Engineering visual aids to enhance oral and written communications

It is pointed out that effective visual aids capture and hold audience attention, and also help increase audience retention and the presenter´s credibility. There are three major categories of visual aids: tables, figures, and pictures and diagrams. When used in oral communications, suitability, quality, and presentation fit are important. When used in written communications, placement and clarity are key areas of consideration. In both types of presentation, visual aids should be used to improve understanding and to maintain audience attention