Infographics are an extremely effective way to present information visually. With the right design, infographics can simplify complex data, tell a story, and capture attention.
While dedicated design tools like Canva, Venngage, and Adobe Illustrator are quite popular for creating infographics, you can also make compelling infographics right inside PowerPoint.
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to use PowerPoint to create stunning infographics from scratch.
Step 1: Determine the Purpose and Target Audience
Before you start designing your infographic, clearly define its purpose and intended audience.
Ask yourself:
- What’s the key message or story I want to tell?
- What data or information will support this story?
- Who needs to see and understand this information?
Understanding the infographic’s purpose and audience upfront will inform design decisions down the line.
Step 2: Research and Gather Relevant Data
Now that you know what you want to communicate and who you want to communicate it to, the next step is gathering the data and information to support your story.
Spend time researching from credible sources. Collect statistics, facts, quotes, and any other elements that will back up the key messages in your infographic.
Organize the data into a spreadsheet or document so it’s easy to access later.
Step 3: Plan and Sketch the Basic Layout
Before jumping into PowerPoint, it helps immensely to sketch out a rough layout for your infographic.
Decide how you will structure and present the information. For example:
- Will you use a timeline or flow chart?
- What visual metaphors or icons will you use?
- How can you break complex data into simple, bite-sized nuggets?
Play around with different layout options and then decide on the one that best fits your purpose and audience.
Step 4: Choose an Infographic Template
Now open PowerPoint and browse the many infographic templates available. Consider elements like:
- Color scheme
- Typography
- Visual style
Look for a template that aligns with your brand style and fits the infographic’s purpose. The template will provide the foundation, which you can fully customize.
Step 5: Add and Format Text
With a template selected, start adding text blocks for headlines, subheads, captions, body text, etc.
Use the pre-made text placeholder elements in the template. Format the text by adjusting:
- Font style and size
- Color
- Alignment
- Positioning
Group related elements together. Help viewers navigate information using clear text hierarchy and positioning.
Step 6: Insert Supporting Visuals
Next, insert visual elements like charts, graphs, icons, and images to illustrate key data points. PowerPoint has tons of built-in options.
Use simple bar and pie charts to break down statistics. Insert relevant clipart, stock photos, and icons.
Make sure visuals are on-brand, clear, and easy to understand. Simplify complex visuals when possible.
Step 7: Use Color Strategically
Color plays a crucial role in infographic design. Use color to:
- Organize and distinguish information
- Draw attention to key elements
- Enhance readability
Limit your color palette for visual clarity. Reuse colors to link related information.
Step 8: Add Interactive Elements
Infographics don’t have to be static images. With PowerPoint, you can add interactivity to boost engagement.
Use triggers, hyperlinks, and animations to:
- Allow viewers to click for more detail
- Reveal information sequentially
- Make charts/graphs more dynamic
Interactive infographics feel livelier and encourage exploration.
Step 9: Check Flow, Balance, and Emphasis
Before finalizing your infographic, thoroughly review and refine how viewers will experience the content.
Verify that:
- Information flows logically
- Visual weight is balanced
- Key points have proper emphasis
Make any layout tweaks needed to enhance clarity and understanding.
Step 10: Export and Share Your Infographic
When complete, export your infographic from PowerPoint as a JPEG, PNG, or PDF file.
Then publish it on your website, embed it in a blog post, or share it across social channels.
Track engagement metrics to see what resonates with your audience. Use these insights to inform future infographic projects.
Now put your new skills into action and start using PowerPoint to produce captivating infographics! Just follow the step-by-step process outlined above.
