Chapter05

1.General Overview of Oral Presentations

Delivering an oral presentation is a demanding exercise, especially when it takes place in the context of a conference or a scientific event. However, this level of difficulty should not discourage those who wish to showcase the results of their work. In any academic or professional project, the dissemination phase is essential: it allows the presenter to highlight the value of the work accomplished and to share its relevance and outcomes with a wider audience.

An oral presentation consists of clearly and systematically presenting the results of a research project or study to an audience. Its primary objectives are to inform, persuade, and ideally, engage listeners.

The success of an oral presentation generally depends on three fundamental elements:

1. The relevance and quality of the content presented;
2. The clarity and effectiveness of the visual support, which must assist and enhance understanding;
3. The speaker’s oral performance, including clarity, fluency, and engagement.

2. Presentation Content

2.1 Key Messages

  When preparing an oral presentation, the first step is to clearly define the content of your talk. The relevance and quality of the material are central to delivering an effective presentation. This initial stage should involve careful reflection on the essential messages you wish to convey. It is recommended to prioritize the clarity and significance of your messages rather than the sheer quantity. These messages will serve as the guiding thread for your presentation. Since speaking time is usually limited, careful selection is necessary. Ideally, aim to communicate no more than three key ideas. Similar to a written text, structuring your presentation into three main sections is considered most effective.

2.1.1. Introduction
The introduction is a critical part of any presentation and requires careful attention. It serves to clarify both the how and why of your topic. Additionally, it should establish the guiding thread of your talk and set the tone for the audience. It is important to be sufficiently detailed so that listeners can fully understand the context and relevance of your topic. The introduction should take approximately 10% of the total presentation time.

2.1.2. Main Body
The main body constitutes the core of the presentation, presenting either the theoretical content for a lecture or the methodology and results of a project. This section should occupy roughly 80% of the allotted time. Given the typically limited presentation time, careful selection of content is essential. It is unrealistic to cover every detail; therefore, focus on the most important and relevant points.

2.1.3. Conclusion
The conclusion is a key part of the presentation. It should summarize the main ideas, highlight project limitations, suggest possible developments, and address any remaining questions. The conclusion should take approximately 10% of the total time.

This suggested division provides a basic structure for ensuring coherence throughout your presentation. However, it is also important not to encroach on the time allocated for discussion and questions, as these are essential components of any professional or conference presentation. Early planning and careful structuring are therefore crucial before beginning the visual and oral preparation.

3.Audio-Visual Equipment :

Audio-visual materials encompass all physical installations or equipment that, through their visual or auditory features, can enhance the effectiveness of communication and learning. The most commonly used tools include:

• Video (in various forms, such as films or online content)
• Computers (for example, PowerPoint presentations)
• Overhead projectors or slide projectors (transparencies)
• Whiteboards or blackboards
• Flip charts

To ensure effectiveness, these tools should meet certain general criteria: they must convey meaningful information, be legible, relevant, up-to-date, well-prepared, accurate, and easy to use. Any audio-visual material that fails to meet these standards should be avoided.

3.1. Use of Computer-Assisted Presentation Software (CAPS)

Nowadays, it is common to use computer-assisted presentation software as a support for oral presentations, with MS PowerPoint® being the most widely utilized. While a detailed technical review of the software is beyond the scope of this discussion, several key presentation principles should be noted. PowerPoint® can be a highly effective and relevant tool when used appropriately. Importantly, it should serve the content of the presentation rather than overshadow it. When properly applied, typographical and compositional guidelines ensure that the presentation remains clear, coherent, and impactful.

3.2. Typography
The choice of font and text size is not merely a matter of aesthetics. It should primarily facilitate readability, thereby enhancing the impact of your message. It is recommended to use fonts such as Arial or Times New Roman, which incorporate key features that aid reading, such as proportional spacing and absence of decorative flourishes. Avoid using overly decorative fonts, as they can impede readability and reduce the clarity of your message. All slides should maintain a consistent font size for coherence.

3.2.1 Font Size:
When projecting your presentation, the font size must allow for optimal readability. The text size should be significantly larger than that used in printed documents. A minimum font size of 18 is recommended, while 26–28 is ideal. Adjusting font size is acceptable as long as it organizes the slide effectively, with the largest size reserved for slide titles.

3.3. Graphics
Graphics play a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of your message. Special attention should be given to visual design. PowerPoint provides default design themes and color schemes, but it is essential to follow basic design principles to ensure clarity and readability.

