Learn the 20×20 format and event requirements
In PechaKucha’s 20×20 format, each of 20 visuals is shown for 20 seconds; the visuals advance automatically, and the speaker presents alongside them. This means the presentation lasts 6 minutes and 40 seconds in total. This definition appears in Aga Khan University’s Pecha Kucha guidelines and the University of Iowa’s explanation of Pecha Kucha.
These sources explain the basic format; they do not mean that submission, recording, and content requirements are the same at every event. Before preparing your presentation, read the current guidelines for the event you are applying to. Pay particular attention to requirements such as slide count, duration, language, file format, and the use of on-screen text.
Narrow your topic to a single main message
Instead of choosing a broad topic, settle on a single question you can answer in a short time. For example, you could narrow “Sustainability” to the question, “What shopping habit could we try in our neighborhood to reduce single-use packaging?” Write your main message in one sentence. Each slide should develop, illustrate, or help draw a conclusion from that message.
This approach is not about arbitrarily removing important details; it is about creating a clear thread in a short presentation. If a slide introduces a new, unrelated topic, consider how it contributes to the main message. If its contribution is limited, remove it or combine it with another slide.
Draft the 20-slide sequence first
Before searching for visuals, decide on the order and purpose of the 20 slides. For example, you could move from an opening and context to a question or problem, examples, a practical step to try, and a conclusion. For each slide, briefly answer the questions, “What will I show?” and “What should the audience understand from this section?” This helps the visuals form a connected narrative.
The example below is hypothetical; it makes no claims about local packaging volumes or shopping habits. Its main message is: “Changing one shopping habit can be a practical starting point for reducing packaging.” You can adapt the visual ideas to your own topic.
- A shopping bag with packaged goods — introduce the question. 2. An empty trash can — define the topic. 3. A product’s packaging — connect the issue to everyday life. 4. A reusable bag — show an alternative. 5. A shopping list — explain the idea of planning.
- A refillable container — give an example of reuse. 7. Two different products — explain the criteria for choosing. 8. A market stall — introduce the idea of exploring options. 9. A person shopping — show an individual starting point. 10. Several shopping bags — move to a shared habit.
- A calendar — discuss a trial period. 12. A notebook — suggest recording observations. 13. A forgotten bag — acknowledge a possible setback. 14. A bag by the door — suggest a reminder. 15. Two shopping scenarios — compare routines.
- A graph with its source identified — use it only if you have verified data. 17. Reused containers — address the solution’s limitations. 18. The next shopping trip — suggest a step to try. 19. The bag from the beginning — return to the main message. 20. A closing visual — end with a brief conclusion.
Choose visuals that carry the main idea
For each slide, choose a photo, illustration, or graph that supports the main idea. A visual can make an example concrete or prepare the audience for the next point. Too many small elements or too much text can distract the audience from the narrative; as you choose, ask what purpose each visual serves. Aga Khan University’s guidelines also recommend choosing strong, relevant visuals and avoiding text on slides.
Follow the event’s rules on text. For example, the same guidelines require 20 visuals and no text in a Pecha Kucha video, while also specifying that the opening frames include the title and speaker’s name. When interpreting these requirements together, do not assume how the title information should be presented or whether the opening frame counts; ask the event organizers. This is an example of one application’s guidelines, not a universal requirement for all presentations.
Write the narration and rehearse the timing
Prepare brief speaking notes for each slide, with one main idea per slide. Rather than assuming there is a fixed word count that works for every topic and speaker, read your notes aloud and time yourself. If you go over 20 seconds, keep the main message and remove secondary details; if you finish early, add a brief explanation or example that clarifies the message.
Plan transitions around the overall idea of each slide rather than linking them to a single word or sentence. During rehearsal, leave short pauses between ideas, and if the visuals will advance automatically, practise the narration together with the transitions. Aga Khan University’s guidelines also recommend matching slides to general ideas rather than specific words, practising the timing in advance, and rehearsing the presentation several times before recording.
Confirm recording and usage requirements separately
If the presentation must be recorded or submitted in a particular file format, check the event’s current guidelines for the required format and duration limit. The application call at the Aga Khan University link specifies a recorded video and particular format requirements; those apply to that call and should not be assumed to apply to every PechaKucha event.
Also review the usage requirements for visual and audio materials. Aga Khan University’s guidelines say to obtain consent when using photos or videos of people and permission to use copyrighted music. Separately confirm that you have permission to use your materials and check any additional event requirements.
Final checklist
- I have chosen a single main message and built the 20-slide sequence around it.
- I have identified each slide’s role in the narrative and the visual I will show.
- I have checked the event’s current requirements for duration, slides, language, recording, and visuals.
- I have reviewed the permissions for the visual and audio materials I will use.
- I have rehearsed the narration with a timer and practised the slide transitions.
- If a recording is required, I have watched the final file from beginning to end to check that the narration matches the visuals.
Frequently asked questions
Should I put text on the slides?
Follow the event guidelines. Some application requirements may call for visuals without text; if the requirements are unclear, ask the organizer how text should be handled. Focus on using the visual to support the main idea rather than putting a long script on the slide.
How do I time a 20-second narration?
Read the notes for each slide aloud and time yourself. If you go over, remove secondary details; if you finish early, add only an explanation that clarifies the main message. Rehearse again with the slide transitions.
If you are interested in shorter presentation formats, you can also read How to prepare a Three Minute Thesis presentation and Ignite presentations: planning a fast-paced talk. Check the duration and structure requirements for these formats with the relevant event as well.
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