what is a cue card for presentation

• Games, topic printables & more
• The 4 main speech types
• Example speeches
• Commemorative
• Declamation
• Demonstration
• Informative
• Introduction
• Student Council
• Speech topics
• Poems to read aloud
• How to write a speech
• Using props/visual aids
• Acute anxiety help
• Breathing exercises
• Letting go - free e-course
• Using self-hypnosis
• Delivery overview
• 4 modes of delivery

How to make cue cards

• How to read a speech
• 9 vocal aspects
• Vocal variety
• Diction/articulation
• Pronunciation
• Speaking rate
• How to use pauses
• Eye contact
• Body language
• Voice image
• Voice health
• Public speaking activities and games
• Blogging Aloud
• About me/contact
• Speech delivery

Cue cards for public speaking 

How to make cue cards & use them effectively.

By:  Susan Dugdale  

Making good cue cards from standard office supply index or note cards to help you confidently deliver an extemporaneous  speech is relatively easy.  And using them well will lift the quality of your presentation immeasurably. (Truly! I promise you that's not hyperbole. ☺)

What's on this page

Step-by-step guidelines on how to make cue cards and use them well:

• what are cue cards ?
• the benefits of using cue cards
• the materials required to make cue cards
• the 10 features of an effective cue card
• how to write up cue cards - the 3-step process to get from a speech outline to cue cards that work the way you want them to  
• how to rehearse with cue cards
• the difference between cue cards and flash cards

What are cue cards?

Cue * or note cards, used by speakers when making an extemporaneous speech * , are typically handheld. They are about 4 inches by 6 inches in size, with carefully selected and ordered words and phrases written on them. These act as prompt to help speakers remember what they have to say.

* A  cue is a signal or a prompt to say or do something. * extemporaneous speech -a well-prepared speech that relies on research, clear organization, and practiced delivery, but is neither read nor completely memorized.

The benefits of using cue cards

People who do not use cue cards to help them deliver a prepared speech either read it from a word-for-word printout or rely entirely on their memory.

However, both these delivery methods have potential traps for the unwary.

• Reading a speech well is a skill and like any skill it needs work to become proficient at it. Someone who hasn't practiced reading aloud is very likely to be difficult to listen to and to watch.
• Opting to deliver a speech entirely from memory is only effective if you've done enough practice. A blank-out and trying to chase down lost words in front of an audience can be hard to recover from. (There is no safety-net!)

Enter cue cards!

The benefits of using cue cards well are:

• Not being anchored to a podium reading the entire text of your speech. This enables you to freely interact with your audience: -to make eye contact, -to observe and readily respond, for instance to clarify a   point you can see has not been understood, to leave out   bits you can tell are not wanted or needed..., -to gesture and move easily.
• Not being left stranded and floundering because you have forgotten important details, or the sequence of your material. Cue cards are reassuring.  

A well-prepared set of cue cards will give you confidence. You will sound, look and feel more present, and your entire delivery will have more life, more energy! 

For those of you who are nervous about making the transition from the safety of a complete sentence by sentence script to note cards, don't be. Take it slowly. Give yourself time to thoroughly prepare and rehearse with them, and you'll be delighted with the result.

The materials needed

You'll need a packet of standard index cards, similar to the one in the illustration below, a selection of highlighters, (for example, yellow, pink, blue and green), and an easily-read pen. I suggest using one with either blue or black ink.

The 10 features of good cue cards 

The information you put on your cards and how you lay it out is critically important. You need to be able to read and understand them at a glance. (See the illustration below)

The most user-friendly cue cards:

• have ONE main subject heading or idea per card
• have a heading showing which part of the speech the card belongs to  
• are written or printed clearly using larger than usual font   - so you can read them easily
• have plenty of white space around each word or phrase to help them stand out
• use bullet points or numbers to itemize the supporting ideas under the main heading
• are written on ONE side of the card only
• are clearly numbered so that you know the order they come in and it can be a good idea to tie them together .   Use a hole punch to make a hole through the left corner of your cards and tie with a loop of string long enough to allow them to be flipped. The advantage of that is if you drop or somehow get them out of sequence, you're not scrabbling around trying to get them back into the right order and find where you'd got up to while being watched. That can be tough with dozens of pairs of eyes on you!  
• are color-coded to show your main idea, supporting ideas, examples and transitions or links.
• have where props are to be shown . For example: Main Idea One - Supporting Idea - Example - Show slide 1
• have approximate timings marked so you can track yourself through your allotted time. If you find you're going over you can adjust by leaving out an extra example or conversely if you're under time, you can add one in.

Preparing your speech for cue cards

Before starting the cue cards you need to make sure your speech is fully prepared.

The next 3 steps are an essential part of the preparation process.

1. Reviewing your speech outline

Using your speech outline go through from the beginning checking the sequence of ideas, supporting material and  transitions to ensure all your information is in an effective and logical sequence.  (And if you haven't made an outline yet  download and use the blank one available from the link below.)

Have you outlined your speech?

If you haven't got a speech outline already prepared ...

Use the printable blank speech outline template you'll find on this page: sample speech outline . It will make preparing your cue cards a breeze. 

2. Try your speech out loud

Use your outline to try your speech out loud. Say it through as if you were actually giving it and time yourself.

Remember to allow for pausing, waiting for the audience to finish laughing before you begin talking again, and so on.

You may need to edit if it's too long and it's a lot easier to do that at this stage. 

3. Feedback

Once you have the length right for your time allowance, ask a few people whose judgment you trust to listen to you give your speech. Have them give you feedback on its content, structure and delivery, paying particular attention to the introduction and the close.

(For more information see speech evaluation| giving and receiving meaningful feedback .) 

Use the feedback you've been given to rework your speech if you need to.

When you're satisfied you have it the best it can possibly be, you're ready to prepare it for cue cards.

Getting from outline to writing up your cue cards

Identifying good keywords and phrases.

Each segment or part of your speech, from its introduction to conclusion, should be reducible to a key word or phrase.  The phrase or keyword will act as a prompt, or trigger, making you immediately remember what it was you wanted to say.

Before you can write your cue cards you need to go through your speech outline and choose a word or phrase that best represents what each part is about.  

Once you've finished, you're ready to write up your cards using the  1-10 guidelines  above.

Test your cards as you make them

Double check the effectiveness of each card as you write them to make sure you are using keywords or phrases that actually do trigger your memory.

This is also particularly important for links or transitions. Forgetting how you got from one piece of information to the next not only leaves you stranded but your audience as well.

NB.  Be sure to note the names of important people, facts or processes too.

A word of warning

Do not be tempted to print or write the whole of your speech out, then cut it into bits and stick those bits onto cue card sized pieces of cardboard. * It will defeat your purpose entirely.

You'll finish with ridiculously cramped notes that, as well as being difficult to read, stop you from freely interacting with your audience. You'll be head down trying to decipher what you wrote!

* (I've seen it in action! Occasionally one of my student's would try it and the result was never, ever good.)

Rehearsing with your cue cards

You'll find a full page here on ' how to rehearse ' .

It includes notes specifically on rehearsing using your cue cards as well as other valuable tips for delivering your speech successfully.

Now that you've completed your set of cards, please don't shortchange yourself by assuming you are fully prepared and ready for delivery.

To use them well you really do need to practice with them. Before you give your speech aim for at least three concentrated rehearsal sessions and do more if possible.

Cue cards and flash cards. What's the difference? 

The principal difference between them is their purpose.

Flash cards are used to help memorize information for example, vocabulary lists for a new language you're learning, the sequence of events leading to the outbreak of WW2, or the names and placement of all the bones in the human body.

They frequently have diagrams and pictures as well as words on them to make the information easier to remember. 

The goal or purpose of them is instant recall. They are extensively used by students, particularly as part of their exam preparation.

In comparison, cue cards are generally larger than flash cards and have less information on them - just an ordered sequence of a speech's key words and phrases.

Whereas flash cards are used prior to an examination or test, cue cards are used during a presentation. Their purpose is to prompt or remind the speaker to say what they wanted to.

speaking out loud 

Subscribe for  FREE weekly alerts about what's new For more see  speaking out loud  

Top 10 popular pages

• Welcome speech
• Demonstration speech topics
• Impromptu speech topic cards
• Thank you quotes
• Impromptu public speaking topics
• Farewell speeches
• Phrases for welcome speeches
• Student council speeches
• Free sample eulogies

From fear to fun in 28 ways

A complete one stop resource to scuttle fear in the best of all possible ways - with laughter.

Useful pages

• Search this site
• About me & Contact
• Free e-course
• Privacy policy

©Copyright 2006-24 www.write-out-loud.com

Designed and built by Clickstream Designs

What are Cue Cards: A Comprehensive Guide

In public speaking, cue card plays a pivotal role, acting as a silent yet powerful ally for performers and presenters alike. Much more than mere prompts, these unobtrusive cards become a guiding force, ensuring speakers stay on course while providing a safety net for seamless delivery.

Cue cards for presentations amplify the impact of every spoken sentence, contributing to the overall success of the presentation.

