OK, I have a confession: I really like Power Point (and other similar slide-type programs like Keynote). I know some people think it’s overused, and they are probably right, but I still like to use it. And I like it when others use it.

But lately I’ve been around a lot of really bad Power Point. So I decided to do a bit of a brush-up on some good Power Point rules of thumb. I skimmed a book on the topic, and the reason I’m not telling you the name of the book is because it wasn’t all that helpful. But the book did repost a blog by Seth Godin on the topic, which was probably the best part of the book.

I’ve read this Seth Godin blog multiple times already, but it’s still got some good reminders. What stands out the most to me is his rule of thumb that we should never have more than 6 words on a slide. Ever.

I know I break that rule sometimes. I’ll probably break it this week in fact. And you will probably see me break that rule. But I think it’s a great “best practice” to shoot for. Power Point isn’t a way we “tell” the main points our talks; it’s a way we “show” the heart and feelings that motivate us, and should hopefully motivate our audiences also.

What Power Point “no nos” drive you particularly crazy? What other presentation guidelines have helped you and/or do you wish others would follow?