Student Success Services: Presentations

Do Your Homework – make sure that YOU fully understand the content you are presenting

• take time to understand all of the key terms and concepts that you are presenting on – when you fully understand the material, it is easier to speak about it in front of others
• if you feel lost on a concept: touch base with your prof and ask questions, go back and review notes/lectures on the subject, watch videos on the subject, ask a classmate who may understand the concept

Is your presentation complete?

• if no, complete preparing the presentation – slideshow, documents, visuals etc.
• if yes, prepare yourself cue cards of talking points – or work from your slideshow/visual that you are presenting from
• make sure your presentation is organized – create sections and a flow of one concept to the next – follow the assignment outline if one was given
• create an orderly fashion for your presentation – this will help you in speak clearly on the topic

Once your presentation is complete, IT IS TIME TO PRACTICE

Some Other Things to Remember:

• You can practice your presentation in a multitude of ways; standing in front of a mirror, recording yourself, presenting to a family member, classmate, friend or pet
• Practicing MUTLIPLE times will help you to remember the content and flow of your talking points
• Practicing will also help you figure out timing and gain confidence with speaking in front of other people, therefore lowering presentation anxiety
• TOP TIP: have your presentation complete a few days before the presentation date – practice your presentation each day – be sure to schedule yourself some time to run through your presentation at least once on the day of

And remember:

• take it slow – while practicing, be mindful of how fast you are speaking
• take some deep breaths before you begin, avoid negative self-talk about your presenting skills
• be prepared for questions at the end
• take small breaks between talking points/concepts – bring and sip water
• the more prepared you are (presentation complete, lots of practice), the more confident you feel going into the presentation