Tables Do not use more than three or four vertical columns, and six to eight horizontal lines in table. The table is not likely to be readable with any more than this. Do not use ruled vertical or horizontal lines. They distract the reader and clutter the slide. Whenever possible, present data using bar charts or graphs instead of table.
Colored graphs are very effective.
Do not show data points unless scatter is important. Presentation Write the talk out in advance so that your ideas are logically organized and your points are clear. At the very least, write out a detailed outline. Cover only the few essential main points, and leave the details for your publication. Give your talk to one or more colleagues, and ask them for suggestions for improvement.