How to give a great presentation

Being able to write and deliver a presentation is an important skill for working and studying.

Inspirational speakers

Think of five people you know who have delivered inspirational speeches. These could be famous examples or less well-known examples of singers, politicians, sportspeople, artists or ordinary people who have made a big impact on you.

Now watch the following speech. What makes it so effective?

Top tips for a great presentation

1. Make your presentation visual. Avoid using long sentences and instead use images, charts, graphs or videos to catch your audience’s attention.
2. Show passion. The most important thing about a presentation is to connect with your audience and to show you care about the topic you are talking about.
3. Start strong. The first two minutes of your presentation are crucial - you need to grab your audience’s attention. Remember to always introduce yourself.
4. Make eye contact. You might feel nervous but making eye contact will help your audience to connect with you and your presentation.
5. Smile. Smiling will help you to feel less nervous and it will help your audience relax too.
6. Tell stories. Avoid filling your presentation with facts and numbers. Instead, use stories that will help your audience to engage and relate with your message.
7. The rule of three. Studies have shown that people will remember three things from your presentation. Build your presentation around your three most important points.
8. Practise. The more confident and comfortable you are with your ideas, the better you will come across.
9. Speak slowly. When you are nervous, you might find yourself speaking quickly. Take a few deep breaths before you start.
10. Prepare answers to questions. Although you can’t predict what questions you will be asked, it’s a good idea to think of answers to likely questions ahead of the presentation.
11. Be confident. Remember that your audience want you to do well.

Activity: Writing a presentation

Write a five-minute presentation on one of the following two topics:

1. One thing I would change about the world and why
2. What your dream job is and why

Introduction: An introduction to you and your chosen topic

Outline: Outline your topic and why it is important to you

Examples: Give examples about your topic to support your points

Closing statement: What is your final message from your presentation?

Record your presentation and send it to us at wfw@literacytrust.org.uk to receive some expert advice from industry experts.