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How to Write a Presentation Script

Delivering a successful presentation is a combination of a confident speech and professional-quality graphics. The first element is sometimes neglected, as presenters rely mostly on the slides and add an improvisation element to the speech. Truth is, if you aim to hone your presentation skills, you need to work on the speech. And for that to be a powerful asset, the answer is to learn how to write an effective presentation script.

This article will detail how to create a presentation script, which elements it should contain, how to relate the script to the presenter’s notes, and much more.

Table of Contents

What is a Presentation Script

How do you start a presentation script, how do you write a presentation script, how to connect a presentation script with presenter notes, recommended ppt templates to write a presentation script, final words.

A presentation script is a written guide that outlines what a speaker will say during a presentation. It includes the key points, transitions, and supporting details needed to communicate the message clearly and effectively. The script helps the speaker stay on track, ensuring the presentation is organized, concise, and delivered within the allotted time. It often integrates cues for visual aids and other presentation elements.

Defining the Purpose and Objective

Every effective presentation script starts with clearly understanding its purpose and objectives. Defining these elements early ensures your script remains focused, relevant, and aligned with your desired outcomes. 

Your core message is the central idea you want your audience to take away from your presentation. It should be clear, concise, and memorable. To define your core message, ask yourself:

• What is the one thing I want my audience to remember?
• Why is this message important?
• How does this message benefit my audience?

Once you have a clear core message, everything in your script for a speech should support and reinforce it. This focus will help you avoid straying into irrelevant topics and ensure your presentation remains cohesive.

Next, the presenter should establish clear objectives for the talk. Objectives must be specific, measurable outcomes you want to achieve with your presentation. They give you a clear direction and help you measure the success of your presentation. Objectives can be:

• Informational: Educate the audience on a particular topic.
• Persuasive: Convince the audience to adopt a viewpoint or take a specific action.
• Motivational: Inspire the audience to feel or act in a certain way.
• Instructional: Teach the audience how to do something.

For example, suppose your core message is about the importance of cybersecurity. In that case, your objectives might include informing the audience about common threats, persuading them to adopt better security practices, and instructing them on implementing them.

Check our article on SMART goal setting for a practical approach to defining measurable goals.

Aligning the Script with Desired Outcomes

Once you’ve defined your core message and objectives, your script should be structured to achieve these outcomes. This involves:

• Prioritizing content: Focus on the information and arguments directly contributing to your objectives.
• Building logical flow: Ensure that each section of your presentation leads naturally to the next, creating a narrative that reinforces your core message.
• Incorporating calls to action: If your objective is to persuade or motivate, include clear, actionable steps your audience can take after the presentation.

By defining the purpose and objectives of your presentation script, you set the stage for a focused, effective, and impactful delivery.

In this section, we’ll explore section by section how to write a presentation script. The following image is a guideline of presentation script examples on how to create icebreakers for each section

Crafting a Compelling Introduction

The introduction is your opportunity to capture the audience’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the presentation. It should be engaging and clearly overview what the audience can expect.

If you are wondering how to start a presentation , key elements of a strong introduction include:

• Opening hook: Start with a statement, question, or anecdote that grabs the audience’s attention. This could be a surprising statistic, a relevant quote, or a provocative question.
• Purpose statement: Clearly state the purpose of your presentation and what you hope to achieve. This helps the audience understand why they should care about your words.
• Agenda overview: Briefly outline the main points you will cover. This will give the audience a roadmap of what to expect and help them follow along.

Let’s say your presentation is about digital marketing trends. In that case, you might start with a surprising statistic about the growth of AI technology usage, followed by a statement about the importance of staying ahead of digital trends, and then outline the specific trends you will discuss in an upcoming slide.

Organizing the Body of the Script

The body of your script is where you present your main content. It should be organized logically, with each section building on the previous one to reinforce your core message. 

Break down your content into clear, manageable sections. Each section should cover a specific point or idea. Smooth transitions between sections help maintain the flow of your presentation and keep the audience engaged . Phrases like “building on that idea,” “another important factor,” or “let’s now shift our focus to” can help guide the audience through your presentation.

Use data, examples, case studies , and visuals to support your points. This will strengthen your argument and make your presentation more engaging. 

For instance, in a presentation about social media’s impact on consumer behavior, you might organize the body into sections on social media usage trends, the psychology of social media influence, and case studies of successful social media campaigns.

Engaging the Audience with Stories and Examples

One of the most effective ways to make your presentation engaging and relatable is by incorporating stories and examples. These elements help illustrate your points, making them more memorable and impactful. 

Consider the following strategies:

• Use personal anecdotes: Sharing personal experiences related to your topic can help establish a connection with the audience and make your presentation more relatable.
• Include case studies: Real-world examples or case studies can help illustrate how the concepts you’re discussing apply in practice. This is especially effective when presenting to a business or professional audience.
• Tell a story: Structure part of your presentation as a narrative, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Stories are inherently engaging and can make complex information more digestible.

You can learn more about this technique with our article on storytelling for presentations .

Developing a Memorable Conclusion

The conclusion is your final opportunity to reinforce your core message and leave a lasting impression on your audience. 

A strong conclusion should:

• Summarize key points: Recap the main points of your presentation to reinforce them in the audience’s mind.
• Reiterate the core message: Restate your core message in a way that resonates with the audience and underscores its importance.
• End with impact: Conclude with a powerful statement, call to action, or thought-provoking question that leaves the audience with something to think about or do.

If your presentation was about the importance of innovation in business, you might conclude by summarizing its key benefits, restating that innovation is crucial for long-term success, and ending with a call to action for the audience to start thinking about how they can innovate in their roles.

Get more insights on how to end a presentation with our article.

Although the presentation script is a fantastic resource for preparing your presentation and also for rehearsal, presenters cannot bring lengthy text pages with them and start reading if they feel lost. This is where presenter notes come in handy, and in this section, we’ll learn how to turn the presentation script into presenter notes. 

The first step in this process is to go through the detailed script a couple of times, highlighting the main ideas, data, and messages to convey to the audience. You can follow the process as with meeting notes and apply the strategies explained in that article.

Now, we need to condense the information into simpler sentences, direct phrases, or keywords that trigger memory recall. These phrases will be added to the slides in the format of speaker notes linked to each slide. It’s crucial to mark the transitions from one topic to another in the presentation so we can articulate the speech or remember to emphasize a point. 

Remember, if we suddenly need to include last-minute details, we can use visual cues or a printed version of our slides with extra handwritten notes.

Before we conclude this article, we want to recommend some PowerPoint templates that can help the presentation script creation process, especially for team collaboration, where the presentation goes through multiple iterations. Remember these designs also serve as Google Slides templates .

1. 6 Step Creative Timeline Diagram for Presentation Scripts

Say you need to create a sample script for a presentation or work with your team for a department presentation: this is where this best PPT template is beneficial. We can summarize processes or points that we intend the presentation to cover into six actionable steps that can be discussed within the team. The icons included help us to connect concepts with the steps we’re describing.

Use This Template

2. Product Timeline Script of Speech PPT Template

In sales and product presentations, we need to contextualize the dates on which we expect things to happen. By using this timeline PPT template as a visual aid, presenters can carry a printed version or digital version on another device to remind themselves of the milestones that a product or service is due in the near future.

3. The Presentation Experience Script PowerPoint Template

Although this template is tailored to sales presentations, this slide deck is ideal for writing a recap of the presentation script. You can add facts, questions, numeric data, and more.

4. Steps & Stairs Diagram Presentation Script Google Slides Template

This diagram template for PowerPoint and Google Slides is a highly visual 3D aid intended for defining the steps to write the script or to present processes. Use this staircase design template to summarize key information about your presentation speech.

Creating a detailed, professional presentation script doesn’t have to be a daunting process. As long as we understand the basis of how to structure what we intend to say, questions and answers about which content to include shall arise. 

Follow the steps shown in this article and you will master the process to create your own presentation scripts in no time.

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Presentation Skills, Speech Filed under Presentation Ideas

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• Interactive Presentation

How To Write A Presentation 101 | Step-by-Step Guides with Best Examples | 2024 Reveals

Jane Ng • 05 April, 2024 • 9 min read

Is it difficult to start of presentation? You're standing before a room full of eager listeners, ready to share your knowledge and captivate their attention. But where do you begin? How do you structure your ideas and convey them effectively?

