In Slide:ology, Nancy Duarte explains that presentations are more than just pretty slides. Presentations are about telling engaging stories to your audience. The author believes that the most engaging presentations are visual first and that each slide should be simple, clear, and impactful.

Duarte highlights the importance of understanding your audience and their whys. And how this can help to craft a message that resonates with the audience. It's not just about putting information on a slide; it's about guiding your audience from one idea to the next. Each slide is like a stepping stone, leading them through the story you want to tell.

Finally, Slide:ology emphasizes the importance of design principles such as contrast, space, and alignment. Duarte demonstrates how to use images, color, and typography effectively to ensure that your message is delivered and understood. The core idea of the book is about combining art and storytelling to create a presentation that leaves a lasting impression.