3.3.1. Slide Background
Use a uniform background for all slides, ensuring strong contrast with the text. Dark text on a light background works well in dimly lit rooms, while light text on a dark background is preferable in bright settings.

3.3.2. Use of Colors
Colors can emphasize key points, but simplicity and restraint are recommended. For titles, black, blue, or green are suitable; avoid red as it is too aggressive. Body text should be dark for readability. Use a color wheel to select complementary colors if needed. Highlighting words with simple symbols or images is effective, but avoid underlining in digital slides, as it reduces readability and disrupts visual harmony.

3.3.3. Graphs and Illustrations
While visuals often convey information more effectively than text, ensure they are simple and clear. Only include complex charts or tables if necessary, and always explain their content and context for scientific accuracy.

3.3.4. You, Not PowerPoint, Are the Focus
Avoid overusing animations, as they can distract from your message and tire the audience. Use simple effects only when they enhance understanding. Remember, the presenter—not the software—should capture the audience’s attention.

3.3.5. Additional Tips

·       Use landscape format slides.

·       Avoid all-uppercase text, which is harder to read.

·       Check spelling carefully; errors undermine credibility.

3.4 Slide Content

The content of your slides can be designed and structured in two distinct ways.

 

The first approach, which we may call the “classic” method, consists of using full sentences or key words taken directly from the speaker’s oral presentation. Although widely used and supported by MS PowerPoint, this method has certain pitfalls. The most common issue is that the text on the slide repeats almost word-for-word what the presenter says aloud. As a result, the slides become overloaded and fail to fulfill their primary purpose: illustrating and guiding the presentation rather than acting as a teleprompter.

Therefore, avoid using complete sentences on your slides. Instead, use a few keywords. Remember that you are there to explain what appears on the screen — your audience should not be required to read long sentences while also listening to you.

A second, more innovative form of presentation — very popular in the United States — uses an “all-image” approach. In this case, slides are composed exclusively of photos or simple drawings accompanied by only one or two keywords. This method requires perfect mastery of your presentation and is only appropriate when the topic lends itself to strong visual representation.

This type of presentation is best suited for experienced speakers. For beginners, a balanced compromise between the two approaches is recommended.

4.Oral Presentation :

To approach the demanding task of delivering an oral presentation under the best possible conditions, several key aspects should be carefully considered. Adhering to these elements will help ensure that your message is effectively communicated and that your presentation achieves maximum clarity and relevance.

4.1 Preparation

Just like the previous stages, the oral presentation requires careful attention and thorough preparation.
It is essential to write a full script of what you intend to say — and to stick to it.
Improvisation should be reduced as much as possible; even experienced speakers avoid it unless the framework is extremely controlled.

Write your script based on the elements you defined when creating your outline or narrative thread.
Should you memorize your text? Yes, as long as you learn it not as a continuous prose text, but as a spoken discourse with appropriate intonation.
This type of memorization creates fluency, enhances your delivery, and helps reduce anxiety.
In any case, your opening sentences must be delivered automatically and with confidence.

4.1.1. Rehearsal

The less experience you have, the more essential it is to rehearse your presentation thoroughly. Practicing in front of colleagues or a small audience of two or three people will help you identify and correct mistakes—whether related to content or delivery. Honest and direct feedback is particularly valuable. Ideally, some members of your audience should be unfamiliar with your topic to ensure that your presentation and vocabulary remain clear and accessible to everyone.
If possible, record yourself on video or audio. Although this may feel uncomfortable, watching your own performance provides highly instructive insights.
Since many conference presentations are delivered with a microphone, getting used to hearing your own amplified voice can prevent discomfort on the day of the event.
Finally, avoid rehearsing at the last minute so you have enough time to make the necessary adjustments.

4.1.2. Timing

It is crucial to measure the duration of your oral presentation with great precision. Under stress, people tend to speak faster or skip certain parts without noticing. During the presentation, placing your watch on the podium allows you to track your progress. If you realize that you are running out of time, it is better to omit certain sections rather than rush through your speech.

