IS 1091: How to prepare a presentation.

• 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!