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HOW TO STRUCTURE A PRESENTATION

A compelling presentation basically tells a story. It may not seem like
it, but successful presentations all use the basic structure associated
with stories. They have a beginning, a middle and an end. Planning
with this in mind will help clarify what you wish to say, when you
should say it, and how to tie the threads of your presentation together.

The beginning

The beginning shapes the rest of the presentation and serves two main
purposes:

1. To grab the attention of your audience.
2. To calm the elevated levels of adrenaline racing through your
bloodstream, so that you can relax into your presentation.

Of course, experienced presenters will know how to deal with pre-
show nerves. But beginners should start their presentation with
something that they feel confident will draw the audience’s attention.
Don’t take any risks with your opening lines if you are already in
unfamiliar territory. The audience’s reaction to your beginning could
make or break the rest of the presentation. A good opener will put you,
and the audience, at ease. A bad one may be misunderstood, and no

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