Tag: white space

Why White Space Looks Good in Presentation Design

design tips

PowerPoint Design

presentation design

white space

May 22, 2017

Amateur designers tend to overdo their work. They cram every good idea they have into one design, leaving no area untouched. In their determination to not waste any space, they end up creating a noisy composition that buries the most important graphic elements. The result? Clutter, confusion, and chaos.

Fixing a sloppy work is simple in principle, although it’s not exactly easy to execute. As a graphic designer, all you need to do is maximize the use of an element called “white space,” which is a misnomer because it doesn’t necessarily refer to a white space. In fact, it can be any color, texture, or pattern, as long as it’s an unmarked area that makes the crucial points of a composition stand out.

White space is also known as “negative space” because it makes the “positive space” pop by shrinking in the background and remaining there unnoticed. Its general purpose is to provide a breather for the eyes so that viewers can easily scan a page and find what they need. Still, despite the crucial role that this element plays, it’s still overlooked and underrated at times.

Let’s give white space its own deserved spotlight. Let’s look at it not only from an aesthetic angle but also from a practical perspective. What do you say?

The Two Levels of White Space

There are two levels of white space according to density, ratio, proportion, and general purpose: macro and micro.

  • Macro White Space. Obviously, macro white space is larger in volume compared to its counterpart. Plus, it’s easier to notice because it occupies the bigger portion of a given space. Its main purpose is to emphasize the focal points in a composition and give them structure, and its asymmetrical nature allows it to lend any work a more dynamic and candid look.
  • Micro White Space. This refers to the white space that exists naturally between letters, words, lines, grid images, and other smaller graphic elements. Its main purpose is to direct the flow and order of the content to make for a legible and neat composition.

The Advantages of Using White Space

You’d think the advantages of using white space are obvious, but some presentation designers still overlook them. For good measure, go over them here again to fully internalize the importance of this presentation design element.

1. Improves readability and comprehension

The average attention span of a human being is not as long as it used to be, so if you want to attract and keep your viewers’ attention, you need to give them a good reason to stay. One way to do this is by making it easy for them to navigate through your content. Reduce clutter and design a slide in such a way that the viewers can easily find what they’re looking for. Aim for better comprehension and readability. When people have a full grasp of what you’re trying to communicate, they’re more likely to stay and find out what else you have in store for them.

2. Draws the eyes to the most important points

When used properly, white space can minimize distractions and draw the eyes to the presentation’s central points. The human brain tends to put emphasis on design elements surrounded by white space since they essentially cue the audience as to where they should be looking. When you use white space to lead users from one design element to another, you can sell your main points faster and more effectively.

3. Adds a sense of superiority to the design

In the age of digital media, first impressions matter so much more than ever before. To imprint a good brand image on the mind of your audience, you should master the art of simplicity and minimalism. By using white space liberally and masterfully, you can lend finesse and elegance to your PowerPoint deck. Just take Apple and Starbucks for example. These brands glorify the “less is more” principle, and as a result, their products are considered as the paragon of luxury and sophistication.

On the other hand, less effective presentations tend to cram a hodgepodge of things into one tight space. Too many elements clashing with one another tends to cheapen a slide deck’s overall look. Remember, a tidy and uncluttered space looks more impressive than a heavily packed one. Give your content some breathing space and let it speak for itself.

4. Strikes a balance between texts and images

While the lack of white space results to confusion, an excess of it gives off the impression of incompleteness. Be mindful of how you apply white space lest you look incompetent by under- or overusing it. Aim to strike a balance between the different elements in your presentation design. Keep in mind what Mads Soegaard, the editor-in-chief in The Interaction Design Foundation, said, “White space is a great tool to balance design elements and better organize content to improve the visual communication experience…. For that, the white space is the real star of the show, working between the words and the pictures. It keeps each page from looking busy.”

So, there you have it—everything you need to know to care about white space. Now equipped with such knowledge, you shouldn’t look at this design element as “empty space” anymore. Your improved understanding of the role of white space in presentation design should allow you to put it into better use. Remember, the things you leave out are just as important as those you use.

