multimedia presentation synonym

How to Easily Make a Multimedia Presentation (Tools & Templates)

Learn how to create a multimedia presentation in 6 steps with videos, GIFs, animations, audio, & photos. Go beyond PowerPoint - capture attention & engage.

Dominika Krukowska

7 minute read

Short answer

What is a multimedia presentation?

A multimedia presentation is a deck that uses a blend of text, images, audio, video, and interactive content to captivate an audience. It's a dynamic, engaging way to share your story where each media element plays its part to create a memorable experience.

Why PowerPoint is the wrong tool for multimedia presentations

Most of us are still using PowerPoint to create our presentations. And knowing intimately how to create a multimedia presentation in PowerPoint, I can tell you it’s not easy, and it ain’t fun.

This is a problem because the work you’ll have to put in to create a half-decent multimedia presentation with PowerPoint is not worth the outcome.

Sorry, but the tool was just not built for this. And trying to force it to do something it wasn’t meant to do will take away from your ability to tell an engaging story.

Wanna know why?

1) PowerPoint was built for how stories were told 30 years ago

PowerPoint's technology hasn't evolved much since its inception. If you're using it for your business presentations, you're relying on a static decades-old content format while your audience is used to getting their content in a very different way.

Most of us now expect dynamic and interactive content, videos, audio, and clickable elements we control. That’s not PowerPoint.

2) It’s hard to design (well) with PowerPoint

Creating an attractive PowerPoint presentation requires a good eye for design and a fair amount of time. Even little tweaks can ruin the layout, as PowerPoint has no safeguards that prevent you from commiting design crimes.

3) Personalizing with PowerPoint takes ages

If you want to personalize presentations for different audiences, you need to create separate files for that and tweak them manually. This will take you absolute ages and leaves plenty of room for error.

4) It has a horrible mobile experience

We know for a fact that 1 in 3 presentations being viewed on mobile devices . But PowerPoint was not built for mobile, and you wouldn't wish a PPT mobile experience on your worst enemy.

This means that if your audience doesn't live in a mobile-free zone, PowerPoint is a massive drawback.

5) PowerPoint has no analytics

PowerPoint doesn't provide an analytics dashboard, which means you don't have access to valuable feedback. You can’t measure if your presentation is nailing it or getting the same attention as the dishes in your sink.

This is a problem. Because if you don’t know how you perform, you can’t improve.

Here’s what a PowerPoint looks like compared to a modern interactive multimedia presentation:

How to create engaging multimedia presentations in 6 easy steps

Now let’s see how a modern multimedia presentation is done. For some of us, creating a presentation that resonates can feel overwhelming. But with the right presentation maker and a clear plan, it's as easy as following a recipe.

6 steps to create a multimedia presentation:

1. Tell our AI what presentation you want to create

Are you pitching a product , explaining a concept, or presenting quarterly results? Tell our AI the purpose of your presentation. This helps it generate content that's on point and relevant.

2. Introduce yourself, your company, and your product or service

You can also start by giving our AI a brief rundown of who you are, what your company does, the product you're showcasing, and the industry you're in. This helps the AI understand your context and tailor the presentation to your needs.

3. Pick a design template

No need to start from scratch. Storydoc offers a variety of presentation templates optimized for performance based on real-world data. Choose one that aligns with your brand and message.

4. Customize your presentation

Now, it's time to make the presentation truly yours. Add your text, tweak the design, and watch as the template adjusts to accommodate your content.

Sprinkle in some interactivity with clickable tabs, real-time variables for charts, or any other interactive elements that fit your content.

Then, upload your own multimedia or let our AI generate some for you.

5. Add dynamic personalization

Our no-code editor allows you to easily add dynamic variables to your multimedia presentation. This means that you can personalize your decks at scale in just a few clicks.

The main benefit? Every deck looks like it was tailor-made for each specific reader, which can make your audience feel special and, in turn, significantly boost engagement.

6. Review and refine your presentation

Take a moment to review your presentation. Make sure everything looks good, the flow makes sense, and your message is clear.

But making a mistake is not as critical as it is with PowerPoint since Storydoc lives online and not on your audience’s computer.

So If you need to fix any mistakes after the presentation has been sent over, you still can. You control the version everybody sees, forever.

7. Advanced: Improve your presentation based on insights from analytics

Every presentation you create using Storydoc comes with access to an extensive analytics suite that gives you real-time insights into how your deck is performing.

Finally, you can see when your presentation is opened, how much time is spent on each slide, and even when your audience drops off. This enables you to quickly identify and fix any bad content.

One of the most powerful features of Storydoc's analytics panel is the ability to compare different versions of your presentation.

You can use this to A/B test your presentations, remove the guesswork, and continually improve based on data.

Even better, Storydoc's analytics panel integrates with your CRM and email marketing software . This means you can see all your data in your CRM where you and your team are already working, and use it to inform your sales and marketing strategies.

If you want to learn more about how it works, watch this short video:

How to use multimedia to bring your presentation to life (3 techniques)

Multimedia is more than just a way to make your presentation look more cool—it can transform your content into an immersive, interactive experience that people enjoy and share with friends and colleagues.

Let me show you how you can strategically leverage multimedia to captivate your audience, simplify complex ideas, and create a lasting impact.

3 key multimedia techniques that maximize engagement:

1. Narrate your design through scrollytelling

Scrollytelling is a unique blend of scrolling and storytelling. It's an interactive way of presenting content that takes your audience on a narrative journey as they scroll through the presentation.

This approach combines text, images, videos, and animations into “scenes” in a play that readers can move through at their own pace.

Scrollytelling simplifies complex content into easy to understand pieces which reduces cognitive load, increases comprehension, and makes your content highly memorable.

Here’s an example of Storydoc scrollytelling:

2. Bring yourself into the presentation with video bubble narration

Video bubble narration is a unique way to personalize your multimedia presentation. It involves adding a small video of yourself to your deck, providing commentary or extra insights.

The video bubble gives your audience a sense of connection with you, making the presentation more personal and engaging.

It's like having a one-on-one conversation with each member of your audience, which can significantly enhance their interest and investment in your deck.

3. Tell stories with animations and videos

Animations and videos can bring your message to life, illustrate complex processes, and provide visual examples that reinforce your points.

For instance, an animation could be used to demonstrate a process step-by-step, making it easier for your audience to understand.

A video could provide a real-world example that supports your argument, making your content more relatable and impactful. Perhaps use AI video maker tools to make the content more attractive.

Here’s a great example by one of our clients:

Octopai - Outbound sales one-pager

An outbound one-pager identifying a problem in modern-day analytics and offering an easy-to-grasp solution.

How to make highly engaging presentations with multimedia

Using multimedia is not just about adding visual flash—it's about guiding your audience's attention, enhancing understanding, and encouraging interaction.

Let's explore how simple animations and interactive content elevate your presentations from boring to share-worthy.

1. Direct attention using simple animations

Animations are a great way to guide your audience's attention. But complex or dominant animations can be distracting and may take attention away from your text message.

How to direct attention using animation:

• Arrows: Arrows can be used to point out key information or guide your audience through a process. They're a simple yet effective way to direct attention where you want it.
• Entrance animation: Entrance animations can be used to introduce new content or highlight a key point. They can create a sense of anticipation and make your presentation more dynamic.
• Grayed-out content: Graying out content that's not currently relevant can help your audience focus on the key points. It's a subtle yet effective way to guide your audience's attention.

Here’s an example of what it looks like:

2. Get readers involved using interactive content

Interactive content makes your presentation more engaging and gives your audience a sense of control. It also makes your content more memorable, as people tend to remember things they actively engage with.

Interactive content you can incorporate into your presentations:

• Tabs: Tabs allow you to neatly organize your content into sections, making it easy for your audience to navigate through your presentation. For instance, you could use tabs to separate different topics or information intended for different target groups.
• Sliders: Sliders are a dynamic way to present a range of data or to show progression. For example, you could use a slider to illustrate the growth of your company over time or to show how a particular metric changes under different scenarios.
• Calculators: Interactive calculators add a personal touch to your deck. They allow your audience to input their own data and see personalized results. For instance, you could use a calculator to show potential savings from using your product or to calculate ROI.
• Live graphs: Live graphs take data visualization to the next level. Instead of static charts, live graphs allow your audience to interact with the data. They can zoom in on specific data points, compare different data sets, or see how the data changes over time.

