Unit 6 Final Project
29 Presentation Guidelines
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Plan, Design, Create and Deliver a Presentation
Before you create a presentation, it is important to plan and outline the message you wish to convey. When working on a construction project, master carpenters abide by the rule “measure twice, cut once”. Likewise, when it comes to creating a presentation, taking the time to plan and prepare before beginning to create a presentation, will not only make the presentation more enjoyable and effective but will ultimately save you time. Part of this planning is to identify the audience who will be listening to and or watching the presentation and then to choose a medium that is appropriate for conveying the message to this audience. The key to being comfortable and relaxed in front of an audience when you deliver the presentation is preparation. When the content is organized in a logical manner, it is much easier to learn and to deliver.
Defining the Purpose of the Presentation
There are many different types of presentations. For a presentation to be successful, it is necessary to begin by defining the purpose. Before beginning ask yourself – Is the presentation meant:
- to inform?
- to persuade?
- to sell?
- to educate?
- to motivate?
- to entertain?
If the presentation is intended to inform or educate, then the goal of the speaker is to increase the knowledge or ability of the audience by providing new information about an already familiar subject, process, event, or concept.
If the presentation is intended to persuade, sell, or motivate, then the goal of the speaker is to change the attitude, belief, or behaviour of the audience. The speaker may present opposing points of view on a particular subject, product, or issue allowing the audience to draw their own conclusions based on the facts presented. Or, the speaker may present and explore a concept or policy concluding with a recommended course of action. This type of presentation can be much more challenging to create and deliver than one meant to inform or educate because it is often based on controversial subjects important not only to the speaker but also to the audience.
If the presentation is intended to entertain, then the goal of the speaker is to keep the audience engaged, amused, and interested in the content of the presentation.
Identifying the purpose helps to provide a focus for the speaker and ensures that a clear message is conveyed to the audience. Limit the number of related topics in the presentation to avoid confusion in the mind of the audience. Ensure that the main topic is clearly stated and then supported and reinforced throughout the entire presentation.
Developing the Content
To create an effective presentation, you must know your subject. If necessary, you may need to research some components of your topic. Research can enhance your credibility. Knowledge of the latest information in the subject area helps you to anticipate audience reaction and gives you time to prepare