worth noting that starting with presentation templates can help you save time in the process of designing slides and developing a natural flow for your work. This, in turn, will give you more time and energy to devote to coming up with creative ideas.

Extra Bonus Hint! Stick to Best Practices

Yes, leveraging creative presentation ideas to grab someone’s attention is smart! Just make sure you’re not getting so creative that you end up delivering a presentation that overwhelms your audience or fails to get your message across.

Always keep the basics in mind to ensure your work is organized and clear. For example, you should:

  • Use bullet points, headers, and other formatting elements to ensure text sections are clear
  • Restate important points
  • Stick to a coherent color scheme
  • Focus on one idea per slide
  • Summarize your topic at the end
  • Speak clearly

Powtoon’s Video Presentation Maker Helps You Unleash Your Creativity

Just as using the right template can help you create a presentation more efficiently than you otherwise might, using the right tool can allow you to incorporate creative presentation ideas effectively.

That’s exactly the type of tool you’ll find with Powtoon’s  presentation maker . We also offer video-making tools and resources, helping you generate impressive content on a budget.  Sign up today to learn more!

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8 tips to make the best powerpoint presentations.

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Microsoft Office vs. Google Docs, Sheets, Slides: Which Is Best?

6 steps to ensure you never lose a microsoft office file again, how to take better night sky photos on a google pixel, quick links, table of contents, start with a goal, less is more, consider your typeface, make bullet points count, limit the use of transitions, skip text where possible, think in color, take a look from the top down, bonus: start with templates.

Slideshows are an intuitive way to share complex ideas with an audience, although they're dull and frustrating when poorly executed. Here are some tips to make your Microsoft PowerPoint presentations sing while avoiding common pitfalls.

define a goal

It all starts with identifying what we're trying to achieve with the presentation. Is it informative, a showcase of data in an easy-to-understand medium? Or is it more of a pitch, something meant to persuade and convince an audience and lead them to a particular outcome?

It's here where the majority of these presentations go wrong with the inability to identify the talking points that best support our goal. Always start with a goal in mind: to entertain, to inform, or to share data in a way that's easy to understand. Use facts, figures, and images to support your conclusion while keeping structure in mind (Where are we now and where are we going?).

I've found that it's helpful to start with the ending. Once I know how to end a presentation, I know how best to get to that point. I start by identifying the takeaway---that one nugget that I want to implant before thanking everyone for their time---and I work in reverse to figure out how best to get there.

Your mileage, of course, may vary. But it's always going to be a good idea to put in the time in the beginning stages so that you aren't reworking large portions of the presentation later. And that starts with a defined goal.

avoid walls of text

A slideshow isn't supposed to include everything. It's an introduction to a topic, one that we can elaborate on with speech. Anything unnecessary is a distraction. It makes the presentation less visually appealing and less interesting, and it makes you look bad as a presenter.

This goes for text as well as images. There's nothing worse, in fact, than a series of slides where the presenter just reads them as they appear. Your audience is capable of reading, and chances are they'll be done with the slide, and browsing Reddit, long before you finish. Avoid putting the literal text on the screen, and your audience will thank you.

Related: How to Burn Your PowerPoint to DVD

use better fonts

Right off the bat, we're just going to come out and say that Papyrus and Comic Sans should be banned from all PowerPoint presentations, permanently. Beyond that, it's worth considering the typeface you're using and what it's saying about you, the presenter, and the presentation itself.

Consider choosing readability over aesthetics, and avoid fancy fonts that could prove to be more of a distraction than anything else. A good presentation needs two fonts: a serif and sans-serif. Use one for the headlines and one for body text, lists, and the like. Keep it simple. Veranda, Helvetica, Arial, and even Times New Roman are safe choices. Stick with the classics and it's hard to botch this one too badly.

use fewer bullets

There reaches a point where bullet points become less of a visual aid and more of a visual examination.

Bullet points should support the speaker, not overwhelm his audience. The best slides have little or no text at all, in fact. As a presenter, it's our job to talk through complex issues, but that doesn't mean that we need to highlight every talking point.

Instead, think about how you can break up large lists into three or four bullet points. Carefully consider whether you need to use more bullet points, or if you can combine multiple topics into a single point instead. And if you can't, remember that there's no one limiting the number of slides you can have in a presentation. It's always possible to break a list of 12 points down into three pages of four points each.

avoid transitions

Animation, when used correctly, is a good idea. It breaks up slow-moving parts of a presentation and adds action to elements that require it. But it should be used judiciously.

