Giving an oral presentation is an excellent way to disseminate the results of a research paper. While oral presentations can be nerve-wracking, proper organization and adequate time will help the process flow more easily and make your presentation a success. Once you have organized your presentation, making slides or other visual aids will add interest and impact.
Break your paper into sections. All presentations (and all papers) should begin with an introduction and end with conclusions. In between are many points capable of being organized. Write the major points on paper in outline form.
Write your main conclusions in outline form. Often, writing the conclusions first helps organize the rest of your presentation. Create slides for your main conclusions, which should fit onto one or two slides or overhead projector sheets.
Write your introduction. Your introduction should tell listeners why your review paper was important and include previous research as background information. Indicate your research question or the point of your paper at the end of the introduction. Give a brief outline on how your presentation will proceed. Create slides using this information. In a 15-minute to 20-minute presentation, your introduction should take two to four slides.
Create slides for the body of your presentation. Using graphics where feasible will help hold your audience’s interest.
Practice your presentation to help you feel more comfortable during the actual presentation. Practicing also helps you ensure the presentation length is within the allotted time. Practice in front of a limited audience (parents, friends) to get feedback regarding your speaking volume and presentation content.
Tip
Generally, aim to have approximately one slide for every minute of your presentation.