9.4 How to say it with PowerPoint

As usual, clear print guidance applies (see section 9.1) and the golden rule is keep it simple:

• To make sure that the text is as clear as possible to the maximum number of people, use the Slide Master to create the basic layout and any repeated text.
   
• Always have a plain background, with good colour contrast (see section 9.1.2) and no text smaller than 24 point.
   
• Keep the content simple – you can use the notes page to expand on your bullet points. Offer anything complex (like a complicated chart or table) as a handout, rather than have people blink uncomprehendingly at a screen.
   
• Limit your use of animations and avoid flickering text and distracting sounds.

If you are going to put your Powerpoint presentation onto a website, provide a link to download the PowerPoint viewer from Microsoft.

Provide a text-only version, too.

You can find more advice on accessible Powerpoint in ‘Making Information Accessible’, which you can download from the publications page on the SAIF Scotland website.