What Makes a Good Presentation for Students

Part 1: How to design standout slides

If you’ve ever wondered what makes a good presentation for students, clear, eye-catching slides are a big part of it. Here are some quick design tips to help you start strong.

1. Stick to one idea per slide

You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s true: less is more. Focus on one idea per slide. This can be a simple statement, a single example, or one key takeaway. This helps you skip long blocks of text and makes your message easier to follow and remember. 

Check out these sample presentation layouts, which are perfect for sharing big ideas in bite-sized, impactful slides. 

2. Show, don’t tell

Images, graphics, and charts can often explain ideas faster than text. Try using:

• Photos to set the scene or show real-life examples
• Icons or symbols to represent concepts or mark new sections
• Charts or graphs to help visualize data

Always remember to go for visuals that support and strengthen your message. 

Explore how to swap long blocks of text for eye-catching charts and graphics with these free, fully editable presentation templates.

3. Choose clear, readable fonts

Stick with clear, easy-to-read fonts and ensure their size is large enough to read from the back of the classroom. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Use at least 24-point font for body text
• Choose simple sans-serif fonts like Helvetica or Arial
• Avoid using ALL CAPS (except when really necessary), as it can come across as shouting
• Stick to one or two fonts for contrast between your headers and body text
• Make sure there’s good color contrast between your text and background

These presentation templates use bold, easy-to-read fonts that keep your message front and center.

4. Use color wisely for contrast

Apply a simple color scheme with two to three main colors: a primary, a secondary, and a neutral (like gray or black for text). Choose colors that work well together and skip overly bright, saturated shades, which can look harsh when projected.

Make sure as well that your text stands out clearly from the background. For example:

• Dark text on a light pastel background or
• White text on a dark, solid background.

To get started, explore these presentation templates designed with color palettes that work well together.

5. Create a clear visual hierarchy

Use text size, weight, and placement to guide your audience on what to read first. Here’s how:

• Use larger fonts and bold styles to highlight key points
• Keep supporting details in smaller or regular text
• Place your main point near the top or center
• Use arrows or shapes to direct attention

It’s also important to use emphasis with intention. If everything is bold or highlighted, nothing stands out. Aim to highlight just one main thing on the slide. 

Use these fully customizable presentations with layouts designed to guide the eye effortlessly.

6. Add a touch of fun and interactivity

Good presentations often encourage questions, discussions, and audience participation. Try adding a quick quiz, a fun game slide, or a moment to ask questions. 

Animated slides and funny GIFs (if they’re on-topic) can also help draw your audience’s attention. Use them to highlight your message without drawing too much attention away from it.

Grab your audience’s attention with these free, editable game-based presentation templates, packed with playful animations and interactive features. 

Part 2: How to present with confidence

Great slides are just one piece of what makes a good presentation for students. How you deliver them matters, too. Try these tips to boost your confidence and present like a pro.

1. Practice until you feel ready

Rehearse a few times to get comfortable with the flow and timing of your presentation. The goal isn’t to memorize every word, but to understand your content well enough to talk about it naturally. 

If you can, practice in front of a mirror, a friend, or a family member. For in-person presentations, arrive early to check your tech. Presenting online? Test your mic, camera, and screen sharing ahead of time.

2. Speak clearly and at your own pace

When it’s your turn to speak, start by taking a deep breath. It’s tempting to rush, but intentionally slowing down helps both you and your audience.

Speak clearly and loud enough for everyone to hear, especially if you’re presenting in person. Remember to pause between main ideas to give your listeners time to absorb what you’re saying. This also gives you a moment to gather your thoughts. 

3. Use confident body language

Your body language can help you feel (and appear) more confident. Try out these tips:

• Stand or sit up straight
• Make eye contact with your audience or with your camera if you’re online
• Smile when it feels natural
• Use hand gestures to highlight key points or parts of your slide

If you’re nervous, which is only natural, look for friendly faces in the audience and present to them. It can help you feel more supported as you go.

4. Connect with your audience

Get your audience involved so they stay engaged. Here are a few ways to do that:

• Ask questions (show of hands in person, or use chat reactions online)
• Add quick brain breaks like a short demo or group brainstorm
• Launch virtual polls or quizzes to get live feedback and interaction

5. Handle slip-ups gracefully

Everyone makes mistakes. If you forget something or lose your pace, just pause, take a breath, and keep going.

You can say things like:

• “Let me go back for a second…”
• “What I meant to say was…”

Or turn the moment into an opportunity to connect:

• “What do you think about that?”
• “Has anyone had a similar experience?”

Being real and adaptable shows confidence and makes your audience feel more at ease, too.