Making Effective Presentations
Delivering an effective presentation requires careful planning and execution. Start with a clear introduction that outlines your topic and main points. Follow the 6x6 rule for slide design—max six points per slide, approximately six words each, and avoid long paragraphs. Use engaging graphics and ensure text is visible. Remember the PTT technique: Point, Turn, Talk. Maintain eye contact and use thoughtful gestures. Dress professionally and be aware of your body language. Conclude by summarizing key points instead of using clichés. Practice makes perfect!
Making Effective Presentations
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Presentation Transcript
Have an introduction slide • Start with a brief introduction • What is your topic? • What are the main points you will cover? • Make a transition to your first point • Do NOT read the topic line of each slide: we know how to read!
PowerPoint Slides • Follow the 6 x 6 rule: • A maximum of six points per slide • About 6 words per point • NEVER put a paragraph on the slide, even as evidence • A graphic can help focus audience attention • Make the font as large as possible to fill up the slide • Make sure the font colour is visible on the slide
PowerPoint: What to avoid • Fancy gimmicks and lots of special effects • Too much text on a slide • Some presenters feel that more pictures and less text are better. • Not enough information • Reading off of the slide • This suggests that your audience is too stupid to be able to read.
PTT • An easy technique to remember with PowerPoint is PTT: • POINT – point at the item you’re going to discuss • TURN – turn back to your audience and make eye contact • TALK – talk to your audience • It’s fine to turn back to your slide if you get lost • It’s easier to find your place on a slide with FEWER words
Body Language • What you DON’T say is as important as what you DO say • Firm body position • No swaying • Ballet position • Place hands on the podium if applicable
Attire • You add to your ethos if you look professional • Dress to impress without going overboard • Pin your hair back if necessary – we need to see your face
Gestures • Gestures need to be thoughtful and pre-planned • No fidgeting – keep your hands out of sight if you feel uncomfortable • No wild gesticulations • As a rule, keep gestures with the “box”. • Presenter’s triangle
Vocal Variety – Emphasizing Points • Give more volume to a word or a phrase • Slow down • Speak more softly • Make a pause after an important point. • Speak clearly at all times. • Don’t rush – a nervous tendency.
Eye Contact • Try to make contact with every member of your audience. • Do not focus only on the teacher or your friends! • You need to be familiar with your material. • Remember to PTT: Point, Talk and Turn!
Podium • You can choose to use the podium or not. • You cannot hide behind the podium! • You still need to think about what you will do with your hands. • Lie your hands on the sides of the podium. • However, do not shake the podium if you are nervous!
Time • We will begin presenting on Tuesday, November 15 (Day 2)/Wednesday, November 16 (Day 1) • Minimum time: 6 minutes. • Maximum time: 9 minutes. • Be ready to answer questions!
Conclusion • You must have a conclusion! • Review main points. • Worst conclusion (yet most common): • So yeah, that’s it. • GROAN!!!!!