Adding a transition that wipes left to right between every slide or that animates each bullet point in a list, for example, starts to grow taxing on those forced to endure the presentation. Viewers get bored quickly, and animations that are meant to highlight specific elements quickly become taxing.

That's not to say that you can't use animations and transitions, just that you need to pick your spots. Aim for no more than a handful of these transitions for each presentation. And use them in spots where they'll add to the demonstration, not detract from it.

use visuals

Sometimes images tell a better story than text can. And as a presenter, your goal is to describe points in detail without making users do a lot of reading. In these cases, a well-designed visual, like a chart, might better convey the information you're trying to share.

The right image adds visual appeal and serves to break up longer, text-heavy sections of the presentation---but only if you're using the right images. A single high-quality image can make all the difference between a success and a dud when you're driving a specific point home.

When considering text, don't think solely in terms of bullet points and paragraphs. Tables, for example, are often unnecessary. Ask yourself whether you could present the same data in a bar or line chart instead.

find a color palette

Color is interesting. It evokes certain feelings and adds visual appeal to your presentation as a whole. Studies show that color also improves interest, comprehension, and retention. It should be a careful consideration, not an afterthought.

You don't have to be a graphic designer to use color well in a presentation. What I do is look for palettes I like, and then find ways to use them in the presentation. There are a number of tools for this, like Adobe Color , Coolors , and ColorHunt , just to name a few. After finding a palette you enjoy, consider how it works with the presentation you're about to give. Pastels, for example, evoke feelings of freedom and light, so they probably aren't the best choice when you're presenting quarterly earnings that missed the mark.

It's also worth mentioning that you don't need to use every color in the palette. Often, you can get by with just two or three, though you should really think through how they all work together and how readable they'll be when layered. A simple rule of thumb here is that contrast is your friend. Dark colors work well on light backgrounds, and light colors work best on dark backgrounds.

change views

Spend some time in the Slide Sorter before you finish your presentation. By clicking the four squares at the bottom left of the presentation, you can take a look at multiple slides at once and consider how each works together. Alternatively, you can click "View" on the ribbon and select "Slide Sorter."

Are you presenting too much text at once? Move an image in. Could a series of slides benefit from a chart or summary before you move on to another point?

It's here that we have the opportunity to view the presentation from beyond the single-slide viewpoint and think in terms of how each slide fits, or if it fits at all. From this view, you can rearrange slides, add additional ones, or delete them entirely if you find that they don't advance the presentation.

The difference between a good presentation and a bad one is really all about preparation and execution. Those that respect the process and plan carefully---not only the presentation as a whole, but each slide within it---are the ones who will succeed.

This brings me to my last (half) point: When in doubt, just buy a template and use it. You can find these all over the web, though Creative Market and GraphicRiver are probably the two most popular marketplaces for this kind of thing. Not all of us are blessed with the skills needed to design and deliver an effective presentation. And while a pre-made PowerPoint template isn't going to make you a better presenter, it will ease the anxiety of creating a visually appealing slide deck.

  • Microsoft Office

Oh My Creative

20 Creative Individual Charcuterie Boards

Sometimes, you just want to mix things up at parties, and that’s where Individual Charcuterie Boards come in.

They’re perfect because you can customize them for each guest, making everyone feel special. Plus, it’s one of the unique charcuterie board ideas ! 

Imagine mini cheese platters, personalized meat and veggie spreads, or themed boards that reflect each guest’s favorite flavors—how fun is that?!

A collage image of Individual Charcuterie Board that will inspire you to serve them in individual cups, boxes, or small boards.

Individual charcuterie boards are a great way to add a personal touch to your gatherings. Plus, they can be super unique and creative! 

In this post, I’ll share why these mini-board are a game-changer and give you some awesome ideas to try.

We’ll talk about fun presentation tips and why individual boards are the way to go!

So, let’s get ready to impress your guests with some seriously creative individual charcuterie boards!

Why Choose Individual Charcuterie Boards?

Individual charcuterie boards are an absolute game-changer, and here’s why you’ll love them! 

They’re a smart way to serve a variety of snacks without the mess! Each guest gets their own board or jar, so you can offer a mix of goodies without cluttering up the table. It’s such a fun way to make sure everyone has their own space and gets to enjoy their favorites!

And let’s talk about how easy serving becomes. No more reaching over each other or juggling platters—everyone gets their own spread right in front of them.