What are Cue Cards?

Cue cards are brief prompts that assist speakers in delivering a well-structured and engaging presentation. These handy tools help speakers stay on track while maintaining a natural and confident delivery.

Understanding how to utilize cue cards effectively can elevate your communication skills to new heights. Think of them as compact companions that provide a speaker with a roadmap, ensuring they stay on course while allowing for a fluid and authentic delivery. The beauty of cue cards lies in their ability to distill complex ideas into succinct points, offering a safety net that empowers speakers to confidently convey their message without the constraints of a rigid script.

How do you write on a cue card?

Crafting cue cards involves strategic note-taking, utilizing bullet points, and organizing ideas for optimal impact. Whether using cue cards, note cards, or even going for a blank canvas, the key lies in concise, well-structured content.

Each word, each line, represents a carefully chosen cue that guides your presentation. It's about distilling complex ideas into simple prompts that serve as your navigation through the talk, ensuring a seamless and confident delivery. 

The Role of Cue Cards in Presentation

Maintaining eye contact with the audience is essential for an engaging presentation. Using cue cards effectively allows speakers to balance delivering their message with engaging the audience, creating a harmonious connection between the speaker and the listeners. With cue cards, speakers can maintain a fluid and natural delivery, letting their words resonate authentically with each audience member and creating an impactful presentation.

Practical Tips for Using Cue Cards

Engaging in regular and purposeful practice with cue cards for presentations is a cornerstone for honing your presentation skills. The saying "practice makes perfect" holds true, as the more familiar you become with your cue cards, the smoother and more confident your delivery will be. 

Consider making practice enjoyable by incorporating games and exercises. This not only makes the process more enjoyable but also enhances the effectiveness of your learning experience. Turning practice into an interactive session refines your familiarity with the material and ensures you are well-prepared for any unexpected twists during your presentation.

Overcoming Challenges

Mistakes are inevitable, but cue cards provide a safety net. Learn how to recover gracefully and turn challenges into opportunities for improvement. Embrace resilience and master the art of graceful recovery, turning blunders into growth opportunities

Additionally, in this age of technology, teleprompters stand as invaluable companions. Integrating these tools into your arsenal not only enhances performance but also ensures a polished and uninterrupted presentation. By acknowledging and overcoming challenges with a strategic blend of traditional and technological tools, speakers can transform setbacks into moments that add depth and authenticity to their public speaking journey.

The Visual Impact: Integrating Camera Techniques

In a visual-centric world, the camera becomes a critical element in public speaking. Whether you're addressing an audience in person or through a virtual platform, understanding how the camera operates can significantly enhance your presentation. 

Consider the framing, lighting, and overall composition to ensure that your words and expressions are effectively conveyed. Pay attention to the nuances of non-verbal communication , allowing the camera to capture the essence of your speech. Visual impact in presentations is crucial for audience engagement.

Crafting Engaging Lines for Impactful Delivery

When scripting your speech , focus on crafting lines that resonate with your audience. A well-written script is the foundation upon which your entire presentation stands. Each word should be carefully chosen to convey your ideas effectively.

Consider the rhythm and flow of your lines, ensuring that they are not only easy to deliver but also memorable for your audience. Treat your script as a roadmap, allowing room for spontaneity and connection with your audience, making the experience more engaging and dynamic. Here are some presentation tips with cue cards to keep in mind.

Advanced Cue Card Techniques

For speakers looking to refine their use of cue cards, advanced techniques can make a significant difference. Here are some tips for using cue cards effectively:

• Color Coding : Use different colors for various sections of your speech. This can help you quickly locate information and stay organized during your presentation.
• Highlight Key Points : Bold or underline crucial words and phrases to ensure they stand out. This helps you emphasize important parts of your speech without losing your place.
• Cue Cards and Teleprompters : Combining cue cards and teleprompters can enhance your delivery. While teleprompters provide a continuous script, cue cards offer flexibility, allowing you to glance at key points and maintain natural eye contact with your audience.
• Interactive Elements : Incorporate interactive elements, such as questions or prompts, into your cue cards. This can engage your audience and make your presentation more dynamic.
• Minimal Text : Keep text on cue cards minimal. Use keywords and short phrases to trigger your memory rather than complete sentences. This encourages a more conversational and less robotic delivery.

Turning Ideas into a Game Plan for Effective Communication

Transforming an idea into a compelling presentation is akin to playing a strategic game. Your speech is the playbook, and each word, line, and idea serves as a crucial move. Develop a game plan that not only captures your audience's attention but also guides them through a journey of discovery. 

Use your words strategically, turning each idea into a piece of the puzzle that contributes to the overall narrative. By approaching your speech as a well-thought-out plan, you inject enthusiasm and energy into your delivery, keeping your audience captivated from start to finish. This approach embodies effective cue card techniques.

Navigating the Stage

The stage is more than just a physical platform; it is a dynamic space where your words come to life through movement and presence. Understand the power of stage dynamics for speakers to amplify the impact of your talk. Utilize the entire stage to engage with different sections of the audience, making them feel included and connected. 

Your movements should complement your words, adding depth and emphasis to key points.  Master the art of stage presence and you can transform your talk into a multidimensional experience that resonates with your audience on a visual and emotional level.

Final Thoughts

Cue cards are more than just props; they are tools that empower speakers to deliver memorable presentations. Beyond being a crutch for those stepping onto the stage, cue cards serve as a strategic companion for seasoned performers, guiding them through the intricacies of a flawless delivery. 

Recording videos is hard. Try Teleprompter.com

Recording videos without a teleprompter is like sailing without a compass..

Related Articles

Teleprompter Tips to Enhance Your Communication Skills

Improve your communication skills and deliver impactful presentations effortlessly with our practical teleprompter tips.

Elevate Business Pitches with Teleprompter Apps

Boost your confidence and win the trust of investors, clients, and supporters by improving your business pitches with teleprompter apps.

Since 2018 we’ve helped 1M+ creators smoothly record 17,000,000 + videos

Effortlessly record videos and reduce your anxiety so you can level up the quality of your content creation

The best Teleprompter software on the market for iOS.

Address: Budapest Podmaniczky utca 57. II. em. 14. 1064 🇭🇺 ‍ Contact:

What Are Cue Cards — Definition, Examples and Purpose

• Cinematography Terms
• Screenwriting Terms
• Film Crew Positions

C ue cards are more than just an assist for on-camera actors in a pinch, they’re an essential tool productions can use when their show is changing too quickly for the performers to properly acclimate. Though most frequently used in live television, its origins stem all the way back to black and white cinema. As we define what cue cards are, we’ll dive deeper into its history and how it’s evolved over the years in both TV and film. Let’s dig in.

WHAT IS A CUE CARD

First, let’s define cue cards.

Are cue cards just an analog version of a teleprompter? Does the cue card holder have to write every single card or is that another person’s job? Before we dive too deep, let’s first define the term.

CUE CARD DEFINITION

What is a cue card.

A cue card is a large sheet of paper with an on-camera host or performer’s lines written on them, as a means to help the performer remember what they have to say. They are usually held off-camera, unseen by an at-home audience. The most common use of cue cards can be found in TV variety shows, where script changes are often too rampant and down to the wire for performers to memorize the new line changes.

VARIETY SHOWS THAT USE CUE CARDS:

• The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon
• Saturday Night Live
• Late Night with Seth Meyers
• The Drew Barrymore Show

CUE CARDS 101

A brief history of cue cards.

What may seem like a modern practice actually stretches all the way back to the 1930s. In the sections below, we’re going to go over the origins of cue cards and how it can be utilized in both TV and film.

Cue Cards in Film

In the 1930s, “Talkies” had arrived and for the first time, film actors were facing the premise of memorizing their lines for every shot. This proved especially difficult for older actors, who grew so accustomed to having either their lines read to them by an off-screen production member or relied on purely emoting with their face. 

Cue cards weren’t actually utilized by productions for these cases, but rather engineered by the performers themselves – at least that was the case for film actor John Barrymore.

Around the mid-to-late 1930s, Barrymore’s off-screen lifestyle proved difficult with maintaining his memory and focus on-set, so he started writing “little notes” so that he’d never miss a line.

John Barrymore in 1939, performing a monologue most likely aided by film cue cards

Barrymore soon became known as a “cue card artiste,” specifically for the creative ways in which he hid these cards throughout a film set, with the audience at home none the wiser.

Cue Cards in TV

At the advent of cue cards, they were mostly known as a “dirty little secret” in film production, and considered “cheating” within the acting community. It wouldn’t be until a few decades later, when cue cards would first make their appearance on a TV show set and that perception would change. 

In 1949, a CBS page named Barney McNulty was working on The Ed Wynn Show and saw that the show’s host and star was struggling with his lines. Due to his military past, McNulty was skilled at writing quickly and cleanly, and knew he could utilize these talents to craft cue cards he could hold for Wynn just off-camera.

