Typography That Works

The Golden Rules of Presentation Text

Rule 1: Less Text, More Impact

Your slides are not documents. They support your speech—they don't replace it.

Rule 2: Size Matters

Use text sizes that are readable from the back of the room:

• Titles: 36-44pt (bold, stands out)
• Body text: 24-32pt (readable from distance)
• Captions: 18-20pt (supporting info only)

Never go below 18pt—if you can't fit it at that size, you have too much text.

Rule 3: Hierarchy Creates Clarity

Visual hierarchy tells the audience what to read first:

• Title - The main point (largest, boldest)
• Key bullets - Supporting points (medium size)
• Details - Secondary info (smaller, lighter)

Rule 4: Contrast is Key

• Dark text on light background, OR
• Light text on dark background
• Avoid low-contrast combinations (gray on gray, etc.)

Rule 5: Bullet Best Practices

Do:

• Start each bullet with an action verb
• Keep bullets parallel (same structure)
• Limit to 3-5 bullets per slide

Don't:

• Write complete sentences
• Use sub-bullets (keep it flat)
• Mix bullet styles on same slide

Quick Checklist

Before moving to the next slide, ask:

• ✓ Can someone in the back row read this?
• ✓ Is there a clear visual hierarchy?
• ✓ Have I cut all unnecessary words?