The use of technology is now a prevalent occurrence in the courtroom. Presentations and graphics can greatly increase the effectiveness of your opening and closing arguments, and generally help your jury or judge retain a much higher level of information. Power Point and Graphics can also be counter-productive. That is to say, a presentation can be overloaded with too many colors, data, font types, or bullets that it can become a distraction. The following simple tips can help make your presentations more effective.
Less is More when it comes to Bullet Points
Limit the number of bullet points per slide to no more than 5, and preferably only 3-5. The rule of 3s, based on industry experts, indicates that people will only remember 3 pieces of information per slide. If you cannot deliver your message in 3 points, create another slide with the same title, and continue on with 3 bullet points per slide until you change your topic.
Consider adding a background color, a single photo, or a document icon to reinforce the information you are displaying, rather than adding more bullet points. Avoid using an excessive number of icons or photos in one slide. Rather than reading bullet points verbatim, it is always better to summarize them as you go along in your presentation, and expand upon them verbally. Bullet points are meant to be an outline of your argument, not the main course. It’s very important to make direct eye contact with your audience.
There are also several new features within Power Point that allow you to physically link evidence within your illustrations, or create a pseudo-animation, or an interactive presentation. Once you have a basic outline in Power Point you can then use color and animate your slides to make them “pop” without weighing them down.
Spreadsheet Data Dilemmas
The easiest solution to spreadsheet boredom is to present only the key portions of the data, and summarize the data into chunks using colors. Excel also has a built-in spreadsheet chart converter, which can convert the data into an array of colorful charts. When using the actual spreadsheet, consider breaking it up, and using a photo or an icon, so that the audience can identify with the type of information being displayed. This is especially helpful when multiple parties are involved. Focus on the important columns, exemplify those portions, or highlight them with color.
Graphics and Time Lines
Resist the urge to display every event within a single time line. Consider using color themes within your graphics. The basic idea is to associate a certain color with a particular party, issue or fact pattern in your case. This can also be used for supporting causes of action, types of evidence, key players, or fact patterns which prove or disprove your case.
Limit the data to 12 events per timeline page or slide, so that it will be visible when enlarged to an exhibit board. You can always have more than one exhibit board or slide that encompasses the entire chronology of events. Always choose your breaking points between boards carefully. Finally, always rehearse your presentation and ask your colleagues for their opinion.