Source: The 5 W’s (and one H) of giving a good oral presentation Emma Bartle

What? What’s so different about oral communication? – Listeners have only one chance to hear your message Two ways to communicate effectively: – K.I.S.S (Keep it simple, stupid) Focus on getting 1-3 key points across – Repeat key insights Tell them what you’re going to tell them (outline) Tell them Tell them what you told them (summary)

Why? Why are you giving this presentation? Two main goals: –Leave your audience with a clear picture of the project and your contribution –Make them want to read your thesis

Who? Who is your audience? Think of your audience in layers: –Experts in your sub-area –Experts in the general area –Others that know little or nothing in the area Avoid using too much jargon

Where? Where is the presentation being held? Things to consider: –Is there a projector? –Can the audience see the screen clearly? –Is there a podium?

When? When will these nerves disappear? Remember: –A well organised and practiced talk will always go well. –Taking a deep breath will calm you down. –Slow down! –Pause before answering questions − Eat a banana…

How? How do you give a good oral presentation? Some tips to get started: –Visualise your opening statement –Monitor your habitual behaviour –Converse with the audience –Use good transitions between slides –Have a prepared and memorable summary –Make it obvious you have reached the end

Whatever Whatever you do, don’t… –just read to the audience. It’s not an essay. –apologise for any aspect of your presentation –point the laser at the audience –point out things on the computer’s monitor –turn your back on the audience –just read to the audience –be afraid to give yourself credit…but don’t forget to give others credit where due