Tips for Presenting

The key to the oral presentation is to plan and practice!

Giving an oral presentation can be a little scary for many students. However, if you are prepared and follow the tips below, you will have all the tools you need to do a terrific job on the big day. On the big day, you will have about 2-3 minutes to talk about the highlights of your project. After this, the judges will ask you questions about your project.

Tip 1 - Be Prepared

The best way to give a great presentation is to make sure you know your material. Write reminders of what you want to say on cue-cards and remember to not read what you wrote, word for word.

It really helps to read your notes out loud to yourself. Try standing in front of a mirror. When you feel comfortable, practice in front of a live audience like a friend or family member. The key to being prepared is practice, practice, practice!

Tip 2 - Look like a pro

Make sure you look your best for your presentation - you should look neat and clean. It is important to stand up strait and use good posture to show your audience that you are confident. Making eye contact with your audience will also help your audience be interested in hearing what you have to say.

Tip 3 - Speak like a pro

Make sure your presentation has an interesting opening to hook the attention of your audience (you can use the hook that you used for your written report).

Try not to speak too fast, make sure you speak clearly (making sure to pronounce all words correctly), and make sure you speak loud enough that all people who are listening to your presentation can hear you.

Your conclusion needs to leave your audience feeling like you have provided valuable information. Again, the conclusion you wrote for your report can be re-used here.