IS 1091: How to prepare a presentation.
For a presentation to be a success, it's not enough just to prepare
the material, you also need to think of how to present it.
- Figure out the order in which the material is presented. Writing
an outline is helpful. If different group members prepare different
parts of the presentation, make sure that there are no repetitions or
omissions, and that the logical sequence is followed (for instance,
the background information is given before the discussion of current
issues).
- Rehearse your presentation. Make sure that you remember the
order in which you are presenting the material. Think of ways to help
the listener to follow: make it clear when you are switching from one
subject to another. Use phrases like "Now that we have discussed the
history of online banking, let's look at the current challenges".
- Make sure to look at the audience. Glancing at your note cards is
OK every once in a while, but reading your entire presentation is
not. Speak clearly and loudly.
- If you are using slides, don't rush through them, give the
listeners time to absorb the information. However, don't read aloud
the entire contents of the slide, focus on the most important points
and explain them, rather than repeat what's written.
- When you are listening to presentations of others, lectures, or
even TV commentators, evaluate their presentation, see what worked and
what didn't. This will improve your style.
- Don't get frustrated if the presentation doesn't come out as well
as you were hoping it would: it takes time and practice to learn how
to speak in public. That's all a part of the learning experience!