Take a deep breath, and fear not! In this article, we'll provide a road map on how to write a presentation covering everything from crafting a script to creating an engaging introduction.

So, let's dive in!

Table of Contents

What is a presentation , what should be in a powerful presentation.

• How To Write A Presentation Script
• How to Write A Presentation Introduction 

Key Takeaways

Tips for better presentation.

• How to start a presentation
• How to introduce yourself

Start in seconds.

Get free templates for your next interactive presentation. Sign up for free and take what you want from the template library!

Presentations are all about connecting with your audience. 

Presenting is a fantastic way to share information, ideas, or arguments with your audience. Think of it as a structured approach to effectively convey your message. And you've got options such as slideshows, speeches, demos, videos, and even multimedia presentations!

The purpose of a presentation can vary depending on the situation and what the presenter wants to achieve. 

• In the business world, presentations are commonly used to pitch proposals, share reports, or make sales pitches. 
• In educational settings, presentations are a go-to for teaching or delivering engaging lectures. 
• For conferences, seminars, and public events—presentations are perfect for dishing out information, inspiring folks, or even persuading the audience.

That sounds brilliant. But, how to write a presentation?

• Clear and Engaging Introduction: Start your presentation with a bang! Hook your audience's attention right from the beginning by using a captivating story, a surprising fact, a thought-provoking question, or a powerful quote. Clearly state the purpose of your presentation and establish a connection with your listeners.
• Well-Structured Content: Organize your content logically and coherently. Divide your presentation into sections or main points and provide smooth transitions between them. Each section should flow seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive narrative. Use clear headings and subheadings to guide your audience through the presentation.
• Compelling Visuals: Incorporate visual aids, such as images, graphs, or videos, to enhance your presentation. Make sure your visuals are visually appealing, relevant, and easy to understand. Use a clean and uncluttered design with legible fonts and appropriate color schemes. 
• Engaging Delivery: Pay attention to your delivery style and body language. You should maintain eye contact with your audience, use gestures to emphasize key points, and vary your tone of voice to keep the presentation dynamic. 
• Clear and Memorable Conclusion: Leave your audience with a lasting impression by providing a strong closing statement, a call to action, or a thought-provoking question. Make sure your conclusion ties back to your introduction and reinforces the core message of your presentation.

How To Write A Presentation Script (With Examples)

To successfully convey your message to your audience, you must carefully craft and organize your presentation script. Here are steps on how to write a presentation script: 

1/ Understand Your Purpose and Audience

• Clarify the purpose of your presentation. Are you informing, persuading, or entertaining?
• Identify your target audience and their knowledge level, interests, and expectations.
• Define what presentation format you want to use

2/ Outline the Structure of Your Presentation

Strong opening.

Start with an engaging opening that grabs the audience's attention and introduces your topic. Some types of openings you can use are: 

• Start with a Thought-Provoking Question: "Have you ever...?"
• Begin with a Surprising Fact or Statistic: "Did you know that....?"
• Use a Powerful Quote: "As Maya Angelou once said,...."
• Tell a Compelling Story : "Picture this: You're standing at...."
• Start with a Bold Statement: "In the fast-paced digital age...."

Main Points

Clearly state your main points or key ideas that you will discuss throughout the presentation.

• Clearly State the Purpose and Main Points: Example: "In this presentation, we will delve into three key areas. First,... Next,... Finally,.... we'll discuss...."
• Provide Background and Context: Example: "Before we dive into the details, let's understand the basics of....."
• Present Supporting Information and Examples: Example: "To illustrate...., let's look at an example. In,....."
• Address Counterarguments or Potential Concerns: Example: "While..., we must also consider... ."
• Recap Key Points and Transition to the Next Section: Example: "To summarize, we've... Now, let's shift our focus to..."

Remember to organize your content logically and coherently, ensuring smooth transitions between sections.

You can conclude with a strong closing statement summarizing your main points and leaving a lasting impression. Example: "As we conclude our presentation, it's clear that... By...., we can...."

3/ Craft Clear and Concise Sentences

Once you've outlined your presentation, you need to edit your sentences. Use clear and straightforward language to ensure your message is easily understood.

Alternatively, you can break down complex ideas into simpler concepts and provide clear explanations or examples to aid comprehension.

4/ Use Visual Aids and Supporting Materials

Use supporting materials such as statistics, research findings, or real-life examples to back up your points and make them more compelling. 

• Example: "As you can see from this graph,... This demonstrates...."

5/ Include Engagement Techniques

Incorporate interactive elements to engage your audience, such as Q&A sessions , conducting live polls, or encouraging participation. You can also spin more funs into group, by randomly dividing people into different groups to get more diverse feedbacks!

6/ Rehearse and Revise

• Practice delivering your presentation script to familiarize yourself with the content and improve your delivery.
• Revise and edit your script as needed, removing any unnecessary information or repetitions.

7/ Seek Feedback

You can share your script or deliver a practice presentation to a trusted friend, colleague, or mentor to gather feedback on your script and make adjustments accordingly.

More on Script Presentation

How to Write A Presentation Introduction with Examples

How to write presentations that are engaging and visually appealing? Looking for introduction ideas for the presentation? As mentioned earlier, once you have completed your script, it's crucial to focus on editing and refining the most critical element—the opening of your presentation - the section that determines whether you can captivate and retain your audience's attention right from the start. 

Here is a guide on how to craft an opening that grabs your audience's attention from the very first minute: 

1/ Start with a Hook

To begin, you can choose from five different openings mentioned in the script based on your desired purpose and content. Alternatively, you can opt for the approach that resonates with you the most, and instills your confidence. Remember, the key is to choose a starting point that aligns with your objectives and allows you to deliver your message effectively.

2/ Establish Relevance and Context

Then you should establish the topic of your presentation and explain why it is important or relevant to your audience. Connect the topic to their interests, challenges, or aspirations to create a sense of relevance.

3/ State the Purpose

Clearly articulate the purpose or goal of your presentation. Let the audience know what they can expect to gain or achieve by listening to your presentation.

4/ Preview Your Main Points

Give a brief overview of the main points or sections you will cover in your presentation. It helps the audience understand the structure and flow of your presentation and creates anticipation.

5/ Establish Credibility

Share your expertise or credentials related to the topic to build trust with the audience, such as a brief personal story, relevant experience, or mentioning your professional background.

6/ Engage Emotionally

Connect emotional levels with your audience by appealing to their aspirations, fears, desires, or values. They help create a deeper connection and engagement from the very beginning.

Make sure your introduction is concise and to the point. Avoid unnecessary details or lengthy explanations. Aim for clarity and brevity to maintain the audience's attention.

For example, Topic: Work-life balance

"Good morning, everyone! Can you imagine waking up each day feeling energized and ready to conquer both your personal and professional pursuits? Well, that's exactly what we'll explore today – the wonderful world of work-life balance. In a fast-paced society where work seems to consume every waking hour, it's vital to find that spot where our careers and personal lives harmoniously coexist. Throughout this presentation, we'll dive into practical strategies that help us achieve that coveted balance, boost productivity, and nurture our overall well-being. 

But before we dive in, let me share a bit about my journey. As a working professional and a passionate advocate for work-life balance, I have spent years researching and implementing strategies that have transformed my own life. I am excited to share my knowledge and experiences with all of you today, with the hope of inspiring positive change and creating a more fulfilling work-life balance for everyone in this room. So, let's get started!"

🎉 Check out: How to Start a Presentation?

Whether you're a seasoned speaker or new to the stage, understanding how to write a presentation that conveys your message effectively is a valuable skill. By following the steps in this guide, you can become a captivating presenter and make your mark in every presentation you deliver.

Additionally, AhaSlides can significantly enhance your presentation's impact. With AhaSlides, you can use live polls , quizzes , and word cloud to turn your presentation into an engaging and interactive experience. Let's take a moment to explore our vast template library !

Frequently Asked Questions

How to write a presentation step by step .

You can refer to our step-by-step guide on How To Write A Presentation Script: Understand Your Purpose and Audience Outline the Structure of Your Presentation Craft Clear and Concise Sentences Use Visual Aids and Supporting Material Include Engagement Techniques Rehearse and Revise Seek Feedback

How do you start a presentation? 

You can start with an engaging opening that grabs the audience's attention and introduces your topic. Consider using one of the following approaches: Start with a Thought-Provoking Question: "Have you ever...?" Begin with a Surprising Fact or Statistic: "Did you know that....?" Use a Powerful Quote: "As Maya Angelou once said,...." Tell a Compelling Story : "Picture this: You're standing at...." Start with a Bold Statement: "In the fast-paced digital age...."

