The document outlines seven design principles for effective presentations, emphasizing the use of multiple media and the significance of spatial and temporal contiguity. Key recommendations include maintaining message coherence, using relevant language, and illustrating key points for better audience comprehension. It also stresses the importance of combining images and narration for enhanced understanding while using simple language.

1. 7 Design Principles
Source: RE Mayer, J Sweller et al
To read more about Presentation Theory visit
www.activepresence.com/presentation-theory/
Use Multiple Media
A B
1
£24,300
£856
£1,000
March
May
£24,300
£856
£1,000
B2 = March
D8 = May
Spatial Contiguity 2
Temporal Contiguity
A
B
B
3
Message
Coherence 4
v
Pick The Right Modes5
My important
key message…
My important
key message…
Redundancy 6
Relevant Language7
Illustrations + narration
work better than
narration alone
Corresponding words and
pictures are better
understood if positioned
close together
People find it easier to follow
a line of argument when
corresponding narration and
images are presented
simultaneously
It is important to keep
your content relevant –
focus on the message
People prefer to listen to a
well-illustrated presentation
than read an explanation
A good rule of thumb is:
"If you show it, don't say it, and
if you say it, don't show it"
Use simple, every-day words