Although visual aids can be tremendously helpful, they can also distract from your presentation if nor used properly.

• One big problem with using visual aids such as whiteboards, PowerPoint, or overheads, is that speakers often end up “talking to the screen” rather than the audience. To avoid this problem, make sure you practice facing the audience while handling your visual aid.

• When you are done using a visual aid such as an overhead, remember to remove it. Leaving it up on the screen may create an audience distraction and may make it harder for you to keep their attention.

• Anytime you plan on using a visual aid as part of your presentation, be prepared to handle an emergency. Overhead projectors tend to have light bulbs burn out, computer projectors don’t always project properly, and PowerPoint slide shows sometimes have compatibility issues when transferred from one computer to another. Try to come up with a plan for how to handle these emergencies. For instance, if you are concerned about compatibility issues, save your presentation in different formats or under different versions, or prepare handouts or overheads as an alternative. If you are concerned about the computer projector, see if you can test it before your presentation.