What are the five parts of a presentation?

When it comes to presentation writing, a typical presentation consists of the following five parts: Introduction: Capturing the audience's attention, introducing yourself, stating the purpose, and providing an overview. Main Body: Presenting main points, evidence, examples, and arguments. Visual Aids: Using visuals to enhance understanding and engage the audience. Conclusion: Summarizing main points, restating key message, and leaving a memorable takeaway or call to action. Q&A or Discussion: Optional part for addressing questions and encouraging audience participation.

A writer who wants to create practical and valuable content for the audience

Tips to Engage with Polls & Trivia

More from AhaSlides

How to write an engaging and effective presentation script?

Explore expert tips and techniques to elevate your script, ensuring it resonates with your audience and enhances your message.

Bharti Jain

Delivering presentations

Table of contents

In today's world, presentations are a crucial part of professional communication, whether for pitching a new idea, educating an audience, or persuading potential clients. However, the backbone of any successful presentation is its script. A well-crafted presentation script can captivate your audience and deliver your message effectively. In this blog, we’ll explore the intricacies of crafting such a presentation that not only delivers information but also engages your audience, drawing insights from the tools and strategies provided by Prezent.

What is a presentation script?

It is much more than a mere set of words to be read or spoken; it is a strategic narrative designed to communicate ideas effectively. It’s the roadmap of your presentation content, detailing every turn of your story, every fact you want to highlight, and every emotion you wish to evoke. A well-written script aligns with your visuals and delivery, creating a harmonious and impactful presentation.

Here’s an example of presentation script containing key points only:

What are the key elements of a compelling presentation script?

When we talk about crafting a presentation script that captivates and engages, it's essential to focus on the following elements.

1. Write a script with a clear objective

It's a common misconception that the sole purpose is just to relay whatever is on your mind. Every presentation has a specific goal, and it's crucial to identify this goal right from the start. Are you looking to inform, persuade, inspire, or motivate your audience?

For example, if your goal is to persuade your audience, you need an approach as if you're a lawyer making a closing argument. This means your script should be filled with strong, convincing evidence and delivered in a tone that's persuasive and compelling. On the other hand, if your aim is to inform, it should resemble a teacher's lesson plan: well-organized, clear, and educational. Here, the focus is on clarity and thoroughness.

2. Audience-centric approach

Tailoring your content to resonate with your audience's interests and level of understanding is crucial. It’s similar to a chef knowing his diners' preferences before crafting a menu.

For example, If your audience comprises young entrepreneurs, using startup success stories and Silicon Valley anecdotes can make your content more relatable and engaging.

Ignoring the audience’s background and interests is like serving a steak to a vegetarian – it just won’t connect. So you need to ensure that you get your audience to listen.

3. Need to write a strong narrative

A strong narrative structure in your script is essential – consider it the spine of your presentation. It should have a compelling introduction (like the opening scene of a gripping movie), an informative body (similar to the plot development of a novel), and a memorable conclusion (the final scene that leaves the audience thinking).

For instance, Steve Jobs’ iconic iPhone launch presentation in 2007 masterfully followed this structure in his presentation speech, captivating the audience from start to finish.

4. Emotional engagement

Creating an emotional connection with the audience can be achieved through storytelling , anecdotes, or humor.

Take, for instance, the iconic "I Have a Dream" speech by Martin Luther King Jr. His powerful storytelling and emotional appeal transformed statistical data about racial injustice into a palpable narrative that moved an entire nation.

Similarly, humor can play a significant role in keeping the audience engaged. Ellen DeGeneres' commencement speech at Tulane University in 2009 is a prime example. She skillfully blended humor with her personal life story, especially her struggles and achievements.

5. Simplicity and clarity

Conveying your ideas in a straightforward and understandable manner is vital. Think of it as the principle of KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid). Your presentation should be like clear, concise instructions, not a complex, hard-to-decipher manual. Avoid jargon and technical terms unless absolutely necessary.

Remember, Albert Einstein once said,

If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough.

Your script should reflect clarity of thought and simplicity of expression.

How to write a presentation script that is effective?

Crafting an engaging presentation script is a multifaceted process that requires attention to detail, a deep understanding of your subject, and a keen sense of audience engagement. Here are some crucial strategies that you should know:

1. In-depth research

To lay a solid foundation for your presentation, start with comprehensive research. Dive deep into your topic to ensure every aspect of your script is well-informed and accurate. This doesn't mean just skimming through the top Google search results. Explore various sources, from scholarly articles to industry reports, to gather a rich array of information.

This depth of understanding not only boosts the credibility of your presentation but also prepares you to confidently handle any questions that might arise during or after your presentation.

2. Conversational tone

A key aspect of a good script is its tone. Aim for a conversational style – as if you're talking to a friend over coffee rather than memorising & lecturing in a formal setting. This approach makes your presentation more relatable and engaging. Avoid complex jargon and technical terms unless necessary, and instead, opt for simple language that flows smoothly. Think of it like storytelling with data.

Check this example to understand better:

Without conversational tone

“In today's discourse, we shall examine the multifaceted and intricate ramifications of digital transformation on global business paradigms."

With conversational tone

"Let's talk about how digital transformation is changing the way we do business around the world. It's pretty fascinating stuff!"

In the first sentence, the formal tone and complex language create a barrier, making the content feel distant and academic. The second sentence, conversational in nature, uses simple language and a friendly approach, inviting the audience into an engaging discussion.

3. Proper visual integration

Visuals are not just decorations; they are integral to reinforcing your message. While scripting, think about how each segment of your speech can be accompanied by relevant visual aids, whether it's a slide, an infographic, or a short video clip. For instance, when discussing a complex process, a diagram can make it easier for your audience to grasp. The key is to ensure that your visuals complement your words, adding clarity and keeping the audience visually engaged.

4. Interactive elements

Engaging your audience is crucial, and interactive elements can significantly boost this engagement. Incorporate rhetorical questions to provoke thought or invite audience participation at certain junctures. You might include a quick poll, a show of hands, or even a brief Q&A session. These elements transform your presentation from a monologue into a dialogue, making it a two-way interaction that keeps your audience actively involved.

5. Rehearse and practice your presentation

The final and perhaps most critical step for the presenter is to refine and rehearse the script several times . This is where you fine-tune your pacing, adjust your tone, and smooth out any rough edges. Rehearsing out loud, ideally in front of a mirror or a test audience, helps identify parts of the script that may need reworking. Pay attention to timing, pauses, and emphasis on key points. Remember, practice doesn’t just make perfect; it builds confidence, ensuring that when it's showtime, you deliver with poise and impact.

How to enhance the effectiveness of a powerpoint presentation through engaging designs?

The integration of engaging presentation designs in your presentation can significantly boost it's effectiveness. Thoughtfully chosen visuals and layout strategies not only grab attention but also make your message more impactful. Let’s delve into how to achieve this synergy:

1. Slide with complementary visuals

Utilize design elements like relevant images, charts, and infographics that reinforce your script’s message. For example, if you're discussing market growth, a well-designed graph can visually represent the data you're talking about, making complex information more accessible and engaging. The key is to choose visuals that directly support and enhance what you're saying.

2. Consistent theme

Maintaining a consistent design theme throughout your presentation helps in creating a visually cohesive experience and makes your brand image stronger. This includes consistent use of color schemes, fonts, and graphic styles that align with the tone and content of your presentation. A uniform theme not only looks professional but also helps in keeping the audience’s attention focused on your message.

3. Focus on readability

Ensure that any text on your visuals is clear and easy to comprehend. Overloading slides with text can overwhelm your audience. Instead, opt for key phrases or bullet points that complement your spoken words. The text should be large enough to be easily readable from a distance, and the color contrast should make it stand out against the background.

4. Balanced layout

Achieving a balance between visual elements and white space is crucial for a clean and effective slide design. A cluttered slide can distract and confuse your audience, while too much white space may lead to a lack of visual interest. Aim for a layout that emphasizes key elements, using white space to highlight important information without making the slide feel overcrowded.