A collage image of Individual Charcuterie Board that will inspire you to serve them in individual cups, boxes, or small boards.

This means less cleanup for you and more room for everyone to relax and dig in! This is one of my favorite things when it comes to individual boards! 

Plus, individual charcuterie boards are super cute and perfect for any occasion!

For cozy gatherings or stylish parties, they really make the vibe better! They keep everything organized, so everyone gets a little of everything without any hassle.

So, if you’re ready to impress and make your party easier, individual charcuterie boards are definitely the way to go!

Fun Charcuterie Presentation Tips

As mentioned, here are some fun presentation tips for you!

Have a theme

If you’re planning a celebration or holiday gathering, choose plates and boards that match the theme. It’s a fun way to make each board feel festive and special. I love using colorful or themed plates to really improve the party vibe!

A collage image of Individual Charcuterie Board that will inspire you to serve them in individual cups, boxes, or small boards.

Think of shape variations

Have some fun with how you arrange your snacks! Roll up your meats like little pinwheels or use cookie cutters to shape your cheeses. It makes the board look super cute and adds your personal touch.

Don’t forget garnishes! 

Fresh herbs like rosemary or mint can really brighten things up. You can also sprinkle on some edible flowers or drizzle a bit of honey for that extra touch of elegance! Garnish ideas really depend on your chosen theme! 

Go all out with the theme decorations!

For a holiday or special event, add little decorations or labels that fit the theme. It makes everything feel more festive. So get creative and have fun with it—your guests will totally appreciate the extra effort!

Individual Charcuterie Supplies:

  • Charcuterie Cups And Picks
  • Small Charcuterie Boxes
  • White Charcuterie Cups With Gold Polkadots

A collage image of Individual Charcuterie Board that will inspire you to serve them in individual cups, boxes, or small boards.

With these tips, your individual charcuterie boards will be both eye-catching and delicious. Enjoy setting them up!

More Charcuterie Board Ideas You Can Try!

Are you looking for ideas for other charcuterie boards? Don’t worry because I got you with these creative recommendations! 

  • This board will make everyone drool! Chocolate lovers will love this S’mores Charcuterie Board .
  • If you’re planning a charcuterie board for a small gathering or are new to charcuterie, these Small Charcuterie Board Ideas are perfect for you!
  • Not only are they delicious, but they’re also good for you! These Healthy Charcuterie Boards are as nutritious as they are impressive.
  • Who says charcuterie boards have to be all about food? This Jello Shot Charcuterie Board shows that snack boards can be filled with 21+ fun!
  • Add some excitement to the party with a Bloody Mary Charcuterie Board overflowing with Bloody Mary toppings and snacks.

After this, let’s go to the list of the best and most creative individual charcuterie boards you can easily try! 

Supplies you’ll need

This post contains affiliate links. Read my full  disclosure.

tips creative presentation

20 Individual Charcuterie Boards

Charcuterie doesn't always need to come in large sizes. Here, we've listed a variety of charcuterie cups, cones, and boxes that you can create for on-the-go snacks or party favors at your next event. Enjoy exploring these 20 Individual Charcuterie Boards to make your gathering extra special!

tips creative presentation

4th of July Charcuterie Cups

These charcuterie cups are layers of red, white, and blue ingredients. Red ingredients like cherry tomatoes, and blue ingredients like blueberries or blackberries create a patriotic theme.

tips creative presentation

Valentine Jarcuterie

A fun way to set up a Valentine's Day-themed snack display in small jars or containers. It can include a mix of cheese, meats, fresh fruits and sweets like chocolates!

tips creative presentation

Veggie Loaded Asian Noodle Jar Salad

A tasty dish with Asian-inspired flavors in a jar! It has noodles, lots of fresh veggies like carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, and cabbage, plus some protein like tofu or chicken.

tips creative presentation

S'mores Charcuterie Cups

A creative twist on the classic campfire treat! This S'mores Charcuterie Cups has a layers of graham cracker crumbs, melted chocolate, and toasted marshmallows.

tips creative presentation

Christmas Charcuterie Cups

These Charcuterie Cups include holiday ingredients like meats and cheeses and also desserts like candy canes can be included!

tips creative presentation

A charcuterie cup with a combination of fresh fruits, sometimes mixed with syrup or fruit juice for added sweetness and flavor.

tips creative presentation

Easy Veggie Cups

We're done with the fruit cups; now it's time for the veggie cups! Check out how you can serve healthy, fresh veggies in a cup!

