6x6Regel

6x6Regel, also written 6x6-Regel in German, is a presentation design guideline used to improve readability and audience engagement. It recommends limiting the amount of text on a single slide to a maximum of six words per line and no more than six lines per slide. The idea is that reduced text encourages speakers to summarize points and keeps the audience visually focused.

Rationale and use: The rule aims to minimize cognitive load for viewers, prevent slides from becoming reading material, and support a clear narrative flow. It is commonly taught in business communication and slide design courses and is often supplemented with guidance on font size, contrast, and the use of visuals.

Implementation tips: Use a large, legible font (typically 24–32 points for many rooms), favor sans-serif types, maintain high contrast between text and background, and stick to one idea per slide. Prefer short phrases or bullet points rather than full sentences, and supplement text with relevant images, charts, or diagrams to illustrate key points.

Variations and critiques: Some sources allow up to seven words per line or slightly more than six lines per slide, while others view the rule as overly rigid for modern, visually driven presentations. Critics argue that readability and storytelling should take precedence over strict word counts; designers may apply the rule flexibly based on audience, venue, and content.

History: The 6x6 rule is a longstanding heuristic in presentation practice, popularized by trainers and design guides in business and education. It does not have a single formal origin but has become a standard expectation in many slides-based communication contexts.