2. Escape From Flatland A meditation on some of the ideas of Edward Tufte as they pertain to effective presentations By Susan Monagan

3. Feat Defining Flatland Tufte-isms Color 1, 2 & 3 Borders Multiples Performance Featuring:

4. Where is Flatland? Perspective helps the viewer focus on what the artist wants him/her to see; putting data in perspective helps our listener focus on what we want them to see. How do we use the two-dimensional format (screen/page) to connect to the three dimensional world of our viewer?

5. Visuals give context. Picture this… Good visuals present important evidence and rich detail in a digestible format; visuals help frame the conversation.

6. Tufte-isms Write bullets in complete sentences Be sure to include who, what, where, when and why when suggesting a course of action or making a suggestion (context) Do not underestimate the intelligence of your audience Understand the media habits of your audience; plan your presentation accordingly

7. The Vital Role of Color Use colors that occur in nature Using these colors will avoid the nasty connections loud, garish colors have to advertising and cheap product pitches, lending credibility to your presentation Ask yourself, am I teaching, informing or pitching? The objective will help determine the format.

8. Limit the use of bold colors. A neutral background will give bold colors maximum impact. More On Color…

9. Limit the number of colors you use in a graphic. Use the value scale of one or two colors, rather than multiple colors, in a design Color can be a valuable quantifier (such as in elevation). One last colorful idea

10. Watch Your Borders. Simplify.

11. Use multiples to teach distinctions. Our minds like to find differences between like objects.

12. Be creative! No matter the topic. Notice: no borders!

13. More Tufte-isms: Work Hard YOU are giving the presentation: prepare. Prepare for a critical audience, ready to defend your claims and choices. Use videotape to spot flaws and catch annoying mannerisms. Develop metanotes with your presentation to remember to make eye contact, slow down, or drink water. Practice your performance three times, out loud.

14. Preparation = Confidence DON’T be limited by the style of Power Point; DO use the program as a jumping off point for your own creativity DO use design principles to create a beautiful presentation; DON’T forget that YOU are the speaker DO use rich detail and examples; DON’T underestimate the power of great ideas!