The plan worked, and the need for cards in TV caught on, with McNulty eventually becoming the personal cue card operator for Bob Hope until he retired. Throughout his life, McNulty became known as “The Cue Card King,” applying this brand identity to his company, “Ad-Libs” which created cue cards for stars like Lucille Ball, Jack Benny, Fred Astaire, Orson Welles, and more.

Cue cards are held for Bob Hope during his famous USO Tour shows

Cue cards vs. teleprompters.

Many believe that cue cards are the predecessor to teleprompters, or that both forms are one in the same. Though they’re similar in their use, the difference lies in the end visual effect for the audience.

Teleprompters (also known as “autocues”) is a digital scroll of text that a performer reads either on a small screen or on the camera itself. Most commonly, teleprompters are either in front of or below a camera’s lens.

The words on the screen appear on a sheet of glass commonly referred to as a, “beam splitter,” placed at an angle so that it may not interfere with the footage the camera’s capturing and so the performer’s eye-line is focused directly to the camera’s lens.

Teleprompter Mastery explores teleprompters for Presidents 

How to make cue cards, cue cards today.

Since its invention, cue cards have now become ubiquitous within TV and film, but no show utilizes or celebrates cue cards more than Saturday Night Live . Their “Barry McNulty” is a cue card operator named Wally Feresten, who’s been writing lines for performers since the 1970’s.

In the clip below, Wally describes SNL’s unique way of incorporating cue cards, from his role as part of the “welcome committee” greeting every new host that enters the show, to appearing several times on-camera. In this case, cue cards aren’t just a necessity for the cast, but a way to inject more comedy.

As Wally and his cards have become more integrated into the show, it’s easy to see them both as “honorary cast members” – appearing beyond just simple necessity, sometimes even in the celebrity host’s opening monologue. 

What are cue cards in the modern era  •  SNL’s Wally Feresten gives a guide

What are subtitles in film & tv.

Now that we’ve gone over cue cards, let’s dive into another essential tool within film and TV: subtitles. How do they work and who gets to write them? Does it change for live events? In the article below, we’ll provide all the answers as well as go over a brief history. 

Up Next: Subtitles in Film & TV →

Showcase your vision with elegant shot lists and storyboards..

Create robust and customizable shot lists. Upload images to make storyboards and slideshows.

Learn More ➜

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Pricing & Plans
• Product Updates
• Featured On
• StudioBinder Partners
• Ultimate Guide to Call Sheets
• How to Break Down a Script (with FREE Script Breakdown Sheet)
• The Only Shot List Template You Need — with Free Download
• Managing Your Film Budget Cashflow & PO Log (Free Template)
• A Better Film Crew List Template Booking Sheet
• Best Storyboard Softwares (with free Storyboard Templates)
• Movie Magic Scheduling
• Gorilla Software
• Storyboard That

A visual medium requires visual methods. Master the art of visual storytelling with our FREE video series on directing and filmmaking techniques.

We’re in a golden age of TV writing and development. More and more people are flocking to the small screen to find daily entertainment. So how can you break put from the pack and get your idea onto the small screen? We’re here to help.

• Making It: From Pre-Production to Screen
• What is Method Acting — 3 Different Types Explained
• Ultimate Guide to Sound Recording: Audio Gear and Techniques
• How to Make a Production Call Sheet From Start to Finish
• What is Call Time in Production & Why It Matters
• How to Make a Call Sheet in StudioBinder — Step by Step
• 0 Pinterest

Cue Cards Keep Speakers On Track

Cue cards ,  also known as   note cards ,  contain either the key points of a speech (or the entire text) to help a speaker stay on track or jog the memory if the speaker has not memorized the speech. They can help the speaker pace their talk for extemporaneous speeches.

If you’ve ever given a speech or presentation and forgotten what you intended to say or in what order you wanted to make your points, you understand the usefulness of cue cards.  The seemingly insignificant reminders written on what are typically small cards can be a lifesaver in many instances.

Table of Contents

What Are Cue Cards Used For In Speech Making?

Cue cards are an essential tool for public speakers and presenters. They help the speaker remember important points, facts, and figures during a speech or presentation .

Using cue cards, the speaker  can maintain eye contact with the audience while delivering a well-organized and coherent message.  They also help  ensure the speaker doesn’t miss any important information or points  during the presentation, which can be crucial when making a persuasive argument or delivering a compelling message.

In some cases, cue cards  assist with transitions  between different parts of the speech or remind the speaker of specific examples or stories they want to share.

Cue cards come in many variations depending on the speaker’s preference. Some speakers prefer to write their entire speech on cue cards, while others only write down key points or phrases. In some cases, cue cards can take the form of a PowerPoint presentation, in which case the slides can prompt the speaker through each part of the speech.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Cue Cards?

Cue cards are an effective way to organize information and create prompts to ensure a speech goes smoothly. That’s not the only benefit of using cue cards, however.

Among the additional advantages of using cue cards are.”

• Helping to  keep you focused and on track  during presentations or speeches.
• Ensuring you remember all essential points.
• Making eye contact and audience engagement easier . By having a clear and concise outline of your presentation or prompts, you can maintain better eye contact with the audience, which helps to build rapport and keep the audience engaged.
• Reducing anxiety and nervousness when speaking in front of an audience. Having key points written down makes it  easier to feel confident in your ability to deliver information  and avoid stumbling.
• As a  reference tool  for future presentations or speeches. By keeping cue cards organized and accessible, you can refer back to them whenever needed, saving time and effort in preparing for future events.

Are Cue Cards Still Used?

Cue cards have been a visual aid staple of public speaking for decades. They’ve been used by politicians, actors, and anyone who needs to deliver a speech or presentation.

However,  with the rise of technology and the availability of teleprompters, cue cards have often taken a backseat.

But the answer is yes; cue cards are still used in certain situations. Teleprompters may have become more prevalent in recent years, but cue cards still have their place.

Improv shows and late-night TV  are areas where handwritten cue cards are still used regularly. Shows l ike Saturday Night Live (SNL)  have teams like the one led by Wally Feresten dedicated to creating handwritten cur cards to help facilitate the performances.

The cue cards for the iconic “Live From New York” show are revered by the show’s performers – so much so that  Seth Meyers, known for his Weekend Update bits, has his final cue card framed and hanging in his home .

Cue cards offer a  level of flexibility that teleprompters can’t match . For example, cue cards can be easily adjusted on the fly if there is a technical issue with the teleprompter or if the speaker wants to make an impromptu change to their speech.

Additionally,  cue cards give presenters flexibility  and the ability to maintain eye contact with their audience while delivering their speech. This helps to build rapport and engage listeners.

What Is The Difference Between Cue Cards And Flashcards?

Cue cards and flashcards are both  commonly used study aids,  but they serve different purposes.

Cue cards, or note cards, provide a speaker with a brief outline or critical points of a speech or presentation. They’re designed to be used as a memory prompt, helping the speaker to deliver their message more effectively.

Cue cards are also typically larger and contain fewer details than flashcards. They’re generally used in public speaking or oral presentations to help the speaker stay on track and remember key points.

On the other hand, Flashcards are used primarily for  memorization and recall.  They’re small cards, typically index cards, that contain information on both sides and are intended for study aids to memorize facts, concepts, or vocabulary.

Flashcards are often used for test preparation and other academic settings. They’re generally handwritten, portable, and a great way to practice active recall, which is the process of trying to retrieve information from memory.

The major difference between cue cards and flashcards is their purpose.

Cue cards are used as a memory prompt for a speaker, whereas flashcards are used for memorization and recall purposes.

Are Their Downsides To Using Cue Cards?

Although cue cards can be helpful, there are downsides if you become too reliant on them. For instance,  reading directly from the cue cards can cause your speech to sound canned and too speechy.

There are things you can do, however, to prevent cue cards from being a problem.

The following public speaking tips for using cue cards as part of your speech can help you deliver your presentation successfully:

• Keep the cue cards  simple and easy to read . This means using large font sizes and avoiding cluttered layouts. Additionally, bullet points or short phrases rather than complete sentences are advisable.
• Practice!  Using cue cards effectively requires a lot of practice before the actual speech. Familiarizing yourself with the content will reduce the need to constantly refer to the cards during the speech. Reading your speech off cue cards word for word will prevent your audience from connecting with you.
• Place the cue cards at the appropriate spot . This may mean holding them at a proper distance and angle from your face. If a camera’s involved, ensure the cue cards are just to the side of the camera and flipped as needed.
• Be sure to  maintain eye contact with the audience  as much as possible while referring to the cue cards when needed. This will help keep their attention on the speaker rather than the cards.

By following these tips, cue cards can be a helpful aid in public speaking without becoming a distraction.

How Can They Be Useful For Remote Meetings, Interviews, And Presentations?

In remote meetings, cue cards can be especially useful as they help keep the discussion focused and on topic . They also ensure that all participants have access to the same information, making it easier for everyone to follow along.

During interviews, cue cards can remind the interviewee of key points they want to make or questions they want to ask. This helps them stay calm and composed while ensuring they don’t forget anything important.