Expert tips for great presentation speech

Delivering a strong presentation is more than just writing; it involves a nuanced blend of delivery techniques, audience interaction, and adaptability. Here are some expert tips presentation style:

1. Dynamic pacing

Varying the pace of your delivery keeps your audience engaged. For example, slow down during complex topics for better understanding, and speed up during familiar or lighter segments to maintain energy. This dynamic pacing ensures that important points are emphasized and the audience remains attentive throughout.

2. Feedback loop

Gathering feedback on your script and presentation style can offer invaluable insights. It’s like holding a mirror to your performance. Present it  to a small group or a trusted colleague and solicit a honest feedback from your audience. Pay attention to their responses and suggestions - they can help you identify areas for improvement that you might not have noticed on your own.

3. Body language and voice modulation

Being conscious of your non-verbal cues and voice modulation can dramatically enhance the effectiveness of your delivery. Your body language should complement the tone of your message.

For instance, use open gestures for welcoming or inclusive points, and firmer gestures for strong, decisive statements. Similarly, modulate your voice to match the content - a softer tone for sensitive topics, or a stronger, more assertive tone for key arguments. This congruence between your words and your delivery makes your presentation more convincing and engaging.

4. Stay adaptable

Adaptability is crucial in presentations. Sometimes, despite all the planning, the audience's reaction may not be what you expected, or technical issues may arise. Be prepared to improvise your approach on the fly.

For instance, if a particular part of your presentation isn't resonating as expected, be ready to shift gears, perhaps by moving to an interactive Q&A earlier than planned.

Staying adaptable ensures that you maintain control of the presentation, no matter the circumstances.

What are the benefits of a good presentation script?

It enhances your ability to connect with the audience. It serves as a guide, ensuring that you deliver your message in a clear, engaging, and relatable way. When you have a well-crafted script, it's easier to explain complex topics in a way that's easy for everyone to understand. This not only keeps your audience attentive but also makes your presentation more memorable.

Additionally, as the presenter, you get confidence boost. Knowing that you have a solid foundation for your presentation helps reduce anxiety and allows you to focus on delivery. As a result, your message doesn't just get heard; it resonates with the audience, leaving them informed, inspired, and often impressed by the clarity and effectiveness of your communication.

How can Prezent help with great presentation scripts?

Prezent, the communication productivity platform for enterprise teams, can significantly enhance the process of writing and delivering presentation scripts in various ways:

1. Efficiency in slide creation: Prezent's AI capabilities streamline slide creation. With a library of over 35,000 slides , presenters can quickly find and customize them, allowing more time to focus on writing a script with great content and delivery.

2. Consistency and brand alignment: Prezent ensures that all slides adhere to brand guidelines , maintaining a professional and cohesive look throughout the presentation. This consistency is crucial for the visual elements.

3. Enhanced storytelling through visuals: The AI-driven slide creation tools in Prezent suggest visual storytelling elements relevant to the script. This enhances audience engagement and understanding, particularly when complex points need to be conveyed.

4. Best practice examples and learning: Prezent offers a feature of best practice examples – a curated collection of exemplary presentations. These examples showcase industry norms and creative approaches, providing valuable insights into effective presentation styles and structures.

5. Personalized insights with fingerprints: The ' Fingerprints ' feature in helps understand your and your audience's strengths, preferences, and areas for growth. This leads to personalized insights, enhancing communication skills and ensuring that the presentation resonates with the audience. Create your Fingerprint today !.

6. Adaptability to content: Prezent adapts slide design based on the script's content, suggesting appropriate charts for analytical sections or illustrative visuals for narrative parts, ensuring the slides are in perfect harmony.

7. Feedback and improvement suggestions: With its advanced AI capabilities, Prezent can offer feedback and improvement suggestions on both the content and design of the presentation, based on communication and design best practices.

Overall, Prezent acts as a comprehensive tool for enhancing presentation scripts, ensuring that the visual components effectively support and elevate the spoken content, while also offering insights and suggestions for continuous improvement. To see Prezent in action you can sign up for our free trial or book a demo today!

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Crafting an engaging presentation script

Crafting a presentation goes beyond simply putting together content. It also involves mastering the art of scripting by the speaker. Learning how to write a script for a presentation can take some time and effort to master, and similar to designing Google slides or PowerPoint presentations, there are several important rules to follow.

From developing a compelling storyboard and adding strategic pauses to making sure the words match the slides and maintaining a natural flow, delivering an effective presentation speech is a skill that needs to be honed.

In this article, we aim to provide comprehensive guidance on all these aspects and more, making it easier for you to create a presentation script that effortlessly resonates with your audience.

Top 10 tips on how to write a script for PowerPoint presentation

1. finalize the storyboard.

When it comes to crafting presentation scripts, planning is vital. A speaker must be well-prepared and have ample time before the event to practice and make sure the content flows naturally. Therefore, clear storyboarding must come first if you want to produce excellent presentation content. This is particularly true when the script and design are being done by the same person.

2. Follow the KISS rule

‘KISS,’ or Keep It Short and Simple, is the number one rule for crafting a fantastic script for presentation. Short and concise sentences can help you get the message across much faster, especially if your presentation’s emphasis is placed more on the visuals than the aural aspect.

3. Make sure your script for presentation introduction is engaging

A strong introduction is critical to captivate the audience’s attention and make them interested in what you have to say. This can be done through a compelling narrative, a thought-provoking question, or a startling fact. Remember, your introduction for presentation script should be designed to hook the audience and make them want to keep listening.

4. Aim for well-structured content

The presentation script’s content needs to be well-organized and structured. It has to have natural transitions from one idea to another, as well as distinct breaks between sections. And to make each argument more convincing and relatable to the audience, you should back it up with examples or evidence.

5. Stick to the slide content

It’s important to keep in mind that the information on your slides must serve as the basis for your script. It should be closely related to the presentation material you have already storyboarded and be simple to follow.

In case your script for PowerPoint presentation doesn’t match the content on the slides, the audience will likely feel confused and lose their place. That’s why it is recommended that you always have the presentation’s material nearby. Divide the text into chunks corresponding to the slides’ arrangement so that the two complement one another perfectly.

6. Add pause breaks

When attending a presentation, an audience member has two tasks: first, taking in the speaker’s words, and second, understanding the information offered by the presentation content. Therefore, when writing a script for a presentation, it’s essential that you always put yourself in the audience’s shoes and include pauses in the script.

Remember, when the speaker pauses, the audience has a chance to digest what has just been said and absorb as much information as possible from the visual aids. Additionally, it gives you, as a speaker, more control over the audience’s attention during the entire speech.

7. Use engaging language

Whether it’s an introduction for presentation script or a closing part, your entire content should be written in clear and engaging language. Refrain from using technical or jargon terminology that the audience might not understand. Instead, speak in plain English and incorporate jokes, rhetorical questions, or storytelling to keep the audience interested throughout your presentation.

8. Don’t forget about calls to action

Strong presentation scripts always end with a clear call to action. This could be requesting that the audience takes a specific action, such as subscribing to a newsletter, making a purchase, or putting the concepts discussed into practice in their own lives or places of employment. Your call to action must be captivating and inspire the audience to do the desired action.

9. Practice and rehearse

Practice and rehearsal are essential components of a good script. That’s why it is crucial to rehearse your script several times, ensuring a smooth delivery. Additionally, practice helps boost self-assurance and ease presentation-day nervousness. By including these components in your PowerPoint presentation script, you can create a persuasive and memorable presentation that effectively conveys your message and interests your audience.

10. Enlisting key points is also an option

Writing down every word you intend to say might sometimes result in overly scripted content, which can lack empathy and prevent you from connecting with the audience. Therefore, sometimes it is enough to simply focus on the key points or even use slide content as a starting point, keeping in mind the presentation’s structure and your time limit. Now that you know how to write a presentation script, let’s look at some examples to see the above tips in practice.

Presentation script example

Detailed presentation script:

https://www.slideshare.net/aland/script-for-perfect-presentation

Presentation script containing only key points:

All in all, having a presentation script is essential for delivering a great audience experience. It gives you flow, structure, and two times more confidence than when you are simply improvising or reading off your slides.

Use the above guidelines to ensure you are starting with a strong script, and remember that our presentation design company is here to help 24/7! SlidePeak’s dedicated team can not only help you improve your old presentation but can also design a professional pitch deck with unique infographics to wow potential investors, clients, and employers.

