Types of Visual Aids for Presentations

Visual aids provide several ways to communicate with an audience during a presentation. They can supplement speeches and improve the success rate of the presentation. Prepare them well in advance, edit and proof them, and be sure to keep them neat and clean. Examples of visual aids include posters, videos, people, photographs and models. Before any presentation, make sure the room will provide or accommodate the necessary equipment and everyone who is attending.

1.   Posters

Posters can include charts, graphs, tables or photographs. Charts, graphs and tables can display statistics or other important data; be sure the information is accurate. Large posters are best for large groups to ensure visibility to everyone. Mounting the posters to thick, sturdy boards may avoid the posters becoming flimsy or falling down. Use an easel to display posters; never hold them up by hand. Professional posters will be clean, neat and full of contrast.

2.   Videos

Videos can be a successful type of visual aid. Be sure all necessary equipment is available in the presentation room. If not, bring your own and be sure it is set up properly before the presentation begins. Practice beforehand so there will be no hidden issues. The video to the beginning of the clip. Keep video clips short and be sure that everyone in the room will be able to see the screen.

3.   People

People can be a fun visual aid and helpful in demonstrating something. For example, a fashion designer may use people to model a clothing line. People can be used to demonstrate dances or how to use a product. Avoid using yourself as a visual aid because this gives the appearance of being unprepared. However, as a last resort, you may use yourself as a visual aid.

4.   Photographs

Photographs can help demonstrate a point or provide a visual image to the audience of the subject of the presentation. Photographs must be large enough to see from the back of the room. They can be mounted to poster board and displayed on an easel. Another option is using a slide projector. Display slides in a dark room, but keep the slideshow short to avoid losing the audience's interest. Be sure the presentation room is equipped with a projector. Practice ahead of time so you will know where the light switches and outlets are, and how far to distance the projector from the screen.

5.   Models

Models can show the audience a small version of the original plan, such as a model of a building to be constructed. Build it in 3D and place it where everyone will be able to see it. Hold it up high, or place it in the center of a table. Keep it covered until you are ready to talk about it so the audience will not get distracted by it.