Lorin Harrott

After years as a professional speaker and corporate trainer,Lorin Harrott has turned her attention to sharing her knowledge through writing. She's currently a writer, photographer, and mom in Sacramento, CA, with occasional speaking engagements related to education and STEM topics in the public school system.

Recent Posts

Active Listening Absorbs The Whole Message, Not Just The Words

Active listening goes beyond hearing the words someone is saying to you and understanding the message they are conveying. Many only hear a small percentage of what is being said as they are...

Counteracting Fear Of Public Speaking With Coaching And Therapy

Nearly 75% of people experience the social phobia of fear of public speaking. The result may be nervousness before speaking or a full-blown panic attack. Practicing public speaking may lessen the...

Should You Use Cue Cards When Presenting?

June 20, 2023 / Blog

While there are various techniques to deliver a presentation, one commonly debated tool is using cue cards.

Cue cards are concise notes that help speakers remember key points, transitions, and important information during their presentations.

Need a Presentation Designed? Click Here To View Our Amazing Portfolio

In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of using these note cards and provide considerations for their effective usage.

The Pros of Using Cue Cards

Enhances organization and structure.

Cue cards offer a structured framework for your presentation. By jotting down key points, you can stay on track and ensure a logical flow of ideas.

Moreover, they act as a roadmap, helping you remember important information and ensuring that you cover all the necessary topics.

Reduces reliance on slides or notes

Unlike slides or detailed notes, cue cards enable you to maintain better eye contact with your audience. This direct engagement enhances the connection between the speaker and listeners, promoting active participation and understanding.

Provides a safety net for nervousness

Public speaking can be intimidating, especially for those who experience stage fright. Cue cards offer reassurance by serving as a safety net.

Having concise prompts in hand can boost your confidence, minimizing the risk of forgetting essential details and helping you navigate the presentation smoothly.

The Cons of Using Cue Cards

Potential drawbacks to delivery.

Relying heavily on cue cards may lead to a scripted or robotic delivery style.

Speakers may become too reliant on reading from the cards, which can hinder the natural flow of speech and engagement with the audience. It is essential to strike a balance between preparedness and spontaneity.

Distraction factor

Constantly shifting attention between cue cards and the audience can be distracting. It may disrupt the speaker’s connection with the listeners and affect the overall delivery.

Struggling to maintain eye contact and a natural speaking pace can hamper the effectiveness of your presentation.

Over-reliance on cue cards

Depending too much on cue cards may result in insufficient practice and preparation. 

If you lose or misplace the cards, you risk stumbling or losing focus during the presentation. Over time, over-reliance on prompters may limit your ability to deliver a polished and engaging presentation.

Considerations for Effective Cue Card Usage

Use concise bullet points or keywords.

Instead of writing complete sentences, only jot down bullet points or keywords. This approach allows for a more natural flow of speech and helps trigger the intended message without relying heavily on reading.

Practice and familiarity

Rehearse your presentation with the note cards, gradually reducing your reliance on them over time. Practice will help you internalize the key points, ensuring that you’re well-prepared and familiar with the flow of your presentation.

Alternate techniques

While cue cards can be effective, it’s worth exploring alternative presentation aids. 

Slides, visuals, teleprompters, or presentation apps can provide different ways to engage your audience and enhance your delivery. Experiment with these tools to find what works best for you.

Cue cards can be valuable tools for presenters, offering organization, structure, and a safety net for nervousness. However, it’s crucial to be aware of their potential drawbacks.

Therefore, the decision to use them depends on personal preference and adapting to individual presentation styles. Experiment with different approaches to find what works best for you and captivates your audience most effectively.

Popular Posts

Common Challenges in Tailoring Presentations—and Solutions

Dos and Don’ts of Pre-Seed Pitch Deck Creation

How to Write a Teaser Pitch Deck that Captivates

Tips for a Persuasive How It Works Slide

What Not to Do When Presenting Funding History

Why Raising Funds Without a Pitch Deck Can Backfire

How to Make Cue Cards

How to Structure a Presentation

Cue cards or flashcards are a memory device used in test preparation, acting auditions and oral presentations. They can be a speaker's best friend, but they must be used properly to be effective. Simple techniques are used so information on the cards can catch the speaker's eye at just the right moment to cue memory. Once the cards are created, the speaker should use them to rehearse and revise and edit the cards as needed.

Use Short Bullets

Create cue cards to be short bullets of information. Each card should contain one main idea and keywords as a guide for that specific section of the speech. Avoid writing full sentences, because these are difficult to read while presenting and may cause more confusion when a speaker is nervous. Susan Dugdale, a veteran speaker and speechwriter, explains that a clear presentation also requires eye contact with the audience for a smooth delivery. Writing cure cards with bullets will keep the orator from reading his entire speech.

Color Code Topics

Categorize the cue cards and their information by using particular colors for each topic. Highlight each section of the speech in one color. This will help the speaker's eyes note transitions, and when cues cards are used during rehearsals, the colors become additional memory prompts. Use a bright color to highlight key points and facts that are difficult to remember. This ensures the speaker won't skip them if she feels nervous or rushed.

Include Cues to Guide the Speech

Add cues to the cards that will not be spoken but will assist with the overall presentation. For example, placing a card number in the same location on every card can help a speaker maintain a pace during the speech and will keep the speech note cards organized. Other cues such as "eye contact" and "breathe" return the speaker's attention to the audience when he might be tempted to speed up and just read from the cards. If the presentation has a time limit, it can help to include time estimates on two or three cue cards throughout the set. This keeps a speaker on pace to finish in the allotted time.

Aim for Clarity and Readability

Design and write cards to be easily read at a glance. This is done with neat handwriting in a font size that is larger than normal. Use the white space of a card to guide the eyes to the most important information. Use a “less is more” approach. A card that is cluttered or difficult to read will not be effective and may increase the speaker's anxiety if the facts are hard to find. If the presentation requires the use of visual aids, include prompts on the cards to cue when to display them or draw the audience's attention to them. While it might be tempting to type the cue cards in order to enhance legibility, writing the cards neatly by hand provide the added benefit of improving memory.

Use Transitions to Anticipate Upcoming Information

Place transitional statements at the bottom of the card that foreshadow the information to come. On the last card for each topic, for example, write a brief transitional statement at the bottom that previews what the next topic will be. Motivational speaker Nick Skellon uses this simple tactic to make his speech delivery smoother. By giving himself a hint about the information on the next card, he can start speaking, while making eye contact, as he flips his cards. He suggests using only one side of each cue card.

Practice with Cue Cards

Whether preparing for a test, an audition or an oral presentation, using the cue cards to practice the material is beneficial because it can help identify areas that need improvement. Rehearsing the information with cue cards also helps identify the right pace to strive for and can further aid memorization of the material.

Related Articles

Difference Between a Speech & a Lecture

How to Teach Reading

Four Methods for Delivering Oral Presentations

The Disadvantages of Audiovisual Aids in Teaching

How to Do a Paper Review Presentation

How to Use a Summarization for APA Format

How to Write a 3-Minute Speech Fast

How to Give a Dedication Speech

• Write Out Loud: Cue Cards -- How to Make and Use Them Effectively

Michael Green graduated from one of the top journalism schools in the country, the University of Missouri, where he also received his master's degree in education. Green has taught creative writing, journalism and health and has been published in "Body Balance," "Alive" and "PUSH Monthly."

How to Create Cue Cards for Your Presentations

I’m sure you’ve experienced this before. Butterflies in your stomach, palms clammy, knees weak, arms are heavy. On the surface you might look calm and ready to nail that presentation. But you keep on forgetting the content in your slides. I mean, you did spend a ton of time working on them. How could you forget these slides? These things happen. To prevent this from happening again, you  need to learn how to create cue cards for your presentations.

Watch this quick video to learn everything about creating cue cards for your presentations:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by SlideBazaar | PowerPoint Templates (@slidebazaar)

Cue cards can be the unsung heroes of your next presentation, and they can help you deliver a smooth confident presentation. No, cue cards are not just for forgetful stand-up comedians. Here’s how you can use cue cards to remember your presentation material better:

Creating Your Cards:

When creating cue cards, ditch the full script. During the presentation, if you’re going to look at a card full of sentences, you’re just going to be more confused. Instead, just jot down key points and reminders. Think of them as cheat sheets for your memory, not complete manuscripts.

Don’t even write full sentences. Write single words or short phrases that trigger your memory. In a presentation about global warming, just noting down “Greta” should be enough for you to talk about her work.

Choose a card size that is comfortable. Write clearly in large, easy to read handwriting. You can even use different colors for different sections, or use highlighters.

Never write on both sides of your cue cards. You will end up fumbling on stage, and continously turning your cards over looking for the information you need.

Also, remember to always number your cards to maintain the right order. This will prevent frantic shuffling and panicked mid-presentation searches.

Cue Card Confidence:

You should practice reading your cue cards before your presentation. My advice is to find a comfortable way to hold them. Stand in front of a mirror, and practice using them. Get comfortable with the flow, and iron out any awkward moments before the big day.