tips creative presentation

Individual Antipasto Salad Cups

These salad cups have an array of fresh ingredients like marinated artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, olives, mozzarella balls and thinly sliced cured meats!

tips creative presentation

Cheese and Crackers Charcuterie Cups

A variety of cheeses, such as cheddar or brie, paired with crackers or breadsticks. These charcuterie cups are perfect for snacking!

tips creative presentation

How to Create an Extreme Bloody Mary Bar

Check out how you can create a Bloody Mary Bar as easy as one, two, three!

tips creative presentation

Mini Taco Charcuterie

The bite-sized tacos laid out on a platter with various of toppings like seasoned meats, fresh toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cheeses and sauces.

tips creative presentation

Breakfast Charcuterie Cups

Your all time favorite breakfasts in a cup! You can include here a mix of cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, breads and crackers!

tips creative presentation

Individual Mini Charcuterie Boards

We all know charcuterie boards typically come on big platters, but these mini charcuterie cups offer a new way to enjoy delicious snacks!

tips creative presentation

Sweet Jarcuterie Ideas

A jarcuterie perfect for those with a sweet tooth! Discover here how to create the ultimate dessert jarcuterie for your next party.

tips creative presentation

How to Make Personal Charcuterie Cones

Discover here how you can create your own jarcuterie cones and personalized it instead of buying one.

tips creative presentation

DIY Charcuterie Cups

Thinking of ways how you can add a personalize touch to your chacuterie cuos for your next celebration? Learn here how!

tips creative presentation

Candy Charcuterie Board In A Box

This box is like opening a box filled with lots of different candies! It's arranged neatly with colorful gummy bears, sour candies, chocolate truffles, and licorice twists.

tips creative presentation

How to Make DIY Charcuterie Boxes

If we have DIY charcuterie cups, we can also create beautiful DIY charcuterie boxes! Here’s how you can elegantly arrange your charcuterie in a box.

tips creative presentation

Mini Graze Boxes

These boxes are designed for an easy grab-and-go snacks and finger foods, especially for parties and celebrations!

tips creative presentation

Individual Charcuterie in a Plastic Box Containers

Look at these stunning on-the-go charcuterie boxes! Did you know you can also serve them in plastic containers? Discover how to prepare them here!

Did you enjoy these individual charcuterie board ideas? Don’t forget to save this pin for later! 

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  • Latest Posts

Susan B

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  • 50 Must-Try Charcuterie Board Dips! - September 5, 2024
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Expert tips: Getting your creative writing juices flowing

Expert tips: Getting your creative writing juices flowing

Tapping into your creativity when under pressure is a daunting task, but there are many simple writing and idea-generation techniques that you can use to ease the pain.

Have you ever struggled to come up with creative, attention-grabbing copy to match that brilliant email campaign strategy you spent a week conceiving? It happens. After countless hours planning something, you can hit a creative wall when it's time to actually do that thing.

Sometimes you're overwhelmed with research material. Sometimes you're bogged down by the stress of aggressive deadlines. Sometimes your mental gas tank is just plain empty.

In this post, I'll share four of my favorite and most effective pre-writing creativity techniques to help you get ideas down. Just like the importance of stretching before a workout, think of these techniques as a mental warm-up before you write your first draft.

Before you begin: Analog or digital?

All of my early stage ideas and writing is done in analog—with pen and paper—before hitting the computer for my first draft.

I prefer this for several reasons:

  • Promotes singular focus: There are no toolbars or tabs, I'm not bogged down by hundreds of settings and formatting options, I'm not constantly interrupted by notifications, and I don't fall prey to aimless surfing. There's only me, my pen, and a blank page. Free from digital distractions, I have a better chance to focus on a single task or idea.
  • It's very freeing: When I'm trying to be creative, I don't think in a straight line. I don't work from left to right and top to bottom. My creative process is very unstructured. I scribble left-to-right and right-to left. I scribble in the margins; sometimes there are no margins. I doodle a bunny that ends up looking like a tiger. I write things that make no sense. It's hard to simulate this freeing lack of rules on a computer.
  • There's less results-driven pressure: No matter what app I use, I'm cursed with a sense of finality. It always feels like a final product. Even brainstorming apps that are meant to give you a blank canvas to generate ideas produce things that look equally at home as a business presentation. But on paper, "final" and "perfect" don't even enter into the equation. It looks gloriously messy and feels like the intermediate step that it is. The informal nature of analog writing creates a far more relaxed atmosphere for creativity.
  • "The feeling": This one's tough to describe. I simply enjoy the tactile experience of writing with a nice pen in a quality notebook—it becomes almost meditative. I simply don't get the same sensory engagement when trying to create early ideas on a computer.

