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Slide Guidelines

🎤  Tips for Presenters 🛠️ Slide Guidelines 🤝 Facilitation Techniques  📤 Speaker Submission Form

MSAE believes that variety in visuals keeps learning experiences more engaging for our attendees while allowing presenters to showcase their creativity and individuality. As such, we do not require presenters to use a standard slide template but strongly encourage incorporation of the following guidelines: 

1. Include Logos
  • Incorporate both the event and MSAE logos in your slides, which were provided to you in the speaker confirmation email.
    Please note: MSAE grants presenters one-time use of MSAE’s logos solely for the purpose of their presentation at MSAE's event.
2. Keep Slides Simple, Focused, & Legal
  • Limit each slide to one key idea or concept.
  • Use concise text—bullet points instead of paragraphs.
  • Avoid clutter: too much information on a slide can overwhelm learners.
  • Do not include content that violates any proprietary or personal rights.
3. Use Readable, Professional Design
  • Choose legible fonts (sans serif, minimum 32pt).
  • Ensure high contrast between text and background.
  • Stick to a consistent template for structure and polish.
4. Leverage Visuals for Learning
  • Use images, icons, and infographics to reinforce key points.
  • Avoid decorative visuals—ensure every graphic supports learning.
  • Incorporate simple charts/diagrams to make data digestible.
5. Encourage Engagement & Application
6. Support Multiple Learning Styles
  • Balance visual (graphics), auditory (speaker explanation), and kinesthetic (interactive elements) learning.
  • Use short video or audio clips when appropriate.
  • Help MSAE support Read/Write Learners and Notetaker Learners by providing handouts or resources by the date specified in your speaker confirmation. 
7. Design for Memory & Retention
  • Use repetition of key ideas across slides.
  • Highlight takeaways with summary slides or “What this means for you” sections.
  • Apply the “rule of three”—present content in groups of three for easier recall.
8. Make Slides a Guide, Not a Script
  • Slides should support your talk, not replace it.
  • Avoid reading slides word-for-word.
  • Use them as visual anchors to keep learners engaged with you, not just the screen.