Remember that cue cards are more of a safety net, not a script. You should not be staring at them all the time. Use them subtly, glance down quickly, and most importantly, maintain eye contact with your audience.

With your cue cards by your side, feel free to improvise. Even if you go off-script, you can always rely on your cue cards to bring you back on track.

Cue cards may seem like a simple tool, but they can be your secret weapon for delivering polished engaged presentations. Remember to rehearse well before using them, who knows, maybe you won’t have to use them during your presentation. So get your cue cards ready and have an amazing presentation!

At SlideBazaar, we help you create engaging and memorable presentations. Choose from our collection of professional templates or opt for our custom design services for a personalized touch. Your presentations deserve to be elevated to new heights, and we’re here to help you achieve just that!

BROWSE BY CATEGORY

• PowerPoint Templates
• Keynote Presentations
• Infographic
• Free slides

QUICK LINKS

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• DMCA Policy

EMAIL NEWSLETTER

Get updates of our PowerPoint templates and slide designs before anyone else.

Get a custom-made presentation tailored to your needs. Learn more about how our bespoke services can enhance your next project.

Using Cue Cards During Your Presentation

This is a widely-used practice to use cue cards while giving a speech in front of a big audience. There are lots of form cue cards have been associated with public presentations. However speaking about cue cards you will meet not only their fans. Some people avoid using them considering this approach totally incorrect. But most speakers tend to embrace this concept happily. Everything depends on a particular person and his or her choice. So next time when you hesitate, we recommend you to weight carefully all pros and cons of using such cards. Your choice will help you go to the stage well prepared and confident either with cue cards or without them.

Cue cards are tiny piece of paper carrying major points of the entire presentation which you deliver to people. PowerPoint is a great application helping you to create any design you like.

Advantages:

• You will memorize the speech easily.

• The pressure will take off.

• Cards will serve as reference material so you will never lose your plot.

• Cards will prevent you from unnecessary hand gestures and movements.

• You will look self-confident and professional.

• Your speech will be filled with pauses thanks to cards.

Disadvantages:

• Some listeners may feel disconnected with the speaker.

• Speaker’s focus may be shifted.

• Speaker has to be extremely caution for not spoiling the general impression.

• By SmileTemplates
• Posted September 15, 2014
• Inserting vector graphics into Microsoft PowerPoint
• Postcard Templates - Different Design Options for Postcards
• Google Slides – Adding Transparent Or Faded Background
• Business Card Templates - Create Consistency
• Postcard Templates - Find Your Audience
• Most Viewed
• PowerPoint For Mac – How To Record Movements Of Laser Pointer
• Poster Templates - How to Find Templates Online
• How To Rotate Pie Charts In PowerPoint Presentations
• Can Shapes Be Unmerged In PowerPoint?
• The Fastest Way To Remove Transitions In PowerPoint Presentations
• General (1517)
• Powerpoint (1012)

Sign up for a SmileTemplates account

Log in as a user

Facebook Google

• Using notes when presenting – best practice

Successfully persuading an audience

How do you use acronyms in presentations?

This article contains best practice tips and answers to the most common questions related to using notes when presenting.

Using notes within a presentation is a topic that regularly gets asked about during my presentation skills training sessions. (Both novice and experienced speakers have LOTS of questions about when and how to use notes during a presentation!).

To help you use and format your presentation notes in the most useful way, I have collated some of the most common questions (and answers) that I get asked relating to using notes during a presentation or speech.

I hope that you find these best practice tips for using notes when presenting useful, and please keep checking back, as I will add to this article as more questions come up.

Want to watch this article as a video?

Key questions related to using notes when presenting (click each question to jump to it).

Should I use notes when presenting?

What are the benefits of using notes in a presentation.

Do I have to hold presentation notes in my hand?

How should I format my presentation notes?

How do i make cue cards for my next presentation, should i have my presentation notes on my phone, how should i use notes when presenting online, what is the most important thing to remember when using notes in a presentation.

One of the most common questions asked by speakers that are keen to grow and develop is: “Should I use notes when presenting?”.

Notes should always be used if they increase your ability to deliver your message clearly, confidently and concisely.

Why? Remember your public speaking goals.

For a successful speaker, the goal is always to impart their message in a clear, concise and confident manner. If you do not achieve this, then your message is unlikely to be heard, and your audience will not be able to act upon it.

Think of all of the presentations or speeches that you have attended in your life. It is highly unlikely that you wanted the speaker to become confused, forget their words and not be able to deliver their message. That would have been a waste of time for you and them, and likely   have made you both feel incredibly uncomfortable.

Your audience wants you to succeed. They want to hear your message.

If you need to have notes to successfully deliver your message or presentation, then go for it.

Using notes for your next presentation guarantees that you will be able to recall and deliver your message clearly, confidently and concisely as you will always have something available to refer to, if you get stuck or forget your words.

Your audience wants you to succeed and deliver your message. They would therefore prefer that you have notes and are able to deliver your message, than not have notes and not be able to complete the presentation.

You should always have notes to support you as a speaker, if you feel you need them.

Rich shares his thoughts on this question in this recent video...

Click the video to watch this question answered by Rich Watts, public speaking expert and 2x national public speaking champion.

To view more public speaking tips videos, visit our Rich Public Speaking Instagram account here.

Do I have to hold my presentation notes in my hands?

If you feel confident that you won’t need to consult your notes every few seconds, then you may benefit from having your notes nearby (for if you need them), but not permanently in your hands.

For example, you may wish to have a copy of your notes stored in your jacket or trouser pocket, or on a table nearby. Then, if you need them, they can be easily consulted. However, if you do not need to consult these ‘hidden’ notes, then the audience will never know that they existed, and you will appear as a super confident speaker, with your whole speech or presentation memorised!

Think of this set of hidden notes as a safety net - there if you need them, but hopefully you won’t!

Remember that your cue cards or presentation notes are a visual element of your presentation. Their appearance to the audience can impact your success as a speaker.

Our audience makes conscious and unconscious judgements about our abilities as a speaker, based on our visual appearance. How would you feel about someone wearing mechanics’ overalls undertaking open heart surgery on you? Similarly, how would you feel about a person in a formal suit and tie completing structural works on your home?

Your notes should reflect positively on you as a speaker.

Best practice tips for cue cards for a presentation include:

Ensure that your notes are printed or written on good quality card., the reverse of the card (facing the audience) should be blank..., keep your cards small (a5 size is ideal)..., keep the number of note cards that you have to a minimum..

• The best format for presentation notes is a set of short prompts that trigger your brain to recall the sentences and messages that you want to impart. Ideally they should be a list of words that will aid your recall. Your rehearsals will ensure that your brain recognises the words on your note cards, and can then recall the rest of the sentence, paragraph or message that you want to present.
• Avoid writing out long sentences or every word of your presentation. This will increase the chances of you simply reading your presentation off of your notes. If you do this, you are unlikely to build rapport or engagement with your audience as you will not be able to make eye contact with them as you present.
• Your prompts within your presentation notes should always be clearly written and well-spaced. Check that you can read them from a distance, without squinting or straining, to avoid any confusion or distraction when you are presenting on the day.

It is becoming increasingly common for presenters to refer to notes that they have written on their phone, whilst they present.

Opinion is split on doing this. Some people believe that it appears lazy and informal, whilst others recognise it as an efficient and useful way to successfully present.

For now, as a speaker you will need to make an informed decision about the opinions of your audience before using notes from a phone or iPad. If you are in any doubt, avoid using a phone or tablet for notes, as you do not want it to frustrate your audience or distract from your message.

Generally, for more formal events it is recognised that using printed, well-formatted notes is preferable. For shorter, more informal gatherings, reading notes from a phone or tablet is viewed as more acceptable.

This will likely change further over time.

Presenting online is becoming increasingly common, but the challenge of remembering your key messages and using notes remains.

Many online presentation platforms, such as Zoom and Google Meets, allow you to have notes open on a separate screen or monitor, that is not shared with the audience online. However, many of us do not have multiple monitors or screens available to us, and if we do, breaking eye contact and regularly turning our head to the side to consult notes is certainly not viewed as presentation best practice.

The best way to format your notes when presenting online is to have a digital note positioned on your screen just below your camera. If you cannot have a digital note because you are sharing your screen with your audience, then place a handwritten or printed note just above and behind your camera. This can be consulted without seeming to break eye contact with your online audience.

The most important thing to remember about using notes in a presentation is that using notes is a must, if you feel that they will improve or guarantee your ability to deliver your message clearly, confidently and concisely.

Your audience will thank you for it - they want to hear your message.

For more best practice tips and advice, please consult our public speaking blog here .

If you have a question about any area of public speaking that you would like answered, please contact us here.

Dressing for presentation confidence

Tips for positive body language when presenting

Comments are closed.