Resources:

Cao, Jerry, et al. “Why White Space is Crucial to UX Design.” Fast Company Design. May 28, 2015. www.fastcodesign.com/3046656/why-white-space-is-crucial-to-ux-design

Lana, Michelle. “Why Whitespace Is So Important in Web Design.” Segue Technologies. September 10, 2015. www.seguetech.com/whitespace-web-design

Soegaard, Mads. “The Power of White Space.” Interaction Design Foundation. n.d. www.interaction-design.org/literature/article/the-power-of-white-space

Turnbull, Connor. “Using White Space (or Negative Space) in Your Designs.” Envato Tuts Plus. July 19, 2011. webdesign.tutsplus.com/articles/using-white-space-or-negative-space-in-your-designs–webdesign-3401

“White Space in Graphic Design, and Why It’s Important.” Printwand. n.d. www.printwand.com/blog/white-space-in-graphic-design-and-why-its-important

Always End Your Business Presentations with a Call-to-Action

call to action

pitching

presentation tips

Rick Enrico

SlideGenius

white space

May 27, 2015

If an introduction piques the audience’s interest, a call-to-action turns possible leads into sales. Speakers usually focus more on creating a catchy introduction than a closing paragraph. Its role in converting audience interest into results is sometimes overlooked in business presentations.

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Your deck’s ending statement is your last chance to leave an impact. At its most effective, it can lead your audience into acting favorably. Done haphazardly, it can either confuse or leave them hanging.

Keep Your Message Concise and Consistent

Before creating a call-to-action, refer back to your slides. Make sure they’re unified and clearly reflecting your business presentation’s main goal.

Include hints in your earlier slides so your call-to-action better fits your presentation deck. This implies your deck is building up to something important.

Provide Materials for Concrete Action

Successful persuasion means giving your audience tools to rely on. Provide concrete information including your website, phone number, and email address.

A call-to-action must include your contact details or it misses the entire point. Even if you’ve convinced them, giving them no way to contact you results in wasted opportunities.

Design the Slide for Maximum Impact

Your call-to-action slide shouldn’t rely completely on your writing but should also be visually attractive and memorable. Draw your audience’s attention by using large font statements, preferably in boldface.

Maximizing the white space onscreen makes the text more legible and striking. The fewer distracting elements they see, the more likely they’ll properly focus on and digest your message.

Conclusion

Communication without results is wasted effort.

Ending your slide with “Thank You” is not a powerful way to finish your speech. Always insert an effective call-to-action to consistently get the results you need.

Looking for more information on designing an effective business presentation? Book a meeting with our presentation design experts. All it takes is fifteen minutes.

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References

4 Important Reasons to use Whitespace. SlideGenius. Vimeo.
“Marketing Presentation Mistakes That Are Costing You Clients.” SlideGenius, Inc. 2014. Accessed May 27, 2015.
“Why Your Calls-to-Action Are SO Important.” White Hat Media. Accessed May 27, 2015.

Featured Image: “With a Megaphone by a Wall” by Garry Knight on flickr

Consider the Eyes: White Space in Great Presentation Design

deck layout

Graphic Design

presentation design

white space

May 14, 2015

In the realm of presentation design, the allure of vibrant colors, striking images, and compelling text often takes center stage. However, one of the most powerful tools at a designer’s disposal is not what you add, but what you leave out. White space, or negative space, is the unsung hero of great presentation design. It’s the canvas that allows your content to breathe, the silent partner that enhances readability, and the subtle guide that directs your audience’s attention.

White space is not merely an empty area; it’s a strategic element that can transform a cluttered slide into a clean, professional, and engaging visual experience. When used effectively, white space can elevate your presentation from good to great, making your message clearer and more impactful.

First and foremost, white space improves readability. When text and images are crammed together, it becomes difficult for the audience to process information. By incorporating ample white space, you create a visual hierarchy that guides the viewer’s eye through the content in a logical and comfortable manner. This not only makes your presentation more aesthetically pleasing but also ensures that your key points are easily understood and remembered.

Moreover, white space enhances focus. In a world where attention spans are dwindling, it’s crucial to capture and maintain your audience’s attention. White space acts as a visual pause, giving the viewer’s eyes a moment to rest and absorb the information presented. This can be particularly effective in emphasizing important points or highlighting critical data. By isolating key elements with white space, you draw attention to what truly matters, ensuring that your message is not lost in a sea of information.

