6 Methods of Presentation

Choosing the Appropriate Method of Presentation

Before you start writing, think about the type of information you need to communicate and the different ways of presenting that information. If you’re not sure of the best method, review the following If…Then… table.

If you want to…	Then use a…
List a series of items	Bullet list
Ensure that a series of actions are completed	Checklist
Visually distinguish a paragraph from the surrounding text	Text box
Emphasize key points, define terms, or quote people so that it really stands out	Sidebar text
Communicate large amounts of concise information for easy retrieval	Table
Provide solutions to common problems	Troubleshooting table
Write a simple linear procedure done by one person	Step-by-step procedure
Write a simple linear procedure involving several people	Playscript procedure
Provide a simple graphic overview of how a process works	Flow diagram
Help staff decide on a course of action	Decision tree
Explain how to fill in a form	Form illustration
Show what a computer screen looks like	Screen illustration
Show how equipment parts fit together or are installed	Technical illustration
Warn of potential harm, or provide important information	Warning, caution, or note
Show what something looks like	Photograph
Illustrate a concept or add visual appeal	Graphic
Visually identify a type of information	Icon