Here’s an example of a presentation using interactive content:

Multimedia presentation best practices

It's not enough to just add media like animations and videos—you need to use them to improve rather than hurt engagement.

Here are the best practices for making a multimedia presentation that works:

• Use media that exemplifies your audience's needs and preferences.
• Use media that adds context to your presentation text.
• Make sure your animations and videos support your text rather than compete with it. Consider looking into text-to-video AI tools to ease your process.
• Ensure that your media is high-quality and take advantage of design tools or background removers to ensure your narrative goals are achieved in your presentation.

Best multimedia presentation examples beyond PowerPoint

Let’s see the best multimedia presentation examples that break the PowerPoint mold.

These examples show you new and effective ways for making engaging content and how to stand out in a sea of same-old PowerPoint presentations.

Let’s go!

Meta - Interactive corporate report

Insights and trends from Israel's thriving consumer-facing industry. A comprehensive review of the B2C ecosystem's performance and future prospects.

HealthTech SNC - Simplified data-heavy report

An extensive data report from a non-profit organization made easy to digest thanks to interactive, engaging design.

Cannasoft - Investment pitch deck

A hard-hitting investment deck of a publicly traded tech company dedicated to medical cannabis manufacturers.

Orbiit - Visually narrated sales deck

Visually narrated sales deck of a virtual networking platform telling AND showing readers what's in it for them.

Matics - Digital product brochure

A product brochure showing smart manufacturing execution systems on a mission to digitalize production floors.

Galor - Personalized product sales deck

A highly-converting product sales deck with a modern design, interactive narrated content, and an integrated chatbot.

RFKeeper - Retail proposal deck

A dynamic, highly visual proposal deck for a retail software provider, designed to grab and keep attention.

Drive - Automotive research white-paper

A white-paper showing high-level research on electric vehicle charging wrapped in a stunning interactive experience.

If you want to see more multimedia presentation samples, check out our post containing the perfect presentation examples to set you apart from the competition.

Interactive multimedia presentation templates

Getting started with making your multimedia presentation is often the hardest part. But with interactive multimedia presentation templates , you can hit the ground running.

They take care of the design and interactivity, so you can focus on what matters most: your content.

So why wait? Grab a template.

Hi, I'm Dominika, Content Specialist at Storydoc. As a creative professional with experience in fashion, I'm here to show you how to amplify your brand message through the power of storytelling and eye-catching visuals.

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How to Create a Multimedia Presentation (& Tools to Use)

Written by: Orana Velarde

A multimedia presentation can help you stand out, grab attention and leave a stronger impact on the audience. If you're wondering how to create a multimedia presentation without having to spend hours editing on PowerPoint, you're at the right place.

In this guide, you’re going to learn about:

• What a multimedia presentation is.
• The steps to creating a visually appealing multimedia presentation.
• Some good examples of multimedia presentations and why they work.
• The best multimedia presentation tools you can use to get started.

Sounds good? Let’s get started.

Table of Contents

What is a multimedia presentation, how to create a multimedia presentation in 5 steps.

• 7 Examples of Multimedia Presentations
• The 5 Best Multimedia Presentation Software to Help You Get Started

If you prefer watching over reading, here’s the video version of this article on how to create a multimedia presentation.

A multimedia presentation is a type of presentation that uses several different forms of digital communication, such as video, interactive slides , audio clips, music and more, to get the message across.

In short, multimedia presentations go beyond the use of text and images. Including digital media like animation, video, audio, or interactive features like forms, popups and more can help enrich your presentations both visually and content-wise.

While you can create basic multimedia presentations with Microsoft PowerPoint, there are much more innovative and modern tools out there to help you create even better presentations, like Visme .

Visme's presentation software offers plenty of tools to create multimedia presentations. From video embeds to voiceovers to interactivity animated features, you'll find it all in one, robust platform.

Keep reading to find out how you can create an unforgettable multimedia experience with Visme.

Creating a multimedia presentation isn’t difficult, you just need the right tools. In fact, it’s as easy as the six steps in the tutorial below.

Step #1: Define the purpose of your multimedia presentation.

Before you can start creating a multimedia presentation, you need to know exactly what you’ll be presenting about and why.

Jot down some ideas about what you want to achieve with your presentation.

• Want to add value to an evergreen landing page?
• Hope to get more people interested in your content or services?
• Wish to impart knowledge to your readers in a meaningful way?
• Need to create a pitch deck that inspires investors in your project?
• Want to report sales or business results in a unique way?
• Need to present survey results that don’t bore your audience?

You can achieve all of the above with a multimedia presentation.

Just make sure to have all the information you need to present in an orderly fashion so it’s easier when it’s time to create.

Step #2: Outline the content with visualization ideas.

Now that you have everything planned out and all your content is ready to be put into a slide deck, it's time to create an outline.

While creating the outline, think of ways that you can improve the story using different mediums.

For example:

• Explainer videos
• Video clips
• Animated GIFs
• Interactivity between slides
• Color-coded maps
• Google Maps
• Animated charts
• Loom videos
• Sound effects
• Embedded third-party content
• Background music
• Ted Talk video embeds

Create a stunning presentation in less time

• Hundreds of premade slides available
• Add animation and interactivity to your slides
• Choose from various presentation options

Sign up. It’s free.

Step #3: Select a presentation template and add your content.

Now, log into your Visme dashboard and find a presentation template that will be perfect for your project. There are lots of choices, from pre-designed presentations to customizable slide libraries in different styles.

In the case of a multimedia presentation, we recommend you go with one of the slide libraries. Slide libraries can also be referred to as presentation themes.

Visme has three presentation themes:

• Modern: Sleek and unique
• Simple: Clean cut and no-frills
• Creative: Off the cuff and interesting

Each theme comes with a large slide library with hundreds of different options. You can mix-and-match slides to create your own, unique multimedia presentation.

The slides in Visme's presentation themes are organized into groups, such as:

• Introduction
• Comparisons
• Testimonials
• ...and more.

We suggest you add all the blank slides you need by following the outline you made in the previous step. Then, input the general content, images, backgrounds and design assets.

Next, add your logo, brand colors, fonts and branded imagery. When you have a Visme Brand Kit, that step can’t be any easier. The fonts are already set up in your editor as are the colors.

Use Dynamic Field to ensure your important data is consistent and updated across all your slides and projects. Once you place your information in the custom field , it will automatically appear on other slides containing the value.

Alternatively, create your presentation from scratch by starting with a blank canvas. Visme also offers content blocks and element groups to help you create a good presentation.

Presentation Templates

Ecommerce Webinar Presentation

Buyer Presentation

PixelGo Marketing Plan Presentation

Product Training Interactive Presentation

Company Ethics Presentation

Work+Biz Pitch Deck - Presentation

Create your presentation View more templates

Step #4: Add multimedia content.

At this stage, your presentation probably looks good-looking, but static. Let’s make it interactive by adding unique multimedia presentation tools.

Start adding multimedia content to the slides that need it. Follow your outline and visualization idea notes.

You don’t need to add a different type of media on each slide — that’s overwhelming. Aim for two or three types of media spread throughout the presentation to keep a balance.

• A narration can cover all the slides and it should flow seamlessly.
• Interactive slides with links to the main slide or other sections need to be well-organized and easy to navigate.
• Videos shouldn’t be on every slide. There needs to be breathing space between videos so it's not overwhelming.
• Animated charts don’t need to be surrounded by too much content. Let them shine on their own.
• Surveys should have their own slide with a previous slide explaining why there’s a survey in the first place.
• Embed content on any slide and make it fit visually with the rest of the content.

Step #5: Review, download and share.

When you’ve added all your content, both regular and multimedia, it’s time to revise. Click on the “present” button on the top-right of your editor and take a look at your presentation as if you were a viewer.

As you go through every slide, take notes if you spot anything that looks off or unfinished. Then, go back and edit those slides until the presentation is just right.

Multimedia presentations can be presented or shared in several ways. For interactive presentations that include clicking or filling in forms, give your audience the best experience by:

• Embedding the presentation into a website
• Sharing the presentation with a live link
• Downloading the presentation as an HTML5 file

Presentations that don’t require your audience to interact can be downloaded as videos and even editable PowerPoint files.