Create effective cue cards

Having well-organized cue cards gives you added security when you take the stage. However, if you keep your eyes glued to your cue cards, you may neglect to inject gestures and facial expressions into your presentation. Follow these tips to write cue cards that aid—not hamper—your speech: 

• Don’t write out your entire speech. Include an outline and word prompts to jog your memory—don’t jot down every word. 
• Write in short phrases. Use only a few words per line so that you can quickly glance at the cards and continue speaking.
• Write big. Make your cues easy to see with large print. 
• Use one topic per card. That will allow you to easily organize your thoughts and skip over topics if you are running short on time.
• Number your cards to keep them in the right order.
• Cue visual aid usage. Write on the cards where you plan to use visuals.

—Adapted from “Cue Cards: How to Make and Use Them Effectively,” Susan Dugdale, www.write-out-loud.com. 

WHAT TO READ NEXT

8 tips for your speaker cue cards

You’re about to present. Some of us like it. Some of us can’t sleep anymore. Speaker cue cards are there to give you support and trust throughout your presentation. From TV presenters with years of experience to junior professionals that have to give their first presentation. Regardless of your experience, the following 8 tips will help all of us:

1. Keywords

Prevent yourself from writing down entire sentences. In essence you know what to say. Trust yourself with that. Remember that YOU are the expert on your subject.

2. Whitespace

Keep sufficient whitespace on your cards. It is calmer to the eye and will help you to easily browse through your keywords. Next to that it allows you to scribble down last-minute thoughts.

3. Speaker names

When you’re in charge of announcing or thanking speakers, then write down names. In the heat of presenting, you can easily forget the most logical things.

4. Speaker pictures

In line with the previous tip, you might also want to add [LinkedIn] portrait pictures of speakers. This way you won’t mix up names with people.

5. Slide screenshot

A tiny slide screenshot reminds you of where you are in your [PowerPoint] storyline. Plus it helps you not to forget to click through to the next slide.

6. Time indication

On paper a story is always shorter than when telling it out loud [!]. Write down your time slot per item in the top right corner. Nothing is as stressful as having to catch up time.

7. Personal presentation

Don’t hold a crumpled piece of paper, but use a carton card instead. The backside of your speaker card can carry the logo of the organisation. It’s all about that first [professional] impression!

8. Tablet alternative

A tablet, compared to carton speaker cue cards, can be a little challenging to hold and operate while you’re presenting. Especially when also holding a microphone. Cards are easier to hold , to store and to put aside throughout your presentation.

Bonus tip: use technology

In addition to the tips mentioned above, technology can also provide solutions to enhance your presentation experience. Sendsteps.ai is an AI presentation maker that allows you to engage with your audience in real-time, making your presentation interactive and more memorable. With Sendsteps.ai, you can create interactive presentations that your audience can participate in using their mobile devices, creating a more dynamic and engaging presentation. It also provides real-time feedback, allowing you to adjust your presentation as needed. With Sendsteps.ai, you can transform your presentation from a one-way communication to a two-way conversation, making it more impactful and effective. Whether you are a seasoned presenter or a beginner, Sendsteps.ai can help you deliver a more engaging and memorable presentation.

Robert Daverschot

Robert is a professional moderator, presenter and speaker coach. Robert has years of experience at home and abroad and works for a broad range of industries. He has interviewed ministers, captains of industry and even His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In his dealings with the audience, he always uses Sendsteps. With it, an audience is able to voice their opinions, whereby attendees can cast votes or send in comments to speakers and panels on stage. As such, events turn into lively dialogues with everyone being able to speak up!

• Public Speaking Kit
• Useful resources
• Presentation slides check

Cue cards for webinars

Using cue cards may be helpful to use during your live webcast presentation. No large papers flapping in front of you, distracting your audience and possibly causing uncertainty if the pages are in the right order. As simple cue card my help. 

Make sure you number the cards if you are using more than one cue card during your webinar. Don’t put too much text on a cue card as this will also work distracting and there is a greater chance that your speech or presentation is nog looking spontaneous.

• Scroll to top

Newly Launched - AI Presentation Maker

Researched by Consultants from Top-Tier Management Companies

AI PPT Maker

Powerpoint Templates

Icon Bundle

Kpi Dashboard

Professional

Business Plans

Swot Analysis

Gantt Chart

Business Proposal

Marketing Plan

Project Management

Business Case

Business Model

Cyber Security

Business PPT

Digital Marketing

Digital Transformation

Human Resources

Product Management

Artificial Intelligence

Company Profile

Acknowledgement PPT

PPT Presentation

Reports Brochures

One Page Pitch

Interview PPT

All Categories

How to Create Cue Cards in PowerPoint in Just 5 Minutes

Hanisha Kapoor

Back with another fun tutorial for you all. This time, we are going to teach you to create something which is commonly used. Teachers, TV Presenters, Anchors use them more often. You and I may also have used them at some point of time in our childhood days.

These are known as Cue Cards.

Yes, just like the above image. Cue cards can easily fit in pockets, are easy to carry, easy to use and very helpful in taking the notes. You can jot down important things, you can confidently talk about something in public or in person with the help of the cue cards in your hands.

As easy they are to carry, you will find much easier to create cue cards in PowerPoint.

Now, without further ado, let’s show you the simple steps to create one for yourself.

Here are the steps:

• Insert a Rectangle. Go to INSERT> SHAPES> RECTANGLES> RECTANGLE .

• Adjust the Size and Position of the R To do so, Right Click the Rectangle> SIZE AND POSITION . Make Height 4” and Width to 6”.

• Again Right Click the Rectangle, FORMAT SHAPE> SHAPE OPTIONS> FILL> GRADIENT FILL . Choose LINEAR TYPE . Go for DIAGONAL, LEFT OR RIGHT from DIRECTION option.

For Gradient Fill, there are THREE STOPS .

For Stop 1 , Color: white, Position: 100%

For Stop 2 , Color: Off white (white, darker 5%), Position: 50%

For Stop 3 , Color: white, Position: 0%

Take a look at the below image.

• Let’s give an Outline to the R Right Click the Rectangle, FORMAT SHAPE> SHAPE OPTIONS . Select LINE OPTION present below the FILL OPTION. Choose SOLID LINE> COLOR OFF WHITE, DARKER 15%> WIDTH 0.25% .

• Give Shadow to the shape. Right Click the Rectangle, FORMAT SHAPE> SHAPE OPTIONS> EFFECTS> SHADOW> PRESETS> OUTER> OFFSET DIAGONAL BOTTOM RIGHT .

The Cue Card is half ready.

Now, we just need to add some lines on it.

• Insert a Line. Go to INSERT> SHAPES> LINES> LINE . Remember to press the Shift Key when adding lines on the Cue Card in order to get the straight lines.

• Once you are done adding the Lines, select all the Lines, go to ARRANGE> ALIGN> DISTRIBUTE VERTICALLY .

• Again, select all the Lines, Right Click the Lines> OUTLINE> RED COLOR or Color of your choice.

The Cue Card is completely ready now.

Go ahead and give it a try now.

In case, you are in hurry and looking for some professionally designed different kinds of Cards then we have them too. Take a look.

Professionally Designed Different Kinds of Cards Templates

Professional PowerPoint Template #1

Click here to download this awesome Cue Card PowerPoint Diagram.

Professional PowerPoint Template #2

Grab this amazing Identity Card PowerPoint Template by clicking here .

Professional PowerPoint Template #3

Grab this eye catching Identity Card PowerPoint Template.

Professional PowerPoint Template #4

Download this amazingly designed Cue Card PowerPoint Template, add your content and set a right impression on your audience.

Professional PowerPoint Template #5

Grab this professionally designed Thank You PowerPoint diagram by clicking here.

Professional PowerPoint Template #6

Click here to download this creatively designed Thank You PowerPoint Template.

Professional PowerPoint Template #7

Grab this amazing PowerPoint Template by clicking here .

Liked our eye grabbing PowerPoint designs. Go through our website and find more awesome designs which can help you with your presentation.

Stay tuned for more fun and creative PowerPoint Tutorials.

Want to add a professional touch to your next business presentation? Get in touch with our Presentation Design Agency .

Related posts:.

• How to Quickly Find the Best Content for Your Presentation on SlideTeam
• How To Create an Awesome PowerPoint Presentation in 3 Steps
• How Icons Can Give a Complete Makeover to Your Slides & Make Them Look Sexy!
• Why Bullet Points Are Not That Bad After All!

Liked this blog? Please recommend us

10 Simple Steps to Create a Stunning Filmstrip Effect in PowerPoint

5 Steps to Create a Calendar in PowerPoint and Add Reminder Notes To It

This form is protected by reCAPTCHA - the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

--> Digital revolution powerpoint presentation slides

--> Sales funnel results presentation layouts

--> 3d men joinning circular jigsaw puzzles ppt graphics icons

--> Business Strategic Planning Template For Organizations Powerpoint Presentation Slides

--> Future plan powerpoint template slide

--> Project Management Team Powerpoint Presentation Slides

--> Brand marketing powerpoint presentation slides

--> Launching a new service powerpoint presentation with slides go to market

--> Agenda powerpoint slide show

--> Four key metrics donut chart with percentage

--> Engineering and technology ppt inspiration example introduction continuous process improvement

--> Meet our team representing in circular format

• Free Magazines

Communication Skills - Cue Card Guidelines

To maximize the benefits of cue cards there are several basic guidelines that you should use when creating your own:

1. Clearly number the cue cards 2. Only write on one side 3. One key point per card 4. Each card should contain adequate support and cues 5. Logical levels can be shown by alterations in font size, spacing, color, or highlighting 6. Include timings and pauses.

