How to wow your prof and peers with a great presentation

Whether you shine in the spotlight or the thought of standing up in front of others makes you want to curl into a ball, Georgian’s peer tutors offer advice on how to create a memorable presentation:

• Make sure you have a clear understanding of what’s expected. What format does your prof want the presentation in? How long should it be? What percentage is it worth? What’s the purpose?
• Know your stuff. Do the research and make sure you’re confident with the topic. What are the main points you want to share?
• Organize your information. Is there a logical way your presentation should unfold?
• Brainstorm ways to start strongly. Can you include an impactful quote or video? Run an activity or pose a question to draw people in?
• Think about your audience. How do they consume information? What does the information you’re presenting mean for them? Why should they listen to you?
• Tell people what they’re going to learn. Right away, be clear what your presentation is about.
• Make it interactive. How can you engage people or keep them off their phones?
• Make it personal. Tell a story or connect the content to your own life.
• Rehearse. Go over your presentation, out loud, several times.
• Don’t fret about being nervous. It’s normal and chances are everyone else is too. Focus on the material.

• If using PowerPoint or visuals, keep it simple. Think big photos and minimal text. Less is more and you can offer additional details in a handout. Your visuals should support your presentation, not be the main focus.
• Consider accessibility. You’re presenting to people with various abilities, interests, learning styles and levels of knowledge. Think about delivering your content in a variety of ways.
• Have good notes. Whether on cue cards or printed in large font, make sure you have easy to read notes that will keep you on track.
• Have a back-up plan. Sometimes, despite preparation and testing, technology fails. What will you do then?
• Vary speed and volume. Changes in pitch and tone all help make your presentation a little more interesting while keeping your audience’s attention. For the most part though, slow down and project your voice.
• Watch your body language. Avoiding crossing your arms, holding your hands behind your back or in your pockets, pacing or pointing. Try to relax and be confident.

• Dress comfortably. Be professional but wear shoes and clothing you don’t feel stuffy in.
• Breathe. There’s nothing wrong with pausing for a moment. Take a deep breath and continue.
• Leave time to summarize at the end. What’s the key takeaway? What do you want others to remember?
• Allow time for questions. Anticipate in advance what might be asked.
• Be ready. Get a good night’s sleep. Make sure you have your notes, handouts and supplies. Email yourself a back-up of the presentation, just in case. Have a bottle of water to take with you.
• Arrive early. Settle into the space rather than rushing in.
• Visualize success. You’ve got this!

Experiencing presentation anxiety? Georgian’s counsellors can help you with individual strategies.