Presentation Preparation
A successful presentation is one that is thoroughly prepared.
Things to consider before presenting for presenters:
Clarify the purpose of the presentation. The presenter must know who the audience is, what is the theme of the event? What topics will be covered? Is the presentation to inform or convince listeners?
After the presenter has determined the essence of the message to be conveyed, then he should use his point of view supported by supporting materials such as stories, examples, statistics, pictures, quotes, facts, humor (if necessary). The presenter may also include reading research, personal experience, or the experiences of other known people.
If you take from other sources, it is necessary to include the source of the quote so that it is not considered plagiarism. Make sure the supporting materials displayed can touch the hearts and minds of the audience. Make a note of the “wow” factors, which will grab the attention of the audience.
The presenter must organize his ideas to create clarity. Presentations always have an introduction, content, and conclusion. At the time of presentation, you can start with stories, quotes, or quotes that have a “wow” factor.
Slides need to be prepared so that they can be read by the audience. Use simple but clear fonts. Use supporting images that match the presentation theme. Do not put all the information on the slide because the presenter will look like he is reading so there is no eye contact with the audience. Do not use colors that will confuse the audience. Color is used to emphasize that the word or sentence contained in the slide is important. If giving more than one color, the audience will be confused about what the colors mean.
It is recommended that you write in uppercase letters for topics and sub-topics. If the sentence is displayed, use upper and lower case letters according to writing standards.
Examples of sentences that are difficult to read:
LEARNING ENGLISH IS VERY IMPORTANT, ESPECIALLY IN EDUCATION. IN ADDITION, THROUGH ENGLISH WE CAN INTRODUCE THE CULTURAL AND LANGUAGE DIVERSITY OF THIS NATION TO THOSE WHO WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THIS NATION. ENGLISH IS REALLY NEEDED IN THE NATIONAL OR INTERNATIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES. (sample sentences from the internet)
If we see the sentence above, it will take longer because all words are capitalized.
Examples of easy-to-read sentences:
Learning English is very important, especially in terms of education. In addition, through English, we can introduce the diversity of culture and language of this nation to those who want to know about this nation. English is very much needed in the national and international arena. (sample sentences from the internet)
The sentences above are easier to understand because not all of them are capitalized.
Presenters should also pay attention to italics. Italics are used only for foreign words. If the entire sentence on the slide is written in italics, it will be difficult to read and understand.
Take a look at the following sentences.
Learning English is very important, especially in terms of education. In addition, through English, we can introduce the diversity of culture and language of this nation to those who want to know about this nation. English is very much needed in the national and international arena. (sample sentences from the internet)
The sentences above will be easy to read and understand if not all of them use italics.
Avoid word-for-word scripts to make the presentation more communicative and dynamic.
Practice with your voice like a professional presenter. Practice not just one day, but can be three more days, depending on the readiness given. But the fact is that in everyday life we are often forced to present with little preparation.
If the presenter has plenty of time to practice, it will make it easier for him to find mistakes during rehearsal or practice. So that it will be easy to cross out and correct the slides or notes that will be used as guidance.
When practicing, pay attention to gestures and body language. If it seems that gestures and body language don’t support presentations, then don’t use them. The presenter must be comfortable with gestures and body language. Pay attention to the pronunciation of words if there is a foreign language on your draft or presentation slides. If necessary, write down how to read foreign words or sentences on the prepared notes.
Use the timer to find out how long it will take for the presentation. Is the time effective enough or seems too slow/fast?
Practice as if it was a dress rehearsal. Practice several times the day before. It can be done once in the morning or at night before going to bed. Most importantly, take the time to practice. Pretend as if you are in front of an audience. Practice using visual aids and know how to change slides and use the remote. Dress up in presentation attire. If necessary, make a video during rehearsal so that you can find out whether the rehearsal is close to perfect or not.
After understanding the explanation above, please try. Good luck!
Nani Kusmiyati
Jakarta, 7 September 2021
Artikel ke-20 KMAA
