PowerPoint is a powerful tool that is widely used in both academic and professional settings. When preparing a presentation, one important feature that often gets overlooked is handouts. Handouts are a great way to provide your audience with additional information that complements your presentation.
In this blog post, we will discuss what handouts are in PowerPoint, their benefits, and how to create and use them effectively.
What are Handouts in PowerPoint?
Handouts in PowerPoint refer to a set of printed materials that are created as supplementary materials to accompany a presentation. These materials can be printed on paper or distributed digitally to audience members during or after a presentation.
Handouts can be used to provide additional information, key points, or summaries of the presentation, which can be reviewed by audience members later on. In essence, handouts are intended to complement and reinforce the main points of a presentation.
Provides a Tangible Takeaway
This can help them to remember key points and information more easily, and can also serve as a reference for them in the future. Additionally, handouts can be customized to include specific information or visuals that may not have been included in the main presentation, but which may still be relevant to the topic being presented.
Types of Handouts
There are different types of handouts that can be created in PowerPoint, depending on the nature and purpose of the presentation. For example, a presenter may choose to create a set of bullet-pointed notes that summarize the main points of the presentation.
Alternatively, they may create a more detailed document that includes additional information, images, and data that support the main points of the presentation. In some cases, a presenter may even choose to create interactive handouts, such as quizzes or exercises, to engage audience members and reinforce the material covered in the presentation.
How to Create Handouts in PowerPoint
Creating handouts in PowerPoint can be a simple and effective way to provide your audience with valuable information and enhance the overall presentation experience. Here are some tips on how to create handouts in PowerPoint:
Choose Slide Layout
PowerPoint offers a range of pre-designed layouts that can be easily customized to suit your needs. Choose a layout that matches the style and format of your presentation, and which allows you to present your information clearly and effectively.
Design Your Handout
This may include selecting a color scheme, adding images or logos, and choosing fonts and text sizes that are easy to read. Keep in mind that your handout should be visually appealing and easy to follow, so that your audience can easily refer to it later.
Add Your Content
Start by adding any text, bullet points, or key messages that you want to include. Consider using visuals like charts, graphs, and images to make your handout more engaging and memorable. Remember to keep your content concise and focused, as you want to provide your audience with valuable information without overwhelming them.
Add Any Finishing Touches
This may include adding headers and footers, page numbers or other elements that help your audience navigate the document easily. Preview your handout carefully to ensure that it looks professional and polished.
Tips For Using Handouts Effectively
Using handouts effectively is an important aspect of delivering a successful presentation. Here are some tips for using handouts effectively in PowerPoint:
Consider The Timing of Distributing Handouts
Distributing handouts at the beginning of a presentation may distract the audience from the main message of the presentation. Consider distributing handouts at the end of the presentation or after it is finished, as this allows your audience to focus on your message first, and then review the handouts later on.
Consider The Content of Your Handouts
Be sure that the information you include in your handouts complements the main message of your presentation. Avoid including too much text or unnecessary information, as this may overwhelm your audience. Consider including visual aids, such as diagrams or charts, to help reinforce your message.
Consider The Needs of Your Audience
Consider their level of knowledge on the topic, and tailor your handouts to meet their needs. For example, if you are presenting to a group of experts, you may want to include more detailed information than if you are presenting to a group of beginners. Consider their language proficiency and whether they may benefit from handouts translated into different languages.
Consider The Design and Layout of Your Handouts
Use a clear and legible font. Be sure that your images and graphics are high quality. Use headings and subheadings to organize your information. Consider including bullet points or numbered lists to make your information more digestible.
Consider The Distribution Method for Your Handouts
If you are distributing paper handouts, ensure they are printed in high-quality and in sufficient quantity. For digital handouts, consider using a file-sharing platform that is easy to use and accessible to all audience members.
In Conclusion
Handouts are an often-overlooked feature in PowerPoint that can greatly enhance your presentations. By providing your audience with additional information that complements your presentation, you can create amore engaging and memorable experience.
When creating handouts, it is important to consider your audience’s needs and use them effectively to reinforce your message. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this blog post, you can create and use handouts to their fullest potential.
Need help designing your handsout or even your presentation? Get in touch with Mad Creative Beanstalk and we’ll have those sorted out for you with ease. Having helped 100s of startups and business globally, we can fix you up with the best presentations and designs you deserve.
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