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• 50 tips on how to improve PowerPoint presentations in 2022-2023 [Updated]
• How to present a research paper in PPT: best practices
• Present financial information visually in PowerPoint to drive results
• Types of presentations

• Design Tips

Informal vs formal presentation (plus tips on creating and delivering both)

• Business Slides

Give a project plan presentation (expert senior-level tips)

Writing an outline: creating a presentation blueprint

4 Tips to Write an Effective Presentation Script

• By Judhajit Sen
• May 31, 2024

Writing a presentation script might seem difficult, but it’s not impossible. Start by making a plan. Learn how to write the main points you want to make and decide the order in which you will discuss them. Then, do some research on your topic so you know what you’re talking about.

Use simple language and avoid jargon. Use facts and numbers to back up your points. Practice your presentation many times so you feel confident when you speak. With some prep and practice, you can nail your script.

Writing a script of a speech is not easy. It takes time to learn and prowess that needs to be honed. Just like making templates, there are rules to follow. You must ensure your words meet your needs and don’t sound automated.

Crafting a great presentation isn’t just about the content. You also need a script. Learning to write one takes time. Like making templates, there are rules to stick to. This means you need to write a good story and breaks in your presentation speech. Make sure your words match your slides and sound natural.

Key Takeaways

• Plan Ahead: Crafting a compelling script requires careful planning and organization. Start by outlining your main points and backing them up with research to ensure clarity and coherence.
• Sync with Slides: Align your script closely with your presentation slides as an audience engagement strategy to facilitate understanding. Avoid discrepancies between your spoken words and visual content that leaves the audience puzzled.
• Include Pauses: Incorporate breaks strategically in your script to allow your audience time to process information and absorb visual content. Breaks also help control the pace of your speech and maintain the audience’s attention throughout.
• Practice Diligently: Rehearse your script multiple times, integrating your final templates to refine your delivery and boost confidence. Adjust your delivery to sound natural and engaging, ensuring a good presentation .
• Storyboarding Matters: Start by creating a storyboard to map out the flow and structure of your presentation. This essential step helps ensure a well-structured and engaging delivery, guiding your audience smoothly from start to finish.
• Focus on Delivery: Remember, presentations are not just about the content on your templates; they’re about how you deliver your message. Your script is your roadmap to guide your presentation and make a lasting impression.

Defining a Presentation

A presentation is when someone talks to a group to share information. They do this to explain ideas, teach, or convince others to do something. Presentations can happen face-to-face, on video calls, or online. They’re common in business meetings or school classes.

Presentations can tell, teach, or amuse, depending on what they’re for. They can be slideshows, videos, or things you can interact with. But no matter how they’re done, a smooth presentation needs planning, preparation, and public speaking skills that needs practice.

Components Of A Successful Presentation

Every presentation can be divided into three parts: the beginning, the main part, and the end. About 10-15% of your time talking is usually spent on the beginning, approximately 75% on the main part, and the remaining 10% on finishing up.

The main part of the Google slide or PowerPoint presentation should include facts and evidence supporting the key points, presented logically and easily understood. Use presentation design elements like pictures, graphs, and charts to help explain the points.

Finally, end a presentation by summarizing the main points and with an  effective call to action . With these parts done well, your strong presentation will surely grab the audience’s attention and leave them feeling positive throughout the presentation.

Presentation Script

A presentation script is like a roadmap for a presentation. It’s a written plan that helps the presenter know what to say when to show visual aids like templates, and how to keep things organized.

In a script, you’ll find the main things the speaker needs to talk about, details about the stuff they’re presenting, and tips on how to talk about it. This helps the company get its message across and connect with the audience from start to finish.

Presenters write their scripts using tools like Google Slides or PowerPoint. These different types of presentation tools let them jot down notes only they can see and even add voice recordings. For instance, in a financial presentation for shareholders, the script might include extra info to explain tricky money stuff and when to switch templates or use visuals.

Following are four tips on how to write a killer script.

Freeze the Storyboard

Planning is crucial when writing a script. To make the content flow naturally, a presenter needs enough time to prepare and practice before the event. The key to an excellent presentation content is clear and concise storyboarding.

Start with storyboarding before writing the business communication script. This is especially important if you’re also designing the presentation. It’s tempting to write the content first and then fit the design elements to match. However, this approach often leads to frustration and stress.

Using a storyboard helps you effectively plan the presentation’s length and content word for word. It serves as a guide, allowing you to lead your audience smoothly from start to finish. By prioritizing storyboarding, you’ll ensure a well-structured and impactful presentation.

Follow the Slide Content

When crafting an engaging presentation script, make sure it matches the content of your slides. This will keep your audience engaged and help them follow along without getting lost.

Start by using your templates as the foundation for your script. If your presentation doesn’t match the content of your script, it can confuse your audience. If the script doesn’t match much of the information in the presentation, people will have trouble keeping up and lose interest.

Always keep your presentation materials nearby when writing your script to prevent this. Break your script into sections or bullet points that match the order of your slides. This way, your script and templates will complement each other perfectly, making your presentation conversational and easy to follow.

Add Pauses to Your Script

When crafting a presentation script, remember that your audience has two main tasks: listening to your words and understanding the visual content. To help them do this effectively, you need to add pauses to your script’s content.

Putting yourself in the audience’s shoes can make a big difference. Breaks give them time to process what you’ve said and absorb the information from your templates or visuals, helping them absorb more of the content you are presenting and not forget something.

Including breaks in your speech with script also helps you as a speaker. Breaks allow you to improvise the rhythm of your speech and maintain the attention of the audience from start to finish. Planning these breaks can create a more engaging and effective presentation.

Rehearse the Script

Once your script is ready, set aside plenty of time to say the words, practice and memorize. Remember, the script is just one part of your presentation, so always practice with your final slides. This helps you see how everything fits together.

Practicing with your templates allows you to make last-minute changes to the script and practice your delivery. Persuasive speech is a skill so pay attention to how you stand, make eye contact , and use body language .

Scripts for presentations are often written more formally than how we naturally speak. If you don’t adjust this, your delivery might sound awkward and unnatural, and the audience will notice.

Practice your script several times to become comfortable with the material. This will help your smooth delivery, boost your confidence, and reduce fear of public speaking on the day of the presentation. Doing this helps make a persuasive presentation , ensuring you effectively convey your message and captivate your audience throughout your presentation.

Mastering Presentation Scripts: Your Path to Successful Presentations

Creating a good script isn’t rocket science but requires some savvy moves. Start by crafting a plan, laying out your main points, and backing them up with solid research. Explain complex jargon in simple language and practice until you feel like a pro.

Presentations aren’t just about what’s on your templates but about how you want to present. Whether you’re pitching an idea or teaching a concept, your script is your roadmap.

Remember the basics: a solid beginning to grab attention, a meaty central part supported by evidence, and a memorable ending to leave a lasting impression.

But how to write a presentation script that hits all the marks? Here are four game-changing tips:

First off, freeze that storyboard. Planning is critical, and storyboarding ensures your content flows seamlessly.

Next, sync your script with your slides. Ensure your words match what’s on the screen to keep your audience in the loop.

Remember to add breaks. Let your audience digest what you’re saying and absorb those visuals.

Lastly, rehearse like your presentation depends on it (because it does). Practice with your templates, tweak your delivery and own that stage.

With these tips in your arsenal, you’ll be armed and ready to write killer scripts that mesmerize your audience and drive your message home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a presentation script, and why is it important? A script is a written plan that guides the speaker on what to say during a presentation. It helps maintain organization and clarity and effectively communicates the message to the audience. Without a script, presenters might struggle to deliver coherent presentations, risking confusion among the audience.

2. How can I start writing a script for a presentation? Begin by crafting a storyboard to outline the flow of your presentation. This step is essential in ensuring your content is well-structured and engaging. Storyboarding allows you to plan the length and content effectively, providing a roadmap for your presentation.

3. Why is it essential for a script for a presentation to match the slide content? Matching the script with slide content is vital to keep the audience engaged and facilitate understanding. When the script aligns with the visuals, it helps the audience follow along smoothly without getting lost or confused.

4. Why should I add pauses to my presentation script? Adding pauses allows the audience time to digest the information presented and absorb visual content. It helps maintain audience engagement and ensures they can process the message effectively. Breaks also benefit the speaker by allowing them to control the rhythm of their speech and sustain the audience’s attention.

5. How important is rehearsal when preparing a presentation script? Rehearsal is crucial in delivering a polished and confident presentation. It allows the speaker to familiarize themselves with the script, practice delivery, and make necessary adjustments. Practicing with final templates helps ensure everything flows smoothly and enhances the overall impact of the presentation.

