752: Read & Listen: Getting Ready for Your Presentation



OVERVIEW

 On this page, you will read about how to prepare for your presentation.  

  1. First, read the tips below. 
  2. Then, listen to audio of the text. 


READ & LISTEN

Practicing a presentation

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Read:

Some people feel nervous or uncomfortable before they make a presentation.  You can help yourself feel better by preparing for your presentation before you deliver it.  Here are some tips for preparing for a presentation.

Before your presentation...

Practice.

Practice many times so that you feel comfortable and confident.  Rehearse so that you don't have to read your slides or your notes.  You can rehearse in front of a friend or in front of a mirror.  You can be your own audience!

Take care of yourself.

Try to sleep well the night before the presentation.  Have something to eat and drink before your presentation.  These things will help you think clearly and remember what you want to say.

Relax.

Go for a walk.  Take deep breaths to help yourself relax.  Leave home early and arrive at school early so you don't have to rush or hurry.

Be your own coach.

Talk to yourself like a coach talks to a sports team.  Tell yourself you can make a good presentation.  Imagine yourself doing a great job.

During your presentation...

Pay attention to your audience.

If you pay attention to the audience, you can pay less attention to yourself and your nervous feelings.

Make eye contact and use nonverbal communication.

Stand up straight and use body language to make yourself feel powerful.

Use your PowerPoint as an outline. 

Do not read your PowerPoint.  Use it to help you remember what you want to say.  Speak in complete sentences. 


These are a few examples of things you can do to prepare for your presentation.

Listen:

Play media comment.