Another significant benefit of white space is that it conveys a sense of sophistication and professionalism. A cluttered slide can appear overwhelming and chaotic, potentially undermining your credibility. In contrast, a well-designed slide with ample white space exudes confidence and clarity. It shows that you have carefully considered the presentation of your information, which can enhance your audience’s perception of your expertise and authority.

Incorporating white space into your presentation design also fosters creativity. It allows you to experiment with different layouts and compositions, encouraging you to think outside the box. By breaking away from the temptation to fill every inch of the slide, you open up possibilities for more innovative and dynamic designs. This can make your presentation more engaging and memorable, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

To effectively use white space in your presentation design, start by simplifying your content. Focus on the essential information and eliminate any unnecessary elements. Use bullet points, short sentences, and concise language to convey your message clearly and succinctly. Next, consider the placement of your text and images. Ensure that there is enough space between different elements to avoid a cluttered appearance. Use margins and padding to create a balanced and harmonious layout.

Additionally, don’t be afraid to embrace minimalism. Sometimes, less truly is more. A single powerful image or a few carefully chosen words can be more impactful than a slide filled with text and graphics. Trust in the power of white space to let your content shine.

In conclusion, white space is a fundamental aspect of great presentation design that should not be overlooked. It enhances readability, improves focus, conveys professionalism, and fosters creativity. By considering the eyes and incorporating ample white space into your slides, you can create a presentation that is not only visually appealing but also effective in delivering your message. So, the next time you design a presentation, remember: sometimes, what you leave out is just as important as what you put in.”

Using White Space in PowerPoint Design—a Closer Look

design

design lessons

PowerPoint Design

presentation design

white space

Dec 05, 2014

White space, also known as negative space, is an essential yet often overlooked element of design. In PowerPoint presentations, white space refers to the areas of a slide that are intentionally left blank or without content. While it may seem counterintuitive, using white space effectively can enhance the clarity, focus, and overall aesthetic of your presentation. It creates a cleaner, more professional look and helps your audience focus on the key elements of your message.

Here’s a closer look at the importance of white space in PowerPoint design and how you can use it to elevate your presentations:

1. Improves Readability and Focus

One of the primary functions of white space is to improve readability by giving the text and visuals room to breathe. When a slide is packed with too much content, the audience can feel overwhelmed, making it harder to absorb information. White space separates elements, helping viewers focus on one point at a time.

How to Use It:

  • Limit Text: Avoid cramming too much text onto a slide. Stick to concise bullet points or short sentences and leave space around them to draw attention to the key ideas.
  • Space Between Elements: Increase the space between text, images, and other objects to prevent the slide from feeling cluttered.

Example: A slide that introduces key metrics can feature a large, bold number in the center with plenty of white space around it, emphasizing the importance of the data and making it the focal point.

2. Creates a Clean, Professional Aesthetic

White space gives your PowerPoint slides a modern, clean, and polished look. Professional presentations avoid overcrowding, ensuring that the design feels balanced and purposeful. The use of negative space can make a presentation feel less dense and more visually appealing.

How to Use It:

  • Balance Text and Visuals: Ensure that your text and visuals are well-balanced on the slide. Place text on one side and a relevant image or graph on the other, leaving white space between them for a sleek, professional look.
  • Avoid Overuse of Graphics: Keep the number of elements on each slide minimal, ensuring that each serves a clear purpose. A few well-placed graphics with ample white space are more effective than overcrowded visuals.

Example: For a product launch presentation, include a large, high-quality image of the product with simple text on one side, leaving the rest of the slide as white space for a sophisticated look.

3. Enhances Visual Hierarchy

White space helps establish a visual hierarchy by guiding the audience’s attention to the most important elements on the slide. It enables you to prioritize content, ensuring that the most critical information stands out.

How to Use It:

  • Highlight Key Points: Use white space around headings, quotes, or data points to make them the focal point of the slide.
  • Use Contrast: Contrast works hand in hand with white space to create emphasis. A simple, bold headline or a key figure on a white background immediately captures attention.

Example: If you’re presenting a quote from a client or expert, place it in large, bold text at the center of the slide with plenty of space around it. This isolates the quote, making it stand out.