6. What are the critical elements of a killer presentation script? A killer script incorporates clear storytelling, matches slide content, includes strategic breaks, and undergoes thorough rehearsal. These elements ensure the script is engaging, easy to follow, and effectively delivers the intended message to the audience.

Master the Art of Persuasion: How Prezentium Can Elevate Your Presentation Scripts

Crafting a stellar presentation script is essential to delivering your message with impact. But fear not, because Prezentium is here to revolutionize your approach to presentations.

With our AI-powered services, including Overnight Presentations, Presentation Specialist expertise, and Zenith Learning workshops, Prezentium is your ultimate partner in creating stunning scripts that leave a lasting impression.

Forget the struggle of planning, scripting, and designing your presentations alone. Our specialist team will tirelessly transform your ideas into polished scripts that resonate with your audience. Whether you need a last-minute presentation or a comprehensive overhaul of your content, Prezentium has you covered.

Harness the power of structured problem-solving and visual storytelling with our Zenith Learning workshops, designed to elevate your presentation skills to new heights. From crafting compelling narratives to mastering the art of delivery, Prezentium provides the tools and expertise you need to succeed.

So why wait? Elevate your presentations with Prezentium today and unlock the potential of persuasive communication. Let’s work together to create scripts that captivate, educate, and inspire. Your audience awaits – are you ready to dazzle them?

Why wait? Avail a complimentary 1-on-1 session with our presentation expert. See how other enterprise leaders are creating impactful presentations with us.

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How to write a presentation script and practice your presentation the right way

Should you write a script for your presentation?

Should you practice your presentation?

The answer is yes and yes, but chances are neither of these are what you think they are.

Hear me out.

When I talk about a presentation script , most people assume I’m talking about a word for word document that must be memorized or read to the audience.

When I talk about practicing a presentation, most people assume I’m talking about:

(a) reading that script, word for word until it’s memorized, and

(b) practicing the entire presentation from start to finish, over and over again.

As a result, most people think scripting and practicing a presentation take a lot of extra time when working on a presentation.

None of that is true.

When done correctly, you script and practice your presentation in the same step AND most of it doesn’t even involve doing an extra step.

Good thing you found your way to my article, because today you’re going to learn how to write a presentation script and how to practice your presentation the right way.

Hi! 👋 I’m Dr. Echo Rivera and I train academics, scientists, and educators how to create engaging presentations. While you’re here, make sure you check out my FREE training on engaging presentations.

Before I share my unique scripting/practicing system, let’s make sure this blog post was written for you.

This blog post was made for academics, scientists, and educators.

The strategies shared in this post were tailored to presentations such as:

class lectures,

conference presentations,

teaching demos,

training workshops, and

In other words, this post is for you if your primary goal of the presentation is to educate the audience—not to sell a product or gain angel investors.

What you will learn in this article (or video):

1. why academics, scientists, and educators need to write a presentation script and practice their presentations., 2. myths about presentation scripts and practicing your presentations..

3. Why you should script and practice even if you’re good at public speaking.

4. How to write a presentation script and how to practice your presentation.

5. When does it make sense to do these script/practice types?

6. A bonus tip; something else that is important ;)

p.s. There is an abbreviated version of this blog post you can watch right here:

Take a moment to think about all the things you’ve witnessed during a presentation that made it unbearable to watch.

I don’t mean how bad their slides were or their wall of text slides, I mean things the presenter did or didn’t do.

Bonus points if you actually take a moment to write them down.

Ok, here’s my list.

A presentation becomes hard to watch when the speaker:

Goes over time

Sounds really awkward

Rambles and goes on tangents

Is confusing, disorganized & hard to follow

Doesn’t have a good flow or pace (too fast, too slow, no pauses)

Forgets what they wanted to say

Reads the slides to the audience

Speaks in a monotone, droning voice

Finishes waaaaaaaay too early

I’m guessing you agree that these are signs that the presenter needs a boost in their public speaking skills.

If you see yourself in that list, don’t worry because the strategies in this post will 100% help you address these challenges. People aren’t born with these skills—they develop them over time, with training and practice.

Also, I’ve made every single mistake on that list. I used to have an intense fear of public speaking. So, I understand your struggles , and I can help!

If you don’t see yourself on this list, keep reading because these strategies will still help you in surprising ways. I wrote a special section just for people who are great at public speaking.

Ok. By now, my key point here is probably obvious.

Scripting and practicing (the right way) tackle some of the biggest problems we see during an ineffective presentation.

You might be thinking: “ Well, yeah, that’s obvious, Echo. ”

Because I’ve found that academics, scientists, and educators avoid writing a script for their presentation and practicing like it’s an unnecessary committee meeting.

I get why they avoid it—it’s because of some insidious myths about scripting and practicing that most people believe.

Let’s tackle those next.

If writing a presentation script and practicing a presentation were such good strategies, why don’t more people do it?

That’s easy: most people believe harmful myths about presentation scripts and practicing.

I already busted a couple in the introduction: most people assume “script” and “practice” mean certain things, but that’s wrong.

As a quick refresher:

MYTH: When people say you need a script and need to practice, they want you to memorize your presentation

Well, other people might mean that, but I don’t.

In the process I explain later, the goal is not to memorize your presentation speech.

Stay tuned :)

MYTH: Practicing a presentation means you need to say the entire presentation from start to finish

That’s one way to practice a presentation. I call it the dress rehearsal.

I almost never do it, and I recommend you avoid this type of practicing at all costs.

You’re going to learn three other ways to practice that are easier, more sustainable, and more effective.

MYTH: There’s an easier way to solve bad speaker habits

The #1 worst piece of presentation advice that exists is that you should use 1 slide per minute, or as few slides as possible.

Without question, it’s the worst.

You cannot make an engaging presentation if you follow that rule. And if that surprises you then please take my free training ASAP.

I’m constantly talking about this piece of bad advice on social media with academics, scientists, and educators.

The main reason people give me for following this rule boils down to this:

“You see, Echo, the 1 slide per minute rule is helpful to make sure speakers don’t go over time.”

And my reaction boils down to this:

Because…people have been following the 1 slide per minute rule for a really long time and we still have to endure presenters who go over their time.

The number of slides has nothing to do with a presenter who goes overtime.

There is only ONE reason speakers go overtime.

They don’t script and practice their presentation at all, or in the right way.

Surface level formulas like “1 slide per minute” don’t fix the problem and they only make presentations worse.

MYTH: If you practice too much, you’ll sound like a robot

Have you ever believed that you could practice “too much” and that practicing “too much” will make you sound like a robot?

Absolute nonsense.

This makes no sense if you think about it.

Have you ever seen a musical or play?

Does that feel like a bunch of robots singing and dancing on the stage?

No, of course not. It feels moving, natural, and engaging.

Well, they obviously practice A LOT.

So, that instantly debunks the myth that if you practice, you'll sound awkward or like a robot.

In reality, it's the exact opposite.

Having a script and practicing it in the right way is precisely what helps you sound natural, professional, and deliver a smooth presentation that makes an impact.

I know what you’re thinking.

You’re thinking… ”But I can always tell when someone reads from a script. They sound so awkward!”

Hmmm…I have questions.

First: How do you know they’re reading a script?

If you don’t actually see them reading from a script, you cannot assume that’s what they’re doing.

If the speaker is really awkward and sounds like they’re reading, that’s not enough evidence to conclude they are using a script.

Second: OK. Let’s assume they ARE using a script.

The problem is not that they have a script.

The problem is:

(a) how they wrote the script initially, and/or

(b) how they practiced their script.

Chances are they (a) wrote a presentation speech using a Word document, and then (b) tried to memorize it.

This is a bad approach because when we write in a Word document, we’re writing for written communication.

By default, everything we type will be more appropriate for someone to read it, rather than to listen to it.

That’s why in my system, we don’t use Word at all, and you do NOT start by writing a speech.

Or, they (a) wrote their presentation script in the notes section of PowerPoint, and then (b) just read it silently in their mind as a way to practice it.

We’ve all done this. Admit it.

That’s NOT how you should write a script or practice your presentation.

That’s how you end up sounding like a robot, because in reality you haven’t practiced your presentation at all.

This is a really important point to internalize: reading your notes does NOT count as practicing your presentation.

I can guarantee 100% that you’ve been enamored by a presenter using a script who sounded natural, engaging, and amazing.

