Oral Presentation
Oral presentations, also known as public speaking or simply presentations, consist of an
individual or group verbally addressing an audience on a particular topic. The aim of this
is to educate, inform, entertain or present an argument.
Oral presentations are one of the most common assignments in college courses. Scholars,
professionals, and students in all fields desire to disseminate the new knowledge they
produce, and this is often accomplished by delivering oral presentations in class, at
conferences, in public lectures, or in company meetings. Therefore, learning to deliver
effective presentations is a necessary skill to master both for college and further
endeavors.
Fundamentals of Presenting
The fundamentals of public speaking remain the same in any context, be it classroom,
conference, parliament or crowded city square. Good public speakers use simple and clear
language to communicate complex points. They pause when they speak, and they deliver their
message with confidence derived from their knowledge and preparation.
A good presentation:
Has a focused and relevant message
Is clearly organized and supported by evidence
Demonstrates understanding and analysis of ideas
Is delivered calmly and confidently
How to Plan a Presentation?
1. Focus and Purpose
A presentation is not a dry list of disconnected facts. Like lab reports or essays, it makes a
specific point. Start by asking yourself “So What?” Determine the most important point you wish
to make and identify why it is important.
2. Audience
Plan your presentation to suit your audience. Consider their familiarity with the subject and their
purpose for listening to your presentation. Classmates will likely have some background on the
topic, and because they are keenly aware that they will eventually present to you, they are
usually quite generous in their reception of your talk.
Know your audience.
3. Structure
A logical structure supports a clear and focused message, and it stops you from leaping from idea
to idea, which can make it difficult for your audience to understand your talk.
1. Introduction:
1. Tell the audience who you are and present your main argument with key background
information.
2. Explain why your presentation is important.
3. Build a rapport with the audience to help them follow what comes next.
2. Body of your presentation:
1. The largest section of your presentation
2. It supports your main argument with specific examples.
3. Visual aids clarify your points and lend credibility to your presentation.
3. Conclusion:
1. A strong conclusion summarizes your main points.
2. Use key words from your introduction to briefly re-state your argument.
3. End your presentation with a simple, strong statement.
4. Preparation
Rather than prepare a script, create a plan for each section or idea with point form notes. A good
presentation is not written down word for word or memorized but instead is a discussion of a
subject you know inside and out. Speaking from point form notes keeps your delivery fresh.
Remember, you are talking to people, not reading at them.
Key technical details can be written down, but it make sure that you include only essential
information as too many technical details may confuse your audience and cause them to tune out.
5. Visual Aids
Visual aids, like PowerPoint slides or printed handouts, offer structure for your presentation and
help the audience follow the main points. Visual aids may be bulleted lists or outlines, charts or
figures, or images that show important details that would take time to explain orally. Use visual
aids to complement, rather than compete, with your presentation. If they are not necessary or
helpful, don’t use them.
And never read the exact words from slides that you present.
6. Delivery
a) Practice
Rehearse! Focus on tone, volume, word choice, transitions, pauses and pacing. Note time limits.
Time yourself and revise as appropriate. Practice your presentation before a friend or family
member and ask for feedback.
Get to the room well ahead of time. Listen to some relaxing music if this helps you. Make sure
the technology is all up and running if you need to use it.
b) Stay Calm
Chat with people in the audience before you present. This breaks the ice, creates connections,
personalizes the encounter and helps you feel more confident.
Experts often suggest that you focus your presentation on a group of individuals instead of the
entire audience. This makes it seem as if you are speaking to a smaller group
c) Pace and Volume
Take it slow. The single biggest mistake inexperienced speakers make is going too fast.
Remember that your audience is hearing the material for the first time and isn't nearly as familiar
with the topic as you are.
Speak loudly and clearly. Practice pronouncing difficult words in advance.
d) Body Language and Eye Contact
Make and maintain eye contact with your audience. Always face your audience; avoid reading
from your slide presentation and try to look up from your notes regularly.
Stand tall at the front of the room. Don’t sit down, lean on a desk or hide behind a lectern. Try
not to sway back and forth.
7. Answering Questions
Leave time to answer questions, and prepare in advance for possible questions your audience
may ask. You can pause to gather your thoughts before you reply, and if something is outside of
your comfort zone, simply (and confidently) say “that is outside the scope of this research.”
8. Share your Personality
Try to have some fun, put your personality into the presentation while maintaining professional
decorum. Make the presentation uniquely yours – people will remember you and your message.
Dos and Don'ts
DO NOT read from the slides on the screen. You need to be connecting to the audience.
DO have notes that you can refer to...but DO NOT read them word for word
DO rehearse your speech as often as needed. Use a friend, housemate or family member
as your trial audience. If this is not practical, video yourself using your phone or webcam.
Pay attention to how long you speak (time limits are usually strictly enforced)
DO NOT put too much information on a slide or fill the screen with words - the audience
will read them and ignore you. DO NOT make text smaller to try and squeeze it onto a
slide
DO dress appropriately depending on the formality expected of the presentation
