Students' readiness

You have never done a presentation or you simply know that you are actually quite bad at presentations? Well, in that case, you should definitely have a look at this sheet.

Based on several sources (online and books), we accumulated the following points:

Connect with the audience / Show interest in the topic

Try to be yourself and relax. Be authentic and try to reach the audience through a passionate start into your topic. Show them that you know your subject and that you really want to present them something new today.

Audience's needs

You know to whom you will present, hence you might be able to estimate what your audience wants to hear and also, what they already know. With that in mind, try to keep the presentation easy.

Core message

You picked that specific topic for a reason. You know your audience and you know what you to present to them. Stick to that core message and make sure that anything you say contributes to that core message. If you are not sure if some pieces of information are relevant than leave them out.

Smile & Eye contact

This is a very important aspect. Your audience has to connect with you. Do not only show the slides or posters. You have to present yourself. Stay focused but relaxed. Smile at the audience and jump from eye contact to eye contact. Your audience will be much more attentive.

Strong start

Presentations are a common format of providing information to other people. Try to avoid to be "one of those" and be active right away. Entertain your audience and shake things up with activities or current topics.

Tell stories

People just love good stories. But also bad stories will stick to peoples' minds. When you present a topic, try to find an entertaining story. It will animate your audience to mentally picture your topic and maybe relate to it personally through memories. This will leave a lasting impression.

Use your voice & body

As part of a great presentation, it is imperative for you to use your voice effectively. Vary between tones and speed whenever it is necessary based on the information you are giving in that moment. Move around and use the right amount of gestures. Don't simply stand behind a desk and speak in the same tone and speed for your entire presentation. That would be the perfect way to make your audience sleepy.

Enjoy yourself

Nothing will destroy a well-planned and prepared presentation more than a nervous presenter. Stay calm and take several deep breaths. Try to think of something that calms you down or that is funny to you. Once you've started your presentation you should enjoy it. Keep in mind that you have spent a decent amount of time for preparing the presentation and that you like the topic. In that moment, you will have the chance to talk about something that you to people you are interested in the topic.

Do you want to check out tools for presentations? Sure, take a look at this.