When done properly, you actually can’t tell there was a script.

If somebody has an awkward delivery where it sounds like they're a robot and they're relying on their script too much, the problem is NOT that they had a script.

The problem is NOT that they practice too much: it's the opposite. The problem is that they didn't practice enough and didn't practice in the right ways.

It is entirely untrue that the more you practice, the less natural you will sound. That is a lie.

And I am not the only one who is saying this.

Fun fact time!

Have you ever seen The Big Lebowski?

Hopefully, that's not too old of a reference, and I know there are some problems with the movie.

But even if you hate the movie or haven’t seen it, it has a reputation as having an extraordinarily smooth delivery by the actors.

It feels so real, so natural, that many people assume it was improv.

The reason it felt so natural and so smooth, was because the script was good (in the sense that it felt like real conversations), AND because they practiced it for weeks.

In a 2012 Rolling Stone interview, John Goodman said, “I had so many people ask me if it was improvised.” Then he laughed his John Goodman laugh and said, “I'm not that good. But we got lucky and we rehearsed for a couple weeks before we started shooting. That's why that looks so good. Like we're improvising.”

This is exactly the point that I'm trying to make.

LIKE we’re improvising, he said.

They rehearsed it so much that it looked good and seemed like they were doing improv, which is basically a way of saying it felt natural. It felt real.

A great presentation script is worthless if you don’t practice it correctly, and practicing your presentation doesn’t help if you don’t have a good script. 🤯

That’s why I merge the two activities into one activity when working on my presentation.

That’s the power of a good script , and practicing it the right way.

Luckily, academics, scientists, and educators don't need a perfect script and don't need to practice nearly as much as people performing in a musical or in a movie. 😅

Hopefully, you’re ready to give scripting and practicing your presentation a chance.

Except, wait.

You might not be convinced if you’re good at public speaking.

I promised a section just for you, so here it is.

3. Why you should a presentation script and practice even if you’re good at public speaking.

Remember earlier when I said this post would still be helpful, even if you didn’t see yourself in that list of bad presentation examples?

Let’s talk about that.

I’m guessing you think you don’t need to script and practice because you’re good at public speaking.

Maybe you’re the lucky type who can get on stage and just talk. And talk. And talk.

Maybe you love public speaking, and with just a few bullet points, you can talk for a full hour (or longer) without taking a break.

I can see why you think having a script and practicing it will totally slow your roll.

But here’s the bad news: the type of presentations where the speaker just gets on the stage and “wings it” are some of the hardest presentations to follow along with. 😬

Your energy, passion, and fast-talking ability probably keeps people paying attention, sure.

But they’re also probably really confused and overwhelmed.

Or, worse, they don’t think they’re confused during your presentation, but then later on when they try to remember what you said, they can’t—and they don’t even know why.

I have personally experienced this countless times as an audience member. And it’s something I pay attention to as a presentation specialist.

Several academics I work with recently realized their off-the-cuff, fast-paced class lectures were actually really confusing because they had to record them for an online course.

Once they actually had to watch their own presentation videos, they realized that they:

Did not build in enough repetition to enhance learning

Went on too many unhelpful tangents

Forget key transition statements or sections that link topics

Missed important key steps or connector topics

Did not have distinct sections in their presentations

Now you’re ready for the real secret:

The #1 reason you should have a script and practice it isn’t so you have a smooth delivery—it’s so your presentation is organized, comprehensive, and easy to follow. 💡

Time to finally reveal my unique approach to scripting and practicing your presentation!

I’m going to share my system for scripting and practicing that has:

Saved me TONS of time

Significantly improved the quality of my presentation content

Significantly improved my public speaking skills

I'm going to share the exact process I use to script and practice my professional presentations, even ones with data.

After all this build-up, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at how easy it’s going to be.

One reason I think you’ll like this is because it’s efficient.

Like I mentioned above, a script needs to be practiced and you need to practice with a good script.

That’s why scripting and practicing are merged into one, seamless step.

Scripting is practicing. And practicing is scripting.

The 4 types of presentation scripting & practicing:

Talk to your computer

Mini bursts of practice

Timed practice

Dress rehearsal

Before I go into detail, make sure you download the FREE worksheets that go along with this blog post and video!

Script/Practice Type #1: Talk (or Whisper) to Your Computer

The first thing I need to eliminate from your mind is the idea that you can practice by sitting and staring at your slides or reading them silently in your head.

That does not count as practice. You have to actually say your notes out loud for it to count as practice.

Like I mentioned earlier, we aren’t going to use Word or any type of word processor for this. Do this directly in the notes section of PowerPoint (or Google Slides, Keynote, etc).

What you do, is from the very first time you start writing out your script, you also practice it as the same time.

Specifically, you’re going to talk (or whisper) to your computer—you’re going to say the words you type for your script as you’re typing it.

Or, if you’re revising your script for a presentation you’ve already given, you speak (or whisper) out loud while revising.

Does this sound weird?

Absolutely.

This is the most mind-blowingly impactful change you will ever make when creating a script for your presentation.

This is such a great strategy because you'll be speaking your script the very first time that you write it.

That means the first draft of your script will be better than if you just wrote it silently.

🚨 Re-read that sentence.

You will know immediately when you write something that sounds awkward, because you’re speaking it from step 1.

Do you see how much time that’s going to save you?

If you write your script silently in your head first, you’re going to write a script for reading—not speaking.

That means, the first time you do say it out loud, you will have to make more revisions than if you had just said it out loud in the first place.

If you’ve ever felt like it takes too long to create an engaging presentation, I just shared one of the BEST secrets to speeding up this process.

Besides, this is the best way to make sure you don’t sound like a robot.

So this practice type is something I want you to turn into your new habit.

Literally every single time you write something new for your presentation script (or make a revision), I want you to say (or whisper) it out loud.

Script/Practice Type #2: Mini bursts of real-time practice

The second type of practice is what I call “mini bursts” of practice.

While you’re drafting and revising your slides (using script/practice type #1), at some point you’re going to finish a few slides or a section that you want to test out.

So, you’re going to do just that: a mini-burst of practice.

While still at you’re desk, you’ll go into presenter mode.

Once you're in presenter mode, run through a couple of slides or maybe even a whole section, and basically just fix problems as you see them.

You're basically piloting your slides in small chunks.

You can do this as often as you want, and the more you do it, the better.

My guess is you were already doing some version of this, so I doubt this will take you extra time.

But, in the past, you probably just clicked and looked at your slides, and imagined what you would say in your head.

What I want you to do, moving forward, is actually say your script out loud.

What you should pay attention to is how your speech matches up with what is happening on your slides (the images, animations, etc).

In other words, also gives you another chance to speak your notes out loud while also testing the things happening on your slides.

Like practice type #1, you don't really need to dedicate a separate or unique block of time for this, because the idea is you just weave it into your practice of editing and revising your slides.

Script/Practice Type #3: Timed Practice

Like you, I found dress rehearsals to be exhausting and difficult to fit into my schedule.

Plus, when I had a lot of things to fix throughout the presentation, it was hard to keep track of those and remember them for later.

But, if I stopped my presentation to take notes, it ruined my flow or messed up my time tracking.

There had to be a better way, I thought to myself.

And after some experimenting, I found one!

I call this the “timed practice” and like script/practice type #1 it was a gamechanger.

You will do this when your presentation is almost ready and you feel good about your draft.

What you do is grab a stopwatch (I use the clock app on my phone) and some specially designed worksheets for you to complete.

The worksheets should have a place for you to write:

Section Name

Description

Images needed

And other information you need to revise your presentation.

You can get the exact worksheets I use for this in the free download that goes with this post:

Make sure you have several of these practicing worksheets printed and ready to go (at least one sheet per section).

If your presentation doesn’t have sections, then that means it’s probably confusing for your audience. Make sure you check out my FREE training if you’re interested in improving all aspects of your presentations.

Here’s the step-by-step process:

Grab a worksheet.

Go into presenter view

Choose ONE section of your presentation

Start your timer

Do a full dress rehearsal style practice session for that ONE SESSION

When you come across something that needs to change, PAUSE THE TIMER and write your notes (the slide # and what needs to change).

When you’re done writing your notes, restart the timer and continue your practice.

When you’re done practicing that section, write down how long it took for you to complete that section and other notes to help you revise your slides.

Repeat for all sections.