When you share a Visme multimedia presentation via a live link, you can track the analytics of who watched it, for how long and where. This adds another level to your team’s content creation.

Another option is to upload your presentation to SlideShare where other people can see your work. SlideShare presentations can easily be shared on social media as well.

Examples of Multimedia Presentations

Are you ready to create your own multimedia presentation?

Before you get to it, let’s look at some inspiring examples. Below, you’ll find some stunning Visme presentations, some of which are templates that you can customize for your own use.

We have also included some examples of presentations from other sources that we found interesting.

Example #1: Presentation with GIFs

You can quickly create simple and beautiful multimedia presentations with GIFs. At Visme, we regularly create multimedia presentations with GIFs to present new features and updates.

Check out one of our recent ones:

Made with Visme Presentation Maker

We create our custom GIFs, which you can also do using our GIF maker !

If you don’t have the time or resources for that, Visme has a GIPHY integration, which lets you search through millions of GIFs in lots of different styles inside the editor.

Integrate GIFs with content that complements, not competes with it.

Also, don’t overload your presentation with GIFs, especially if they are all different. Stick to one style of GIF throughout to maintain visual consistency.

Example #2: Animations and Narration

This is an example of a multimedia presentation that uses animations to liven up the story and the slides.

This is the type of presentation that can be easily turned into a video.  Each slide can have animated objects, illustrations, text and design assets.

Impact Radius from Fab Design on Vimeo .

You can create a presentation like this with Visme quite easily.

Simply record your voiceover on each slide and download it as a video. If you already have a voiceover from a project, upload it into your presentation project and trim the audio as needed.

Example #3: Narrators and Video

This presentation is on the shorter side. This narrated presentation includes a balanced amount of media, such as images, videos, annotations and animation and charts.

It’s also presented as a video for easy viewing. A multimedia presentation video like this one takes more work than others, as it has a large amount of content.

Example #4: Interactive Charts and Music

Multimedia presentations for business reports are more engaging with interactive charts. Visme charts are animated by default but you can add more interactivity with popups and links .

Top it all off with a music clip that doesn’t overwhelm or distract from the content of the presentation.

Example #5: Video

Adding video to presentations is one of the easiest ways to create a multimedia video presentation. Here's an example of a slide created in Visme that includes a YouTube video. Go ahead and press play to see it in action!

Embed YouTube videos or Vimeo videos easily by simply inputting the video URL.

Upload your own video, use the Visme video editing tools to trim the clip to how you need it. Select from our gallery of video clips to add as backgrounds behind other content.

Example #6: Zoomable Presentation with Video

This is a Prezi multimedia presentation about The Red Bull Stratosphere Jump.

It has a classic Prezi feel and navigation plus videos of the event. Not every presentation warrants this level of multimedia or interactivity but for a brand like Red Bull, it makes sense.

This style of presentation can be created with Prezi quite easily. They have a number of templates that you can use to create a multimedia presentation with a zoomable navigation style.

Example #7: Survey and Embedded PDF

The last example is a little different. It includes an integrated survey and embedded PDF. This is the perfect multimedia presentation to include in a blog post or on a website.

Take a look below at how a survey works inside a presentation and how an embedded PDF can be integrated with other content.

The 4 Best Multimedia Presentation Software to Get You Started

To create multimedia presentations, you need the right tools.

Below are four tools to help you create engaging multimedia presentations.

Software #1: Visme

The first software on the list is Visme. The varied collection of integrations in our editor is just the right combination to create a multimedia presentation that will make an impact.

Usually, you need more than one software to create an engaging multimedia presentation. But if you're looking for a software that does it all, Visme's presentation maker is a great option.

Users have always been able to create multimedia presentations with Visme, especially with videos, animations and voiceovers.

But recently, we've added new features and AI-powered tools, including the Visme AI Designer . This tool will help you to create unique multimedia presentations in a matter of minutes rather than hours. 

Create complete or customizable designs by answering questions or using a single prompt concerning your topic. Once your presentation is generated, edit images, add interactive elements like links, GIFs, surveys,   interactive maps , and animation, plus integrate your current tech pack and tools if needed. 

Software #2: Wistia

Wistia is a video hosting, management and marketing software for businesses who want to have more control over their video content.

Embedding video is one of the quickest ways to create a multimedia presentation. If you're creating your presentation in Visme, you can easily embed Wistia videos in your slides.

You can also add videos into your presentation from YouTube, Vimeo and Vidyard. Check out the full list of Visme integrations here .

Note: When sharing videos that aren’t yours, make sure to add a description with the name of the creator and why you chose to share it.

Software #3: Typeform

Multimedia presentations with surveys add an unprecedented level of interactivity.

Use the Typeform or Jotform integration to add surveys to your informative presentations or market research projects.

When you include a survey in a multimedia presentation, you’ll have to share it as a link or embed it on a site. This way, your audience can input the answers straight into the survey inside the slide instead of opening a separate link.

Software #4: Loom

If you're not presenting your multimedia presentation in person, recording a Loom video and embedding it in your slides can be a great alternative for adding a personal touch.

Walk your audience through a tutorial, give a brief overview about a topic, shed light on your company and services, or simply introduce yourself. Loom videos offer tons of opportunities to make your multimedia presentation more interactive.

Software #5: Google Maps

Include maps in your multimedia presentations to visualize geographic data or location information. Visme has two map creation options, the Map Maker and the Google Maps integration .

The Map Maker lets you create custom maps with color-coding and interactive popups that match the design of your project. Import map data from a google sheet or input it manually.

Add a navigable Google Map in all the default styles. Show specific location coordinates in a box that you can customize.

Create Your Multimedia Presentation With Visme

Now, you’re ready!

It’s time to start creating the best multimedia presentation for your audience.

When you sign up for our presentation software , you’ll find all the tools you need to create an engaging multimedia presentation your audience is likely to remember for a long time.

Create a Brand Kit to stay on brand easier and faster by uploading your logos, color palettes and fonts. Organize your assets and projects into folders to make them easier to find.

At Visme, we're always adding new features and integrations. You can keep an eye on our What's New page to stay updated with all the new cool, new stuff.

If you have a PowerPoint presentation that you'd like to enhance, import the PPTX file into Visme and add multimedia there. The PowerPoint slides will import as editable slides so you have full control of how the final project looks.

Sign up for our presentation software today and start creating slides that nobody can look away from.

Create beautiful presentations faster with Visme.

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About the Author

Orana is a multi-faceted creative. She is a content writer, artist, and designer. She travels the world with her family and is currently in Istanbul. Find out more about her work at oranavelarde.com

Thesaurus for Multimedia

Related terms for multimedia - synonyms, antonyms and sentences with multimedia, similar meaning.

• audiovisual aid
• mixed media
• interactive program
• interactive media
• multimedia system
• audiovisual
• computerised
• multi-media
• multi-medium
• multimedial
• cross-media
• social media

Opposite meaning

• common manner
• common means
• common procedures
• common style
• general methodologies
• matching modes
• related approaches
• related manner
• related means
• related methodologies
• same methodologies
• same methods
• same procedures
• similar methods
• similar modes
• standard approaches
• standard manner
• standard methods
• standard way
• standard ways
• unified approach
• uniform ways

Common usage

• media channel
• hypermedia system
• interactive multimedia
• interactive multimedia system
• transmittal

Sentence Examples

Proper usage in context.

• A virtual or digital multimedia album
• And now, the award for multimedia networking technique
• Both print or multimedia communication requires specific skills
• Each server includes storage for multimedia objects
• Experimentation with wide-band multimedia communication service

Look up a word, learn it forever.

/məltiˈmidiə/.

Multimedia is a system of relaying information or entertainment that includes many different forms of communication. You might use multimedia to give a presentation at school.

Multimedia might include video, audio clips, and still photographs, for example. A newspaper's online presence could use multimedia as well, combining graphics, sound, and animation. The word itself, sometimes spelled with a hyphen as multi-media , has been used since 1962, from multi- , or "many," rooted in the Latin multus , "many or much;" and media , the plural form of medium , or "system of communication."

