Whether you are a student teacher, an undergraduate or a secondary student, presentations can be intimidating and panic-inducing.
First, you should know that everyone experiences nerves when giving a presentation, and it is pretty usual for inexperienced students to suffer more from anxiety.
Our top tips for student presentations will give you some ideas to ensure you are prepared and ready to deliver your best performance.
1. Be Visual
Whatever format you use for slides, remember to include visual prompts that break up text and add another dimension to your presentation.
Infographics, charts and even videos can engagingly reinforce your message and help you capture your audience’s attention.
One word of advice, though. Don’t overdo the gimmicks. Text that flies about the slides or flashing words can be distracting and annoying rather than engaging. Stick to a simple theme and slot in your visual aids to enhance the presentation rather than divert your audience’s attention from the meaning of your content.
2. Accessibility
You want to gain maximum marks as a student presenting at university or school. You can boost your presentation by ensuring you consider accessibility.
The colour of the background and text, as well as font choice, is vital for everyone to be able to read clearly. If your audience has anyone with dyslexia, it is even more essential. It is always best to check how easily your slides can be read from a distance.
Use titles and subtitles on each slide and include alt text on images for screen readers. Double-check any links you have included to increase your confidence in the accuracy of your presentation.
3. Don’t read your slides.
Nothing is quite as dull as a presenter reading text from their slides. It’s crucial to understand that your slides are an addition to what you say and how you engage your audience. They should include keywords and summarise each point you make.
Talk about each slide and let your personality shine. You don’t have to be completely formal in your tone. You can make a joke and smile to capture your audience’s attention and build a rapport.
Practise a script if it helps, and write what you wish to say about each slide on a cue card. Please don’t stare down at your prompts, but having them means they can help if you lose track.
4. Learn to deal with anxiety.
Your first presentation will be the scariest. Nobody wants to make a fool of themselves in front of fellow students and teachers.
The best way to prepare is to find techniques that calm your nerves. Listening to music, breathing techniques, and light exercises such as walking can be beneficial.
The good news is that nerves transform into adrenalin, which will help you with the energy required to give an excellent presentation.
5. Be Prepared
Preparation is key. Practise speaking out loud in front of a mirror or with friends or family. Get used to hearing the volume and tone of your voice. Remember to slow down, as nerves often make you speak too fast.
Set the timer on your phone to see whether your rehearsed talk meets the requirements and make adjustments as necessary.
You can also rehearse how to glance from your slides to your prompts and audience.
6. On the day
Ensure your slides are ready and you have printed any handouts required. Arrive promptly so you have time to set up. Bring a bottle of water to sip should your throat dry up.
Making eye contact is never easy. You can look to the back of the room, but to be genuinely engaging, try to look around the room and make eye contact with people as you do. Use natural gestures to reinforce your points.
Advanced presenters learn how to notice the audience’s reaction. Confused faces indicate you may need to explain more, whilst smiles suggest you are hitting the right note.