Keep it simple

Fonts

• Be consistent with the fonts used in the document
• Use a sans serif font, 22 point minimum – such as Arial, Helvetica or Verdana that are large enough for both projectors and online viewing
• Avoid using text shadow or glow effects for any text as they may not be accessible by screen readers
• Avoid using italics or upper-case letters for emphasis

Colors

• Use appropriate colour contrast (e.g. black and white)
• Avoid using solid dark colour backgrounds
• Make sure that all information conveyed with colour can also be conveyed without colour
• For print documents use a matte/non-glossy finish

Spacing

• Avoid putting a lot of information on a slide as it can be confusing and unreadable
• Follow the rule of thumb – four lines per slide

Images

• Set wrapping style of non-text elements as “In line with text”
• Add alternative text to graphics and images
• Avoid text boxes and Word Art as they may be inaccessible to screen readers

Slide Animations and Transitions

• Avoid automatic slide transitions
• Ensure that slides with animations are brief and do not distract from the most important content on the page

Tables

• Use the Insert tab then Table to properly insert
• Use proper Table Headings and check the Header Row check box

Hyperlinks

• Ensure that the Hyperlink has context and describes where it leads
• Avoid using “Click here” or “More info” as a link title

Outline and Notes Panels

• Place the slides in a logical order in the Outline Panel
• Avoid placing image or chart descriptions in the Notes Panel

Embedded Audio or Video

• Include text transcripts and/or captions if your presentation has embedded audio or video