• noun transmissions that combine media of communication (text and graphics and sound etc.) synonyms: multimedia system see more see less types: hypermedia , hypermedia system , interactive multimedia , interactive multimedia system a multimedia system in which related items of information are connected and can be presented together type of: transmission communication by means of transmitted signals
• adjective relating to or using more than one medium of communication or expression
• adjective (computing) presenting data in several different forms, such as video, text, graphics, or audio

Vocabulary lists containing multimedia

To improve your fluency in English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR), learn this academic vocabulary list that includes words selected from the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) state standards.

Get the facts about informational texts by reviewing this list. Learn about text structure, text features, reference works, author's purpose, tone and point of view, and much more. Your vocabulary will be off the charts once you master these words!

Have you got the write stuff? Find out by learning this comprehensive list of words related to writing. You'll review genres of writing, text structure, grammar and parts of speech, stages of the writing process, and much more. From introduction to conclusion, this list has got you covered.

Sign up now (it’s free!)

Whether you’re a teacher or a learner, vocabulary.com can put you or your class on the path to systematic vocabulary improvement..

Like what you're reading?

Everything you need to know about multimedia presentations

Get your team on prezi – watch this on demand video.

Anete Ezera May 25, 2023

Crafting a well-executed multimedia presentation can be the determining factor between success and failure when delivering presentations. The impact of a multimedia presentation is undeniable, but what exactly does it entail, and what are the essential considerations to keep in mind when creating one?

In this article, we’ll explore the key components involved in creating compelling multimedia presentations and delve into the strategies that can help you assemble these elements to craft the perfect presentation. We’ll discuss the importance of content structure, visual design, and engaging storytelling techniques that capture your audience’s attention and leave a lasting impact. Additionally, we’ll provide insights on leveraging Prezi’s features to enhance your multimedia presentations, making them more dynamic and interactive.

What is a multimedia presentation?

A multimedia presentation is a computer-based presentation that uses various forms of media to effectively communicate and engage an audience. In today’s fast-paced world, multimedia presentations have emerged as one of the most powerful and impactful means of communication. Complex ideas and information can be challenging to convey using only traditional tools. However, by harnessing the potential of visually engaging images, high-quality audio clips, and captivating video content, you can deliver a wealth of information that isn’t only clear, but also interesting, easy to understand, contextual, detailed, and engaging.

To facilitate the creation of multimedia presentations, Prezi offers a user-friendly and intuitive platform that empowers presenters to transform their ideas into attention-grabbing visual stories that move. One of the standout features of Prezi is its dynamic zooming capability. With this feature, presenters can seamlessly navigate between various levels of content, zooming in to emphasize critical details and zooming out to provide a comprehensive overview. This interactive zooming functionality not only adds visual interest to your presentation but also enables you to guide your audience’s focus and create a fluid and engaging storytelling experience. Furthermore, the presentation canvas allows for more creativity and freedom as you don’t need to be limited by the traditional slide-based presentation format. 

The psychology of multimedia

Multimedia presentations are not just about what you say but also how you make your audience feel and remember. Let’s discover how colors, visuals, and sounds can influence your audience’s perception and memory retention.

Color psychology

Colors evoke emotions and convey messages. For instance, red can signal urgency and passion, while blue suggests trust and calmness. Choose your color palette wisely to align with the emotions you want to portray to your audience.

Visual impact

Visuals are your secret weapon. The brain processes visual information 60,000 times faster than text. Use attention-grabbing images and graphics that resonate with your message. For example, if you’re presenting about eco-friendly initiatives, images of lush forests and clear skies can speak volumes.

Soundscapes

Sound can set the mood and reinforce key points. Think about the background music in movies – it enhances the overall emotional impact of a scene. In your presentation, use background music or sound effects thoughtfully to complement your content.

Memory retention

Did you know that people tend to remember only about 10% of what they hear after three days? However, if you pair that information with relevant visuals, retention jumps to 65%. Craft your multimedia presentation with this in mind; use visuals to reinforce your message for better recall.

Incorporate these psychological cues effectively, and your multimedia presentation will not only capture attention but also leave a lasting imprint on your audience’s memory.

Which elements can be included in a multimedia presentation?

Multimedia presentations have come a long way from the relatively simplistic options of the past. Now a whole range of different elements can be used to ensure your stand-alone presentation wows your intended audience. Some of the examples of what you can add to your multimedia presentations include:

• Slides: Slides are the backbone of most multimedia presentations. They consist of visual elements like text, images, graphs, and charts. Slides help you organize information and guide your audience through your presentation. For example, in a business pitch, slides can showcase product images, market data, and key points.
• Videos: Videos add motion and life to your presentation. You can use them to demonstrate processes, showcase testimonials, or provide visual explanations. In an educational setting, a biology lecture might include videos of animal behaviors or experiments.
• Audio clips: Audio clips can range from background music to voiceovers. They enhance the auditory experience of your presentation. In a travel presentation, you might include the sounds of waves crashing on a beach to create a more immersive feel.
• Animations: Animations breathe life into static content. They can illustrate processes, emphasize key points, or add a touch of humor. In a marketing presentation, animations can show how a product evolves or highlight its unique features.
• Music: Music sets the mood and tone of your presentation. It can create excitement, relaxation, or suspense. In a fashion show presentation, music may compliment the models’ walk down the runway, enhancing the overall experience.
• Images: Images are powerful visual aids. They can create certain emotions, provide context, and simplify complex ideas. In a history lecture, images of historical events and figures help students visualize the past.
• Text: Text is one of the most crucial parts of your content. It provides information, explanations, and key points. In a scientific presentation, text can explain research findings or provide definitions of complex terms.
• Podcasts: Podcasts are audio presentations that offer in-depth discussions or storytelling. They are excellent for sharing interviews, discussions, or storytelling. In a business conference, you might use a podcast-style presentation to share insights from industry experts.
• Pop-ups: Pop-ups are interactive elements that can surprise and excite your audience. They can include clickable links, additional information, or even mini-quizzes. In an e-learning module, pop-ups can provide learners with instant feedback on their progress.

For any professional who wants to stand out from the crowd with multimedia presentations that truly dazzle and inspire, Prezi’s multimedia platform brings you everything you need.

Choosing the right multimedia for your presentation subject

When creating a multimedia presentation, it’s crucial to select the appropriate multimedia elements that align with your presentation subject. By choosing the right multimedia, you can effectively convey your message, enhance understanding, and captivate your audience. Consider the following factors when selecting multimedia for your presentation:

Content relevance: does it fit your message?

Evaluate the relevance of each multimedia element to your presentation subject. Determine how each element contributes to the overall message and supports your key points. Choose multimedia that directly relates to your topic and enhances the understanding and engagement of your audience.

Visual impact: how visually appealing is it?

Visual elements play a significant role in multimedia presentations. Assess the visual impact of different multimedia options such as images, videos, and animations. Opt for high-quality visuals that are visually appealing, clear, and reinforce your message. Balance aesthetics with substance to maintain a professional and engaging presentation.

Audio enhancement: does it complement your content?

Determine if your presentation would benefit from audio elements such as background music, sound effects, or voiceovers. Audio can evoke emotions, set the mood, and reinforce key points. However, use audio sparingly and ensure it complements your content rather than overpowering it.

Data visualization: can it simplify complex data?

If your presentation involves data or statistics, explore options for effective data visualization. Choose charts, graphs, or maps that you can find on Prezi and incorporate those into your presentation. These elements will help you present complex information in a clear and digestible format. Visualizing data will also help your audience grasp the main points quickly and facilitate better comprehension. 

Multimedia integration: do all elements work together?

Aim for a cohesive and seamless integration of multimedia elements into your presentation. Ensure that different multimedia components blend well together and create a unified visual and auditory experience. Avoid using too many diverse multimedia elements that may distract or overwhelm your audience.

Accessibility considerations: is it accessible to everyone?

Keep accessibility in mind when selecting multimedia elements. Ensure that any visual or audio content you include is accessible to individuals with disabilities. Provide captions or transcripts for videos and ensure that any audio content is accompanied by text summaries. Consider the needs of all your audience members to ensure an inclusive and engaging presentation.

Technical feasibility: will it work smoothly during your presentation?

Assess the technical feasibility of incorporating various multimedia elements into your presentation. Consider the equipment and software requirements for displaying and playing different multimedia formats. Test the compatibility and functionality of multimedia elements in the presentation environment to avoid any technical glitches during your actual presentation.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right multimedia elements that enhance your presentation’s effectiveness and engage your audience. Remember, the key is to strike a balance between informative content, compelling visuals, and appropriate interactivity to create a memorable and impactful multimedia presentation. 