But this is a very personal preference; maybe it's not for you. If you're accustomed to a screen and keyboard, do it. Or maybe a tablet is your creative buddy. These are simply tools. Tools aid the process; the process creates the product. It's about finding something that aids your process.

An old software developer colleague, despite his technical acumen, preferred using a large whiteboard to figure out complex designs. After hours of scribbling, his whiteboard would be completely covered with sketches rivaling a complex Ocean's casino heist blueprint.

So, let's get started.

Technique #1: Freewriting

This is one of my favorite pre-writing warm-ups: Select a topic to write about. It can be related to the email campaign you're working on or something completely unrelated.

Once you have your topic, write everything you can think of—without stopping. Don't lift your pen from the page or your fingers from the keys. Don't even worry about correct punctuation and grammar. If you start running out of ideas, write "Oh no! I'm running out of ideas…" Just keep writing.

Much of what you end up with will likely be unusable, but that's not the point. The point is to get ideas flowing. And if something is usable, that's a bonus.

Technique #2: Brainstorming

This creativity technique is very similar to freewriting—but less structured.

Like freewriting, you write non-stop without worrying about punctuation and grammar. The only difference is that you don't need to focus on a single topic. Write about anything that pops into your head, even if the ideas are completely unrelated.

Serious, goofy, profound, mundane… Don't discard any ideas; write them all down. Your goal is to ignore the critical part of your brain, ignore the rules of writing, and ignore doubt and judgment.

Free from the structured approaches that have been ingrained in us—especially in the business world—you can come up with unconventional ideas that your "sensible self" usually keeps at bay.

Technique #3: Listing

I love lists… I make lists on how to improve my lists.

During the creative process, I use lists to create categories of words and short sentence snippets that I can eventually use to write my first draft on the computer.

For example, let's say you're creating an email campaign to launch a new product. You can create several lists and jot down words and sentences related to your company's brand and history, your product's features, your product's benefits, your target audience, and any other relevant categories.

You don't need to use all the words and sentences in these lists. They're simply the building blocks to your copy.

Technique #4: Mind mapping

Similar to listing, mind mapping helps you come up with potential words. But it does so in a non-linear fashion.

You place your primary word/idea in the middle and draw a circle or box around it. Then you continue writing down words/ideas related to that central theme, creating a spider web-like diagram that provides you with a visual, non-linear overview of your words/ideas and how they relate with one another.

Mind mapping is one of the few creativity techniques that I prefer doing on the computer instead of paper. Software, such as SimpleMind (one of my favorites), lets you move and reorder entire sections from one branch to another—something you can't do on paper without creating a mess.

mind map example

Image Credit: SimpleMind

Closing thoughts…

When your ideas aren't flowing, you can wait for inspiration to hit or you can grind away. Neither are particularly effective. The former rarely happens at opportune times; the latter can be counterproductive because the harder you try, the worse it can get.

But with some proper warm-up, you can get yourself into the proper headspace to create and discover le mot juste , the perfect words and phrases to express exactly what you're trying to convey.

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Blog Graphic Design Top 31 PowerPoint Design Ideas, Examples & Tips

Top 31 PowerPoint Design Ideas, Examples & Tips

Written by: Sara McGuire May 03, 2023

tips creative presentation

What’s worse than sitting through a boring presentation? Being the one to deliver a boring presentation. Presentation templates to the rescue!

Say goodbye to typical, boring PowerPoint slides, too. Instead,  create a presentation that will make a lasting impression with presentation templates like this one to engage your audience. You can also use them for inspiration for PowerPoint layout ideas:

Just so you know, some of our templates are free and some require a small monthly fee to use. Signing up to Venngage is always free.

In this post, I’ll show you how to create a presentation that will not only grab the attention of your audience but hold onto it as well.

This post will offer tips for creating different types of presentations , including:

  • Pitch decks
  • E-learning slides
  • Class presentations
  • Webinar presentations
  • Marketing presentations

I’ll also give you design tips to customize our presentation templates and share ppt design ideas.

