Library Study Smart
February 2021
Page 3 of 3
Types and uses of visual aids
westernsydney.edu.au/studysmart
Handouts
This is perhaps another old-fashioned method, but there’s still a place for handouts in presentations. By ‘handout’ we
mean one or more sheets of paper with information relevant to your presentation, that you distribute to your audience
before or after your talk.
Pros
Cons
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The audience can make notes directly on the handout.
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Printing and photocopying costs money.
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You can give out a handout at the
start of your talk and
direct the audience’s attention verbally, without
physical interaction.
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Not environmentally friendly – but you could create and
distribute digital versions to save paper.
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Can
supplement other visual aids, for example by
putting your references on the handout rather than on
the PowerPoint.
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Can distract the audience.
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Can be interactive.
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You need to anticipate numbers and ensure you have
enough handouts.
General tips for visual aids
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Use all visual aids as a prompt, and don’t read them word-for-word to the audience. Trust the audience to read the
information for themselves.
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In
addition to the above, don’t put your whole talk on your visual aids. They need to supplement your speech, not
substitute for it.
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Make sure the audience can see the visual from all points in the room.
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Use a large font – preferably 18pt or bigger – and make sure the text can be seen from the back of the room.
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Don’t limit yourself to text – include pictures, symbols, graphs, and other visual representations where appropriate.
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Allow the audience time to read and absorb the visual.
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Keep your visual aids simple for maximum effect.
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One idea per slide is a good rule for PowerPoint.
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Have a backup plan in case technology lets you down, and be prepared to give your presentation
without visuals if
necessary.
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Practise using the aids in your presentation so you know exactly what to do and when.
Adapted from Inglis, M. (2007).
Unistep. Academic skills guide. (4th ed.). Sydney, Australia.