What makes an effective multimedia presentation?

An effective multimedia presentation is like a good book you can’t put down or a catchy new song you hear on the radio that you can’t stop humming to all day long – it has your audience instantly engaged and wanting more. 

Gone are the days when we were limited to presentations that only featured text and basic graphics. Nowadays, using a combination of audio, video, and images can help anyone effectively communicate their message to any audience.

Prezi enables users to create attention-grabbing presentations that move their audience. You can create your own presentation from scratch or start out with a template that you can find in Prezi’s template gallery.

8 things to consider when creating a multimedia presentation

Creating a multimedia presentation can be very straightforward. It just requires some basic planning and preparation and the correct tools to implement those plans. Follow these steps when enhancing a presentation with multimedia.

What is your message?

What exactly are you presenting, and what key messages do you wish to communicate to your audience? Take time to thoroughly think through these questions before constructing your multimedia presentation.

Who is your audience? 

You must understand who exactly your audience is. After all, there is likely a huge difference between what might work best with 20-something IT specialists or a group of senior management. Are you hoping to sell a product to potential investors? Delivering a quarterly report to your bosses? Or preparing a presentation for a job interview? Be very clear about who your audience is.

Preparation is vital, and with it comes research. You can’t wait to get started creating your new multimedia presentation. And the temptation is often to begin without first investigating fantastic examples of other people’s work for ideas or not taking advantage of Prezi’s awesome customizable presentations that are freely available to you, the user. Simply head over to Prezi’s Gallery and get inspired!

Create your content outline

What content do you wish to include in your presentation? Once you have decided, it’s time to create a content outline for your multimedia presentation. You can begin building the structure of your presentation by splitting your topic into separate ideas that run in a clear, logical sequence. If you want to learn more about how to create an effective presentation structure, watch the following video:

Decide which visualization mediums work best 

There are literally dozens of visualization mediums to choose from. The hard part sometimes is deciding which of these works best for you. Options include GIFs, short animation clips, audio clips, TED Talk video clips – the list goes on and on. The great news is that you can easily integrate all of these elements into your Prezi presentation. What’s more, Prezi has an extensive library of different multimedia elements like GIFs, stickers, images, icons, and more that you can pick and choose while creating your presentation.

Utilize templates

You might start entirely from scratch, building the presentation from the bottom up, which is great if you already have a clear idea in your mind. However, if you’re still trying to figure out what you want the end result to look like or want to spend less time on presentation design, explore the numerous tried and tested templates available on Prezi. You’ll discover various templates that are great for multimedia presentations.

It’s time to add your multimedia 

Don’t overdo the types of multimedia content you use in your presentation. Why? Because using too many different kinds can feel overwhelming and a little too ‘show offish’. Focus on 2-4 types of content that will work best with your target audience. Try to hit that balance between simplicity and style. If you are using video or animation, use it occasionally.

If you need to present online, take advantage of Prezi Video’s option to share your content next to you on-screen during your presentation. This will engage your audience and keep them hooked throughout your multimedia presentation even online.

Review and analyze your work

Your multimedia presentation is ready. Or is it? Invest some time reviewing your presentation. Is it clearly structured and cohesive? Do the multimedia elements you have added achieve what you wanted them to achieve? Be honest with yourself and trust your intuition. If something doesn’t feel right with your presentation, don’t be afraid to make changes! 

Best practices for delivering a multimedia presentation

Delivering a multimedia presentation requires careful planning and execution to effectively engage and captivate your audience. Follow these best practices to ensure that you leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Know your material

Familiarize yourself with the content of your presentation to make sure you can confidently deliver it without relying too heavily on notes. Thoroughly understand the key points, supporting evidence, and transitions between different sections. This will enable you to maintain a natural flow and deliver a confident presentation. Also, consider using Presenter Notes . They serve as a reminder of important talking points and additional information during your presentation. Only visible to you, the presenter, the notes remain hidden from the audience. This allows you to effectively communicate your points without any interruptions.

Practice timing

Time your presentation to ensure it fits within the allocated time frame. Practice transitions between different multimedia elements, such as slides, videos, and interactive features, to maintain a smooth flow. Keep in mind that pacing is crucial, so allocate sufficient time for each part of your presentation while maintaining an engaging pace.

Use visual aids strategically

Visual aids are a powerful tool for conveying information and enhancing understanding. However, it’s essential to use them strategically to support and highlight your message, rather than distract from it. Use visuals sparingly and ensure they’re clear, visually appealing, and easy to understand. Avoid cluttered slides and prioritize concise and impactful visuals that reinforce your key points. If you want to learn more about good presentation design practices when it comes to adding visual content, watch the following video on the topic: 

Speak clearly and confidently

Effective communication is key to delivering a memorable presentation. Project your voice to ensure everyone in the audience can hear you clearly. Maintain eye contact with your audience to establish a connection and demonstrate confidence. Speak with clarity and conviction, emphasizing key points and using appropriate pauses for emphasis. A confident and engaging delivery will help your audience connect with your message.

Incorporate storytelling techniques

Storytelling is a powerful way to engage and captivate your audience. Incorporate storytelling techniques to create a narrative structure for your presentation. Begin with a compelling introduction that sets the stage and grabs attention. Use storytelling elements such as anecdotes, examples, and personal experiences to illustrate your points and make the content relatable and memorable. A well-crafted story can evoke emotions and leave a lasting impact on your audience.

Practice with technology

Familiarize yourself with the multimedia tools and technology you will be using during the presentation. In particular, get to know the endless features and capabilities of Prezi, the powerful multimedia presentation tool. Take the time to explore its features and understand how it can enhance your presentation. Familiarize yourself with the different templates, transitions, and interactive elements available. By mastering Prezi, you’ll be able to create attention-grabbing presentations that move.

Adapt to the audience

Tailor your presentation to resonate with your specific audience. Consider their demographics, interests, and background when delivering your content. Use language that is accessible and appropriate for your audience, avoiding jargon or technical terms that may be unfamiliar. Incorporate relevant examples and references that relate to their experiences. By adapting your presentation to their needs and preferences, you can create a stronger connection and enhance their overall engagement.

Engage the audience

Use interactive features to involve your audience and make the presentation more engaging. Incorporate audience polling, where participants can vote or provide feedback on specific questions or topics. Additionally, include dedicated Q&A sessions to encourage active participation and address any queries or concerns. Engaging the audience in this way promotes interaction and makes your presentation more dynamic. 

Ask for feedback

You can practice your presentation in front of people to get honest feedback. This way you can make any changes or work on specific areas that may need tweaking before the real thing. After your real presentation, you may even want to seek feedback from your audience to gather insights on what worked well and areas for improvement.

Remember, a well-delivered multimedia presentation is a combination of interesting content, effective visuals, and confident delivery. By following these best practices, you can create an engaging experience for everyone in the room.

How to engage your audience with interactive multimedia presentations

In addition to the essential components and best practices we’ve discussed, incorporating interactive elements can take your multimedia presentations to the next level. By engaging your audience in an interactive experience, you can captivate their attention and create a memorable presentation. Let’s explore some strategies for incorporating interactivity into your multimedia presentations:

Interactive charts

Instead of static images, use interactive charts to convey data and complex information. Allow your audience to explore different data points, toggle between visualizations, and interact with the content. This hands-on approach enhances understanding and engagement.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) 

If applicable, consider incorporating VR or AR elements into your multimedia presentations. These technologies provide immersive experiences that can transport your audience to different environments or allow them to interact with virtual objects. VR and AR can be particularly effective in fields such as architecture, education, and product demonstrations.

Gamification

Introduce gamification elements to make your presentation more interactive and enjoyable. Create quizzes, challenges, or interactive scenarios that require audience participation. Offer rewards or incentives for active engagement, such as badges or prizes.

Collaborative activities

Foster collaboration among your audience by including interactive activities. For example, you can divide your audience into small groups or pairs and provide specific tasks or discussions related to your presentation topic. Encourage participants to share their insights or findings with the larger group afterward.

Live demonstrations

If possible, incorporate live demonstrations of software, tools, or processes directly into your presentation. Showcasing practical examples in real-time can enhance understanding and engage the audience through active participation.

