So you have to give a college presentation? Well, at some point in college it was inevitable. In fact, chances are you will have to give multiple presentations during your four year college career. My last four years were full of classes that required at least one presentation. I’m going to share with you what helped me the most during every single presentation. Trust me, if I can do it so can you!
1) Do Your Research
Before worrying about speaking in front of people, do the research for your project. If you have nothing to talk about, then you will definitely fail. However, if you have all your content prepared but seem nervous and not that good at speaking, chances are your professor will still give you a passing grade. It’s much easier to talk in front of people when you are confident that you have good material.
2) Don’t Read Off of Slides
Generally speaking, professors will hate it when you read off of PowerPoint slides or a note card. Memorize your material and have key words on your slides/notes that will help you remember what you’re supposed to say. Even if you don’t have public speaking skills, you will come off as confident in what you know.
3) Practice in a Mirror
Especially if you have a time limit, it is very important that you time yourself and practice giving your presentation. If you have a lot of practice public speaking, then maybe you can get away with not doing this. However, more often than not college students don’t have much experience speaking in front of crowds. Get your presentation out, along with your notes, and look in a mirror while you give the presentation to yourself. Make sure you have a stopwatch and are able to time yourself; keep doing it until you are confident, satisfied, and or under the time allotted to you.
4) Dress to Impress
Although this isn’t always required, you should at least look presentable. If you come off as an expert and look the part, it might give you a better grade. Now, if the majority of other students did not dress up for their presentation, then don’t come dressed in a suit or tie (or fancy dress). Instead, find a happy medium; slacks, khakis, and a nice collared shirt might due. This way, nobody will think you are trying too hard, yet they will see you as well-prepared.
5) Don’t Worry, Chances Are You Will Pass
If you’re reading this, I’m pretty confident you will get a decent grade on your presentation. I have found that, the people who fail or just get average grades in college, are those who do not try very hard. Plus, most professors I’ve come into contact with are very laid back when it comes to grading presentations; as long as you try and have good content, you will get a good grade. So, don’t get overwhelmed with this presentation. If you are, don’t be afraid to speak to the professor about it; they might just calm your mind and assure you that you will do great.
Don’t become a slave to fear, worry, and anxiety due to an upcoming presentation. Follow these tips and you will be on your way to giving great presentations and doing very well in your classes.
