three presentation techniques that could be used for applied research

Research Voyage

Research Tips and Infromation

12 Proven Tips to Make an Effective Research Presentation as an Invited Speaker

Guidance from an Experienced Mentor

The evolution of my presentation skills, what is there in this post for you, research presentation tip #1: start confidently, research presentation tip #2: eye to eye contact with the audience, research presentation tip #3: welcome your audience, research presentation tip #4: adjust your voice.

•  Research Presentation Tip #5: Memorize your Opening Line
• Research Presentation Tip #6:  Use the words  “ 'Think for while', 'Imagine', 'Think of', 'Close Your Eyes' ”

Research Presentation Tip #7: Story Telling

Research presentation tip #8: facts and statistics.

• Research Presentation Tip #9: Power of "Pause"

Research Presentation Tip #10: Quote a Great Researcher

Research presentation tip #11: begin with a video, research presentation tip #12: avoid using filler words, side benefits of giving great research presentations, how should i dress for my invited talk at a research conference, can i share my conference presentation slides after my talk with the audience, shall i entertain questions in between my presentation as an invited speaker to a research conference, can you give some tips for a successful q&a session:.

• How to handle questions where I don't know the answers in my presentation?

Introduction

In this blog post, I’ll be sharing with you some invaluable tips for delivering an effective research presentation, drawn from my own journey through academia. These tips are not just theoretical; they’re the result of my own experiences and the guidance I received along the way.

When I first embarked on my PhD journey, the prospect of presenting my research to an audience filled me with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. Like many researchers, I was eager to share my findings and insights, but I lacked the confidence and experience to do so effectively.

It wasn’t until I had been immersed in my research for nearly a year, clarifying my domain, objectives, and problem statements, that I was presented with an opportunity to speak about my work. However, despite my preparation, I found myself struggling to convey my ideas with clarity and confidence.

Fortunately, I was not alone in this journey. At the event where I was scheduled to present my research, there was another presenter—an experienced professor—who took notice of my nerves and offered his guidance. He generously shared with me a set of tips that would not only improve my presentation that day but also become the foundation for my future presentations.

As I incorporated these tips into my presentations, I noticed a remarkable improvement in my ability to engage and inform my audience. Each tip—from starting confidently to utilizing storytelling and incorporating facts and statistics—contributed to a more polished and impactful presentation style.

As an invited speaker, delivering an effective research presentation is essential to engage and inform your audience. A well-crafted presentation can help you communicate your research findings, ideas, and insights in a clear, concise, and engaging manner.

However, many presenters face challenges when it comes to delivering a successful presentation. Some of these challenges include nervousness, lack of confidence, and difficulty connecting with the audience.

In this article, we will discuss tips to help you make an effective research presentation as an invited speaker. We will cover strategies to prepare for your presentation, ways to deliver your presentation with confidence and impact, and common mistakes to avoid.

By following these tips, you can improve your presentation skills and create a compelling and engaging talk that resonates with your audience.

Tips to Make an Effective Research Presentation

• Tip 1: Start confidently
• Tip 2: Eye To Eye Contact With the Audience
• Tip 3: Welcome Your Audience
• Tip 4: Adjust your Voice
• Tip 5: Memorize your Opening Line
• Tip 6:  Use the words  “ ‘Think for while’, ‘Imagine’, ‘Think of’, ‘Close Your Eyes’ ”
• Tip 7: Story Telling
• Tip 8: Facts and Statistics
• Tip 9: Power of “Pause”
• Tip 10: Quote a Great Researcher
• Tip 11: Begin with a Video
• Tip 12: Avoid using Filler Words

Starting your presentation confidently is essential as it sets the tone for the rest of your presentation. It will help you grab your audience’s attention and make them more receptive to your message. Here are a few ways you can start confidently.

• Begin with a self-introduction: Introduce yourself to the audience and establish your credibility. Briefly mention your educational background, your professional experience, and any relevant achievements that make you an authority on the topic. For example, “Good morning everyone, my name is John and I’m a researcher at XYZ University. I have a Ph.D. in molecular biology, and my research has been published in several reputable journals.”
• Introduce the topic: Clearly state the purpose of your presentation and provide a brief overview of what you’ll be discussing. This helps the audience understand the context of your research and what they can expect from your presentation. For example, “Today, I’ll be presenting my research on the role of DNA repair mechanisms in cancer development. I’ll be discussing the current state of knowledge in this field, the methods we used to conduct our research and the novel insights we’ve gained from our findings.”
• Start with a strong opening statement: Once you’ve introduced yourself and the topic, start your presentation confidently with a statement that captures the audience’s attention and makes them curious to hear more. As mentioned earlier, you could use a strong opening statement, a powerful visual aid, or show enthusiasm for your research. For example:
• “Have you ever wondered how artificial intelligence can be used to predict user behaviour? Today, I’ll be sharing my research on the latest AI algorithms and their potential applications in the field of e-commerce.”
• “Imagine a world where cybersecurity threats no longer exist. My research is focused on developing advanced security measures that can protect your data from even the most sophisticated attacks.”
• “Think for a moment about the amount of data we generate every day. My research focuses on how we can use machine learning algorithms to extract meaningful insights from this vast amount of data, and ultimately drive innovation in industries ranging from healthcare to finance.”

By following these steps, you’ll be able to start your research presentation confidently, establish your credibility and expertise, and create interest in your topic.

Speaking confidently as an invited speaker can be a daunting task, but there are ways to prepare and feel more confident. One such way is through practising yoga. Yoga is a great tool for reducing stress and anxiety, which can be major barriers to confident public speaking.

By practising yoga, you can learn to control your breathing, calm your mind, and increase your focus and concentration. All of these skills can help you feel more centred and confident when it’s time to give your presentation.

If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of yoga, check out our blog post on the subject YOGA: The Ultimate Productivity Hack for Ph.D. Research Scholars and Researchers .

If you’re ready to dive deeper and start your own yoga practice, be sure to download my e-book on :

Unlock Your Research Potential Through Yoga: A Research Scholar’s Companion

A large number of audiences in the presentation hall make you feel jittery and lose your confidence in no time. This happens because you are seeing many of the audience for the first time and you don’t know their background and their knowledge of the subject in which you are presenting.

The best way to overcome this fear is to go and attack the fear itself. That is come at least 10-15 minutes early to the conference room and start interacting with the people over there. This short span of connectivity with a few of the audience will release your tension.

When you occupy the stage for presenting,  the first thing you need to do is gaze around the room,  establish one-to-one eye contact, and give a confident smile to your audience whom you had just met before the start of the presentation.

Just gazing around the presentation hall will make you feel connected to everyone in the hall. Internally within your mind choose one of the audience and turn towards him/her make eye contact and deliver a few sentences, then proceed to the next audience and repeat the same set of steps.

This will make everyone in the room feel that you are talking directly to them. Make the audience feel that you are engaging with them personally for this topic, which makes them invest fully in your topic.

The third tip for making an effective research presentation is to welcome your audience. This means taking a few minutes to greet your audience, introduce yourself, and set the tone for your presentation. Here are a few ways you can welcome your audience:

• Greet your audience: Start by greeting your audience with a smile and a warm welcome. This will help you establish a connection with your audience and put them at ease.
• Introduce yourself: Introduce yourself to the audience and give a brief background on your expertise and how it relates to your presentation. This will help your audience understand your qualifications and why you’re the right person to be delivering the presentation.
• Explain the purpose of your presentation: Explain to your audience why you’re presenting your research and what they can expect to learn from your presentation. This will help your audience understand the context of your research and what they can expect from your presentation.
• Set the tone: Set the tone for your presentation by giving a brief overview of your presentation structure and what your audience can expect throughout your presentation. This will help your audience understand what to expect and keep them engaged.

Here are a few examples of how you can welcome your audience:

• If you’re presenting to a group of industry professionals, welcome them by acknowledging their expertise and experience. This will show that you value their knowledge and experience.
• If you’re presenting to a group of students or academics, welcome them by acknowledging their interest in your research area. This will help you establish a connection with your audience and show that you’re excited to share your research with them.
• If you’re presenting to a mixed audience, welcome them by acknowledging their diversity and the different perspectives they bring to the presentation. This will help you set an inclusive tone and show that you’re open to different viewpoints.

Overall, welcoming your audience is an important aspect of delivering an effective research presentation. It helps you establish a connection with your audience, set the tone for your presentation, and keep your audience engaged throughout your presentation.

In my earlier days of presentations, I just used to go on stage and start my presentations without greeting anyone. Later I learned stage etiquette with the help of my fellow research scholars and underwent  professional etiquette courses .

The fourth tip for making an effective research presentation is to adjust your voice. This means using your voice effectively to convey your message and engage your audience. Here are a few ways you can adjust your voice during your research presentation:

• Speak clearly: Speak clearly and enunciate your words so that your audience can understand what you’re saying. Avoid speaking too fast or mumbling, which can make it difficult for your audience to follow your presentation.
• Use a varied pace: Use a varied pace to keep your audience engaged. Speak slowly and clearly when you’re making important points, and speed up when you’re discussing less important points. This will help you maintain your audience’s attention throughout your presentation.
• Use a varied pitch: Use a varied pitch to convey emotion and emphasize important points. Lower your pitch when you’re discussing serious or important topics, and raise your pitch when you’re excited or enthusiastic.
• Use pauses: Use pauses to emphasize important points and give your audience time to reflect on what you’re saying. Pausing also helps to break up your presentation and make it easier for your audience to follow.

Here are a few examples of how you can adjust your voice during your research presentation:

• If you’re discussing a complex or technical topic, speak slowly and clearly so that your audience can understand what you’re saying. Use pauses to emphasize important points and give your audience time to reflect on what you’re saying.
• If you’re discussing an exciting or enthusiastic topic, raise your pitch and use a varied pace to convey your excitement to your audience. This will help you engage your audience and keep them interested in your presentation.
• If you’re discussing a serious or emotional topic, lower your pitch and use a slower pace to convey the gravity of the situation. Use pauses to emphasize important points and give your audience time to process what you’re saying.

Overall, adjusting your voice is an important aspect of delivering an effective research presentation. It helps you convey your message clearly, engage your audience, and keep their attention throughout your presentation.

Many researchers are less talkative and speak with a very low voice and this makes their concepts unheard by other researchers. To overcome this drawback, they go for  vocal coaching  to improve their voice modulation.

 Research Presentation Tip #5: Memorize your Opening Line

The fifth tip for making an effective research presentation is to memorize your opening line. This means having a powerful and memorable opening line that will grab your audience’s attention and set the tone for your presentation. Here are a few ways you can create a memorable opening line:

• Use a quote or statistic: Start your presentation with a powerful quote or statistic that relates to your research. This will grab your audience’s attention and show them why your research is important.
• Use a story or anecdote: Use a personal story or anecdote to illustrate the importance of your research. This will help you connect with your audience on an emotional level and show them why your research is relevant to their lives.
• Ask a question: Ask your audience a thought-provoking question that relates to your research. This will help you engage your audience and get them thinking about your topic.

Once you’ve created a memorable opening line, it’s important to memorize it so that you can deliver it confidently and without hesitation. Here are a few examples of powerful opening lines:

• “In the United States, someone dies of a drug overdose every seven minutes. Today, I want to talk to you about the opioid epidemic and what we can do to prevent it.”
• “When I was a child, my grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Today, I want to share with you the latest research on Alzheimer’s and what we can do to slow its progression.”
• “Have you ever wondered why some people are more resilient than others? Today, I want to talk to you about the science of resilience and how we can use it to overcome adversity.”

Overall, memorizing your opening line is an important aspect of delivering an effective research presentation. It helps you grab your audience’s attention, set the tone for your presentation, and establish your credibility as a speaker.

Remembering the concepts at the right time and in the right sequence is critical for every researcher. Few of my research scholars face the problem of forgetting everything once they reach the stage for presentation. To overcome this difficulty I gift them with one of my favourite books on improving memory power:    “Limitless  by Jim Quick” .  This book has changed many lives. You can also try.

Research Presentation Tip #6:  Use the words  “ ‘Think for while’, ‘Imagine’, ‘Think of’, ‘Close Your Eyes’ ”

The sixth tip for making an effective research presentation is to use specific phrases that encourage your audience to think, imagine, and engage with your presentation. Here are a few examples of phrases you can use to encourage your audience to engage with your presentation:

• “Think for a moment about…” This phrase encourages your audience to reflect on a particular point or idea that you’ve just discussed. For example, “Think for a moment about the impact that climate change is having on our planet.”
• “Imagine that…” This phrase encourages your audience to visualize a particular scenario or idea. For example, “Imagine that you’re living in a world without access to clean water. How would your daily life be affected?”
• “Think of a time when…” This phrase encourages your audience to reflect on their own experiences and relate them to your presentation. For example, “Think of a time when you felt overwhelmed at work. How did you manage that stress?”
• “Close your eyes and picture…” This phrase encourages your audience to use their imagination to visualize a particular scenario or idea. For example, “Close your eyes and picture a world without poverty. What would that look like?”

By using these phrases, you can encourage your audience to actively engage with your presentation and think more deeply about your research. Here are a few examples of how you might incorporate these phrases into your presentation:

• “Think for a moment about the impact that our use of plastics is having on our environment. Each year, millions of tons of plastic end up in our oceans, harming marine life and polluting our planet.”
• “Imagine that you’re a scientist working to develop a cure for a deadly disease. What kind of research would you conduct, and what challenges might you face?”
• “Think of a time when you had to overcome a significant challenge. How did you persevere, and what lessons did you learn from that experience?”
• “Close your eyes and picture a world where renewable energy is our primary source of power. What benefits would this have for our planet, and how can we work together to make this a reality?”