Remember, interactivity should align with your presentation goals and content. Incorporate interactive elements strategically to support your message and keep your audience engaged throughout the presentation. Prezi offers various interactive features and templates to help you create dynamic and immersive multimedia presentations.

By embracing interactivity, you can transform your multimedia presentations into memorable experiences that leave a lasting impact on your audience.

Common concerns with multimedia presentations

People often share some common concerns when diving into multimedia presentations. Here are a few of those concerns and simple solutions to tackle them:

Technical glitches

• Worry: Fear of technical issues derailing your presentation.
• Solution: Always have a backup plan in case technology decides to be temperamental. Test your setup beforehand to avoid unexpected surprises.

Media overload

• Worry: The fear of overwhelming your audience with too much media.
• Solution: Strike a balance by using multimedia elements strategically. Less can often be more when it comes to engaging your audience effectively.

The evolution of multimedia tools

The world of multimedia presentation tools has seen quite a transformation over the years, making the process more user-friendly and accessible than ever before. Platforms like Prezi are at the forefront of this evolution, continuously updating and improving the presentation creation process. With intuitive interfaces and a wide range of creative options at your fingertips, multimedia tools have truly democratized the art of multimedia presentations. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the presentation scene, the evolution of multimedia tools has made it easier than ever to craft the perfect presentation.

Multimedia presentation examples 

Your audience will immediately lose interest if all you offer them is a traditional slide deck. Instead, take advantage of Prezi’s Gallery and get inspired by dynamic, interactive, and engaging presentations that include various multimedia elements.

Below are a few examples of attention-grabbing and creative multimedia presentations that you can get inspired by or even reuse as templates for your own presentation topic.

Summer Plans presentation

The summer plans presentation inspires and captivates. The template is perfect for delivering a story, sharing an experience, or presenting a plan. It features multiple media elements, such as animations, images, and data visualizations. 

Why Leaders Need to Get Out of Their Own Way presentation

This presentation grabs our attention with its visually appealing design and strategic use of visuals. The simple yet engaging layout divides the presentation into four parts, creating a well-defined structure that is easy to follow. You can reuse this presentation as a template for delivering a topic that you need to unpack in a certain order. 

Corporate Social Responsibility presentation

This multimedia presentation engages and captivates with animations, images, icons, and more. As a template, it’s perfect for creating and delivering informative presentations, where you need to dive into the details of certain topics.

Earth Day presentation

The Earth Day presentation is a great example of how one can create a timeline presentation with Prezi. It includes various media elements that make this multimedia presentation highly engaging and informative.

Future-proofing your presentations

To make sure your multimedia presentations stay useful and up-to-date in the long run, here are some straightforward tips:

Pick the right formats

• Use common file types like PDF, MP4, and JPEG since they’re likely to stay usable in the future.

Keep things fresh

• Don’t let your content get old. Update it regularly with new information and visuals to keep it interesting and relevant.

Fit different screens

• Make your multimedia presentations so they can work on big screens and small devices like phones or tablets.

Try new tech

• Keep an eye on new technologies like virtual reality and interactive features. They can make your presentations more exciting and modern.

Listen to your audience

• Pay attention to what your audience likes and dislikes. Their feedback can help you improve your multimedia presentations and keep them interesting.

With these easy steps, you can make sure your multimedia presentations will still be great in the future!

Create attention-grabbing multimedia presentations with Prezi

In conclusion, crafting a well-executed multimedia presentation is crucial for achieving success in delivering presentations. This article has explored the key components involved in creating compelling multimedia presentations and provided insights on how to assemble these elements effectively. By considering the importance of content structure, visual design, and engaging storytelling techniques, presenters can capture their audience’s attention and leave a lasting impact. Furthermore, leveraging Prezi’s features can enhance multimedia presentations, making them more dynamic and interactive. By incorporating these strategies and utilizing the right tools, presenters can elevate their presentations to a new level and increase their chances of achieving their desired outcomes. Ultimately, mastering the art of multimedia presentations opens up opportunities for effective communication and successful presentations in various professional and academic settings.

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Definition of multimedia

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of multimedia  (Entry 2 of 2)

Examples of multimedia in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'multimedia.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1962, in the meaning defined above

1950, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near multimedia

multimammate mouse

multimegaton

Cite this Entry

“Multimedia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/multimedia. Accessed 22 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of multimedia.

Kids Definition of multimedia  (Entry 2 of 2)

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• Presentations

What Is Multimedia? +How to Use It in Your PowerPoint Presentations

• Bahasa Indonesia

What is a multimedia presentation? You've probably heard the term multimedia,  but what does it actually mean in PowerPoint? 

In short, it's combining many types of media in your presentation. You can use combinations of images, audio,  and  video  to make your point.

Every PowerPoint slide is a blank canvas. It's just waiting for your content to reinforce your speaking points or guide the presentation. Multimedia brings variety to your slides and helps visual learners understand your content better.

You probably already know how to work with text. So, I'll show you how to combine multiple types of media into the same PowerPoint presentation. You'll learn how to insert multimedia and edit it inside PowerPoint. Multimedia presentations hold more interest and engage your audience better when done well. 

Need Help? Grab Our New eBook on Making Great Presentations (Free)

We a great compliment to this tutorial. Quickly download this FREE eBook before you read on:  The Complete Guide to Making Great Presentations . It'll help you write, design, and deliver the perfect presentation. 

Why Use Multimedia in Your Presentation?

If we were bound to using only text and shapes, it would be much harder to hold an audience's attention during a presentation.

You can define a multimedia presentation as a presentation that uses more than one type of media to reach the audience. 

Multimedia exists to help reinforce our key speaking points. Here are a few ideas for working with images, audio, and video to make your presentation more interesting:

• Images . These could be used for everything from simple stock photos that add slide variety, to logos and icons that showcase your brand.
• Audio . Audio is a great way to add narrations to your slides if you can't present directly to your audience or to add music and sound effects.
• Video . You can add video clips from your computer or sites like YouTube. Videos could be used for showing instructional walkthroughs from YouTube, TED talks , or a recorded screencast of your own.

Discover high-quality PowerPoint presentation templates on Envato Elements like the popular Snow template we use in the slide above.

Before we dive in, always remember: less is more . It's great to incorporate multimedia in PowerPoint. But don't clutter slides with too many distractions for your audience.

How to Use Multimedia in PowerPoint Presentations (Watch & Learn)

Let's walk through multimedia together in this quick screencast. In it, I'll teach you how to insert each type of multimedia and make basic edits to them.

PowerPoint also has tools inside the app to add basic edits to your multimedia. You can crop images, trim video clips, and adjust audio levels. I'll show you how to use each of these tools, so that you don't have to open other apps to work with multimedia quickly.

If you want more detail on how to work with each of those types of multimedia, check out the step-by-step tutorial below on how to add multimedia to your presentations.

How to Use Multimedia in PowerPoint PPT Presentations

Multimedia is helpful in presentations to keep your audience's attention. Here's how to add multimedia to your presentation:

Let's get started with a multimedia presentation example:

1. Images in PowerPoint: Stills & Animated

The first thing we want to do is add images to the PowerPoint template. This section explains how to add still and animated images:

How to Insert Images into PowerPoint

The simplest way to add an image to PowerPoint is to simply copy and paste. You can copy an image to your clipboard in practically any app like a web browser or image editor, and then right-click to paste it into PowerPoint.

A better way to insert images is to save them to your computer, then insert them using the  Insert  menu. Go to the  Insert > Pictures  menu to browse to an image to insert.

On the pop-up menu, browse to where your images are stored and click on them to add them to the presentation. 

Hold the  Control  button on your keyboard and click on multiple images before you press  Insert  to add them all to a slide.

Resize and Reposition Images

Once an image is on the slide, you can click and drag it to move it around on the slide. If the image is larger or smaller than you want, you can click and drag on the corner to resize it. 

PowerPoint Picture Tools

PowerPoint also includes a set of tools to edit images from within the app. You don't always have to open up Photoshop or another editor to make basic changes to your images. 

When you select an image, you'll see a new option on the PowerPoint ribbon. Click on the  Picture Tools > Format  to open up image editing tools.

Here are the key Picture Tools to try out:

• Cropping . Select the part of the image that you want to keep (and remove) to trim an image inside PowerPoint
• Remove background . If you've got a logo with a white or black background, use this wizard to isolate the logo.

