Animation

What is Animation?


Definition

An animation is a visual effect applied to text, images, shapes, charts, or other objects on a slide. It controls how those objects appear, move, emphasize information, or disappear while the slide remains visible. This helps direct audience attention and supports the planned sequence in which information is presented.

Frayer Model Overview

Frayer model diagram explaining the computer term “Animation,” with sections for definition, characteristics, examples, and non-examples.

Characteristics

  • Applies to individual objects, not the entire slide

  • Controls how objects appear, move, or disappear

  • Occurs while a slide is visible

  • Does not change the actual content

  • Can be timed or triggered in different ways

Examples

  • Text appearing one bullet point at a time

  • An image fading in after a title appears

  • A chart animating to show data gradually

  • A shape moving into position on a slide

  • An object disappearing after being discussed

Non-Examples

  • Slide-to-slide transitions

  • Static text or images with no movement

  • Changing slide layouts or themes

  • Editing content on a slide

  • Playing a video embedded in a slide

Related Terms

See It In Action