Training course
Charts that
Make the Point
Clear, honest charts that people understand and believe. A one-day course.
Why take this course?
Your documents rely on data, and your charts need to make the point. Too often they look like PowerPoint or Excel defaults, and readers have to work hard to see what matters. You want charts that are easy to understand and easy to believe. And you want to know how far AI can help.
What you'll learn
You'll learn why we use charts, and how to pick the right one for the message. You'll practise four habits for charts: declutter, tidy, emphasise and add narrative. You'll pick up practical formatting in PowerPoint and Excel, so good charts take less time. And you'll learn where AI earns its place: finding the story in the data, and building and updating charts in your deck.
Course content
Why data visualisation works
The benefits of charts, and the SHARPN habits framework applied to data.
Four habits for charts
Decluttering to remove noise and focus on the data. Tidying so charts are easier to interpret. Emphasising key data points to clarify the conclusions. Adding narrative so the data supports the story.
Chart craft
Best practice for basic chart types. Making sure charts do not lie. Using colour with intention. Advanced formatting tips. Data tables that highlight patterns. Workflow tips for Excel and PowerPoint.
Charts with AI
Finding the meaning in the data. Picking the right chart type for the message. Creating and updating charts in your deck. Building simple infographic-style data slides.
How it runs
Format
One day, in person or virtual. Virtual courses can run in any time zone.
Group size
8 to 12, so everyone gets help during the exercises.
Tailored to you
We adjust the content to your team's experience, your template and the kind of charts you create.
What you'll get
What you need
Some PowerPoint and Excel experience
The course is for people who already make charts, but want them clearer and quicker to build.
A paid AI tool (optional)
To follow the AI exercises hands-on. Without one, people watch the demos and still do the rest.
Steve delivered several sessions focused on improving visual communication of information, centred around knowledge and skills associated with PowerPoint. His sessions were incredibly well-designed and delivered. Content was tailored specifically to our audience, visually impactful, memorable, and received excellent feedback from attendees. Overall, I was most impressed with his ability to adapt and tailor his session to our brief, his talent with presenting and working with the audience, and how considered his course design was to support our learners within and following the session. I would highly recommend Steve to any firm looking to support their employees in making their presentations more effective and engaging.
Masterclass
Short on time? Start with a masterclass.
A 60, 90 or 120-minute session for larger groups, in person or virtual. It covers why charts work, how to pick the right one, and the four habits for charts, with plenty of before-and-after examples. We set the length to suit your audience. Longer sessions add more tips, and can include a short practice activity.
Bring this course to your team
Book a short call to talk through your team, your template and the charts you create.
Using AI too?
AI as a Precision Tool applies the same principles in your own AI tool. Use it to plan, build and review slide documents, without handing over control.