4.1.3 Dress Code in Presentations

The clothing of a presenter is an important part of the overall message, as famously stated by Marshall McLuhan: “The medium is the message.” What you wear can influence how your audience perceives you, so it is essential to avoid distracting items such as hats, flashy ties, bright or unusual colors, and visible piercings. Dress appropriately for the context and the audience, and it is generally better to be slightly more formally dressed than your listeners. Business attire expectations vary depending on the field; for example, wearing a tie may be required in banking but is often unnecessary in architecture or engineering. Jeans, once considered inappropriate in many professional settings, are now widely accepted. The golden rule of dressing for presentations is simplicity and sobriety, unless a specific impact is intended.

4.2. Oral Expression:

Naturally, the principles that govern writing and speaking are not the same. We do not speak the way we write. Oral communication allows for more flexibility in paraphrasing and argumentation. However, many presentations are still delivered by reading a written text aloud—an approach that often results in poor comprehension and weakens the message. This is especially true because reading aloud effectively is a highly demanding skill.

An oral presentation is not a recitation; it is an opportunity to convey ideas and persuade your audience.
Therefore, when preparing your script, write it in a style that mirrors spoken language. Read it aloud to check its natural flow. Spoken communication follows more flexible rules, and you should take advantage of this. Unlike writing, speaking permits repetition—use this to emphasize your key points.

4.3 Public Speaking: The Greatest Fear

Speaking in public remains a major challenge for many people and is often described as “the greatest of all fears.” Almost everyone has experienced anxiety during a presentation—stumbling over words, trembling, or struggling to control their voice. Oral presentation is a social act, and because it shapes both how we see ourselves and how we believe others perceive us, it becomes a source of significant pressure. This fear largely stems from negative self-judgment and from the concern about others’ judgment. However, following a few key principles can help reduce and manage this stress.

4.3.1 Preparation

Preparation cannot be emphasized enough. Being thoroughly familiar with your topic will make you more confident and prevent you from searching for your words. It also provides a clear structure for your presentation. To achieve this, rehearse repeatedly. Avoid last-minute changes, as they may disrupt the flow of your talk. Every section should be memorized, especially the introduction and conclusion. If possible, visit the venue beforehand and prepare backup solutions in case of technical issues.

4.3.2 Breathing

Breathing is essential for managing stress effectively. It directly influences voice production and contributes to muscular and mental relaxation. The quality of your voice depends on steady, deep breathing. Before starting your speech, pause briefly, take two deep breaths, and begin speaking as you exhale the second one. During your presentation, remember to breathe calmly during natural pauses, punctuation, and rhythm changes.

4.3.3 Physical Relaxation

Successful oral presentations are also prepared in the days beforehand. Maintaining good habits—adequate sleep, healthy eating, and regular physical activity—plays an important role.
Before speaking, simple relaxation techniques can help, such as identifying areas of tension (face, back, neck, abdomen) and progressively releasing that tension.

4.3.4 Mental Relaxation

Stress is often fueled by negative thoughts linked to past failures or fears. Replacing these with positive and encouraging mental images can be beneficial.
During your presentation, avoid apologizing for feeling stressed. Doing so usually increases discomfort. Audiences recognize that public speaking is challenging, and they will not judge you harshly as long as your work is serious and well prepared.

4.4. Gestures and Voice

4.4.1 Gestures
Nonverbal communication plays a major role in presentations. Maintain minimal, controlled gestures that convey openness and approachability. Avoid crossing your arms or legs, and do not fidget with objects to manage stress. Never turn your back to the audience; keep your words audible and impactful. If you are not fully familiar with your slides, keep a printed copy for quick reference. Start with a smile and thank the audience for attending. Address the entire room with your gaze, occasionally focusing on individual participants. Positioning colleagues at the corners of the room can provide reassuring visual anchors.

4.4.2 Voice
Your voice reflects your conviction. Adapt it to the audience while speaking clearly, with precise articulation and a calm but firm tone. Stress may accelerate speech; consciously slow your pace and include pauses to emphasize key points. These pauses are vital for audience attention and are perceived as shorter by listeners than by the speaker.

4.4.3 Speaking Time
Respect the allotted time for your presentation and Q&A. Proper timing demonstrates professionalism and preparation. Plan your speech duration carefully during rehearsal to ensure full coverage without overrunning.

5. Conclusion

Oral presentations are challenging social acts reflecting who we are and the image we project.

Public speaking is unnatural and requires careful preparation.

Success relies on three key points:

·       Content: credible, relevant, and well-structured.

·       Slides: simple, clear, and informative.

·       Delivery: clear, precise, and understandable.

Simplicity in both form and content is essential.

Practice increases confidence and improves presentation quality.