What are visual aids used for in presentations?

Visual aids are used in presentations primarily to enhance understanding and retention of the spoken message by providing a visual context that complements the verbal communication. When speakers incorporate charts, graphs, images, or slides, they help to clarify complex ideas and make information more accessible to the audience. This multimodal approach caters to different learning styles, assists in illustrating points more effectively, and reinforces key messages, making it easier for the audience to remember the information afterward.

In contrast, distractions or entertainment value may detract from the message, and while visuals can be engaging, their primary purpose is not to entertain but to support and clarify the content being presented. Moreover, visual aids do not replace the speaker; rather, they serve as a tool to enhance the speaker's effectiveness in conveying their message.