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Presentation Skills

Delivering Your Presentation

You've created your presentation outline and you've perfected your slides—so, you're ready to present now, right?

In this section of the module, we'll explore those last critical steps to prepare for the actual presentation itself so you can feel confident and relaxed once you're standing in front of your class!

This section covers:

Watch this video or read the instructions below for a short overview of techniques you can use when delivering a presentation:

How to Deliver an Effective Presentation by The Learning Portal
  • Be aware of your non-verbal communication: Use body language that shows CONFIDENCE!
    • Have good posture.
    • Smile and act relaxed. It will make you look and feel more confident.
    • Make eye contact with your audience instead of reading off your notes the entire time.
    • Avoid distracting behaviours, like chewing gum or fidgeting.
    • Watch for nervous gestures, such as rocking, or tapping.
    • Make sure to dress appropriately for your profession.
  • Take time to think during your presentation!: People have a tendency to speak more quickly under pressure. Make an effort to slow your pace and include pauses. Speaking slower will also help you avoid excessive verbal fillers like “ummm” or “ahhhh”.
  • Pay attention to your volume: Think about projecting your voice to the back of the classroom so that everyone can hear what you have to say.
  • Try to speak clearly so that your audience can easily understand your words.
  • Avoid the ‘lecture/: By incorporation more than a speech into your presentation, you’ll be better able to hold your audience’s attention. Try using visuals, asking questions, or doing activities.

Review this checklist before you present to make you that you are ready to deliver your presentation. It will help you rehearse your presentation so that it will go smoothly when you deliver it in class.

Quick Tips for Delivering Presentations

  • Ask questions

    Asking your audience questions (e.g., “Have any of you experienced this issue?”) can help keep them engaged.

  • Use verbal cues

    Use introductory phrases, such as “This part is really important” to let your audience know to pay attention.

  • Look at your audience

    If you’re not comfortable looking people in the eye, look at their shoulders or foreheads instead.

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