4. Simplifies Complex Information

PowerPoint presentations often involve conveying complex information, such as data, statistics, or charts. White space can make this information more digestible by simplifying the design and allowing viewers to focus on individual components.

How to Use It:

  • Simplify Data Visualizations: When presenting data, reduce clutter by leaving enough space between charts, graphs, or tables. This makes it easier for your audience to process the information.
  • Chunk Information: Break down large amounts of information into smaller, more manageable sections, each with ample white space around it to aid comprehension.

Example: When presenting a series of charts, use multiple slides, each focusing on one key data point, rather than squeezing several charts onto one slide. This allows the audience to focus on one piece of information at a time.

5. Enhances User Experience

Ultimately, white space enhances the user experience by making your presentation more visually appealing and easier to navigate. Viewers are more likely to stay engaged with a presentation that feels organized and thoughtfully designed.

How to Use It:

  • Create Breathing Room: Leave room around slide titles, images, and text boxes so the audience doesn’t feel overwhelmed by the content.
  • Avoid Overcrowding Slides: If you have a lot of content to present, spread it across multiple slides rather than cramming everything onto one. This maintains a clean design and prevents information overload.

Example: If you’re presenting multiple aspects of a business strategy, dedicate one slide to each part, with enough space between text blocks to maintain clarity and structure.

Final Thoughts

White space is a powerful design tool in PowerPoint presentations. It not only enhances readability and focus but also improves the overall aesthetics of your slides. By using white space strategically, you can create a clean, professional, and engaging presentation that keeps your audience focused on your message. When designing your next PowerPoint, remember that less is often more—embrace white space to elevate the quality of your presentation.

Breathing Room: Unleashing the Power of White Space in PowerPoint Presentations

powerpoint designs

white space

Jun 25, 2014

In visual arts, white space refers to the unmarked portion of a page or the empty space in-between content. This graphic design element, however, is more than just a passive by-product of a layout design. White space helps create balance and harmony, allowing a canvas or page to look more appealing.

White space is also great for one important purpose. According to designer Corina Ciripitca, graphic artists use it to guide the viewers’ eye and lead them from one element on the page to another. You can also apply this principle to your PowerPoint designs.

Greater impact

Also known as negative or blank space, white space (though, it doesn’t always have to be white) is added to a layout in order to create better structure. As a result, the text or image that the space surrounds generates greater impact. Just look at the sample below: white space  

The image, one of Volkswagen‘s famous ads, utilizes white space to effectively convey its message. Compared to a cluttered design, the advertisement retains only the most essential parts of its message, leaving room for the viewer’s gaze to rest.

This avoids sensory overload, which, similar to information overload, defeats the point of communicating to the audience. Too many things going on can overwhelm your audience and bury all the information under superficial details.

Less clutter

With your slide design, leaving plenty of white space can make a lot of difference. In fact, white space has made such an impact on the design industry that Smashing Magazine‘s Vitaly Friedman and a few other writers wrote extensively on the topic.

It makes the text as legible as possible while allowing images to capture attention. This means that there’s no need to fill your slide’s empty areas with logos or other pointless graphics or text that do not add to your key points. The less cluttered your slides look, the more powerful your message will become.

Better appreciation

Putting too much text and images can drown out the key points on your slides. When used strategically, the white space on your slides will inform your audience instantly where to look. Apart from making your layout easier to follow, it also offers the eye a visual rest. Using white space in PowerPoint designs is probably one of the easiest ways to add impact to your slides. As you put enough blank space

As you put enough blank space around an image or text, you emphasize their importance. In turn, they capture your audience’s attention. Ultimately, even if you don’t know anything about layout design, mastering the use of white space in PowerPoint designs can significantly improve the way you create your slides.

Craft a winning PowerPoint with a simple deck that doesn’t flood the audience’s eyes. Once you’re through with this, you can focus on your pitch and polish your overall presentation.

References

Ciripitca, Corina. “Why Is White Space Good For Graphic Design.” Designmodo. October 13, 2011. Accessed June 25, 2014.
Friedman, Vitaly. “White Space and Simplicity: An Overview.” Smashing Magazine. January 12, 2007. Accessed June 25, 2014.