Check out this tutorial for a deep dive on working with images inside PowerPoint:

2. Audio in PowerPoint

Once you've added your images to PowerPoint, it's time to add sound. This section explains how to use audio files in your multimedia presentation:

Add an Audio File to PowerPoint

Audio is another multimedia type you can work with in PowerPoint. 

If you've got an audio track on your computer like an MP3 or WAV file, you can easily add them to your presentation. Choose the  Insert > Audio > Audio on My PC  option to browse for and choose an audio file.

After you choose the audio file, you'll see a small speaker icon on your PowerPoint slide. You can hover over it and press the play button to play it while presenting.

Record Audio Inside PowerPoint

If you don't already have your audio recorded in a file, you can actually capture it right inside of PowerPoint.

To record audio for the presentation, go to the  Insert > Audio > Record Audio  option.

Now, you'll see the  Record Sound  option pop up. Press the red Record button, and PowerPoint will start grabbing audio. When you're finished press the  Stop  button (black square) to add your audio to PowerPoint.

Working With PowerPoint's Audio Tools

PowerPoint lets you make minor edits and adjustments to audio files without having to open another app. With the audio file selected, the most useful options are found on the  Audio Tools > Playback menu.

Here are some of the most useful options:

• Trim Audio . Open this option to reduce your audio file to play only a selection of the original file.
• Start . Change from On Click  to  Automatically  to play the audio without clicking the speaker icon.

3. Video in PowerPoint

Video is a powerful multimedia type you can use. PowerPoint supports adding video from your computer or online. Let's look at how to insert and change them: 

Add a Clip From Your Computer

If you've got a video clip on your computer, you can quickly drop it into your presentation by using the Insert  menu. Go to  Insert > Video > This Device to browse to your video file.

Once the video is on your slide, you can drag the corners to resize it and control how much of the slide it covers.

PowerPoint has good support for most of the major video file types, like MP4, QuickTime, and Windows Media files. 

Learn more about how to add video into PowerPoint: 

Add a Video Clip from Online

Finding an inspiring or insightful YouTube video can help make drive your point to reach an audience. Instead of finding a workaround to download and convert a YouTube video, PowerPoint can link to and insert them directly.

To add a YouTube (or other online) video, go to  Insert > Video > Online Video  to launch the menu.

Now, PowerPoint shows a new window to search for or add an online video. If you want to add a YouTube video, you can drop in the URL for a video, or search directly inside this box for a relevant clip.

Other sites might give you embed codes on their site. On sites like Vimeo or TED, try out the Embed code and dropping the HTML into the bottom box.

Adding a YouTube video is a great way to include a video without increasing your PowerPoint file size. Instead of embedding the video inside the file, the link plays a YouTube video, right inside the presentation. For more detail, read through this quick tutorial: 

PowerPoint Video Playback Options

Just as PowerPoint has built-in tools to adjust images, the  Playback Options  are great to adjust how a video plays inside the presentation.

With the video selected, click on the Video Format tab.

Here are several key options to try out to change how the video plays:

• Start . Change this option from On Click to Automatically to start playing the video as soon as the slide appears.
• Play Full Screen . With this option turned on, playing the video will cut to a full-screen mode with the rest of the slide hidden.
• Trim Video . Open this option to select which parts of the video to reduce the video to the parts you want to show.

Recap and Keep Learning More About PowerPoint

In this tutorial, you learned how to mix multimedia types to create an interesting presentation. PowerPoint makes it easy to add and edit images, video, and audio. 

We've just scratched the surface on what's possible with PowerPoint presentations. Here are a few more tutorials that'll help you build great-looking slides from scratch:

Five Top Multimedia Presentation Templates from in Envato Elements for 2022

If you’re looking for a template, it’s helpful to see the top premium templates. Here are five top multimedia PowerPoint presentation template examples:

PLAST is a modern multimedia presentation template that comes with 30 unique slides. Plus, this template comes with Icons, infographics, mobile mockups, charts, and graphs. The PLAST template has a colorful and fun design that'll work for any topic you want.

2. Terrenifa Multipurpose PowerPoint

Terrenifa Multipurpose PowerPoint has 100 unique and editable slides. It also comes with two theme variations with 50 slides with each theme. This template comes with infographics, charts, graphs, and maps. You can quickly turn the Terrenifa template into a multimedia PowerPoint presentation.

3. Roara PowerPoint Template

Roara PowerPoint Template can be used as a multimedia presentation with minimal and modern design. Since this template comes with picture placeholders, you can easily add an image of your choice to the slide. It also comes with two theme variations, allowing you to choose the design you want.

This is a great option if you’re looking for a multimedia presentation with many infographics, charts, and graphs. The Maximus presentation also comes with ten color scheme options. Also included in this presentation template are animated slides and transitions.

5. Danastri - Multipurpose PowerPoint Template

Danastri template is a great option if you’re looking for a template with a pop of color. It comes with 40 slides that can be edited. It also comes with graphs, icons, mockup devices, and picture placeholders. Easily add an image by dragging and dropping an image into a picture placeholder.

Make Great Presentations (Free eBook Download)

We've got the perfect complement to this tutorial, which will walk you through the complete presentation process. Multimedia helps your presentation stand out, but there's a whole lot more to master. Learn how to write your presentation, design it like a pro, and prepare it to present powerfully. 

Download our new eBook:  The Complete Guide to Making Great Presentations . It's available for free with a subscription to the Tuts+ Business Newsletter. 

Download a Template and Start Your Multimedia Presentation Today

You've just learned the answer to " what is a multimedia presentation. " Plus, we've shown you some multimedia PowerPoint presentation examples to help you get started on your own presentation.

So, don't wait any longer. Download your favorite multimedia PowerPoint template from Envato Elements and start building your presentation today.

Editorial Note: This tutorial was originally published in September of 2017. It's been updated to include new information and to make sure that it's relevant and up to date—with special help from Sarah Joy .

Learn » Presentations » Multimedia Presentation

Multimedia Presentation

Table of contents, what is a multimedia presentation.

What makes a multimedia presentation different than the average PowerPoint, Prezi, or other presenter software, is the fact that a multimedia presentation incorporates both audio and visual elements to captivate an audience. It can be used for anything from lectures, trainings, presentations, or even marketing campaigns. Multimedia presentations can range from simple PowerPoint slideshows to complex video productions.

Other popular elements of a multimedia presentation  will range from stock photos, audio narration, background music, custom transition animations, animated icons , and even sound effects. While the setting and types of presentation may vary, the core purpose of the multimedia presentation is to deliver the message to a group or audience. 

Unlike a PowerPoint presentation however, the term “multimedia presentation” is more commonly used in the business or corporate setting. Companies will use them in trade show displays, explainer videos that demonstrate how their product or services is best suited for their customer. All multimedia presentations however start off in the same manner as a PowerPoint does, a blank canvas or document that outlines what content (text, photos, ideas)  must be presented by the time the presentation has finished.

(created for a past client)

Advantages of multimedia presentations

One of the major benefits of using a multimedia presentation is to allow for different types of learning styles. Auditory, visual, and kinesthetic learners all learn differently, so incorporating multiple types of multimedia will help ensure that everyone in the audience is able to comprehend your message.

Another advantage of using multimedia is that it keeps your audience engaged. If you have a longer presentation, visuals can help break up the monotony of simply talking and help keep listeners’ attention. Audio elements such as music and sound effects can also be effective in keeping a consistent flow to the presentation.

Developing an outline for a multimedia presentation

When creating an outline for your multimedia presentation, it’s important to start by identifying the key points that you want to make. This will serve as a roadmap for the rest of your presentation and ensure that each slide is structured in a way that makes sense in relation to the topic at hand.

You should also consider how many slides you’ll need and what kind of visuals you’ll be using. Will you be presenting images, videos, or something else? Once you have a basic outline of your presentation, you can start building out each slide.

optimizing content for maximum engagement

When it comes to multimedia presentations, clarity and conciseness are key. Each slide should communicate the main point quickly and effectively. Too much content or too many visuals can be overwhelming and make it difficult for your audience to comprehend the point you’re trying to make.

