“Stupid” Flip Chart Tricks

Tried and true methods of using flipcharts to organize, facilitate, and record community meetings from Brushy Fork Director Peter Hille.

The Tools

• Tape (masking)
• Markers–”Mr. Sketch” work best because they don’t bleed through.
• Grid ruled flip chart pads
• Easels (See toolbox in the Fall/Winter 1996-97 Mountain Promise on “How to build a flipchart easel”.)
  1. If there is no bar on the easel, use the pad box as a backboard.
  2. Use the pad box on a chair if you don’t have an easel.
  3. Use tape to solve any remaining problems!

The Set-Up

• Plan where to tape your sheets so all can see them–walls, windows, etc.
• Tear off tape pieces and stick them on the easel.
• Make flipcharts ahead of time for presentations.
  1. Write notes in pencil on pre-made pages for presentation.
  2. Use white mailing labels to “erase” mistakes.

Writing

• Colors–Don’t use red except to highlight.
• Size–One inch high minimum (lower case).
• Paraphrasing:
  1. Use key words.
  2. Use speakers’ words if you can.
  3. Negotiate for reduction to key phrases.
  4. Read it back and ask if you got it right.

Taping Up

• Put tape on the top corners of the sheet before you tear it off.
• The tear-off: tear one corner, then pull down and to the side.
• Fold the sheets after taking them down–they are easier to type.
• Roll the sheets if you plan to post them again.

Download this file to print as a handout.
(Acrobat Format)