Photo by: fizkes via Canva
Where would we be without our visual aids in training? They support and enhance our presentations. They can be used to emphasize key points, augment understanding of the content, hold learners’ attention, and increase retention. They should be simple, legible, accurate, and realistic.
But guess what? We’re not just limited to multimedia slides. We have other options, like flipcharts and whiteboards. At Langevin, we believe that variety is the spice of life. Seeing different options will make your training more enjoyable and interesting for your participants.
Let’s talk more about flipcharts. They work best for groups of about 5 to 25 people. They can be used to highlight key teaching points, and for brainstorming sessions and group discussions. Another benefit? Once you show a slide, it’s gone. Your flipcharts, on the other hand, can hang on the wall for the entire session. They become a great reminder of everything covered in the workshop.
But how do I use the flipchart? What side do I stand on? What colors are best? How much should I write on the flipchart? Well, great news! In our Instructional Techniques for New Instructors workshop, we share all these answers.
For now, here are our top 10 flipchart tips:
- Use bold colors that contrast well e.g. red and black, red and blue, green and black, blue and black. The colors with the greatest visibility are blue, black, and green, in that order.
- Print your lettering so that it is 1”-1 ½” high.
- Use no more than three different colors on a page.
- Make bullets one-half the size of your lettering.
- Write key words only, with a maximum of seven ideas per sheet.
- Leave a blank page in front of each written page to completely cover the message on the following page.
- Pencil notes to yourself in the margins to jog your memory about what you want to write on the flipchart.
- Create pull-tabs on pages you’ll refer to frequently. For example, dog-ear the corner of a page or attach a Post-it Note to the edge of a page.
- Do not speak while writing.
- Stand to the left side of the flipchart and face learners while speaking. Touch the sheet at the point you will present, then face the group as you talk.
When we start thinking about how we interact with our audio visuals, we’ve already raised the bar in terms of our own performance. With these tips, you’ll take your flipcharts to a whole new level. Even better, you’ll never have to worry about a bulb burning out or losing your internet connection.
What do you do to up your flipchart game?
2 Responses to “Top 10 Flipchart Tips”
Hi Will,
Thanks for the shout out and your very kind words! It’s fair to say these tips have stood the test of time. Wishing you all the best, personally and professionally.
Since attending a course facilitated by Marsha Weisleder and Langevin back in 2012, I have implemented all 10 ideas stated in this article as they have proven to be effective. The courses that are offered by the Langevin group are insightful, inspirational, and professionally rewarding.