How to Create a Presentation

Overview

Scoop presentations (Canvases) combine the polish of PowerPoint with the power of live data. Create beautiful slide decks that automatically update when your data refreshes, eliminating manual copy-paste and ensuring stakeholders always see current numbers.

Why Scoop Presentations?

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Create a New Canvas

1. Click New in the left sidebar
2. Select Canvas / Presentation
3. Choose a starting point:
   • Blank canvas: Start from scratch
   • Import template: Use your company's PowerPoint/Slides template
   • Duplicate existing: Copy and modify a previous presentation

Step 2: Set Up Your Slides

Add slides using the + button in the slide panel. Each slide can contain:

• Charts: Live visualizations from your data
• KPIs: Prominent single-number displays
• Tables: Data grids with formatting
• Text: Titles, bullets, commentary
• Images: Logos, icons, screenshots
• Shapes: Boxes, lines, callouts

Step 3: Add Live Data Elements

To add a chart or KPI:

1. Click Insert in the toolbar
2. Choose Chart or KPI
3. Select from your saved library, or create new
4. Position and resize on the slide

The data connection is maintained, so when your dataset refreshes, the chart updates automatically.

Step 4: Style Your Presentation

Customize the look:

• Background colors: Match your brand
• Fonts: Use company typography
• Layout: Arrange elements with guides and snapping
• Themes: Apply consistent styling across slides

Step 5: Add Context

Make your data tell a story:

• Titles: What is this slide about?
• Annotations: Call out key insights
• Commentary: Add narrative text explaining the "so what"
• Comparisons: Show vs. targets or previous periods

Importing PowerPoint/Slides Templates

Scoop can use your existing templates:

1. Click Import Template when creating a canvas
2. Upload your .pptx or .slides file
3. Scoop preserves:
   • Slide layouts
   • Backgrounds and colors
   • Logo placements
   • Font styles
4. Add Scoop's live data elements on top

Presenting and Sharing

Present Live

Click Present to enter full-screen presentation mode. All data shows current values.

Export Options

Collaborate

• Share with workspace: All members can view/edit
• Viewer mode: Allow view-only access
• Comments: Add feedback on specific slides

Best Practices

• One insight per slide: Don't overcrowd
• Lead with the headline: State the conclusion first
• Use consistent layouts: Makes decks easier to follow
• Test with real data: Ensure charts look good with actual values
• Schedule updates: Data should refresh before important meetings

What's Next?

• Learn more about importing templates
• Create charts for your presentation
• Add KPIs for executive summaries