Why do conferences give out style sheets for papers, impose word lengths, demand specific referencing styles but never ever give people any guidance about producing a good Powerpoint?

How is it that intelligent people sit through Powerpoint presentation after Powerpoint presentation without ever deducing some of the principles of good design and good presentation?

* If you use 12, 15 or, God forbid, 20 lines of text on your slide we can’t read it at the back.
* If your background is green (and why is it green?) then don’t highlight in purple. It just means we can’t read the things you think are important.
* If you need lecture notes, then write yourself lecture notes. Don’t read us the Powerpoint!
* If it took you two years to devise your research questions, don’t read them through once quickly to us and expect us to remember them or understand them.
* If you need a rest, have it before or after your presentation. We want to see you – not the top of your head while you’re sitting down.
* If the lights are full on then your presntation appears dim. Take control of your environment. Find a light switch.
* If half the audience are checking their texts then your presentation is rubbish. Stop now.