Click to jump ahead:

  • Start with presentation templates
  • Pick a visual motif to use consistently
  • Highlight important information using text
  • Dedicate each slide to only one topic
  • Don’t overburden your slides with text
  • Establish a visual hierarchy on your slides
  • Visualize data using charts and infographics
  • Create custom illustrations using icons
  • Change slide layouts to keep your audience engaged
  • Add a progress tracker to your presentation slides
  • Download your presentation as a PDF

Design a presentation that engages your audience

Think about the last boring presentation you sat through:

  • What did the slides look like?
  • Did they have a bland color scheme?
  • Were there too many points (or worse, paragraphs) crammed onto one slide?
  • Were the charts and diagrams clunky and hard to understand?

When people see the same old boring PowerPoint layouts and themes, there’s a good chance they’re going to lose focus.

Rich media, like video, matters more than ever and there’s no better way to stand out than by creating creative and engaging visual content . If you want to really capture your audience’s attention, you need to design creative presentations , like this one:

Airbnb Pitch Deck

That means incorporating eye-catching images, effective data visualizations, and bold typography into your slide decks.

Iconics Pitch Deck

This onboarding presentation, for example, strategically uses bright icons and illustrations to make the material more engaging. This is especially important when presenting to new hires, who are likely dealing with information overload on their first day. 

HR Presentation Template

In this particular case, a more visual approach is not necessarily a matter of aesthetic preference, but a decision that can make your presentations more likely to stick. Pro Tip: Venngage has over 40,000 icons and illustrations you can use to spice up your presentations!

Need something more geared towards speaking? Our keynote presentation templates are all the rage.

Tips to hold your audience’s attention

Many Venngage users have mentioned that they’re always looking for ways to make presentations more engaging. But most of them don’t have any formal design experience.

If you’re in the same boat, don’t worry–this guide is for you. You can also check out this video for all the highlights:

Here are my top tips for designing a presentation with impact:

1. Start with presentation templates

Before jumping into the other tips, let’s set the foundation.

You’ve decided to create something a little more interesting than a standard PowerPoint theme–good on you! But that doesn’t mean you have to start completely from scratch.

Instead, you can give yourself a head start by using creative presentation templates, like this one:

Geometric Creative Presentation

Or this one:

tips creative presentation

EDIT THIS PRESENTATION TEMPLATE

While most PowerPoint themes are fairly limited in how much you can customize them, freeform presentation templates will give you the freedom to alter the design as much as you want.

For example, let’s take this template:

Uber Presentation Template

I used Venngage’s My Brand Kit tool to efficiently apply our brand color palette to the Uber template in one click:

There are a ton of creative presentation templates. You can take a look at them in our presentations templates library .

Cool? Now let’s talk presentation design.

2. Pick a visual motif to use consistently in your presentation

You can use visuals to pull your presentation design together and make it cohesive. Picking a visual motif will allow you to use consistent visuals throughout your presentation.

A visual motif is a repeated pattern, design, or image. In your presentation design, a motif can take many forms.

When it comes to infographic color selection , one of the simplest approaches is to use a consistent color motif (or color scheme). That could mean using one or two colors for all of your headers, background and borders.

For example, this presentation template uses two shades of purple for a modern design:

Product Pitch Deck

But combining different colors and patterns can also make for a more interesting design. For example, this presentation template uses a blue stripe motif to link the slides together visually:

Monthly Sales Report Template

You could also use a recurring shape or image, like the circle image frames in this presentation template:

tips creative presentation

Or you could use a motif that reflects the theme of your presentation. For this presentation, the template uses a recurring cloud motif throughout the presentation to reflect the “dream” theme of the brand. This presentation example demonstrates the power of maintaining a consistent theme to reinforce brand image.

tips creative presentation

This is a case where starting with a presentation template can really come in handy, because the template will already have a motif. Look for presentation templates with a motif that fits your topic and brand.

3. Highlight important information using text

Returning to the idea or focal points on your slide: emphasize a key number or phrase when creating a persuasive presentation using big, bold text in a contrasting color.

This will communicate to your audience that if they take away one thing from your slide, it should be that piece of information.

For example, this presentation template uses bright colored font in several sizes larger than the rest of the text to emphasize important numbers on each slide:

tips creative presentation

But you could also pick one color to emphasize key information with. That way, your audience will catch on to the pattern and look for that color in upcoming slides.

Take a look at how this presentation uses teal to contrast with the other text and emphasize information:

Email Marketing Business Presentation

4. Dedicate each slide to only one topic

Franchise Pitch Deck

Just as it’s important for your slides to not be cluttered, it’s also important for your slides to be cohesive.

