Displaying Data

Edward Tufte, Information Design Expert

Slides in our presentations are most effective when they show visual things. This is why we don't want to have much text on our slides. However, there are times when it is good to show data and statistics that will make an impact on our listeners. The problem is, how can we show data wisely? How much data should we show? What is the best way to display the data?


In the next few posts, I will talk about the 5 rules of Displaying Data. I get these rules from Edward Tufte, an expert on displaying data (not only in slides). In this post, I will introduce the 5 rules:

1. Tell the truth
2. Get to the point
3. Pick the right tool for the job
4. Highlight what’s important
5. Keep it simple

Tell the truth

This point might seem obvious. But it is amazing how often data is used to deceive. Sometimes the "lie" is not intentional. But that means we must be extra careful not to mislead our audience. Check and see that the data you display is "saying" what is true.

Get to the point

You are a busy person. Your audience is full of busy people. Don't waste your time and their time by displaying data that is not important to your message. Spend all of your time "on task".

Pick the right tool for the job

The tools we are talking about here are the different ways to show data. Some traditional tools are bar graphs, pie charts, line graphs, tables, etc... Each tool has strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to think about whether there is another tool that can help your message better.

Highlight what's important

Sometimes it is difficult for the audience to know where they should be looking on the slide. Make it easier on them by highlighting the important information. You can do this by making the important information bigger or bolder or with arrows and other signals.

Keep it simple

We have talked about this point a lot on the blog before.Your slides are not meant to show all the information you have. Use a handout if you need the audience to see many details. Keep your slides (and your message) simple and it will have more impact.

In the next few posts, I will show examples of the 5 data rules. For now, look at your slides and ask yourself if you are keeping the rules.

Good luck!