The first principle is to ensure that a clear and unambiguous numbering convention is applied to all of the cards so that if you drop them you can quickly re-arrange them into the correct sequence.

By only using one side of each card you avoid the distracting behavior of flipping and manipulating cards. It helps prevent you wondering whether or not you have addressed both sides of each card. Clarity is further supported by only communicating one theme or idea on each card.

This way, when you have covered the point you will be confident that you can move on to the next card without having to re-scan the cards, which can be very distracting. It also stops you putting so much detail on the card that you end up reading from it or continually referring to it. This would be distracting and would also reduce your eye contact with the audience.

Cue cards usually evolve during the rehearsal stage and become simpler as you become more familiar with the material. So don't worry if initially they appear to have too much information. You will often find that after two or three rehearsals they are much briefer, with only one or two words where you previously had a sentence.

Use a large font and double-spacing so that the cue cards are easy to read, enabling you to take in the information at a glance. Use color-coding to identify lower-level information that could be dropped if the allocated time is suddenly shortened or you find yourself overrunning. For example, you might use black for all the essential information and red for topics that could be omitted without compromising the integrity of the message.

Many presenters have their own personal shorthand system - for example, a smiley face symbol could be placed at strategic points on your cue cards to remind you to make contact with the audience and smile. This is something you can develop yourself over time. The effectiveness of your delivery when presenting from a list of points is directly related to the amount of time you devote to preparing and rehearsing. You need to plan sufficient time so that you become familiar with the content and your words flow naturally.

Presenting in this style allows the audience to view you as someone who owns the information and is knowledgeable about it, as opposed to someone who is simply passing on information. Cue cards also enable you to adjust the way you speak with regard to your use of technical terms and jargon to match the level of understanding in the audience.

Cue cards enable you to maintain eye contact with the audience and to speak at a fairly natural pace. Because the words are coming from within you, you will be able to naturally change the way that you put the material across in real time depending on the feedback you receive from the audience. This also means that you will have the opportunity to go over certain key points if you feel that they have not been well understood.

Pace plays an important part in the effectiveness of your delivery. It is usually quite clear when the audience wishes you to speed up or slow down and explain points more fully. You will find that when you come to a difficult point you naturally slow down because the words do not come as easily to you. The audience will respond to this change in pace by concentrating a little harder on what you are saying because they intuitively know this is an important or difficult point they need to understand.

Similarly, when you are covering material that is relatively straightforward, the words come more easily and you speak more quickly. This is perfectly acceptable to the audience because they are not struggling to understand something complicated. Nobody expects you to deliver your presentation at exactly the same pace from start to finish. In fact, the presentation will have much more impact if you change the pace to match the complexity or importance of the points you're putting across.

Allocating sufficient time to rehearse your presentation ensures that you are familiar with the topic so that you don't need exact wording on your cards. This familiarity prevents you from becoming lost for words or interrupting the flow of your presentation, reducing the likelihood that you will become flustered.

You may also be interested in: Giving a Management Presentation | Styles of Presenting | Developing a Persuasive Delivery Style | How to Rehearse | Reading Your Audience | Retaining Control in a Presentation | Question and Answer Session | Importance of the Presentation Venue | Presentation Venue Layout .

• About Our Newsletter
• Cookies and Privacy
• Management eBooks
• About eBook Formats
• Management Templates
• Management Checklists

To Embrace Or Avoid Using Cue Cards in A Speech

Public speeches and cue cards have been together ever since the process began. Although cue cards are also used in a variety of other forms they have been associated with speeches more often than not. There has always been a split between both audience as well as public speakers about the usage of cue cards. Some consider it incorrect while some happily embrace the concept.

Although it is a personal choice but, you should weigh the pros and cons of using cue cards before getting on stage with or without them. Cue cards, are basically small pieces of paper cut uniformly carrying either the key points or the entire speech that you are about to deliver.

Cue Cards come with their set of advantages and disadvantages and thus it is entirely up to you whether or not they would be a part of your speech.

Advantages of using cue cards

First of all using cue cards takes off the pressure that comes with memorizing the speech. It is not necessary to write down everything that composes your speech and then not preparing for the speech, because that would hamper your flow during the speech and that makes you look unprepared. It is always useful to keep the cards as reference material just in case you lose the plot.

When you are holding your cue cards, it prevents unnecessary hand movements thus improving your body language and enhancing the speech delivery style by leaps and bounds.

Cue cards also induce pauses in your speech, which is a good thing because you are delivering a speech not reading out a paper and pauses play a vital role in improving the speech delivery process. The pauses are induced when you look down at your cards for reference. This makes your speech delivery better.

Disadvantages of using cue cards

Cue cards may give an impression that you are not prepared and are not well informed about the topic at hand. This affects your connection with the audience in a negative way, as the audience would shift its focus from the content you have to offer, to your style and the mistakes you make.

When using cue cards you need to practice extreme caution not to wander off track, since doing that would make things worse and leave a permanent dent on your public speaking career.

Although cue cards have a mixed response and different individuals would have an opinion of their own, it is entirely up to you whether to use them or not. If you can handle your own then go for it and if not then practice as much as you can and overcome the hurdles.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Sign up to our newsletter

We will send you our curated collections to your email weekly. No spam, promise!

The Mobile Presenter

Helping people express and present their ideas.

Cue Cards - Yay or Nay?

Posted Friday, August 08 2014 by Dirk

Inexperienced speakers are often afraid that they may be forgetting an important point of their talk or that they get stuck and can't remember how to continue. Which is one of the reasons why so many presentations have lots of text on their slides.

Cue cards would seem to provide a solution to this problem. They're handy when you get stuck and since you now have the text of your talk at hand (pun intended), you can use more visual slides and still make sure not to forget anything of importance.

The Problem with Cue Cards

I was reminded of this during a recent presentation, where the speaker used cue cards. She did look at her cards a lot, leaving us with the impression that she was reading the talk, even though, realistically, she couldn't have written everything she said on them. In other words, the cards probably only contained a few keywords or short phrases, but it still looked (and sounded!) like a prepared speech.

It happens to the Best

Even experienced speakers can fall into this trap. At TEDxStuttgart, actor Alexander Schröder gave a thought-provoking talk (in German) about the Evil in all of us and whether it could be used for Good. He started giving the speech from memory (and without a microphone, btw - the one you see in the video is only for recording, not amplification). A few minutes into the talk, however, he got stuck and pulled out his cue cards to get back on track.

When and How to use Cue Cards

Cue cards can be useful. Simply knowing that you have them, in case of a blackout, can help put your mind at ease. Preparing cue cards may actually help you such that you don't need them during your talk - much like, back in school, when preparing a cheat sheet caused you to concentrate on the material so you could extract the most important bits. This in turn helped you remember the material better, without you actually having to use the cheat sheet later.

If you decide to use cue cards, I'd say start your talk without them. See how it goes. I'd bet that in most cases you won't need them at all. If you have to consult them, put them away again as soon as you have found your train of thought to avoid the impression that you're reading a prepared speech.

An alternative to cue cards are the presenter notes that every slideware application supports: You can leave notes with each of your slides and have them shown to you (and only you) on your laptop during your presentation. This of course requires that you're near your laptop.

Also, it's important to realise that the audience most likely won't notice if you forget some minor aspect of your talk. Since it's not on your slide (you are using visual slides, I would hope), they won't know what exactly you are going to talk about. If it's an important point, it should have it's own slide, of course, so you won't forget it.

If you want to give a good and engaging talk, there's no other way than to rehearse . Visual slides (if you're using slides) will provide enough context for you to remember what you want to talk about, once you've rehearsed the talk a few times. If you know that you're going to have your laptop nearby during your presentation, add a few keywords (not complete sentences - you won't have the time to parse them when you're stuck!) to your presenter notes.

To summarise

If you don't use slides or you can't use presenter notes, prepare cue cards if you feel you would need them. But only pull them out when you're really stuck - and don't forget to put them away again just as quickly.

(Photos: Stills from Alexander Schröder's talk at TEDxStuttgart)

Dirk Haun [email protected] (or use the contact form ) Tel. +49 176-457 169 76 www.dirkhaun.de

Presenting for Geeks

Presenting for Geeks: The Ebook

Brainstorming Your Presentation

Brainstorming Your Presentation: The Ebook

If you like this article, consider buying me a coffee and help me create more content like this.

Articles + videos to help you get inspired

The Secret to Using Cue Cards on Camera

I’m a trained actress, and I feel pretty comfortable talking on camera – but people often ask me if I use cue cards or scripts. Is it necessary, to make quality video content, to have your words mapped out perfectly?

Well, no – and following a script can hinder self-expression. It can make you look stiff, unnatural, and even boring. And furthermore, every time you look away from the lens to glance at those written points, you’ll lose your connection with the viewer.