Keep each slide focused on just one topic. The topic of each slide should be clearly stated in the slide title.

For example, this presentation example, shows a template which covers different ways to be creative. Each individual slide covers one approach:

Creative Presentation

This simple, straightforward slide pattern will help the audience follow along without any confusion.

Or take this presentation template that introduces some of this year’s biggest business trends. Rather than listing multiple trends on one slide, each trend is fleshed out in its own slide:

Business Trends Presentation

As a presenter, keeping your slide topics organized will help you organize your thoughts as well. Each new slide will signal a new topic.

5. Don’t overburden your slides with text

Client Pitch Deck

Even if you decide to ignore most of the other tips in this guide, don’t skip over this one. This is presentation design 101.

When you flip to a slide covered wall-to-wall with text, there’s a good chance your audience is going to think:

  • I don’t want to read all of that.
  • This presenter isn’t well-prepared.

In fact, a study published in Business and Professional Communication Quarterly found that anxious presenters tended to use more text on their slides, usually because they used their slides as speaking notes.

Instead of using a bunch of text, look for ways to present information visually charts and infographics .

For example, this slide template uses brief text and some simple icons to summarize the presentation :

Weekly Update Business Presentation

This startup pitch deck makes use of evocative images, icons and big text to help present its ideas:

Yellow Startup Pitch Deck

6. Establish a visual hierarchy on your slides

When you flip to a new slide, your audience will be seeing it for the first time. Their eyes are going to naturally be drawn whatever the focal point on the page is.

The focal point is the most dominant area on your slide–the point that draws the most attention.

You can create a hierarchy of information on your slide by making the most important information the focal point of your slide. In most cases, the focal point will be the slide title, or a particular visual, or an important phrase or number.

There are a few ways you can create a visual hierarchy on your slides.

You can bold important phrases, like the word “Facebook” in this slide:

Quarterly Digital Marketing Report Business Presentation

Icons also help to establish a reading order. They draw your eye from point to point. Placing icons beside headers and important points will make them stand out from the other information on the slide.

Mint Pitch Deck

Icons can also be used to indicate where a new point begins:

Sherbert Business Presentation

Color selection can also be used to establish a visual hierarchy. Take a look at how the colorful blocks in this slide help to make the slide titles pop:

Subscriber Sales Business Presentation

Your eyes are drawn first to the title text, then to the supporting information beside it.

7. Visualize data using charts and infographics

Replacing text with visuals is one of the best ways to prevent your slide design from becoming cluttered. Charts and infographics present information in an engaging, digestible way.

I won’t go into too much detail here about what types of charts you should use for what data. We’ve got an in-depth guide to picking charts for that.

But I’ll give you a few ideas for some types of charts and infographics that work well in presentations.

Related : How to Make Better Infographics for PowerPoint

If you want to visualize steps in a process, the history of something, or a roadmap, use a timeline.

This slide template uses a simple timeline with complementary icons to emphasize each date:

tips creative presentation

To compare amounts or sizes, a bubble chart can help drive the point home:

Airbnb Pitch Deck

Learn how to customize this template:

To create an infographic for geographic and demographic information , a map can make a big impact on your audience:

Orange Business Presentation - Map

A classic pie chart or bar graph should be easily understood by your audience, provided you’re following  chart best practices .

This presentation template uses a bar graph, a pie chart and a line graph to show different metrics:

tips creative presentation

If you can, mix up the types of data visualizations you use. This will help prevent your audience from getting bored.

Those are just a few different ways you can use charts to visualize. For more ideas, check out our guide to picking the best charts for your data .

8. Create custom illustrations using icons

Custom illustrations are one of this year’s  biggest graphic design trends . They’re fun, quirky, and more exciting than a boring old stock photo.

Creating your own illustrations for social media graphics might seem like a costly and time-consuming undertaking. And it can be. But I’m going to offer you a hack:

Use icons to create illustrations.

Venngage Dashboard

You can arrange icons together to create a scene–like the pieces of a puzzle. (Venngage offers over 40,000 icons, so finding an image shouldn’t be too hard!) 

For example, this real estate presentation template uses icons to illustrate each real estate hack:

tips creative presentation

When picking ico ns or symbols for your illustrations , make sure that the icon style you use is consistent. For example, this presentation template uses line art icons for a scribbly youthful look:

tips creative presentation

For more ideas, read our guide to creating icon illustrations .

