Discuss the guidelines for preparing and using effective visual aids in a business presentation.

1. 1 · Open. Visual aids are slides, charts, objects or handouts that support a speaker's message. They support, not replace, the speaker.
2. 2 · Why they help. Better memory (see and hear), clarity for figures, attention, a professional image.
3. 3 · Types. Slides, flip charts and whiteboards, handouts, objects, video, charts.
4. 4 · Preparation guidelines.
   • One idea per slide
   • Few words (6 × 6)
   • Large font, strong contrast
   • Consistent design
   • Simple, labelled charts
   • Check spelling and figures
5. 5 · Choose the right chart. Line for trends, bar for comparisons, pie for parts of a whole, table for exact figures.
6. 6 · Using them while speaking. Face the audience, do not read slides, reveal points one at a time, check equipment, keep a backup.
7. 7 · Sri Lankan example. Carrying a PDF and printouts in case of a power cut, and switching to a flip chart.

Scoring tip: Split the answer into ‘preparing’ and ‘using’ with headings. A small sketch of a clean slide earns attention.