This document describes a procedure for producing transparencies or computer presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint.
 

1. Download a Template

InfoMedia has developed a set of custom presentation templates for use with Microsoft PowerPoint. These templates help SLAC authors create 10" x  7.5" overhead transparencies or computer presentations. Start by saving the template to your working folder.

2. Familiarize Yourself with Presentation Anatomy

Before creating your own overhead transparencies using the templates provided by InfoMedia, it may help to understand the basic types of transparencies and their components.

It is typically the case that an author will display more than one transparency during a presentation. There are two basic types of transparencies:

• Title transparency, which contains the title of your paper and the sub-title or author list.
• Secondary transparency, which may include graphics and/or text.

Each presentation template file is set up to create two 10" x  7.5" transparencies; the orientation of the transparencies provided by InfoMedia are landscape (wider than they are tall).

InfoMedia has developed a "family" of PowerPoint transparency templates that have been designed with the goal of creating a sense of a SLAC "look and feel," valuable for promoting a recognizable SLAC presence at conferences while allowing for flexibility of use. Additional templates will be added as needed.

3. Create a Working Folder

Before beginning your presentation, create a working folder on your desktop.

Gather into this folder the things you need:

• Copy of the template(s)
• Graphics files
• Text files you may use as informational sources

4. Import Figures into Your Presentation File

To incorporate external graphics files into your PowerPoint transparency file, the easiest and safest way is to embed the graphic file (e.g., .jpg, .ps, or .eps) into the file. In PowerPoint, use the "Insert - Picture" command. Avoid using the copy and paste command. In most cases you will end up with a screen capture of your image which results in poor quality for printed presentations. If you plan on printing the presentation, InfoMedia suggests setting up your bitmapped (.jpg) files at a resolution of 150dpi at the size they will appear in the presentation.

5. Add Slides to Your Presentation

If you wish to include additional transparencies in your presentation, you can add one (or more) to your template, using the "Insert - New Slide" command. This will apply the master slide style to the new slide.