It’s also important to think about how the audio and visual elements of each slide will interact with one another. Listeners should be able to clearly hear what is being said, while visuals should be used to reinforce the audio. When done correctly, multimedia presentations create an immersive experience that engages your audience and helps them better understand and remember what they just heard.

how to create a multimedia presentation

If you already have a Powerpoint presentation, congrats! You’ve saved yourself some time as the content is already there. The most important aspect at the beginning is determining which headlines are to be paired with which text, everything else is secondary. 

PowerPoint and other presentation software creators can give you many ideas for the flow of the video presentation but they lack the custom animations and “pop” that a multimedia presentation can benefit from.

Take for example, the series of presentation images above. These look great from a layout-perspective but typically what these “out-of-the-box” software options will do is only enable you to click and the image will appear (sure, maybe it’s a dissolve or flash animation but remember, everyone else is doing this as well).

Multimedia presentation software

If you or someone you know has access to the Adobe Creative Suite, I  highly recommend using this first and foremost. If not, Adobe After Effects will be powerful enough to get you up and running with animations, unique backgrounds and the best part is you can import all your own images. 

While this is not a tutorial on how to use After Effects, some of the nifty things you can do is animate your logo as the intro. This is one component of presentations that I often find people overlook. Having a solid intro (5-10 seconds max) can give your video presentation that “branded feel.” Attached here is one I created for REMAX Brokerage. 

What are common multimedia components

In a multimedia presentation, several components work together to convey the main topic and points. To help the end user better consume the message, components that are frequently found in a multimedia presentation are:

• Transitions

Let’s take a look at each one below…

Even if you opt to present a multimedia presentation vs. a written report, it is beneficial to include at least some text. There can’t be any presentation whether simple or multimedia which doesn’t contain text, simply because audience members benefit from a diverse set of data inputs (i.e. audio, visual, kinetic). That is why the text is a basic component of multimedia presentation. However, text can take several forms in multimedia presentations such as headlines, features list, and more. It does not have to be paragraphs that can be daunting to read.

Images and Photos:

Images (whether your own or stock photos) can be a great benefit to the overall presentation. I believe the saying goes “a picture tells 1000 words…” while this is certainly true, keep in mind that all components of a multimedia or video presentation should be used to support the other elements. Too much of a good thing can be just that…too much. 

image resolution

Choosing images and videos for your multimedia presentation is only half the battle. You also need to make sure that these visuals are of high enough quality for your audience to be able to enjoy them. Image resolution is an important factor in multimedia presentations – using images or videos with low resolution can make them look blurry and low-quality, which can ruin the overall effect of your presentation.

Background music and vocal narration are two other elements that can help bring a presentation to life. Music can not only help an audience pay more attention to the overall presentation but give it a bit more “pop.”

Animated Icons:

Animated Icons within multimedia presentations typically render as video or GIF format . If you’re using a popular presentation software such as PowerPoint, dragging and dropping (or uploading) is one of the easiest ways to quickly add some dynamic movement. Below are a few animations icons for customization. (change colors, dimensions, format, etc.):

What Is The Most Important Aspect of a Multimedia Presentation

The most important aspect of a multimedia presentation is the message it’s trying to convey. It’s all too easy to get caught up in picking visuals and planning out slides, but without a clear message, your presentation won’t be effective.

Make sure that each slide serves a purpose and helps drive home the main point you are trying to make. This will ensure that your presentation leaves a lasting impression on your audience and helps them get the most out of what you’re trying to say.

Data Infographics & Animated Charts

Animated charts and graphs are a great way to help showcase your information and message. Even if you are not using a video format for your entire presentation, i.e. using something like PowerPoint, you can embed video infographics and GIFs inside your presentation. Considerations for your animated graphs can be:

• Dimensions of graph
• Format (GIF vs. Video)
• Length of Animation
• Image to Text Ratio

is a powerpoint a multimedia presentation

A Powerpoint presentation can indeed be considered a multimedia presentation, as it can include both visual and audio elements. However, for a Powerpoint to truly be considered a multimedia presentation, the visuals should work together with the audio in order to create an immersive experience that engages your audience.

Where are video presentations used

There is wide use of multimedia presentations in business and corporate events. Various training programs take place in offices and organizations where multimedia presentations play a vital role. Video training and internal communication has benefited from the use of media and video presentations because let’s face it…reading through TPS reports all day can become quite straining on the mind. 

From video advertisements, conferencing, classes, and workshops, these presentations can help you in better representing your brand and business. 

final multimedia design tips

The best multimedia presentations are those that capture the attention of their audience and keep them engaged throughout. To create a successful multimedia presentation, it’s important to consider key factors such as content structure, visuals, audio-visual interaction, color palettes, and image resolution. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating an effective multimedia presentation that packs a punch.

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• presentation

noun as in performance; something given, displayed

Strongest matches

appearance , delivery , demonstration , display , introduction , offering , production , proposal , reception , show , submission

Strong matches

act , arrangement , award , bestowal , conferral , debut , donation , exhibition , exposition , giving , investiture , knockdown , launch , launching , overture , pitch , present , proposition , remembrance , rendition , representation , spiel , staging

Weak matches

coming out , delivering , dog and pony show , sales pitch

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Example sentences.

Look no further than those execs who have sat through online presentations outlining a more inclusive workplace only to have to go back to working in teams where they’re made to feel different.

The day of the presentation comes, and the ecommerce team gathers around, continuously nodding along with each slide.

In the questions-and-answer presentation on Wednesday, Palantir did not address the issue of voting power.

For repurposing, you can use four different formats, which are – video series, infographics, podcasts, and presentations.

This presentation will explain the ins and outs of the process as well as the need for older children who are looking for a home as well.

We were scoring it like the Olympics: presentation, technique.

Bogucki includes the leaflet in a Powerpoint presentation he has developed.

Her biggest surprise, she said, was realizing how much presentation and technical points mattered.

That may be partially because The Big Lebowski is their most nihilistic presentation.

One of the hottest tickets at the 2014 edition of Comic-Con, the annual nerd mecca in San Diego, was the Marvel presentation.

You were obliging enough to ask me to accept a presentation copy of your verses.

Nor was ever a better presentation made of the essential program of socialism.

After the presentation of the Great Southern case our Bill was heard and all the opposition.

The presentation of the Railway case and the rebutting evidence did not begin till all the public witnesses had been heard.

Furthermore, a note is payable on demand when it is thus stated, or is payable at sight or on presentation.

Related Words

Words related to presentation are not direct synonyms, but are associated with the word presentation . Browse related words to learn more about word associations.

noun as in outward aspect, characteristic

• countenance

noun as in coming into sight

• actualization
• introduction
• manifestation
• materialization
• representation

noun as in prize or reward

• adjudication
• distinction
• feather in cap
• scholarship

noun as in start of an event or action

• commencement
• inauguration
• installation
• origination
• point of departure
• starting point

Viewing 5 / 63 related words

On this page you'll find 100 synonyms, antonyms, and words related to presentation, such as: appearance, delivery, demonstration, display, introduction, and offering.

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

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multimedia presentation

Meanings of multimedia and presentation.

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(Definition of multimedia and presentation from the Cambridge English Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

• Examples of multimedia presentation

Word of the Day

thirst for something

to feel very strongly that you want and need a particular thing

Fakes and forgeries (Things that are not what they seem to be)

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• Definition of multimedia
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The big SlideLizard presentation glossary > Multimedia Presentation

Multimedia Presentation

Term explanation  •  category presentations.

Definition and meaning

A multmedia presentation is a speech in which several types of visual and audio aids are combined in the same speech with the help of computer software. .

Save yourself a lot of work by using SlideLizard to share your slides as well as additional documents and contact details with the participants of your presentation.

Other glossary terms

Master view.

In the master view in PowerPoint you can edit the Slide Master.

.ppt file extension

A .ppt file is a presentation which was made with PowerPoint, that includes different slides with texts, images and transition effects.

Verbal Communication

Communication is verbal if it includes talking with other people. This can be face-to-face but also over the telephone or via Skype

Virtual Audience

A virtual audience consist of people who join an event / a meeting / a presentation via an electronic device (computer or smartphone) over the Internet. Each member may be located in a different place while an event takes place. Virtual audiences are becoming increasingly important as the amount of events held online is rising.

The big SlideLizard presentation glossary

The SlideLizard presentation glossary is a large collection of explanations and definitions of terms in the area of presentations, communication, speaking, events, PowerPoint and education.

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