11 Tips for
Using Flip Charts More Effectively
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While everyone seems to be
interested in creating high-tech computer generated
presentations, the flip chart still continues to be the most
effective presentation media of all. One should not assume that
investing a lot of money in high tech visual aids & equipment
will "make" your presentation. The best visuals have been and
still are the simplest. Remember, the purpose of using visual
aids is to enhance your presentation, not upstage it.
Since most presentations are
delivered before small groups of 35 people or less, the flip
chart is the perfect size. I feel the flip chart will continue
to be the workhorse of most training seminars.
There are several advantages of
using a flip chart. Here are just a few:
1.
Flip charts do not need electricity -
You don't need to worry if the bulb will burn out or worry that
you forgot the extension chord.
2.
Flip charts are economical - They do not
require you to use any special films or printers to produce
them.
3.
Color can be added very easily - An
inexpensive box of flip chart markers allows you all the
creativity you want.
4.
Flip charts allow spontaneity - Any last
minute changes can be easily made.
In today's world of high tech
computers, fancy software and sophisticated infomercials, many
presenters today feel they have to create a presentation which
shows off their ability to use computers and their latest clip
art library.
Although the software available
today does allow everyone the ability to create colorful slides
and overheads, we often find that the visuals become the
presentation and not the speaker. As a speaker, your visual aids
should not be the presentation. You are!
Even though flip charts are low
tech, they are reliable and don't require any special skill to
use them but here are some tips to help you use them
effectively.
1. The best flip chart stands
have clamps at the top and will hold most type of flip chart
pads. Most allow you to hang your flip charts while some stands
will only allow you to prop them up. Don't wait until the last
minute to find this out.
2. Make sure the flip charts you
use will fit the flip chart stand you will be using. Some have
different spaced holes at the top.
3. Flip chart pads are usually
sold in packages of two and come either plain or with grid lines
on them. Using the pad with grid lines makes your job easier for
drawing straight lines and keeps your text aligned. Also, make
sure the pad has perforations at the top to allow easier removal
of sheets. I have seen many presenters struggle to tear off a
sheet evenly.
4. When preparing your charts, it
is best to first design your charts on paper first before
drawing them on the actual flip chart pad.
5. Lightly write your text in
pencil first before using the actual flip chart markers. This
will allow you to make any adjustments with text spacing and any
figures you will be drawing. Do NOT use all block letters (UPPER
CASE). Using upper and lower case letters makes it easier to
read. I like to use the 7 x 7 rule. Have no more than 7 words on
each line and no more than 7 lines to a sheet. Using a 6 x 6
rule is even better.
6. Use flip chart markers and not
regular magic markers. Flip chart markers will not "bleed"
through the paper. Also, they do not have as strong a smell as
regular markers. You can also find "scented" markers. They
usually come in various fruit scents.
7. Avoid using the colors yellow,
pink, or orange. These are extremely difficult for the audience
to see. Don't make your audience have to strain their eyes to
see your points. Avoid using too many colors. Using one dark
color and one accent color works best.
8. You can write "lightly in
pencil" any notes next to key points you need. The audience
won't be able to see them. You may also write what is on the
next sheet. Knowing this will allow you to properly introduce
your next sheet.
9. If you make any mistakes you
can use "white out" to correct any small errors. For larger
areas, cover the mistake with a double layer of flip chart paper
and correct the error.
10. Have a blank sheet of paper
between each of your text sheets. This will prevent the written
material from other sheets to "peek" through.
11. Properly store and transport
your flip charts in a case or the cardboard box that some come
in. This will protect your flip charts and keep them fresh and
ready to use each time. Take great care of your flip charts. I
have some flip charts I have used over 100 times and they still
look as good as new.
Making "prepared" flip charts can
take a considerable amount of time. Make sure you start
preparing your charts early enough so you can review them and
make any changes or corrections before hand. It takes practice
to learn how to print neatly. If you do not have neat printing,
ask someone who does prepare them for you. A poorly prepared
flip chart can be very distracting.
The most important point to
remember in preparing your flip charts is to start preparing
them early.
Lenny Laskowski is an
international professional speaker and the author of the book,
10 Days to More Confident Public Speaking
and several other publications. Lenny's products can be
purchased "on-line" from this website at:
http://www.ljlseminars.com/catalog.htm . Lenny is also
available for hire to speak to your organization, college or
association. Lenny also provides in-house seminars and
workshops. Why not contact Lenny today for your next function or
event. You can reach Lenny at 1-800-606-4855 or E-mail him at:
Sales@LJLSeminars.com. You can also write to us at: 430
Freeman Avenue, Stratford, CT. 06614-4026, USA.
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