Overall, using phrases that encourage your audience to think and engage with your presentation is an effective way to make your research presentation more impactful and memorable.

The seventh tip for making an effective research presentation is to incorporate storytelling into your presentation. Storytelling is a powerful way to connect with your audience, illustrate your points, and make your research more engaging and memorable.

People love stories, but your story has to be relevant to your research. You can craft a story about an experience you had and tell how you could able to define your research problem based on the experience you had.  This makes your presentation both interesting and incorporates information about the work you are carrying out. 

Storytelling or sharing your own experience is the best way to connect with your audience.  Many researchers use this technique and it remains one of the most critical pieces to becoming an effective presenter.

Here are a few examples of how you can incorporate storytelling into your presentation:

• Personal stories: Use a personal story to illustrate the importance of your research. For example, if you’re researching a new cancer treatment, you might share a story about a friend or family member who has been affected by cancer. This personal connection can help your audience relate to your research on a more emotional level.
• Case studies: Use a case study to illustrate how your research has been applied in the real world. For example, if you’re researching the impact of a new educational program, you might share a case study about a school that has implemented the program and seen positive results.
• Historical examples: Use a historical example to illustrate the significance of your research. For example, if you’re researching the impact of climate change, you might share a story about the Dust Bowl of the 1930s to illustrate the devastating effects of drought and soil erosion.
• Analogies: Use an analogy to explain complex concepts or ideas. For example, if you’re researching the workings of the brain, you might use the analogy of a computer to help your audience understand how neurons communicate with each other.

By incorporating storytelling into your presentation, you can help your audience connect with your research on a more personal level and make your presentation more memorable. Here are a few examples of how you might incorporate storytelling into your presentation:

• “When my mother was diagnosed with cancer, I felt helpless and afraid. But thanks to the groundbreaking research that is being done in this field, we now have more treatment options than ever before. Today, I want to share with you the latest research on cancer treatments and what we can do to support those who are fighting this disease.”
• “Imagine for a moment that you’re a small business owner trying to grow your online presence. You’ve heard that search engine optimization (SEO) is important for driving traffic to your website, but you’re not sure where to start. That’s where my research comes in. By analyzing millions of search queries, I’ve identified the key factors that search engines use to rank websites. Using this information, I’ve developed a new algorithm that can help businesses like yours optimize their websites for better search engine rankings. Imagine being able to reach more customers and grow your business, all thanks to this new algorithm. That’s the power of my research.”

In these examples, the speaker is using storytelling to help the audience understand the real-world impact of their research in a relatable way. By framing the research in terms of a relatable scenario, the speaker is able to engage the audience and make the research feel more relevant to their lives. Additionally, by highlighting the practical applications of the research, the speaker is able to demonstrate the value of the research in a tangible way.

Here I recommend without any second thought “ Storytelling with Data: A Data Visualization Guide for Business Professionals  ” by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic. This is one of the powerful techniques to showcase data in the form of graphs and charts.

The eighth tip for making an effective research presentation is to incorporate facts and statistics into your presentation. Facts and statistics can help you communicate the significance of your research and make it more compelling to your audience.

Make your audience curious about your topic with a fact they didn’t know. Explaining the importance of your topic to your audience is essential. Showcasing data and statistics to prove a point remains a critical strategy not just at the beginning but also throughout.  Statistics can be mind-numbing but if there is some compelling information that can help further the conversation.

Here are a few examples of how you might use facts and statistics in your research presentation:

• Contextualize your research: Use statistics to provide context for your research. For example, if you’re presenting on the prevalence of a particular disease, you might start by sharing statistics on how many people are affected by the disease worldwide.
• Highlight key findings: Use facts and statistics to highlight the key findings of your research. For example, if you’re presenting on new drug therapy, you might share statistics on the success rate of the therapy and how it compares to existing treatments.
• Support your arguments: Use facts and statistics to support your arguments. For example, if you’re arguing that a particular policy change is needed, you might use statistics to show how the current policy is failing and why a change is necessary.
• Visualize your data: Use graphs, charts, and other visual aids to help illustrate your data. This can make it easier for your audience to understand the significance of your research. For example, if you’re presenting on the impact of climate change, you might use a graph to show the rise in global temperatures over time.

Here’s an example of how you might use facts and statistics in a research presentation:

“Did you know that over 80% of internet users own a smartphone? That’s a staggering number when you think about it. And with the rise of mobile devices, it’s more important than ever for businesses to have a mobile-friendly website. That’s where my research comes in.

By analyzing user behaviour and website performance data, I’ve identified the key factors that make a website mobile-friendly. And the results are clear: mobile-friendly websites perform better in search engine rankings, have lower bounce rates, and are more likely to convert visitors into customers. By implementing the recommendations from my research, businesses can improve their online presence and reach more customers than ever before.”

In this example, the speaker is using statistics to provide context for their research (the high prevalence of smartphone ownership) and to support their argument (that businesses need to have mobile-friendly websites).

By emphasizing the benefits of mobile-friendly websites (better search engine rankings, lower bounce rates, and higher conversion rates), the speaker is able to make the research more compelling to their audience. Finally, by using concrete examples (implementing the recommendations from the research), the speaker is able to make the research feel actionable and relevant to the audience.

In my blog posts on the benefits of using graphs and tables in research presentations, I have presented different ways that these tools can enhance the impact and effectiveness of your research presentation. By incorporating graphs and tables, you can help your audience to engage more deeply with your research and better grasp the significance of your findings. To learn more about the benefits of using graphs and tables in research presentations, check out my blog posts listed below, on the subject.

• Maximizing the Impact of Your Research Paper with Graphs and Charts
• Best Practices for Designing and Formatting Tables in Research Papers

You can also refer the book “Information Visualization: An Introduction” for getting more clarity on the representation of facts and statistics.

Research Presentation Tip #9: Power of “Pause”

The ninth tip for making an effective research presentation is to use the power of “pause.” Pausing at key moments in your presentation can help you emphasize important points, allow your audience to process information, and create a sense of anticipation.

We are all uncomfortable when there is a pause.  Yet incorporating pause into your presentation can be a valuable tool causing the audience to be attentive to what you are going to say next.

A pause is an effective way to grab attention. There are two ways you might use this technique. After you are introduced, walk on stage and say nothing. Simply pause for three to five seconds and wait for the full attention of the audience. It’s a powerful opening. Depending on the audience, you might need to pause for longer than five seconds.

At another point in your presentation, you might be discussing the results or you are about to provide important information, that’s when you pause to grab attention. You’ll probably feel uncomfortable when you first try this technique, but it’s worth mastering.

Here are a few examples of how you might use the power of the pause in your research presentation:

• Emphasize key points: Pause briefly after making an important point to allow your audience to absorb the information. For example, if you’re presenting on the benefits of a new product, you might pause after stating the most compelling benefits to give your audience time to reflect on the information.
• Create anticipation: Pause before revealing a key piece of information or making a surprising statement. This can create a sense of anticipation in your audience and keep them engaged. For example, if you’re presenting on the results of a study, you might pause before revealing the most surprising or unexpected finding.
• Allow time for reflection: Pause after asking a thought-provoking question to give your audience time to reflect on their answer. This can help create a more interactive and engaging presentation. For example, if you’re presenting on the impact of social media on mental health, you might pause after asking the audience to reflect on their own social media use.
• Control the pace: Use pauses to control the pace of your presentation. Pausing briefly before transitioning to a new topic can help you signal to your audience that you’re about to move on. This can help prevent confusion and make your presentation more organized.

Here’s an example of how you might use the power of the pause in a research presentation:

“Imagine being able to reduce the risk of heart disease by 50%. That’s the potential impact of my research. By analyzing the diets and lifestyles of over 10,000 participants, I’ve identified the key factors that contribute to heart disease. And the results are clear: by making a few simple changes to your diet and exercise routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease. So, what are these changes? Pause for effect. It turns out that the most important factors are a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, and limited alcohol consumption.”

In this example, the speaker is using the pause to create anticipation before revealing the most important findings of their research. By pausing before revealing the key factors that contribute to heart disease, the speaker is able to create a sense of anticipation and emphasize the importance of the information. By using the power of the pause in this way, the speaker is able to make their research presentation more engaging and memorable for the audience.

The tenth tip for making an effective research presentation is to quote a great researcher. By including quotes from respected researchers or experts in your field, you can add credibility to your presentation and demonstrate that your research is supported by other respected professionals.

Quoting someone who is a well-known researcher in your field is a great way to start any presentation.  Just be sure to make it relevant to the purpose of your speech and presentation.  If you are using slides, adding a picture of the person you are quoting will add more value to your presentation.

Here are a few examples of how you might use quotes in your research presentation:

• Begin with a quote: Starting your presentation with a quote from a respected researcher can help set the tone and establish your credibility. For example, if you’re presenting on the benefits of exercise for mental health, you might begin with a quote from a well-known psychologist or psychiatrist who has researched the topic.
• Use quotes to support your argument: Including quotes from experts who support your argument can help reinforce your ideas and add credibility to your presentation. For example, if you’re presenting on the importance of early childhood education, you might include a quote from a respected educational psychologist who has studied the topic.
• Challenge conventional wisdom: Including quotes from experts who challenge conventional wisdom can help you make a more compelling argument and stand out from other presenters. For example, if you’re presenting on the effects of technology on social interaction, you might include a quote from a respected sociologist who argues that technology can actually improve social connections.
• Add a personal touch: Including quotes from researchers who have inspired you personally can help you connect with your audience and add a more personal touch to your presentation. For example, if you’re presenting on the importance of diversity in the workplace, you might include a quote from a researcher who has inspired you to pursue your own research on the topic.

Here’s an example of how you might use a quote in a research presentation:

“As the great psychologist Abraham Maslow once said, ‘What a man can be, he must be.’ This quote perfectly captures the essence of my research on human potential. By analyzing the lives of highly successful individuals, I’ve identified the key factors that contribute to success. And the results are clear: by cultivating a growth mindset, setting ambitious goals, and surrounding yourself with supportive people, you can unlock your full potential and achieve greatness.”

In this example, the speaker is using a quote from a respected psychologist to support their argument about human potential. By including the quote, the speaker is able to add credibility to their presentation and demonstrate that their research is supported by other respected professionals in the field. By using quotes in this way, the speaker is able to make their research presentation more engaging and persuasive for the audience.

The eleventh tip for making an effective research presentation is to begin with a video. Using a video at the beginning of your presentation can capture the audience’s attention and help establish the theme of your talk

Video remains a powerful mechanism to begin a presentation.  Limit your videos to 2–3 minutes. People like video, and it can capture their attention, but they can also tire of it easily.  It gives the presenter and the attendees a break from each other. Sometimes, you just look for visible reactions from the audience that might provide a transition from video back to speaking. Conversely, for the attendees, the video provides a break from the speaker.

Here are a few examples of how you might use a video in your research presentation:

• Introduce a new technology: Use a video to introduce a new technology or innovation that is related to your research. For example, if you’re presenting on the potential of artificial intelligence in healthcare, you might use a video that shows how AI is being used to detect cancer early.
• Demonstrate a problem: Use a video to demonstrate a problem or challenge that your research is trying to solve. For example, if you’re presenting on the importance of cybersecurity in the finance industry, you might use a video that shows how easily hackers can gain access to sensitive financial information.
• Showcase your research: Use a video to showcase your own research and the methods you used to conduct it. For example, if you’re presenting on a new algorithm for image recognition, you might use a video that shows how the algorithm works in action.
• Add a personal touch: Use a video to share a personal story or experience that relates to your research. For example, if you’re presenting on the impact of technology on society, you might use a video that shows how technology has changed your own life.

Here’s an example of how you might use a video at the beginning of a research presentation in computer science:

“Before I dive into my research on the potential of blockchain technology in supply chain management, I want to show you a video that demonstrates the challenges that the industry currently faces. As you’ll see, there are numerous pain points that blockchain could help to address, from tracking the provenance of goods to reducing fraud and counterfeiting. By leveraging the power of blockchain, we can create a more transparent, efficient, and secure supply chain for everyone involved.”

In this example, the speaker is using a video to demonstrate a problem or challenge that their research is trying to solve. By showing the audience the current pain points in supply chain management, the speaker is able to establish the need for blockchain technology and capture the audience’s attention. By using a video in this way, the speaker is able to make their research presentation more engaging and impactful for the audience.

One sincere piece of advice while preparing the video is not to install the full video and start searching for the clip to be displayed to the audience. If you show this side or that side of the video content not relevant to the context, the audience may lose patience and drift away from the presentation. This shows your unpreparedness for the presentation.  I suggest you go ahead with professional video editing software to edit your video before showing it to your audience.

When giving a research presentation, it’s important to sound confident and knowledgeable. However, using too many filler words such as “ok”, “so”, and “umms” can make you sound unsure of yourself and can distract from the content of your presentation.

Here are a few tips to help you avoid using too many filler words:

• Practice your presentation: One of the best ways to reduce the use of filler words is to practice your presentation. By rehearsing what you want to say, you’ll become more comfortable with the content and won’t need to rely on filler words as much.
• Use a script: If you’re prone to using filler words, consider writing out a script for your presentation. This will help you stay on track and avoid unnecessary pauses or verbal crutches.
• Record yourself: Another helpful strategy is to record yourself giving your presentation. By listening back to the recording, you can identify any filler words or other verbal tics and work on eliminating them in future presentations.
• Take pauses: Instead of relying on filler words to fill pauses in your presentation, try taking intentional pauses. This will help you gather your thoughts and emphasize important points.

Here’s an example of how to avoid using too many filler words in a research presentation:

“Today, I want to talk to you about the impact of machine learning on cybersecurity. Ok, so, umm, as you all know, cybersecurity is a critical issue for businesses and organizations. But did you know that machine learning can help to identify and mitigate cyber threats before they become a major problem? By using algorithms to analyze data, we can create more effective security protocols and protect sensitive information from being compromised. So, in conclusion, machine learning has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach cybersecurity.”

In this example, the speaker is using several filler words throughout the presentation, which can detract from the content and make them sound less confident. By practising their presentation and focusing on eliminating filler words, the speaker can deliver a more polished and engaging presentation that highlights the important points.

Many presenters, though have good content fail to impress the audience by using too many  “ok” “so” and “umms” which shows a lack of good communication skills.  This can be due to stage fear/poor preparation/happen unconsciously.

Such filler words can ruin your credibility despite how innocent they look. One tip for avoiding this annoying habit is to practice your speech or presentation multiple times beforehand in front of your supervisor/research scholars / yourself in front of the mirror.  If you are hesitant then the best option is to  record your speech on your mobile  and check for the mistakes unconsciously you make.

Giving a good research presentation as a keynote speaker is an excellent opportunity to showcase your expertise and knowledge in your research domain. As a keynote speaker, you can communicate your research findings, methodologies, and the impact of your research to a wider audience.

A well-delivered presentation can also demonstrate your ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and effectively communicate complex ideas. This can be an advantage when looking for research consultancy work, as potential clients or employers can assess your ability to deliver quality work, understand their needs, and provide innovative solutions to their problems.

If you are interested in exploring research consultancy jobs, check out the link Research Consultancy: An Alternate Career for Researchers to discover some exciting opportunities in your research domain.

Delivering a successful research presentation requires careful planning, practice, and attention to detail. By starting confidently, making eye contact with your audience, and using effective communication techniques like storytelling and statistics, you can engage your audience and communicate your research findings in a compelling way.

Remember to adjust your voice, avoid filler words, and take intentional pauses to keep your audience engaged and focused. By following these tips and incorporating your own unique style and perspective, you can deliver a powerful and memorable research presentation that showcases your expertise and leaves a lasting impression.

Frequently Asked Questions

As a speaker at a research conference, it’s important to dress professionally and appropriately to make a positive impression on the audience and fellow researchers. Here are some general guidelines for what to wear: Business Formal Attire : Most research conferences have a business formal dress code. This typically means wearing a suit or dress pants/skirt with a collared shirt/blouse. For men, a suit with a tie is appropriate, and for women, a pantsuit or a skirt/dress with a blazer is a good choice. Neutral and Classic Colors : Stick to neutral and classic colours like black, navy, grey, or beige for a polished and sophisticated look. Avoid loud or overly bright colors and patterns that may distract from your presentation. Comfortable and Well-Fitted Clothing : Ensure that your clothing fits well and is comfortable to wear for an extended period. This will help you feel more at ease during your presentation. Appropriate Footwear : Wear closed-toe shoes that are comfortable and complement your outfit. For men, dress shoes are ideal, and for women, low-heeled pumps or flats are a good choice. Minimal Accessories : Keep your accessories simple and minimal. A wristwatch, small earrings, and a modest necklace can add a touch of elegance without being distracting. Grooming and Hygiene : Pay attention to personal grooming and hygiene. Make sure your hair is well-groomed, and avoid heavy cologne or perfume, as some attendees may be sensitive to strong scents. Bring Layers : Conference venues can sometimes be chilly due to air conditioning, so consider bringing a light sweater or jacket that complements your outfit. Check the Conference Theme : Occasionally, research conferences may have specific themes or cultural considerations. In such cases, you can subtly incorporate elements related to the theme or culture into your outfit if appropriate. You can visit my blog post on ” How to dress for academic / research conferences ” for further details.

Absolutely! Sharing your conference presentation slides with the audience after your talk can be a great way to provide additional value to those who attended your presentation and those who couldn’t make it to the event.

As an invited speaker at a research conference, it is generally expected and encouraged to entertain questions from the audience during or after your presentation. Q&A sessions are a valuable part of academic conferences as they allow attendees to engage with the speaker, seek clarifications, and gain further insights into the research being presented. However, a few speakers as well as the audience may get distracted by the questions asked during the presentation. Check your preparedness and the mood of the audience and then decide.

Tips for a Successful Q&A Session: Be Prepared : Anticipate potential questions that may arise from your presentation and be prepared to answer them. This will boost your confidence during the Q&A. Encourage Questions : After your presentation, let the audience know that you welcome their questions. Creating a supportive and inclusive environment will encourage more participation. Active Listening : Listen carefully to each question and ensure you understand it before responding. If a question is unclear, ask for clarification to provide the best possible answer. Be Respectful and Professional : Even if you receive challenging or critical questions, respond in a respectful and professional manner. Avoid becoming defensive and maintain a positive tone. Manage Time : If there’s a specific time allocated for the Q&A session, manage it effectively so that you can address as many questions as possible without exceeding the allocated time.

How to handle questions where I don’t know the answers in my presentation?

Handling a question during your presentation when you don’t know the answer is a common scenario, and it’s essential to respond gracefully and professionally. Here’s how to handle such situations: Stay Calm and Composed : Take a deep breath and remain calm. It’s okay not to know the answer to every question, and the audience understands that. Acknowledge the Question : Show appreciation for the question and the person who asked it. You can say something like, “Thank you for the question; that’s an interesting point to consider.” Be Honest : It’s best to be honest if you don’t know the answer. Avoid making up information or guessing as it can harm your credibility. Admit You Don’t Know : You can respond with a polite acknowledgement that you don’t have the information at hand. For example, say, “I’m afraid I don’t have the answer to that question right now.” Offer to Follow Up : Express your willingness to find the answer later. You can say, “I’ll make sure to look into this further and get back to you with an answer.” Redirect the Question : If appropriate, you can redirect the question to the audience or to someone who might have more expertise on the topic. Stay Positive : Maintain a positive tone throughout your response. Avoid apologizing excessively or sounding defensive. Bridge to Related Topics : If you can’t answer the specific question, try to bridge it to related topics you are familiar with. This way, you can still contribute to the discussion. Use It as a Learning Opportunity : If the question raises a valid point you haven’t considered before, acknowledge it as a learning opportunity. You can say, “That’s an excellent question, and it gives me something to think about.” Learn for the Future : After the presentation, take note of the questions you couldn’t answer and use them as a basis for further research or study. This will help you better prepare for similar situations in the future.

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How to Make a Successful Research Presentation

Turning a research paper into a visual presentation is difficult; there are pitfalls, and navigating the path to a brief, informative presentation takes time and practice. As a TA for  GEO/WRI 201: Methods in Data Analysis & Scientific Writing this past fall, I saw how this process works from an instructor’s standpoint. I’ve presented my own research before, but helping others present theirs taught me a bit more about the process. Here are some tips I learned that may help you with your next research presentation:

More is more

In general, your presentation will always benefit from more practice, more feedback, and more revision. By practicing in front of friends, you can get comfortable with presenting your work while receiving feedback. It is hard to know how to revise your presentation if you never practice. If you are presenting to a general audience, getting feedback from someone outside of your discipline is crucial. Terms and ideas that seem intuitive to you may be completely foreign to someone else, and your well-crafted presentation could fall flat.

Less is more

Limit the scope of your presentation, the number of slides, and the text on each slide. In my experience, text works well for organizing slides, orienting the audience to key terms, and annotating important figures–not for explaining complex ideas. Having fewer slides is usually better as well. In general, about one slide per minute of presentation is an appropriate budget. Too many slides is usually a sign that your topic is too broad.

Limit the scope of your presentation

Don’t present your paper. Presentations are usually around 10 min long. You will not have time to explain all of the research you did in a semester (or a year!) in such a short span of time. Instead, focus on the highlight(s). Identify a single compelling research question which your work addressed, and craft a succinct but complete narrative around it.

You will not have time to explain all of the research you did. Instead, focus on the highlights. Identify a single compelling research question which your work addressed, and craft a succinct but complete narrative around it.

Craft a compelling research narrative

After identifying the focused research question, walk your audience through your research as if it were a story. Presentations with strong narrative arcs are clear, captivating, and compelling.

• Introduction (exposition — rising action)

Orient the audience and draw them in by demonstrating the relevance and importance of your research story with strong global motive. Provide them with the necessary vocabulary and background knowledge to understand the plot of your story. Introduce the key studies (characters) relevant in your story and build tension and conflict with scholarly and data motive. By the end of your introduction, your audience should clearly understand your research question and be dying to know how you resolve the tension built through motive.

• Methods (rising action)

The methods section should transition smoothly and logically from the introduction. Beware of presenting your methods in a boring, arc-killing, ‘this is what I did.’ Focus on the details that set your story apart from the stories other people have already told. Keep the audience interested by clearly motivating your decisions based on your original research question or the tension built in your introduction.

• Results (climax)

Less is usually more here. Only present results which are clearly related to the focused research question you are presenting. Make sure you explain the results clearly so that your audience understands what your research found. This is the peak of tension in your narrative arc, so don’t undercut it by quickly clicking through to your discussion.

• Discussion (falling action)

By now your audience should be dying for a satisfying resolution. Here is where you contextualize your results and begin resolving the tension between past research. Be thorough. If you have too many conflicts left unresolved, or you don’t have enough time to present all of the resolutions, you probably need to further narrow the scope of your presentation.

• Conclusion (denouement)

Return back to your initial research question and motive, resolving any final conflicts and tying up loose ends. Leave the audience with a clear resolution of your focus research question, and use unresolved tension to set up potential sequels (i.e. further research).

Use your medium to enhance the narrative

Visual presentations should be dominated by clear, intentional graphics. Subtle animation in key moments (usually during the results or discussion) can add drama to the narrative arc and make conflict resolutions more satisfying. You are narrating a story written in images, videos, cartoons, and graphs. While your paper is mostly text, with graphics to highlight crucial points, your slides should be the opposite. Adapting to the new medium may require you to create or acquire far more graphics than you included in your paper, but it is necessary to create an engaging presentation.

The most important thing you can do for your presentation is to practice and revise. Bother your friends, your roommates, TAs–anybody who will sit down and listen to your work. Beyond that, think about presentations you have found compelling and try to incorporate some of those elements into your own. Remember you want your work to be comprehensible; you aren’t creating experts in 10 minutes. Above all, try to stay passionate about what you did and why. You put the time in, so show your audience that it’s worth it.

For more insight into research presentations, check out these past PCUR posts written by Emma and Ellie .

— Alec Getraer, Natural Sciences Correspondent

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Effective Research Presentations: Tips for Engaging Audiences

Research presentations are a fundamental part of academic and professional life. Whether you are a scientist sharing groundbreaking discoveries, a student defending your thesis, or a business professional pitching a proposal, your ability to engage and captivate your audience is essential. In this article, we will explore key strategies and tips for delivering research presentations that leave a lasting impression.

Why Effective Research Presentations Matter

Effective research presentations are not just a formality or an academic ritual. They play a crucial role in academia, business, and the broader professional world. Here, we delve into why mastering the art of research presentations is essential and explore the far-reaching impacts of effective communication.

At the heart of any research presentation is the desire to disseminate knowledge. Whether you are a scientist sharing groundbreaking discoveries, a student defending your thesis, or a professional pitching a proposal, your presentation is a vehicle for conveying important information to your audience.

In academic settings, research presentations are a fundamental way of sharing findings with peers, instructors, and evaluators. Your ability to articulate complex concepts and research outcomes can directly influence your academic success, securing better grades, research funding, and opportunities for further study.

The impact of effective research presentations extends beyond the classroom. In academia, delivering compelling presentations is a crucial skill for students, researchers, and faculty members alike. It can determine the success of grant applications, research proposals, and conference participation.

For students, the ability to present research effectively is often a requirement for graduation, and it can influence future academic and career prospects. It is a skill that can set you apart in a competitive job market and is highly valued by employers in various industries.

In the professional world, research presentations are a means of driving change, securing investments, and winning clients. Business professionals often need to present market research, product proposals, and strategic plans to colleagues, stakeholders, and potential partners. Effective presentations can be the difference between a successful pitch and missed opportunities.

Consider the role of research presentations in industries such as pharmaceuticals, technology, and finance. Researchers and professionals must convey complex data, findings, and strategies to diverse audiences, from investors to regulatory agencies. An impactful presentation can lead to critical decisions and substantial investments.

For scientists and researchers, research presentations are a conduit for engaging the public and garnering support for scientific endeavors. Whether discussing climate change, medical breakthroughs, or space exploration, scientists must communicate their findings in a way that resonates with non-expert audiences.

Effective presentations help bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding. They can inspire curiosity, generate interest, and foster trust in the scientific community. Public engagement through presentations is vital for addressing global challenges and securing support for research initiatives.

Research presentations are not just about sharing facts and figures; they are about shaping perceptions and influencing opinions. How you present your research can impact how it is received. A well-crafted presentation can make complex information more accessible and relatable.

In academic settings, the way you present your research can influence how your peers perceive your work. In business, it can determine whether your proposal is accepted or rejected. In public forums, it can sway public opinion on critical issues. Effective presentations have the power to change minds and create a lasting impact.

Mastering the art of research presentations also has personal benefits. It can boost your self-confidence and communication skills. Overcoming the fear of public speaking and delivering successful presentations can be empowering and lead to personal growth.

Confidence in presentation skills extends beyond research presentations. It can enhance your ability to communicate ideas, collaborate effectively, and lead teams in various professional settings. These skills are highly transferable and can contribute to your overall success.

Effective research presentations are not one-way communication; they are a catalyst for collaboration and discussion. Presenting your research opens the door to feedback, questions, and opportunities for collaboration with peers, mentors, and experts in your field.

In academic conferences and seminars, presentations often lead to valuable discussions, networking, and collaboration opportunities. In the business world, presentations can initiate partnerships, joint ventures, and innovative projects. Effective presentation skills can be a catalyst for productive collaboration.

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Key strategies for engaging research presentations.

The art of delivering an engaging research presentation involves a combination of skills and techniques that transform your content into an impactful experience for your audience. Whether you're presenting to peers, potential investors, or the general public, these key strategies will help you captivate your audience and convey your message effectively.

Understanding your audience is the foundation of an engaging presentation. Before you even start crafting your content, consider who will be in the room. Are they experts in your field, or are they laypeople? What are their interests, needs, and expectations? Tailor your presentation to address their knowledge level and interests. This ensures that your message resonates with your audience, making it more engaging and relevant.

Structure is the backbone of any successful presentation. Start with a clear and concise introduction that sets the stage for your talk. Follow this with the main points or key findings, supported by evidence and examples. Conclude with a summary and a compelling closing statement. A well-organized structure not only helps your audience follow your presentation but also adds to its overall impact.

Visual aids, such as slides, diagrams, and infographics, are powerful tools for enhancing audience engagement. However, it's crucial to use them effectively. Keep your visuals uncluttered, using concise text and high-quality images. Use visuals to complement your spoken words, not to duplicate them. Visuals should enhance understanding and provide a visual context for your content.

The importance of rehearsal cannot be overstated. Practice your presentation multiple times until you are familiar with the content and the timing. Rehearsing allows you to refine your delivery, identify potential stumbling points, and build confidence. Practice in front of a trusted friend, mentor, or colleague who can provide valuable feedback.

Start your presentation with an attention-grabbing opening. You have only a few seconds to capture your audience's interest, so make it count. You can begin with a compelling story, a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or a thought-provoking question. An engaging opening sets the tone for the rest of your presentation.

Storytelling is a potent tool for making complex information relatable and memorable. Weave narratives into your presentation to illustrate key points or findings. Stories have the power to evoke emotions and create a deeper connection with your audience. They can also help clarify abstract concepts and add a human element to your research.

Engage your audience by incorporating moments of interaction throughout your presentation. Pose questions, conduct polls, or include interactive exercises that involve your audience. Interactivity keeps people engaged and helps them retain information. It also creates a sense of participation, making your presentation more memorable.

Simplicity is key to effective communication. Use plain language and avoid jargon whenever possible. If technical terms are necessary, explain them in simple terms. Ensure that your message is accessible to everyone in your audience, regardless of their background or expertise. Clear communication fosters engagement and understanding.

Your body language plays a significant role in engaging your audience. Maintain eye contact with your audience to establish a connection. Use gestures to emphasize important points, and vary your tone of voice to convey enthusiasm and conviction. Your body language should reinforce your message and project confidence.

Nervousness is a common experience before presenting, but it can be managed. Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and mindfulness, to calm your nerves. Remember that a certain level of nervousness can actually enhance your performance, keeping you alert and focused.

Respect the time allotted for your presentation. Avoid rushing through your content or exceeding the time limit. Practice pacing to ensure a smooth delivery. Staying within your time frame demonstrates professionalism and consideration for your audience.

If you are using slides, pay attention to visual design principles. Choose readable fonts, use contrasting colors for text and background, and incorporate high-quality visuals. Avoid cluttered slides with too much information. Visual design should enhance the understanding of your content.

Anticipate questions your audience might have and be prepared with thoughtful answers. While you can't predict every question, being ready for common inquiries shows that you are knowledgeable and confident in your research.

End your presentation with a strong closing statement or a call to action. Summarize your key points and leave your audience with something to remember. A compelling closing reinforces your message and ensures that your presentation makes a lasting impact.

After your presentation, seek feedback from your audience or colleagues. Constructive feedback can provide valuable insights for improving your presentation skills for future talks. Embrace the opportunity to refine your abilities and become an even more engaging presenter.

In conclusion, effective research presentations are a valuable skill that can significantly impact your academic and professional journey. By understanding your audience, structuring your content, and incorporating engaging strategies, you can deliver presentations that inform, inspire, and leave a lasting impression. Remember, presentation skills can be honed with practice, so seize every opportunity to refine your abilities and become a compelling presenter.

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Presentation Skills: How to Present Research Results

• First Online: 01 January 2014

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• Stephen P. Glasser M.D. 2  

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This book is about designing, implementing and interpreting clinical research. This chapter is aimed at a discussion of how to present the research that has been performed. Although almost no one currently disagrees that a formal curriculum in research methodology is critical for a new investigator, the manner in which the results of a study are presented is presumed to be obvious, and training in the art of presentations is much less common. The belief is that good speakers are born, not made, and this is no more true than good researchers are born and not made. And so, the methodology of presentations should be an important part of a young investigators training. This chapter provides an introduction to delivering an effective presentation.

Speech is power; Speech is to persuade, to convert, to compel Ralph Wald Emerson I know from experience that “sometimes it is better to be quiet and be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt”… Abraham Lincoln

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The majority of this chapter was taken from personal experience and extensive notes that I had taken from a large number or Presentation Skills Workshops that I have attended. Although I cannot give specific credit for individual pieces of information, I can credit the Instructors of those workshops as follows:

Sue Castorino, President, The Speaking Specialist, Chicago, IL, 1993.

Gerald Kelliher PhD, Associate Dean, Medical College of Pennsylvania.

Eleanor Lopez, Let’s Communicate Better, www.eleanorlopez.com

Power Speaking, and More, Joyce Newman Communications Inc.

Jerry Michaels-Senior Consultant CommCore Communication Strategies.

Science and Medicine Canada, Presentation and Platform Skills Workshop, 1992.

Wyeth Ayerst Laboratories, Ciba-Geigy, Schering, Pfizer, and KOS Pharmaceuticals for sponsoring many of the Presentation Skills Workshops that I attended.

Foley RP, Smilansky J. Teaching techniques, a handbook for health professionals. New York: McGraw-Hill Book; 1980. p. 1–14.

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Garson A, Gutgesell H, Pinsky WW, McNamara DG. The 10-minute talk, slides, writing, and delivery. Am Heart J. 1985;111:193–203.

Article   Google Scholar  

Griswold A. 9 ways to sound like you know what you are talking about Business Insider. www.businessinsider.com/common-speaking-mistakes-2013

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Glasser, S.P. (2014). Presentation Skills: How to Present Research Results. In: Glasser, S. (eds) Essentials of Clinical Research. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-05470-4_22

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11 Tips to Make an Effective Research Presentation

Home » Presenting Your Research » 11 Tips to Make an Effective Research Presentation

The purpose of a presentation is to tell your audience a story. To achieve this goal, the person giving the presentation must place themselves in the shoes of their listeners and determine what they need to know to understand the story. Telling a great story is more important than any embellishments or technology you use to do it. Below are 11 tips for giving an effective research presentation.

1. Decide what your most important messages are, tailored to your specific audience.

Research can be messy, and so can the results of research. Your audience does not usually need to know every tiny detail about your work or results. Try to narrow down your findings to two or three of the most important takeaways that would resonate with the people in attendance. These takeaways are the messages of your presentation.

2. Start at the beginning and keep it simple.

Now that you have your messages, think about how you got to that point. What question did you ask that led you to do this research, and why did you ask it? Tell your audience this information, just enough of it for them to understand why the story is important and why you’re telling it. Use language that is tailored to the level of understanding of your audience.

3. Tell them how you addressed your question.

This part of any presentation usually involves the greatest risk of being dull. Tell your audience how you address your question, but don’t overwhelm them with detail they don’t need. Tell them what they need to know to get a basic idea of how you got your results.

4. Tell them your most important findings.

Again, do not overwhelm your listeners with noisy data or too much information. Give them a streamlined version of your results, using as your guide what you might include in an abstract of the work.

5.  Give them the payoff—your main messages.

Link your results to the main or most important conclusions from your work. Make sure that the results you talk about directly connect with these final messages.

6. Hint at where you’re going next.

If appropriate, you can also tell your audience the new questions that your findings open up, leaving them a little intrigued about where things will go next.

7. Do not go over your time.

No one wants to listen to anyone talk longer than they are supposed to talk. If you’ve been given a 10-minute limit for your presentation, do not take more than 10 minutes. Your best bet is to practice it beforehand, timing yourself, to make sure that you have the right pace to stay within limits. Don’t make it too short, either, although that is almost never a problem.

8. Think about questions people might ask.

If a question-and-answer session is to follow your presentation, go through your talk and put yourself again in your audience’s shoes. What questions would you have if you were listening to this research presentation? Try to anticipate what people might ask and how you’ll answer. If you have friends or family you can use for practice, encourage them to ask questions so you can gain experience answering them.

9. Do not overwhelm with too much text, busy images, tables, or charts.

Having too much text on a slide or busy, illegible images is a major fault of many academic research presentations. Consider the people in your audience and what they’ll be able to see from where they sit. Keep text limited and plain and figures simple and clear. Explain each image that you show, including axis labels and their meaning, and don’t just assume your audience will understand with a quick glance. Also, you do not need to use the tricks that some digital software allows for slides to fade in or out or advance automatically. In fact, you should avoid the latter entirely.

10. Do not read text word for word.

If you are using some form of presentation that involves slides or words on a screen, do not read these words verbatim. Your best approach is to use short phrases in the slides and then add your own expansion as you talk. That way, your audience sees an important, brief phrase and hears you add context around it. Listening to someone read a slide packed with text while reading along with them is mind numbing.

11. Engage with your audience.

If you are comfortable, you can always present your research in a way that invites audience engagement, asking questions as you go that anticipate a slide you are about to show, a result you are about to introduce, or a conclusion you will present.

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How to Make an Effective Research Presentation

Presentation software programs have advanced to the point where you no longer need to be an experienced designer to put together a compelling piece of collateral that conveys your findings about academic research in exactly the right way. With the right materials, the right presentation software, and a little bit of time, you can visualize any data that you have in the form of a terrific presentation that sells your research better than numbers alone ever could. However, this does not mean that you shouldn’t keep in mind a few things. As both a marketing tool and a means to convey information, presentations are helpful because they are malleable—the format can essentially be anything you need it to be at any given time. The other side of this, however, is that there are certain traps that are all too easy for even experts to fall into that will harm your ultimate message, not help it. If you wish to learn how to make a professional research presentation as an author, or a researcher, then you should avoid some mistakes at all costs.

Mistakes to Avoid

As a researcher or a student, your number one goal isn’t just to provide insight into a topic—it’s to do so in a compelling way. It is important to communicate ideas in a way that is both easy to understand for people who haven’t completed the work you have and to do so in a compelling and engaging way. In many ways, it’s a lot like telling a story—albeit one that is heavily research-oriented. Every story has a beginning, middle, and end and you need to ensure that the content in the presentation has a proper narrative flow.

In many ways, your presentation will operate exactly along the same lines. To that end, always remember to make sure that the information is presented not only in the right manner but also in the right order to complement intent and maximize impact. If you have three subtopics within a presentation, all of which are related but are still different ideas, don’t mix and match the content. Don’t jump from one topic to the other and back again—you’re only going to lose focus and eventually, the attention of your reader.

If you start preparing your presentation and realize that you’re actually kind of covering two distinct and different topics, don’t be afraid to break one presentation into two. You’ll be able to devote more attention to promoting each idea and you’ll walk away with two great pieces of research presentations instead of one “okay” one.

Length of Your Presentation

Another element of your presentation that you need to pay extremely close attention to is the length. This goes back to another one of the old rules of storytelling: “Whatever you do, don’t overstay your welcome.” While it is true that presentations are naturally designed to be a longer form than something like an Infographic, it’s important to recognize when you’re asking too much of your reader/viewer. A presentation isn’t just a visualized form of something like a white paper. It’s a unique medium all unto itself.

When you start preparing your presentation for the first time, feel free to include as many slides or as much information as you want. Also, don’t forget that there are three versions of your presentation that will exist—the initial outline, the “first draft” of the presentation and the final edited version that you release. Make an effort to only include information that A) is needed to understand your research topic, and B) is necessary to contextualize your findings or the points you’re trying to make. Go through your presentation from start to finish and really try to experience it with fresh eyes—the same way your audience will.

Does it feel like the end of your presentation is getting a little sluggish? You feel that it should be over but there are ten slides to go still. Be precise in your editing process —rest assured that you’ll thank yourself when the end result is much more powerful than it would be if it had remained bloated.

The Power of Presentations

In many ways, presentations provide a unified experience where you can have text, images, video, and more. Remember that human beings are visual learners— visuals are processed up to 60,000 times faster than text and people have a much easier time understanding complex information when it is paired with relevant images as opposed to just text. As an author, researcher, or student, your job is to take complicated ideas and present them in a way that is appealing to a larger audience. Presentations are one of the most essential ways for you to do exactly that. The central message you are trying to convey—the thesis, if you will—needs to be strong enough to justify the creation of a presentation in the first place.

It needs to be a big enough topic to warrant a lengthy experience and a compelling enough story that demands to be told in this particular format above all others. If you start from that simple foundation and build outward, you’ll be left with the best type of marketing tool—one that promotes your research for you and one that people can’t wait to share with their friends and colleagues.

About the Author

Payman Taei is the founder of Visme , an easy-to-use online tool to create engaging presentations, infographics, and other forms of visual content. He is also the founder of HindSite Interactive , an award-winning Maryland based digital agency specializing in website design, user experience, and web app development.

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Making a short presentation based on your research: 11 tips

Markus goldstein, david evans.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve both spent a fair amount of time at conferences. Given that many conferences ask researchers to summarize their work in 15 to 20 minutes, we thought we’d reflect on some ideas for how to do this, and – more importantly – how to do it well.

• You have 15 minutes. That’s not enough time to use the slides you used for that recent 90-minute academic seminar. One recent presentation one of us saw had 52 slides for 15 minutes.    No amount of speed talking will get you through this in anything resembling coherence. (And quit speed talking, anyway. This isn’t a FedEx commercial !) There is no magic number of slides since the content you’ll have and how you talk will vary. But if you have more than 15 slides, then #2 is doubly important.
• Practice. This is the great thing about a 15-minute talk: You can actually afford to run through it, out loud. Running through it once in advance can reveal to you – wow! – that it’s actually a 25-minute talk and you need to cut a bunch. Of course, the first time through the presentation it may take a bit longer than you will when you present, but if you have any doubts, practice again (bringing your prep time to a whopping 30 minutes plus a little bit).
• You need a (short) narrative. What is the main story you are trying to tell with this paper? Fifteen minutes works better for communicating a narrative then for taking an audience through every twist and turn of your econometric grandeur. Deciding on your narrative will help with the discipline in the points that follow.
• A model or results? Even if your audience is all academics, you don’t have academic seminar time. So the first thing to do is to figure out which is more important to get across – your model or your empirical results. Then trim the other one down to one slide, max. If the results are your focus (usually the case for us), give the audience a sense of how the model is set up, and what the main implications are as they pertain to the results you will show. Conversely, if it’s the model that’s more important, the empirical results will come later and you can just give the very brief highlights that bolster the key points.
• The literature. Really, really minimal. If you do it at all, choose only the papers that you are either going to build on in a major way or contradict. For some types of discussants, it may help to include them, even if they don’t meet the other criteria. Marc Bellemare takes an even stronger stance: “Never, ever have a literature review in your slides. If literature reviews are boring to read in papers, they are insanely boring to listen to during presentations.”
• Program details. Here it’s a bit of a balance. The audience needs a flavor for the program, they need to understand what it did and how it’s different from other things (particularly other things with some kinds of evidence). But only in exceptional cases (as in, it’s a really different program for theoretical reasons, or you don’t have more than process results yet) do you want this to eat up a lot of your time.
• You don’t have time to go through the nitty gritty of the data.   We get that every detail about the survey was fascinating (we spend a lot of our lives thinking about this).   But if it’s not key to the story, save it for a longer presentation (or another paper). And if you’re doing a primarily theoretical paper, this is a bullet on one slide.
• Balance and summary stats. Key summary stats that tell the audience who the people are might make the cut, but 3 slides of every variable that you’ll use are going to be slides you either rip through (telling the audience nothing) or waste most of your time on. Summarize the summary stats. On balance tests: you are either balanced or not.  If you are, this gets a bullet at most (you can also just say that). If you’re not, tell us what’s up and why we should or should not worry.  
• Pre-analysis plan. If you had it, mention it (quickly). If not, don’t. It’s not critical here.
• A picture may be worth 1,000 numbers. Sometimes, taking that really packed table which is currently in 12 point font and turning it into a graph is going to help you with self-control and help your audience with comprehension. Put the significant results in a bar chart, and use asterisks to tell folks which are significant.  
• A special warning about presenting your job market paper. When I (Markus) submitted my job market paper to a journal, the referee report came back noting that this was surely a job market paper since it had 40(!) tables. Key example of how everything matters when you just spent four years of your life collecting each observation. Discipline. You have (or will have) an elevator pitch from the job market – use this to trim your presentation. 
• Marc Bellemare has a great series of “22 tips for conference and seminar presentations,” many of which apply to short presentations: “Always provide a preview of your results. This isn’t a murder mystery: it’s only when people know where you’re taking them that they can enjoy the scenery along the way.”
• Jeff Leek has a great guide to giving presentations of different lengths, and what your goal should be: “As a scientist, it is hard to accept that the primary purpose of a talk is advertising, not science.” This is doubly true for a 15-minute talk.
• The AEA Committee on the Status of Women in the Economics Profession has a top 10 list. “Never cut and paste a table from your paper onto a slide. These tables are never easy to read and only irritate your audience. Instead, choose a few results that you want to highlight and present them on a slide in no smaller than 28 font.” We’ve pretty much all done this. It’s bad practice. (“I’m sorry you can’t read this table.” “Oh really, then why did you cut and paste that giant table from your paper into the presentation?!”)
• I (Dave) go back and re-read Jesse Shapiro’s guide on “ How to Give an Applied Micro Talk ” from time to time. It’s more geared toward a full-length seminar, but the advice is so good I can’t resist plugging it here.

Lead Economist, Africa Gender Innovation Lab and Chief Economists Office

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Presenting your research.

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Audience expectations The first consideration in preparing for any oral presentation of your research is to determine who is in your audience. Is it composed of other research students and staff who are familiar with your topic? Or are the people in your audience unfamiliar with your research area? You must also consider what they are expecting. For example, if you are presenting your research proposal, your audience will be expecting you to:

• Articulate a research problem and research questions (and, in some cases, a tentative hypothesis)
• Demonstrate your knowledge of previous research on the topic and your understanding of the ‘gaps’
• Explain the methods you propose to use and justify why you have chosen these methods

If you are presenting the findings of your research, your audience will also be expecting you to:

• Communicate your results clearly and succinctly
• Discuss your results in light of the literature
• Highlight the significance of your study and the theoretical, empirical and/or practical implications of  your findings

Hooking your audience Another area for consideration is how to 'hook' your audience. You may be used to thinking about the topic that you will investigate in 'content' terms; for instance, 'memory' or 'emotion regulation'. However, describing the topic of your research in these terms will not necessarily communicate its importance or relevance to an audience. To hook an audience, it is better to focus on the specific problem or need that your project will address. The worth and application of your research project will then be obvious, and no-one will need to ask: 'why would you do that?''

Using visual aids Most presentations require some visual aids, such as a PowerPoint, Prezi, poster or handout. Well thought out visual aids can enhance your presentation and can help capture the audience's attention. Always ensure your visual aids are relevant, easy to read/see, well conceptualised and well formatted. Visual aids should be written using academic English with correct APA referencing. Here are some tips for using PowerPoint:

• Avoid having too many words on each slide as people will tend to read rather than listen. Use slides for key messages, quotes, examples, simple diagrams/charts and images. Aim to use one slide for every 1-2 minutes of talk.
• Use a maximum 10 lines of text per slide, and aim for five or six lines where possible.
• Use size 32 to 36 font for headings and size 18 to 28 for the body text.
• Choose a professional design and colours. The templates under the ‘Design’ tab in PowerPoint contain some good options.
• Avoid using animations, sound effects, flashy graphics and distracting backgrounds; this detracts from what you are saying.

Handling question time Question time is the opportunity for audience members to clarify issues or gain more information from your knowledge on the topic. You won't be able to give every detail of your research project in your presentation, so question time allows you to expand on points that were not completely developed.

There are different types of questions that may be asked. Some questions may indicate a gap or point of confusion in your talk, such as 'What is the relationship between...?' . Others will ask you to expand on a particular point or explain something in more detail, such as 'Could you say more about...?' . Some questions are asked because the listener missed a point or wants to check his/her understanding, such as 'What technique did you propose to use for...?'

Tips for handling question time

• Listen attentively. Paraphrase the question or ask for it to be repeated if necessary.
• Decide whether you are being asked an open question, which gives you the opportunity to expand and elaborate, or a closed one, which requires only restatement or clarification.
• Answer honestly and stay within the limits of your knowledge. Your audience will know immediately if you try to bluff.
• Remind your audience that the project is still in development. For example: 'I can't answer that question at this point in the research. I hope to have an answer in a few weeks' time...' 'I don't know. It's something I'll be looking into so I'll have to get back to you on that one.'

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• Presenting techniques

Presenting is a craft that requires a thoughtful approach. There’s a lot of stuff to include in the good presentation. From quality visuals to a compelling speech, everything matters. Doing a presentation on your own may be quite a challenge especially if it’s your first time experience with the presentations. What can really help though, are the effective presentation techniques. In essence, they are the blueprint for your presentation, that helps you to hit all the right spots. Let’s look into some of those techniques.

Presentation Methods

Before you start thinking of a technique, let’s first understand the presentation methods and how they relate to the audience and the content of your presentation. Among the different presentation methods, the main ones are formal and formal. Their difference is mainly in the style of your delivery and the data presentation methods. The formal presentation is best suited for the business meetings or college level, scientific presentations. The informal methods of presentation can best be used during the smaller meetings with your team to discuss business subjects or, for example, at a Ted-like speech event.

Method 1: Keeping Everything Simple

This is a rather basic technique. Just strip your presentation of all the unnecessary information, leaving only the core statements that you want to address. Simplicity not only helps your audience to understand your points better but even more, this data presentation method lowers the risk of making a mistake, forgetting — and saves you and your audience quite a lot of time! There are different definitions of simplicity — sometimes just a few words are enough, while in other cases several bullet points on the slide may be sufficient. Choose what suits your topic best.

Method 2: Good Start 

This method of presentation is all about attention-grabbing. Starting your presentation with a powerful statement, unusual fact or an interesting question will make the audience engage in your presentation instantly. Another great way to start is a joke, though humor can be quite a landmine, especially when you’re presenting in front of strangers, and you are not sure whether your joke would be fun or actually offensive.  So, try to think of something neutral, yet funny.

Method 3: Use  Visuals in your Presentation

Visuals are a must for any presentation and are able not only to support your speech but also to tell and contribute to the stuff you’re telling about. The pictures, graphs, infographics, and even short videos especially when done by presentation design services are what truly make the presentation, and help you to connect with your audience. A carefully selected visual connects both with your speech and the slide content, making your presentation methods work in complete harmony. What is more, visuals can serve as a great way to help you recall your speech in case you suddenly forgot some of it during the presentation.

Method 4:   Rehearse

Don’t rush to tell your presentation just once you’ve made it. Instead, try to first rehearse your presentation in front of a mirror. This presentation technique allows you to spot the mistakes and downfalls in your speech and visual part and improve powerpoint presentation . What is more, it can also make you more confident, as with each time you rehearse you’ll memorize your stuff better and better. Bonus points for starting rehearsing from the random spots in your presentation — using this presentation technique will allow you to become completely familiar with your information.

Method 5:   10/20/30 Presentation Rule

While it may not be applied to all of the presentations, the ones that you are usually dealing with can really benefit from it. 10 20 30 rule is about the time and size of your presentation: 

• Your presentation should have no more than 10 slides
• The time needed for the presentation should be no more than 20 minutes
• The font you are using for presentation text (if there is any on slides) is no less than 30 point

Method 6:  Storytelling

Telling a story is a powerful presentation technique for keeping the audience interested. In general, people get bored from being fed just straight-up facts and numbers for a long time. However, an interesting story, connected to the subject of your presentation gives that personal touch to it, engaging the audience into what you are talking about. What is more, a good story in the context of the presentation will actually resonate with the audience, causing more approval to you as an expert.

• Tell a personal  story .
• Create suspense.
• Bring characters to life.
• Build up to S.T.A.R moment.

Method 7:   Presentate with your Voice

Speech is the most common method of presentation . When you are presenting, it’s important not only WHAT you say, but also HOW do you say it. Creating a proper voice for presentations is actually one of the things you need rehearsal for. Your goal is to sound confident and interested in the subject you are telling about. What is more, it is important to not make unnecessary pauses and avoid the “ummm”, “oh” and other similar stuff that slows down your presentation and may put off the audience.

Method 8:   Know your Audience

Make sure that the data presentation methods you are using make your data  relevant to your audience. The research of your audience is needed to craft a relatable story, as well as to understand what approach in presenting you may want to take. After you’ve done the research, you can just tell the audience what it wants and expects to hear. Such an approach would result in the satisfied and interested audience enjoying your presentation. And in this case your presentation would surely and up being a huge success!

Method 9:   Back up plan

Even though you may plan everything in advance, something can always go wrong. The strange ability of the hardware to malfunction right in the middle of your presentation is probably one of the most known presentation-related memes. So, plan at least some of the bad scenarios. For example, have a printed set of slides with you during your presentation. Check everything right before you’ll start presenting. A good idea also is to have your script written out so that in case you have completely forgotten some of its parts, you can easily and quickly look into it and goon with the presentation.

Method 10:   Relax

This one is not only a presentation technique , but a great life technique as well. Actually, the most common reason for the mistakes during presentations are the nerves and fear a lot of people feel while presenting. It’s absolutely normal to be a little worried about the presentation, but you have to instill confidence in your knowledge and expertise with the subject among the audience, and it’s hard to do if you feel fear. Try to reason with yourself — you have rehearsed, prepared great visuals, learned about the audience and even have a plan B in case the situation gets worse. There’s nothing to worry about — you have all the right presentation techniques !

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8 rules of effective presentation

Different Types of Research Presentations

There are many different types of research presentations, but the different types of presentations can be divided into two general categories: written presentations and oral presentations. Written research presentations include dissertations and theses, posters, grant and project proposals, blogs, websites, PowerPoint slides, etc. Oral research presentations include lectures, conference presentations, job talks, etc. Often, oral and written methods of presentation are combined to effectively convey information about research. For example, posters or PowerPoint slides may be used to support oral presentations of research, or information on posters may be supplemented with oral explanations. Whichever type of research presentation you choose for your research, you should remember the following about the similarities and differences between oral and written presentations.

Similarities Between Oral and Written Presentations

The fundamental elements of successfully presenting research apply to both oral and written presentations. Whether you choose to present your research orally or in written form, you should know and actively engage your audience in the presentation of your research to effectively deliver your ideas. Organization is also important in both written and oral presentations. You can create outlines of your research that you can use to help you organize information for both oral and written presentations.

Differences Between Oral and Written Presentations

The most important difference between oral and written presentations is the time that is available for your audience to process what you have presented about your research. In written presentations, your audience has an unlimited amount of time to read, re-read, and analyze your research; if your audience does not understand particularly dense elements of your research, your audience has plenty of time to mull over your research until it becomes more understandable. In oral   presentations, however, you generally have a limited amount of time to present your research, and your audience has even less time to understand what you have said. In both oral and written presentations (but particularly in oral presentations), you can help your audience understand your research by defining important key terms. After you have defined the key terms for your written or oral presentation, you must use them and any other jargon consistently throughout your entire presentation to help your audience avoid confusion.

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A Guide to The Techniques of Presentation

Hrideep barot.

• Body Language & Delivery , Presentation , Public Speaking , Workplace Communication

We’re guessing you are here because you’re either tired of having sweaty palms before giving a presentation or you have vowed to become the Steve Jobs of presentations!

Whatever be your motto, we have sworn to not leave you without guiding you through the numerous techniques of presentation.

Presentation Techniques are all the essential skills you ought to develop to deliver presentations successfully and become a better presenter. Presentation techniques include focusing on the audience, cutting down to the core idea, brainstorming, using visual aids, the 10-20-30 rule, structuring, recording yourself, practice and feedback, and open body language. 

We are going to discuss these techniques in detail in the upcoming sections.

Techniques of Creation

A successful presentation requires a good amount of brainstorming and planning before D-Day dawns. Here are techniques you can focus on to create a stellar presentation.

1. The Topic at Hand

This involves first and foremost choosing a subject or topic to present on.

Why choose a topic that interests you?

If you have the liberty to choose a topic according to your liking, see that it is one that you are passionate about . This will help you look forward to the preparation as well as delivery because it is something you believe so much in. 

But what if you have no choice?

However, if the situation is such that you do not like the topic or it is particularly boring, then don’t dread it yet. You can always tweak it by bringing in humor , using a case study , narrating a story , or a personal anecdote relating to the topic.

How to make a boring topic interesting?

Find fun ways to bring your topic to life. Your presentation need not be restricted to you speaking and showing some visuals. You can be unconventional (Like Dr. Jill Bolte-Taylor was when she got an actual human brain on stage during her TED talk!) and make use of sound and video, physical props, or audience engagement activities .

For example, at the beginning of one presentation, a speaker gave out the letters T, E, And M to members of the audience. Towards the end, the speaker highlighted how little difference the letters made individually but when put together, they made a team. 

This shows how simple props can be used to give out a powerful message that generates a great connection through a memorable activity.

2. The Audience

What do you need to know about them?

Form an image of your typical audience member in your head. Jot down things like their psychographic information such as their interests, values, traits, etc. List down their expectations and your aim – to inform, inspire, entertain or prove, persuade and demonstrate.   

This will enable you to tailor your presentation in a way that you can make the audience achieve what you have for them in your mind. Find out how much they know about your topic, then cater your talk, and the language you use to deliver it in accordance with their level and familiarity with the topic. Best to keep the jargon off the stage. 

How can you know get to know them?

If you are presenting at your workplace, you already will have an idea about the interest and values of your colleagues. You can always get to know more about them by sharing your topic with them and asking their opinions on it.

If you are to present in a new setting, try arriving a bit ahead of time and engage yourself in conversation with the audience members by greeting them, introducing yourself, and having a casual conversation over a range of topics.

Be prepared to also face any objections or resistance to your subject and think of ways you can address them in case they arise.

When you have an idea of what they know, believe, and feel about your topic before you present, you can control what they know, believe, and feel about your topic after you are done presenting.

3. Brainstorming

The next thing is to jot down all ideas you have about that topic. Mindmapping is especially helpful when it comes to this. It means sketching out ideas from a central theme, like the branches of a tree. 

Next, categorize your ideas into sub-topics and create a flow for the presentation that you want your audience to follow. 

For example, If you are to give a presentation on the Covid-19 Vaccine, then you can branch out into sub-areas to cover the types of vaccines, the efficacy of vaccines, their advantages, and disadvantages, etc.

4. Cut down to the Core 

We understand the urge to share all knowledge you have on your topic with your audience. But it is crucial to remember that you are presenting to a bunch of normal humans who probably cannot take more than a couple of ideas throughout a presentation. 

If it takes you way too many words and sentences to say what you have in your mind, try giving it more thought. Because when it comes to presentations , less is more .

Hence, condense your presentation to its very core idea and make it a point to repeat it till you reach the end. You can elaborate on this central idea.

Doing this will ensure that if at any point someone asks your audience what you presented about, all of them have the same answer. Thus leaving your audience satisfied with one clear message at the back of their minds.

One thing to pay heed to is the fact that most presentations take longer to deliver than we initially imagine. If you are wondering how to keep it short? We wrote an article that takes you through the 11 steps to help you keep time during your presentation. 

5. Visual Aids

Like it is said, a picture is worth a hundred words. Using visuals will always benefit you because more than 65% of people are visual learners. While data is important to back up your arguments, data alone doesn’t do much if it isn’t presented appealingly. A lot depends on how data is presented.

Keeping up with Kawasaki

Guy Kawasaki , came up with this efficient rule for presentations which states that a PowerPoint presentation (or any other app you are using for your slides),

“should have ten slides , last no more than twenty minutes, and contain no font smaller than thirty points. ”

Now we know, certain presentations may be an exception to this rule. But the main idea here is to not let the visual aids override the speaker. 

Death by PowerPoint

This funny, but sadly true phrase refers to a phenomenon caused by poor use of presentation software leading to immense visual discomfort. 

Oftentimes, we observe that very little importance is given to the visual aids of a presentation, even by esteemed organizations and companies. John Medina’s statement reinstates this when he says that

“If companies would have as little respect for business as they have for presentations, the majority would go bankrupt.”

To make certain that you avoid this situation at all costs, we have David Phillips who outlines ways to Avoid Death by Powerpoint in his TED talk where he talks about the following:

1. Limit the text to one message per slide.

2 . Do not put up text sentences on the slide to read when you are speaking at the same time. This makes the brain of the listener choose between the two activities, leaving out important points in the process.

3. The Size of your font influences how well it can catch attention, retain in your head and create an impact. So choose it wisely.

(A method for optimum font size suggested by Guy Kawasaki is to look up the age of the oldest person in your audience and divide it by two to get an idea of the ideal font size) Larger font sizes help you to cut down on unimportant bits of data due to the limitations on space.

4. Creating Contrast Steers focus on the essential part of data. Don’t leave the pesky task of decoding data on your audience; make it easier for them.

5. Six or Fewer Objects Per slide is recommended as it makes it easier for the brain to comprehend the information presented to it at a given time.

6. Having a dark background relaxes your eyes and brain. When your screen is brighter than you, you will have to go out of your way to make yourself noticeable enough. It is essential to remember that you are the presentation and your slides are your visual aids; not the other way round.

While making use of visual aids, keep in mind one thing. You are presenting to your audience, not to your visual aids. So always face your audience and converse with them instead of talking to the data on your screen. 

When presented in the right way, visual aids can do wonders to your presentation by enhancing your message and elevating the credibility of your idea.

6. Structuring 

One reason why most presentations fail to make an impact is cause they haven’t been well conceptualized and framed. Structuring is important, not alone for the audience to understand the presentation better but also for you, the presenter to stay calm and exhibit confidence without harboring the fear of missing out on any points.

Creating an Audience Journey Map

“When I think about compelling presentations, I think about taking an audience on a journey.” Chris Anderson, curator of TED

When you frame your presentation as a journey, you have to decide the point where your journey starts and where it ends. To begin well, you have to create the context of the setting for your audience; by considering what they know about the topic. 

Never try to come off as an expert on the topic or get too technical, because you will lose your audience on the way. Instead, try presenting as a friend who has a new idea and wants to share it with others.

Successful presenters introduce their topic in short, share with the audience why they care about this topic and convince their audience that they should care about it too by taking them on a journey.

Facts and Stories

If your objective as a presenter is to inform your audience and also inspire them to take action, then you must consider taking the approach of facts and stories. 

Nancy Duarte, presentation coach, proposes a way of doing this in her book Resonate . She suggests looking at presentations as a place between two extremes – a record of numerical data and facts, and a story, which has the ability to thoroughly engage the audience. 

Step 1. Start by sharing the realities of the audience’s current world. 

Step 2. Reinforce what is and state what could be . Thus creating an imbalance

Step 3. Go on showcasing the stark contrast in the content of these two extremes, alternating between what is and what could be.

Step 4. Make the audience understand what they need to do to achieve the “ideal” that you’re convincing them for.

Step 5. Conclude the presentation on a higher plane, where everyone now understands your idea and its reward.

Facts share a glimpse of what is, while stories provide the wonderful possibility of what could be. Shifting between these two extremes sparks curiosity in your audience to learn about the next thing to follow.

Techniques of Preparation

Thinking that you’re all set for your presentation once you’ve got your content in place is a little bit like digging your own grave. Inadequate practice is one of the biggest factors contributing to presentation stress and fear.

But as Dr. Rob Gilbert says,

“There is nothing wrong with stomach butterflies. You just have to get them to fly in formation.”

The butterflies resemble fear. And the way to calm the butterflies and direct their flying is this – you must be relaxed; to be relaxed you need to be confident, and to be confident, you ought to be well prepared with your presentation.

Here’s how you can do that.

1. Memory Prompts

If you plan on speaking from memory, you can start by writing notes in full sentences. The first practice usually involves a read-through of your scripted content.

Next, cut the full sentences so that they are bullet points and read with their assistance- in order to rely on notes less. Subsequently, bring it down to just a few words that act as cues or prompts to help you deliver your entire idea. 

2. Aim to be Effortless

Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor practiced her famous TED presentation 200 times while another speaker practiced it 12 times. Some people require more time, some don’t. It is subjective, but overall, Carmine Gallo, communications coach and speaker, suggests rehearsing your presentation 10 times from start to finish to be rooted in self-confidence. The idea is always to rehearse it till it comes to you effortlessly. Without the need to constantly think of which word the next slide starts with. 

3. Record Yourself

With the help of your video camera or phone , record yourself as giving the presentation. You’ll surely be surprised by the number of times you use filler words or distracting body language or exhibit a disconnect by referring to slides more than often.

Evaluating your presentation will help you make changes to it before it is too late. Unsure how to do this? We’ve got you covered in this article we wrote on 6 Ways You Can Evaluate Your Own Presentation .

4. Mirror real-world

Studies conducted by psychologists brought to light that athletes tend to showcase their best performance in practice sessions that mirror real-world conditions. You can apply this concept to your presentation practice by presenting in front of a smaller group of people – friends, strangers, family members, or mentors. 

It is also crucial to have a rehearsal with all your technicals and visual aids. If you can access the venue of your presentation to do a mock presentation, do not miss the opportunity. Also, be ready to have a backup plan in case your technicals give up on you

5. Constructive Feedback

After you’ve presented in front of a smaller audience, most people will give you a compliment or two saying you did a good job. But that isn’t gonna do much for you. Instead, make an effort to ask them for specific feedback. 

For instance, ask them if your speech was too fast or too slow? Or If you used jargon or terms they didn’t understand? Then go over your content and tweak it wherever necessary.

Fred Pryor Organisation’s studies suggest that good preparation and rehearsal reduces nerves by 75% and also cuts down on the likelihood of making errors. 

Techniques of Delivery

Quality content is essential. Yes. But quality content paired with a poor delivery is the recipe for a presentation that your audience forgets about after exiting the doors.

Now that you are familiar with the ABCs of practice, let’s see how you can effectively deliver your presentation.

1. What about MY Presentation?

Does it matter what you’re wearing? Well, everyone has a different answer to that. But we believe that the first thing people notice about us is our appearance. So it wouldn’t do you any harm to work a little bit on it for your presentation. 

We prohibit you from wearing neon hues unless of course, you have pledged to be the human version of a highlighter pen. What colors should you wear during a presentation then? Read this article to know more. 

It is true that your introduction and its delivery will set the tone for the rest of your presentation. So if you’re looking for alternative ways to introduce yourself other than the usual “Good morning, I am Andy, and today I will be talking about…” Cut it, here is an article we wrote on How you can introduce yourself in a presentation

2. Handling Pre-presentation Nerves

Amy Cuddy , who is a Harvard Business School professor studying the way in which certain body poses affect power, suggests presenters spend the time before their presentation “striding around, extending their bodies and standing tall.” These are poses that help boost confidence and that’s an essential ingredient of great delivery.

Anderson reinforces that 

“Nerves are not a disaster. The audience expects you to be nervous”

Think of the audience as your ally, they want you to do your best and are rooting for you. Or maybe just think that they are happy for you because they aren’t the ones standing on the stage facing an audience and feeling nervous.

If you arrive early for your presentation, take your time to go around and greet the audience members and introduce yourself. This may help to make you feel more at ease.

3. Let your Body do the Talking

Do you shift weight from one leg to the other while giving a presentation? Or sway side to side? This is natural when you’re nervous, but it does seem distracting to the audience. So do you stand as still as a statue then? We’d suggest against that too. 

Instead, you can read this article on the dilemma of  To walk or stand still: How you should present on Stage.

If you want to deliver well, you have to work on improving your stage presence and your body language. You know what we’re gonna say next, don’t you – eye contact! But we wouldn’t say it over and over again if it wasn’t so important, right?

Keeping an Eye

It is actually one of the most crucial physical acts on stage. You can find four or five “friendly-looking” people in your audience and look at them as you speak. Consider them as friends you haven’t spoken to in years. But be sure to look them in the eye since eye contact is powerful enough to make your talk impactful.

Other things to keep in mind include speaking at a good pace, emphasizing your key points with the help of enunciation and pausing, and having open body language. Include your audience to avoid turning your presentation into a lecture. 

Handing out those handouts

You can also share your slides or give out presentation handouts after you present. This is a fantastic way to ensure and encourage engagement after the presentation is over. It also helps the audience recall your content later on. Here’s an article you should read to know everything about Presentation handouts.

Example of Presentation Techniques

An analysis of steve jobs’ presentation technique.

Allow us to exaggerate a bit and say this – if giving a presentation was a religion, Steve Jobs would be the God. 

Don’t believe us? Watch this video and then go on and read the techniques we analyzed from it.

Steve truly mastered the recipe of an electrifying presentation.

No wonder people still take inspiration from his presentations. Hence, we have done our bit to share his effective presentation techniques with you, so that you can go ahead and captivate your audience the way Jobs did.

1. Crisp Headline

Steve Jobs made use of a technique that Carmine Gallo, communications coach, and speaker, has labeled as the “Twitter-friendly” headline – essentially, a crisp, one-sentence summary of an idea /product that captured the main message in the most enthralling manner. 

For example, he introduced the iPod by describing it as “a thousand songs in your pocket”, the MacBook Air as “the world’s thinnest notebook” and launched the iPhone with the words “Apple reinvents the phone”.

Regardless of the length of the topic, he used a crisp, clever headline and set the direction of his presentation.

2. Providing an Outline

Jobs often told his audience what he would be talking about in his presentation by telling them “Today I want to share with you four things”. 

Then he would go on to share them and easily transition into the other section by saying “..and this was the first thing I wanted to share with you this morning”. Doing this helped the listeners to follow the presentation well.

He also employed the use of the Rule of Three in his presentations, the most memorable one of which was his iPhone presentation. He began by saying, “Today we are introducing three revolutionary products. The first, a widescreen iPod with touch controls. The second is a revolutionary mobile phone. And the third is a breakthrough Internet communications device.”

As the applause continued, he kept talking repeatedly about these “three” products and finally went on to say, “Are you getting it? These are not three separate devices, they are one device and we are calling it iPhone!”

3. Passion Paves the Way

If not his heart, Jobs certainly wore his enthusiasm on his black turtle-neck’s sleeve. He himself had so much passion for his topic that it reflected in his presentation and translated into his audience as well. 

While unveiling the iPhone, he smiled and said “it looks pretty doggone gorgeous”. He knew that unless you aren’t excited about an idea, your audience won’t be excited about it. 

Hence he chose his words well to express his passion for the product and thus succeeded in inspiring his audience. 

4. Hero Vs Villain

Similar to the Story and Facts technique that we covered before, Jobs used a comparative model for most of his talks. He talked of products that existed in the current world and then introduced the audience to ideal products that could exist . 

He did this while introducing the iPhone when he said, “Regular cell phones are not so smart and they are not so easy to use. Smartphones are a little smarter but are harder to use. They are really complicated…we want to make a leapfrog product, way smarter than any mobile device has ever been and super easy to use. This is what iPhone is.”

He also went on to expand on what the advantages of his products were and why the audience needed them. Steve Jobs also made an effort to make numbers and statistics meaningful .

Instead of saying that 25 billion songs have been downloaded from iTunes, he said that 15,000 songs are downloaded from iTunes every day. 

Now wasn’t that more effective?

5. Simple Visuals

Simple, to-the-point visuals defined his slides as he used about 19 words, distributed over about 12 slides. Now compare this with your average powerpoint that has at least 30 slides, if not more.

6. Practice, practice, practice

Jobs knew every single detail of his event beforehand – the visuals on his slide, the things to do in case of a technical glitch, every impromptu act. This didn’t come without hours of rehearsal on the stage many weeks prior to the event. 

In one incident of a glitch, he taught a lesson for presenters by laughing at the glitch, narrating a story in the meantime as his team resolved the issue, and then got back to present. Without the sign of a flustered cheek. Practice, ladies and gentlemen.

Now go on and utilize these techniques to make your presentations understandable, memorable, and influential.

And while you’re at it, remember what Lilly Walters said,

“The success of your presentation will be judged not by the knowledge you send but by what the listener receives.” 

Like Jobs would often say – just one more thing before you go….if you are wondering whether to drink or steer away from that tempting cup of coffee before your presentation, read this article we wrote about it!

Enroll in our transformative 1:1 Coaching Program

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Home » Applied Research – Types, Methods and Examples

Applied Research – Types, Methods and Examples

Table of Contents

Applied Research

Definition:

Applied research is a type of scientific inquiry that focuses on developing practical solutions to real-world problems. It involves the use of existing knowledge, theories, and techniques to address specific problems or challenges in a particular field or industry.

Applied research is often conducted in collaboration with industry or government partners, who provide funding and expertise to support the research. The results of applied research are typically intended to be directly applicable to the real world, and may involve the development of new products, technologies, or processes.

Types of Applied Research

Types of Applied Research are as follows:

Action Research

This type of research is designed to solve specific problems within an organization or community. The research involves collaboration between researchers and stakeholders to develop solutions to issues that affect the organization or community.

Evaluation Research

This type of research is used to assess the effectiveness of a particular program, policy, or intervention. Evaluation research is often used in government, healthcare, and social service settings to determine whether programs are meeting their intended goals.

Developmental Research

This type of research is used to develop new products, technologies, or processes. The research may involve the testing of prototypes or the development of new methods for production or delivery.

Diagnostic Research

This type of research is used to identify the causes of problems or issues. Diagnostic research is often used in healthcare, where researchers may investigate the causes of a particular disease or condition.

Policy Research

This type of research is used to inform policy decisions. Policy research may involve analyzing the impact of existing policies or evaluating the potential outcomes of proposed policies.

Predictive Research

This type of research is used to forecast future trends or events. Predictive research is often used in marketing, where researchers may use data analysis to predict consumer behavior or market trends.

Data Collection Methods

In applied research, data collection methods can be broadly classified into two categories: Quantitative and Qualitative methods:

Quantitative Data Collection

Quantitative research methods involve collecting numerical data that can be analyzed statistically. The most commonly used quantitative data collection methods in applied research include:

• Surveys : Surveys are questionnaires designed to collect data from a large sample of people. Surveys can be conducted face-to-face, over the phone, or online.
• Experiments : Experiments involve manipulating variables to test cause-and-effect relationships. Experiments can be conducted in the lab or in the field.
• Observations : Observations involve watching and recording behaviors or events in a systematic way. Observations can be conducted in the lab or in natural settings.
• Secondary data analysis: Secondary data analysis involves analyzing data that has already been collected by someone else. This can include data from government agencies, research institutes, or other sources.

Qualitative Data Collection

Qualitative research methods involve collecting non-numerical data that can be analyzed for themes and patterns. The most commonly used qualitative data collection methods in applied research include:

• Interviews : Interviews involve asking open-ended questions to individuals or groups. Interviews can be conducted in-person, over the phone, or online.
• Focus groups : Focus groups involve a group of people discussing a topic with a moderator. Focus groups can be conducted in-person or online.
• Case studies : Case studies involve in-depth analysis of a single individual, group, or organization.
• Document analysis : Document analysis involves analyzing written or recorded documents to extract data. This can include analyzing written records, audio recordings, or video recordings.

Data Analysis Methods

In applied research, data analysis methods can be broadly classified into two categories: Quantitative and Qualitative methods:

Quantitative Data Analysis

Quantitative data analysis methods involve analyzing numerical data to identify patterns and trends. The most commonly used quantitative data analysis methods in applied research include:

• Descriptive statistics: Descriptive statistics involve summarizing and presenting data using measures such as mean, median, mode, and standard deviation.
• Inferential statistics : Inferential statistics involve testing hypotheses and making predictions about a population based on a sample of data. This includes methods such as t-tests, ANOVA, regression analysis, and correlation analysis.
• Data mining: Data mining involves analyzing large datasets to identify patterns and relationships using machine learning algorithms.

Qualitative Data Analysis

Qualitative data analysis methods involve analyzing non-numerical data to identify themes and patterns. The most commonly used qualitative data analysis methods in applied research include:

• Content analysis: Content analysis involves analyzing written or recorded data to identify themes and patterns. This includes methods such as thematic analysis, discourse analysis, and narrative analysis.
• Grounded theory: Grounded theory involves developing theories and hypotheses based on the analysis of data.
• Interpretative phenomenological analysis: Interpretative phenomenological analysis involves analyzing data to identify the subjective experiences of individuals.
• Case study analysis: Case study analysis involves analyzing a single individual, group, or organization in-depth to identify patterns and themes.

Applied Research Methodology

Applied research methodology refers to the set of procedures, tools, and techniques used to design, conduct, and analyze research studies aimed at solving practical problems in real-world settings. The general steps involved in applied research methodology include:

• Identifying the research problem: The first step in applied research is to identify the problem to be studied. This involves conducting a literature review to identify existing knowledge and gaps in the literature, and to determine the research question.
• Developing a research design : Once the research question has been identified, the next step is to develop a research design. This involves determining the appropriate research method (quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods), selecting the data collection methods, and designing the sampling strategy.
• Collecting data: The third step in applied research is to collect data using the selected data collection methods. This can include surveys, interviews, experiments, observations, or a combination of methods.
• Analyzing data : Once the data has been collected, it needs to be analyzed using appropriate data analysis methods. This can include descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, content analysis, or other methods, depending on the type of data collected.
• Interpreting and reporting findings : The final step in applied research is to interpret the findings and report the results. This involves drawing conclusions from the data analysis and presenting the findings in a clear and concise manner.

Applications of Applied Research

Some applications of applied research are as follows:

• Product development: Applied research can help companies develop new products or improve existing ones. For example, a company might conduct research to develop a new type of battery that lasts longer or a new type of software that is more efficient.
• Medical research : Applied research can be used to develop new treatments or drugs for diseases. For example, a pharmaceutical company might conduct research to develop a new cancer treatment.
• Environmental research : Applied research can be used to study and address environmental problems such as pollution and climate change. For example, research might be conducted to develop new technologies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Agriculture : Applied research can be used to improve crop yields, develop new varieties of plants, and study the impact of pests and diseases on crops.
• Education : Applied research can be used to study the effectiveness of teaching methods or to develop new teaching strategies.
• Transportation : Applied research can be used to develop new technologies for transportation, such as electric cars or high-speed trains.
• Communication : Applied research can be used to improve communication technologies, such as developing new methods for wireless communication or improving the quality of video calls.

Examples of Applied Research

Here are some real-time examples of applied research:

• COVID-19 Vaccine Development: The development of COVID-19 vaccines is a prime example of applied research. Researchers applied their knowledge of virology and immunology to develop vaccines that could prevent or reduce the severity of COVID-19.
• Autonomous Vehicles : The development of autonomous vehicles involves applied research in areas such as artificial intelligence, computer vision, and robotics. Companies like Tesla, Waymo, and Uber are conducting extensive research to improve their autonomous vehicle technology.
• Renewable Energy : Research is being conducted on renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power to improve efficiency and reduce costs. This is an example of applied research that aims to solve environmental problems.
• Precision Agriculture : Applied research is being conducted in the field of precision agriculture, which involves using technology to optimize crop yields and reduce waste. This includes research on crop sensors, drones, and data analysis.
• Telemedicine : Telemedicine involves using technology to deliver healthcare remotely. Applied research is being conducted to improve the quality of telemedicine services, such as developing new technologies for remote diagnosis and treatment.
• Cybersecurity : Applied research is being conducted to improve cybersecurity measures and protect against cyber threats. This includes research on encryption, network security, and data protection.

Purpose of Applied Research

The purpose of applied research is to solve practical problems or improve existing products, technologies, or processes. Applied research is focused on specific goals and objectives and is designed to have direct practical applications in the real world. It seeks to address problems and challenges faced by individuals, organizations, or communities and aims to provide solutions that can be implemented in a practical manner.

The primary purpose of applied research is to generate new knowledge that can be used to solve real-world problems or improve the efficiency and effectiveness of existing products, technologies, or processes. Applied research is often conducted in collaboration with industry, government, or non-profit organizations to address practical problems and create innovative solutions.

Applied research is also used to inform policy decisions by providing evidence-based insights into the effectiveness of specific interventions or programs. By conducting research on the impact of policies and programs, decision-makers can make informed decisions about how to allocate resources and prioritize interventions.

Overall, the purpose of applied research is to improve people’s lives by developing practical solutions to real-world problems. It aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice, and to ensure that research findings are put into action to achieve tangible benefits.

When to use Applied Research

Here are some specific situations when applied research may be appropriate:

• When there is a need to develop a new product : Applied research can be used to develop new products that meet the needs of consumers. For example, a company may conduct research to develop a new type of smartphone with improved features.
• When there is a need to improve an existing product : Applied research can also be used to improve existing products. For example, a company may conduct research to improve the battery life of an existing product.
• When there is a need to solve a practical problem: Applied research can be used to solve practical problems faced by individuals, organizations, or communities. For example, research may be conducted to find solutions to problems related to healthcare, transportation, or environmental issues.
• When there is a need to inform policy decisions: Applied research can be used to inform policy decisions by providing evidence-based insights into the effectiveness of specific interventions or programs.
• When there is a need to improve efficiency and effectiveness: Applied research can be used to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of processes or systems. For example, research may be conducted to identify ways to streamline manufacturing processes or to improve the delivery of healthcare services.

Characteristics of Applied Research

The following are some of the characteristics of applied research:

• Focus on solving real-world problems : Applied research focuses on addressing specific problems or needs in a practical setting, with the aim of developing solutions that can be implemented in the real world.
• Goal-oriented: A pplied research is goal-oriented, with a specific aim of solving a particular problem or meeting a specific need. The research is usually designed to achieve a specific outcome, such as developing a new product, improving an existing process, or solving a particular issue.
• Practical and relevant: Applied research is practical and relevant to the needs of the industry or field in which it is conducted. It aims to provide practical solutions that can be implemented to improve processes or solve problems.
• Collaborative : Applied research often involves collaboration between researchers and practitioners, such as engineers, scientists, and business professionals. Collaboration allows for the exchange of knowledge and expertise, which can lead to more effective solutions.
• Data-driven: Applied research is data-driven, relying on empirical evidence to support its findings and recommendations. Data collection and analysis are important components of applied research, as they help to identify patterns and trends that can inform decision-making.
• Results-oriented: Applied research is results-oriented, with an emphasis on achieving measurable outcomes. Research findings are often used to inform decisions about product development, process improvement, or policy changes.
• Time-bound : Applied research is often conducted within a specific timeframe, with deadlines for achieving specific outcomes. This helps to ensure that the research stays focused on its goals and that the results are timely and relevant to the needs of the industry or field.

Advantages of Applied Research

Some of the advantages of applied research are as follows:

• Practical solutions: Applied research is focused on developing practical solutions to real-world problems, making it highly relevant to the needs of the industry or field in which it is conducted. The solutions developed through applied research are often highly effective and can be implemented quickly to address specific issues.
• Improved processes: Applied research can help organizations to improve their processes, leading to increased efficiency and productivity. The research can identify areas for improvement, such as bottlenecks or inefficiencies, and provide recommendations for optimizing processes.
• Innovation: Applied research can lead to the development of new products, services, and technologies that can transform industries and create new opportunities for growth and innovation. The research can help organizations to identify unmet needs and develop new solutions to meet them.
• Collaboration : Applied research often involves collaboration between researchers and practitioners, leading to the exchange of knowledge and expertise. Collaboration can result in more effective solutions and can help to build partnerships between academia and industry.
• Increased competitiveness : Applied research can help organizations to stay competitive by enabling them to adapt to changing market conditions and customer needs. The research can provide insights into emerging trends and technologies, helping organizations to stay ahead of the curve.
• Economic growth: Applied research can contribute to economic growth by creating new industries and jobs. The research can lead to the development of new technologies and products that can drive economic growth and create new opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation.

Limitations of Applied Research

Some of the limitations of applied research are as follows:

• Limited generalizability: Applied research often focuses on specific contexts and may not be generalizable to other settings. This means that the findings of applied research may not be applicable to other industries, regions, or populations.
• Time and resource constraints: Applied research is often conducted within a specific timeframe and with limited resources. This can limit the scope and depth of the research and may prevent researchers from exploring all possible avenues.
• Potential for bias: Applied research may be influenced by the interests and perspectives of the organization or industry funding the research. This can lead to a bias in the research and potentially compromise the objectivity and validity of the findings.
• Ethical considerations: Applied research may raise ethical concerns, particularly if it involves human subjects or sensitive issues. Researchers must adhere to ethical standards and ensure that the research is conducted in a responsible and respectful manner.
• Limited theoretical development: Applied research tends to focus on practical solutions and may not contribute significantly to theoretical development in a particular field. This can limit the broader impact of the research and may hinder the development of new theories and frameworks.
• Limited focus on long-term impact: Applied research often focuses on short-term outcomes, such as developing a new product or improving a process. This may limit the focus on long-term impacts, such as the sustainability of the solution or its broader implications for the industry or society.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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9 Effective Presentation Techniques You Can Use to Master Public Speaking 6 min read

Sweat drips down the side of your face as you wait quietly backstage, fidgeting.

Your hands are cold and clammy as you fumble through cue cards one last time, trying to recall key points on each card.

Your name gets called and you face the inevitable walk up the stage to deliver what you imagine can be the worst public humiliation of your life.

We have all been there, the uneasy, nauseating feeling of public speaking.

The one thing we fear more than death, so they say.

Unless you make a living from  working remotely , speaking in public is a useful, if not an essential tool for educational and professional success .

Why are effective presentation techniques important?

Effective presentation techniques are important because they help you deliver ideas in clear, concise and interesting ways.

Being a good public speaker allows you to demonstrate your knowledge with authority and help you stand out in the workplace.

Therefore, we need to find effective presentation techniques that work for us to put our best selves forward whenever we speak in public.

With numerous resources on improving public speaking written everywhere, here are the best presentation techniques that you can master.

1. Limit your presentation to one core idea

You have so much knowledge you want to share, educate and persuade.

Why limit your speech to just one idea?

Because ideas are complicated.

It takes a pitch to build interests into a desire, a narrative to create empathy, supporting evidence to be persuasive, and a call to action to lead movements.

Instead of squeezing every ounce of your knowledge into the limited time allocated to your speech, you will be most effective by concentrating on just one core idea that your audience can resonate with.

This way, you can be sure your audience can walk away with a clear message after the presentation.

2. Remember that the audience is on your side

Whether you are delivering a business plan in a boardroom or speaking as a keynote speaker at a conference.

Whether you are speaking to a handful of colleagues, or a lecture theatre packed with college seniors.

The audience is there for one reason.

You may imagine the audience is there to watch you make a fool of yourself, but more often than not, they want to be there, be enlightened by your presence, and be inspired by your talk.

3. Gently introduce people to your accents

With all the ethnic diversity in the world, we can all learn from our differences and work towards a greater good.

Despite speaking the same languages, our diverse backgrounds would lead to little nuances in the way we enunciate words and the way we speak phrases.

Intentionally speaking slowly , in the beginning, is not only good practice but a good technique to allow your audience to get used to your accents.

After all, you need your listeners to understand your words before they can understand your ideas.

4. Use language your audience can understand to deliver your idea

Now that your audience can understand the words coming out of your mouth, we can think about how to deliver your idea.

Unless you are speaking to a family member, your audience likely has a different background to yours.

Both geographically and professionally.

This means, the technical jargon and inside jokes that you throw around among your friends and colleagues may not work in a packed conference room.

It’s best to practice explaining your ideas to friends from different backgrounds to get a feel of how effective your presentation is to the public.

5. Spark curiosity in your audience

Listening is hard.

It’s difficult to concentrate on listening to a new idea, even more so if the idea is boring.

Therefore it is your job, as a speaker, to spark curiosity in your audience to make sure both you and your audience enjoy the presentation.

A few common ways to spark interests include humor, storytelling, anecdotes, or even funny cat videos.

6. Present data visually

Not all people perceive numbers and data in the same way.

A simple statistic can mean different ideas to different people.

The best way to control the narrative in numbers and data is to create visual images that tell specific stories.

An effective image can help your audience understand both the meaning and origin of the data to keep people engaged.

7. Your slides are not the centerpiece, you are

It is tempting to use your slide deck as a crutch, and follow it slide by slide, dividing your attention between the presentation slides and your audience.

You will look like a tennis umpire looking back and forth, back and forth.

The audience is here to see you, to listen to what you have to say.

Try to bring your best presence to deliver your speech and only use the slides for images and videos to drive your point home, not to divert attention away from you.

8. Use technology only if necessary

Following the last point, your presentation slides are only used to support your talk, not to take over it.

Use presentation technology with caution, and only in situations where necessary.

To run your presentation from an iPhone like a pro, there’s always EZCast Pro to help you make wireless presentations in huddle rooms and meeting rooms at work .

9. Practice your presentation over and over again

Now you know all the most effective presentation techniques available, all that’s left for you is to master them through deliberate practice .

Whether you repeat your speech during your daily commute or annunciate key points with purpose in the shower.

Try to memorize your presentation down to every single deliberate pause to make sure you have every detail down pat.

Then you can find a friend or family member to listen to you speak and provide constructive feedback.

Once you iron out the kinks, you will become more effective in presentation and ready for the big time.

在〈 9 Effective Presentation Techniques You Can Use to Master Public Speaking 6 min read 〉中有 3 則留言

Point 3. I think the write meant to write “enunciate” NOT “annunciate”. These 2 words are very different. The 1st one mean to speak clearly and the 2nd one means to announce.

Thank you for the correction Maurice. Just changed it to the correct usage.

Really nice topic. It will helps during presentation.

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Top 3 Presentation Techniques to Ace the Next

December 22, 2022

Presentations are a powerful tool to capture the attention of an audience and deliver meaningful messages. But if you don’t have the right skills, your presentation can fail miserably. Whether you’re giving a business pitch or delivering a lecture in class, mastering certain techniques is essential for success. In this blog post, we’ll discuss three of the most effective presentation techniques that will help ensure your next presentation is as engaging as possible.

Presentation Technique 1: Prepare thoroughly.

Before you give a presentation, it’s important to do your research and put together a well-prepared set of content (this could be slides, a memo or talking points). Make sure all the information is accurate and up to date, and that the visuals are clear and easy to understand. Additionally, practice presenting in front of a mirror or friends so you can become more comfortable with your material and delivery.

Experts recommend using www.yoodli.ai to practice – think of Yoodli as a smart mirror. It provides you with artificial intelligence powered feedback on your content, filler words, eye contact, body language, and much more. Yoodli is free of cost and used by corporate professionals and students across the world.

Presentation Technique 2: Engage with the audience.

Don’t just stand up there and read off slides – engage with your audience by making eye contact, using body language, and speaking in an enthusiastic tone of voice. Give examples to illustrate your points, ask questions to involve the audience, and use humor to keep things light.

Remember, the presentation is less so about what you want to say and more about what the audience might find valuable. Switch your focus from you, the speaker, to the listener, your audience. Remember the ABC principle – audience before content. If your audience doesn’t care about what you’re saying, even the most exciting topic will come across as boring.

Some quick ways to improve your audience empathy:

1) Use “you” focused language as opposed to “I” focused language. For example, rather than saying “in this presentation, I will talk to you about our company’s mission,” try “in this presentation, you will learn about our company’s mission.”

2) Get feedback from your audience before and after the presentation. Before your presentation, make sure you’ve practiced your speech with someone who might be in attendance. They can give you an honest overview to help you course correct. In the same vein, ask a friend in the audience to give you feedback after the fact. Rather than asking a vague question such as “how did it go”, ask them “what is the one thing you took away from my presentation”

3) Use structure and pacing effectively. You likely have a lot more context on your speech than your audience ever will. As a result, make sure you’re conveying one main thought. Use anecdotes, examples, and numbers to emphasize this point. Most speakers fall into the trap of wanting to say too much (by talking too fast or cramming information into slides). Saying little but saying it well is far more valuable!

Presentation Technique 3: Finish strong.

At the end of your presentation, provide a summary of your main points so the audience can easily recall what you said afterwards. Invite questions from the audience and provide thoughtful answers to ensure everyone is clear on your message. Finally, thank everyone for their time and attention before you leave.

Here’s a great example of how Steve Jobs uses each of the three presentation techniques above while delivering his commencement address at Stanford. By following these three steps, you can ensure your presentation is engaging and informative. Good luck!

Sources for presentation techniques:

TED: https://ideas.ted.com/before-your-next-presentation-or-speech-heres-the-first-thing-you-must-think-about/

HBR: https://hbr.org/2019/09/to-overcome-your-fear-of-public-speaking-stop-thinking-about-yourself

Start practicing with Yoodli.

Getting better at speaking is getting easier. Record or upload a speech and let our AI Speech Coach analyze your speaking and give you feedback.