For short, informative videos, I’d recommend you strive to introduce your idea, make three great points, and then wrap it up – and you can see this format in almost all of my videos, whether they’re for online courses or other areas of my web presence.

But if you’re concerned that you’re going to forget what your points are, or lose track of the plan once you hit record, here’s what you do:

Use mini “cue cards,” placed near the camera lens, so you can’t keep track of your outline without letting it affect your gaze.

You don’t want to look like you’re reading something off to the left or right while talking on camera, so I suggest using a little post-it note, easily attached to your smartphone or recording device, and you’ll be able to glance at your bullet points with your peripheral vision while keeping your eyes looking ahead to your audience.

Keep it simple with 3 bullet points, and they’ll serve as “thought bubbles” to trigger your speaking. Just make them visible right near the lens, and riff on your key ideas from that shortlist, while continuing to imagine your viewer right in front of you, and making virtual “eye contact” with them.

Post-it notes are the perfect size for your “cue cards” – and this set-up is the secret to make talking on camera look easy and natural.

Meet Alexa Fischer

Wishbeads founder Alexa Fischer is an actress, teacher, author, and speaker whose work helps people go after their dreams, build their confidence, and break free from fear. It’s time to ignite your light.

BROADCAST YOUR BRILLIANCE!

Free video training.

Learn the secrets to making videos that look great, inspire others, and build an audience – using stuff you already own!

Success! Check your inbox to get started now!

SIGN UP – IT'S FREE!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE…

Awaken to Beauty: Finding Perfection in Every Day

Have you ever noticed, especially while flying, how easy it is to miss the breathtaking beauty just outside the window? There I am, in my cherished window seat, gazing out at the cloudscapes that look like painted masterpieces, while others around me are often...

Hike Your Way To Happiness: 5 Tips to Tackle Your Goals

I'm whisking you away on an awe-inspiring hike in Montana de Oro State Park, right next to the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. It was meant to be a family affair to the peak of Valencia, but as you might guess, my teenage sons had other plans. As soon as the...

The Secrets to Making Your Wishes Bloom

I'm taking you behind the scenes of a special project—one that began with a renovation and blossomed into a vision for a beautiful outdoor space right outside my office. The Beginning of a Vision A few years ago, we started by renovating an area of our home, which led...

Pin It on Pinterest

How did Raygun qualify for the Olympics? Is she really the best Australia has to offer?

By Mawunyo Gbogbo

ABC Entertainment

Topic: Olympic Games

Rachael "Raygun" Gunn did not score a single point at the Paris Olympics. ( Getty Images: Elsa )

Since Australian breaker Rachael "Raygun" Gunn failed to score a single point in any of her Olympic bouts, many have asked how she qualified for the Games.

Fellow breaker and anthropologist Lucas Marie says she won her qualification "fair and square" last year, but African American man Malik Dixon has criticised the Olympic body for letting her in.

What's next?

Breaking will not be an event at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games — a decision made before Raygun's performance.

The 2024 Paris Olympics marked breaking's debut as a sport at the global event, with 36-year-old lecturer and breaker Rachael "Raygun" Gunn representing Australia for the first time.

Having failed to win a single point in any of her Olympic bouts, Raygun quickly became a viral sensation.

The question on many people's minds now is: How did she even qualify?

Lucas Marie is a breaker who has competed, performed, taught and judged breaking competitions over the past 25 years. He's also an anthropologist who recently co-authored an article with Gunn.

He says the answer to that question is simple.

Lucas Marie recently co-authored an article with Raygun. ( Supplied )

"There was an Oceania qualifier in which any B-boy or B-girl from Australia [or] New Zealand could enter, and that was in Sydney in October 2023," he told ABC News.

"And leading up to that, there were a lot of other events in which breakers were competing.

"She won those battles fair and square and won the qualification in Sydney.

"And it wasn't really a surprise to anyone. 

"She's been fairly consistent, winning or coming second or third at a lot of breaking events in Australia for the last five to 10 years."

Marie said there was nothing out of the ordinary about Raygun's performance.

"It's not like gymnastics where there's this kind of agreed-upon standard," he said.

"It's always had a rawness to it. It's always had an improvisational kind of quality. And I think looking different and trying different stuff has always been celebrated.

"And I think Raygun, in a way, was just expressing a core kind of hip hop trait in a way a lot of breakers do."

He described her efforts as bold.

"I thought — and this is how I judge a lot of breaking events — I thought, 'Oh, she's making some really interesting choices to mimic Australian animals.' And you can kind of see the choices that she's making in the moment."

Is she the best Australia has to offer?

Team Australia chef de mission Anna Meares insisted after Raygun's performance that she was the best breaker the country had to offer. But is this true?

Lucas Marie has competed, performed, taught and judged breaking competitions for more than 25 years. ( Supplied: momentsby.naz )

"It's sometimes just who's performing better on the day," Marie said.

"And at the qualification event in which she won, and other events in which she's won, she performed better on that day and won the ticket.

"That doesn't mean she's the best. It doesn't really work like that.

"I think she's a great breaker. She won the qualification. She's won other events in the past, and she was a good representative for Australia at that competition."

Asked whether there were B-girls in Perth, regional Victoria or rural Brisbane who might have qualified but could not afford to travel to Sydney for the tryouts, Marie agreed this was possible.

"Of course, there's breakers all over the country that maybe should have been in that event, but they weren't."

Breaking will not carry over to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, a decision made before Raygun's battle.

Marie described this as sad.

"Maybe, based on the ratings, they'll reassess that and maybe allocate some medals to breaking," he said.

"I really hope that's the case, and I hope that for other breakers who want to compete in it as a dance sport."

Marie said that at the end of the day people should remember they were dealing with a human.

"As a friend of Rachael's, there's a human being who's getting a lot of negative attention," he said.

"I think people kind of miss that sometimes and forget the human aspect of all this."

'Toying with the culture'

Malik Dixon is an African American who has been living in Australia for more than a decade and is a Sydney University graduate.

He said Raygun made a total "mockery" out of breaking at the Olympics.

Malik Dixon says too many people feel entitled to African American culture. ( Supplied )

"She was dressed like a member of the cricket team or an Australian PE teacher, and from that point it just seemed like satire," Mr Dixon told ABC News.

"It just looked like somebody who was toying with the culture and didn't know how culturally significant it was being the first time in the Olympics and just how important it was to people who really cherish hip hop and one of the elements of hip hop, which is breakdancing.

"It made me think, was Borat her breakdancing coach?"

Mr Dixon said too many people felt entitled to African American culture.

"The African American space has been one where we've shared our community so much and without any restraints, any barriers, roadblocks, obstacles, any gatekeepers, that essentially what should have been African American cultural capital is just shared, which is cool," he said. 

"We like to share, right? 

"We shared 400 years of free labour.

"To see Rachael in her attempt to be a part of the culture just be grossly underwhelming made it seem like she didn't take it seriously."

Olympics body criticised for Raygun qualification

Mr Dixon criticised the body that qualified Raygun, saying she devalued breaking with her performance.

"Whatever governing body nominated her as Australia's entrant into the Olympics either did not understand the assignment or didn't really believe in the integrity or significance of breakdancing, because if they did they would just say, rather than disrespect the culture, we're just not ready to send an applicant this year."

He said Raygun was extremely audacious and not self-aware.

"You've got to know your role, know your position, know your limitation," he said. 

"And I think that part of privilege is saying that there are no limits to what I can do. 

"Part of privilege is having the authority to say that there are no limits and there are no requirements, there are no prerequisites to what I can do."

Raygun's degrees do not hold much water with Mr Dixon.

"Due to consumerism, this Foundational Black American product, which is hip hop, is global," he said.

"And even people who have no connection to any African Americans or any local or regional things that come out in these songs, they have become a part of the whole experience now.

"If I came in and said that I was an authority on Greek music and I was going against the grain of what the mainstream Greek musicians thought, or the school of thought, and I've said that I was the authority, people would check me on that.

"If I had a PhD in sprinting, does that qualify me to go against Noah Lyles? No, it doesn't."

He also doubts Raygun was the best breaker Australia had to offer.

"[There's] got to be somebody out here that's better than that! The kangaroo! The sprinkler! She did the sprinkler out there, man!" he said.

Should everybody just lighten up?

Should we lighten up? Mr Dixon does not believe so.

"Larrikinism is used as a get-out-of-jail-free card and to escape responsibility of how words or actions impact a hurt person," he said.

"But when the majority culture is offended, there's no playing around.

"This is a part of my culture, and I don't think Australians are in a place to tell me how I should feel about breakdancing being mocked on an international stage.

"People who don't have any or limited access to black people or hip hop culture now may see Rachael and her buffoonery as a representation of hip hop and black culture.

"People who were already side-eyeing breakdancing as an Olympic sport, Rachael Gunn has put the nail in that coffin.

"This might be the most viral clip of the whole Olympics. From a comedy standpoint, she's got it, but from an Olympics perspective, its regressive."