9.  Change slide layouts to keep your audience engaged

You may be tempted to use the same slide layout throughout your entire presentation–either for consistency or because you’re not sure how else to design your slide.

The problem is, using the same slide layout over and over again won’t do much to excite your audience.

There are other ways you can create consistency throughout your presentation, while also using different slide layouts–like through a visual motif.

For example, this presentation template uses five different slide layouts. The consistent color scheme, image style and font style pull the presentation together.

tips creative presentation

To come up with different slide layouts, try dividing your slide into columns. This can make it easier to arrange the elements in your slide.

column layout

This can make it easier to arrange the elements in your slide.

tips creative presentation

10. Add a progress tracker to your presentation slides

Creating a sense of forward movement will help keep your audience engaged.

Similar to how you would put the chapter title at the top of the pages in a book, you can track the progress of your presentations in your slides. This will let your audience know what stage you’re at in your presentation. Your audience will also be able to refer to the sections in your presentation more easily afterward.

That said, pacing your presentation thoughtfully with well-designed presentation slides also adds brownie points to your presentation. Check out the top qualities of awesome presentations and learn all about how to make a good presentation to help you nail that captivating delivery.

A simple progress bar at the bottom of your slide shouldn’t distract too much from the rest of your information.

11. Download your presentation as a PDF

It’s common for audience members to request a copy of your presentation for their reference. Make sharing your presentation easy by exporting it as a PDF or zipped file.

tips creative presentation

Now that you’re equipped with some fundamentals of presentation design, the best way to learn is by doing. It’s also the perfect time to upgrade your presentation skills  while you’re thinking about it too!

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.

More presentation templates and design guides:

  • 120+ Best Presentation Ideas, Design Tips & Examples  (+ Presentation Templates!)
  • 12 Business Pitch Deck Templates and Design Best Practices to Impress Investors
  • 5 Foolproof Presentation Layout Ideas  (+ Presentation Templates!)
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Sarah Burton Givenchy

Sarah Burton is Givenchy’s new creative director

The former alexander mcqueen designer is headed to the storied french house.

After a period of relative calm in fashion’s game of designer lottery, things have certainly begun to ramp up recently. Within the space of a week we’ve seen Haider Ackermann appointed as Tom Ford ’s new creative director, Glenn Martens ’ shock exit from Y/Project , and now a third big change has just been revealed. The former Alexander McQueen designer Sarah Burton has been announced as Givenchy ’s new creative director, ending almost 12 months of speculation of where she might end up at next. The designer will be responsible for the creative direction of all of the maison’s men’s and women’s collections, effective immediately.

“It is a great honour to be joining the beautiful house of Givenchy, it is a jewel,” said Burton in a statement released in the early hours of Monday morning, September 9. “I am so excited to be able to write the next chapter in the story of this iconic house and to bring to Givenchy my own vision, sensibility and beliefs.” Burton will meet with the house’s ateliers in Paris this week, and her first runway collection will take place in March 2025. Her predecessor, the American designer and 1017 ALYX 9SM founder Matthew Williams , left the house in December 2023 after three years at the helm.

It was in September 2023 that Burton exited Alexander McQueen after 13 years as creative director, and a total of 26 years at the brand. Last September’s SS24 runway was an emotional affair that saw Naomi Campbell close the show while wiping away tears, and Burton receive a rapturous standing ovation. Over her time at the label, the designer was lauded for translating her predecessor’s powerful and striking creations into commercially successful clothing, while still retaining the ethos of his early work. Burton took over from Lee McQueen in 2010 after his death, and before then had worked by his side since 1997. At Givenchy, Burton will once again be following in the footsteps of the late McQueen, who was famously recruited to the label from 1996 to 2001.

Photography by Zora Sicher, Styling by Kyle Luu

On her new appointment, Givenchy chairman Sideny Toledano said, “Sarah Burton is an exceptional creative talent whose work I have passionately followed for many years. I am very glad that she is joining Givenchy today.” Elsewhere, he added that, “her unique vision and approach to fashion will be invaluable to this iconic maison, known for its audacity and haute couture. I am convinced that her creative leadership will contribute to the future success and international standing of the maison.”

The newly appointed Givenchy CEO Alessandro Valenti, echoed his colleagues sentiments, saying “the arrival of Sarah Burton as head of our creative design is a very exciting moment for Givenchy. Her remarkable career path and creative vision have already won her a vast fan base, and we are certain that under her direction, Givenchy will continue to innovate and captivate an extensive audience across the world stage.”

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