Absolute Seductive Fun in PPT Golden Section

Simple Application: Creating a Golden Ratio PPT Cover

The cover of a presentation serves as its first impression. To enhance visual appeal, you can apply the golden ratio by using golden lines as layout guides. For instance, many PPT covers use split rectangles, and inserting golden lines can help create a balanced and elegant layout.

To begin, choose a suitable template and delete the default text placeholders by going to "Format → Select Pane" and pressing "Delete" on "Heading 1" and "Subtitle 2". Then, insert a rectangle that covers the entire slide background using "Insert → Rectangle", and set the fill to "None" for a transparent effect. Note the dimensions (Figure 1).

Figure 1: Checking the rectangle size

Next, create a second rectangle with a height of approximately 0.618 times the original. Align this rectangle with the top of the first one, then add a horizontal line at the bottom. This forms the golden line (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Inserting the golden line

Delete the two rectangles and add your title text. The result is a clean, golden-sectioned cover (Figure 3).

Figure 3: Golden rectangle split cover

Advanced Use: Applying Golden Ratio to Text Layouts

Beyond just rectangular splits, the golden ratio can be used to structure text more effectively. You can experiment with horizontal, vertical, or even diagonal lines depending on the content. Multiple subdivisions within a single rectangle can also create dynamic layouts (Figure 4).

Figure 4: Different combinations of split layouts

For example, if you're working with a triangular layout, insert a rectangle and draw a line at 0.618 of its width. Align this line with the top edge and connect it to the lower corner. Rotate the text to match the angle of the hypotenuse, then place your content on the right side of the shape (Figure 5).

Figure 5: Golden layout for text

Additionally, you can use the Fibonacci spiral—a visual representation of the golden ratio—to guide your design. Tools like Atrise Golden Section can generate these spirals automatically. After generating a spiral, take a screenshot and paste it into your PPT. Then, use the spiral to guide the placement of rectangles, creating a harmonious layout (Figure 6).

Figure 6: Generated golden spiral

Once the spiral is in place, use the "Insert → Rectangle" function to align it with the spiral’s tangent points. This creates a composition of multiple golden rectangles (Figure 7).

Figure 7: Golden spiral typography layout

Finally, replace the rectangle backgrounds with images using "Format → Shape Fill → Picture". This allows you to create a visually striking image layout based on the golden ratio (Figure 8).

Figure 8: Image layout using golden curves

While precise calculations are useful, in real-world design, flexibility is key. Forcing the golden ratio without considering context can lead to unnatural results. For instance, applying it rigidly to face editing can produce unflattering outcomes (Figure 9). Therefore, when using the golden ratio in PPT design, always balance aesthetics with practicality.

Figure 9: Unnatural result of forced golden section