Powerful Presentations

1. Know your audience and the format of the presentation.
   
   1. What is the background of your audience?
      
   2. What resources are available? (projector, overhead, TV/VCR)
      
   3. How long is your presentation supposed to be?
      
2. Do an outline first.
   
   1. Decide on the thesis.
      
   2. Pick 3-5 main points for the body.
      
   3. Decide on a conclusion.
      
3. Pick a visual aid for each of your points.
   
   1. Figure on 1-1.5 minutes per slide or overhead.
      
   2. Use large fonts--- Don't just photocopy a page from a book!
      
   3. Add color to highlight points.
      
4. Deliver your talk.
   
   1. Practice it but don't memorize it--- let the visual aids guide your through it.
      
   2. Don't try to say too much--- you'll act rushed.
      
   3. Use the PacMan approach---make eye contact with as many audience members as possible.
      
   4. Breathe.