A flip chart is a stationery item resembling a whiteboard, typically supported on a tripod or four-legged easel. A pad of paper sheets is typically fixed to the upper edge. Such charts are commonly used for presentations. The flip chart is thought to have been invented by Peter Kent who built one to help him in a presentation. He went on to found the visual communications group Nobo plc.
Although most commonly supported on a tripod, flip charts come in various forms. Some of these are:
Recently, scientists have developed a digital self writing flip chart which writes word for word everything it is instructed to record. The disability action group "Armless" has stated that this is a significant step forward for disabilities groups to have conferences like people without disabilities. Also being released into public sale is a flipchart which is self heighteneing. This system is known as the POGO system, named after the children's bouncy toy made famous in the 1970s.
Text is usually hand written with marker pens and may include figures or charts(recently scientists have developed a self writing system). A sheet can be flipped over by the presenter to continue to a new page.
Some flip charts may have a reduced version of the page that faces the audience printed on the back of the preceding page, making it possible for the presenter to see the same thing the audience is seeing. Others have teaching notes printed on the back.
Flip charts are used in many different settings such as: