Although a spoken presentation is often less formal than a written text, it still needs to be cohesive and well organised. The audience still needs to know, for example, when you are introducing a new topic,where you are drawing on evidence and when you are summarising your main points.
Providing an outline of the presentation in your introduction will help orientate your audience but you can also use signposting phrases throughout your presentation. Signposting phrases include: ‘Firstly’, ‘Secondly’, ‘Finally’, ‘Which brings me to my next point…’, ‘Another example of this is…’.
You also need to be very clear when you are drawing on other sources. If you paraphrase somebody else, you might want to mention their name. For example, ‘In 2005, Bourke came to a different conclusion that...’.
When planning your next presentation, consider the kinds of phrases that you would typically use at each stage of the presentation. Practise using these phrases before you begin rehearsing your presentation (yes, you should always rehearse your presentation!).
Download the presentation language tips.
You can further develop your presentation skills by watching a variety of other presentations (e.g. lectures, online videos) and taking note of the speaker's:
- language, for example the signpost phrases and other techniques for engaging the audience
- body language and eye contact
- vocal technique and how certain phrases are emphasised or repeated
- structure of the presentation.
Watch these presentations for tips, techniques and for inspiration:
