We are hard wired to notice and be drawn to contrast — things that are different. Sameness and order can suggest peace and serenity but contrast is energy and exciting and our brains were long ago built to pay attention to things that were out of the ordinary. They may have represented opportunity (for food?) or danger (an attack?).
A basic technique I have often used in building slide decks is to first create a logical and ordered structure to the design. This allows my audience to understand the organization and flow of the visual presentation. Then I would add elements or designs that specifically broke this order — that startled and surprised. This creates interest and energy. This is contrast.
We often drone on and on or build slide after slide with the same format or template. Instead, try first building in that needed order and structure — then break the mold with something out of the ordinary to add the spark or contrast that every presentation needs.
This slide and animation shows contrasting type size and color and a contrast between type and background.
Watch the animation here.