Ideally, if your presentation is longer than 15-20 minutes, you’re engaging the audience throughout (not just waiting for a Q&A session).

That can be really hard to time, though, so here’s what I do:

When I come to my audience engagement slide, or have a question for the audience in my notes, I pause the timer,

I take moment to guess at how long I want to spend on this activity, and

I’ll add a note that looks like “+1 min for poll” and “+2 min for question”

Is it perfect, no? But it helps me remember to leave a time buffer for audience engagement.

When I'm done I add up all the sections and it will tell you how long the total presentation would probably take based on that run-through.

Then you go back and do this entire process one more time after you've fixed those major errors. Then hopefully it's good to go.

Here are some additional tips to make this as effective as possible.

1. Start going a little bit off-script now

By now, you already have a pretty decent script for your presentation.

The idea is NOT to memorize it at this point.

You have a solid foundation for an organized presentation that is easy to follow and contains no excess information, and does not leave important information out.

At this point, then, you should start going a little off-script.

Basically, you want to practice saying the same idea—the same content—but with slightly different words.

The goal is to know the general idea of what you want to say, when you want to say it, and how long you take to explain it.

2. Don’t do it all in one day

I don’t revise my slides on the same day I do a timed practice.

What I do is try to complete this entire process for all sections in 1-2 days, and then revise my slides on a later day.

While practicing, between each section I'll take a break, and I recommend you do that too. Stand up, stretch, get a glass of water.

When I’m done practicing all sections of my presentation, I set my notes aside and intentionally make myself wait at least a day before making any changes.

Having that mental break is really important, and gives your brain some downtime to come up with new ideas and insights.

It’s also a way for this to feel like a sustainable practice. It would be mentally exhausting to do this all in one day. Ugh.

When you’re ready to apply the changes make sure you work backwards.

Start with the last one and work your way up, because if you start from the first slide and work your way down you're going to mess up all your slide number references.

3. You should only have to do this process 1-2 times

If you find yourself stuck here and you’re doing this a lot more than 1-2 times, then it’s probably because you didn’t do enough of practice types 1 and 2. Next time, do more of that and then you’ll need to do this type less.

This practice type is so helpful because:

It’s more efficient than a full dress rehearsal.

You don’t need a giant block off time to do it, only enough time to practice ONE section.

You don’t have to worry about remembering what to change. You can come back to your revisions another day .

You get an accurate sense of how long each section will take, which means you get an accurate sense of how long your entire presentation will take, too!

Most people skip this and go straight to the full dress rehearsal, but I think that's kind of a waste of time.

This is more efficient, easier to fit into your schedule, and still can give you a sense of how long your presentation will take.

Script/Practice Type #4: Dress rehearsal

Okay it’s time to talk about the dress rehearsal.

This is what most people think of when I say “practice your presentation.”

A full dress rehearsal involves acting as though you’re giving the presentation for real. That means you do things like:

Do the entire presentation from start to finish, without stopping

Add in all your dramatic pauses

Avoid looking at your notes while giving your talk

Use all your normal gestures

First, I want to emphasize that if you follow the first three practice types, you will rarely have to do a dress rehearsal.

Practice types 1-3 are usually enough for things like course lectures, webinars, and regular conference presentations.

I mean, you can do a dress rehearsal if you want. It’s not a bad idea. But in my opinion, it’s optional for most presentations.

When should you do a full dress rehearsal? When your presentation is a:

Teaching demo

Other very high stakes presentations (e.g., presentation to obtain funding)

So if you need to do one, then let me share some strategies for this.

You do the dress rehearsal when your presentation is pretty much ready and you just need to work on the delivery and want to make sure you can do this presentation without your notes.

You’ve already practiced this in short bursts 1-2 times with the last strategy, so you’ll be in a good place to do this.

If it’s an in-person presentation, then I recommend you don’t do this at your desk.

Get in a new environment, plug your laptop into your TV, present this to your pets or friendly faces, or find an empty room in your department and practice there.

Make it as close to the real thing as you possibly can.

When I do this type of practice I get set up in my living room so I can project my slides via the TV.

I put my laptop on a tray table, I hook it up to the TV with an HDMI cable, and I get my friendly audience sitting on the couch (for me that involves two dogs and a human).

I've got my slide clicker ready because I'm going to use it for the real thing (and if you do not have one of these, Oh my god, get one now. They are awesome!).

I position everything so I can see my presenter view and the notes if I need to. But I'm facing the audience just like in real life and I'm trying to not read my script at this point.

That is my process, and you might need to tweak it based on your own setup, but the important thing is to get out of your office.

Try to go somewhere else and don't do it in your office.

Bonus Tip: Consider doing things like practice rushing into a room (or Zoom) in your department and setting up in less than a minute, then rush into your presentation because that can happen in real life.

Remember: Memorization is not the primary goal.

You can memorize your presentation if you want to, but you do not have to.

And please, keep in mind that memorization can backfire.

In some cases, it’s better to practice in a way that goes a little off-script.

By now, especially since you've done those three practice types, you should be really comfortable with your presentation and have an idea of what you want to say, when you want to say it, and about how long you want to take with each slide.

You can (and should) change words here and there.

You can add a sentence or maybe not say a sentence.

You can do that type of “practiced improv” and then your script is really only there as a backup in case you do sort of blank and forget what you wanted to say.

You can still use the worksheets from practice type #3.

You’ll be in presenter view again, and you’ll time it.

I recommend that you use those practice sheets again, using them the same way as in practice type three so you can pause and take notes on what you might need to fix.

Hopefully, by now it's not a lot of stuff, just minor tweaks.

5. When does it make sense to do these script/practice presentation types?

New presentation content or delivery format.

If this presentation is:

Brand new content

Getting a significant revision or overhaul

Relatively new content (you’ve only given this talk 1-2 times before), and/or

Going to be presented in a new delivery format (e.g., used to be in-person, now it’s a webinar)

…then you should definitely do:

Script/Practice Type #1: Talk to your computer

Script/Practice Type #2: Mini bursts

Script/Practice Type #3: Timed practice

…and if it’s a “high stakes” presentation (job talk, teaching demo, keynote), then also do:

Presentation you’re revising or updating

One you’ve given in the past

Getting a minor revision

Going to be presented in the same delivery format as before

Script/Practice Type #1: Talk to your computer while revising

Script/Practice Type #2: Mini bursts of the sections you revised

…and if you want to be sure your changes didn’t change the overall time, then also do:

Special circumstances and nuances for teaching (synchronous & asynchronous)

There are some special circumstances and nuances to this when it comes to teaching.

For example, if you’re giving a synchronous (live) lecture and you can use the next session to cover material you didn’t have time for, then you only need to do practice types #1-2.

It doesn’t matter if it’s new or being updated, because ultimately the time you take to explain it doesn’t matter. That’s why you don’t need to worry about types #3 or #4.

As another example, if you’re creating a course video ( asynchronous ) then it depends on whether you’re going to edit the video or not.

If you will be editing the video, then you only need to do practice types #1-2.

If you won’t be editing the video, then you should do practice type #3, too.

That way you can make sure your course video isn’t unnecessarily long and that you won’t have a lot of mistakes.

Side note: that’s why I strongly recommend you learn how to edit your course videos —because it saves you time and hassle in the grand scheme of things.

6. Bonus Tip: Yes, this means you need to stop procrastinating on your presentation.

If you’re adding things up, then that means it takes at least 2 separate days to go script/practice type #3.

Plus, there’s the time to do #1 and #2.

So, yes, this also means you won’t be able to procrastinate on your presentation if you want to do this.

😱 Before you panic, though, keep in mind that the idea is you aren’t spending all day on this.

You’re spending 1-2 hours per day, so you can fit it into your schedule.

Make sure you read my article about a good presentation workflow, because it's going to help you plan out your presentation process so that you actually finish early and have plenty of time for practicing .

I even specify when you should be doing each practice type.

So check that out if you haven't already. And that has a free download, too :)

Don’t go without grabbing these FREE practicing worksheets!

To make it easy, I’m sharing the same worksheets I use with you, for FREE. Download them now and use them the next time you work on your presentation!

with joy, Echo Rivera, PhD

Links shared in this post >>

My unique presentation training framework

How to end your presentation procrastination

The best way to record your presentations and lectures (incl. video editing)

9 myths about effective presentations (incl. the whole “1 slide per minute” rule)

Rolling Stones article on John Goodman

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