Sample Presentation Outline

Introduction (may be written last)

1. Capture your listeners' attention. Begin with a question, a funny story, a startling comment, or anything that will make them think;


2. State your purpose. For example, "I'm going to talk about...," or "This morning I want to explain...;'


3. Present an outline of your talk. For example, "I will concentrate on the following points: First of all ... Then ... This will lead to ... And finally...."

The Body

1. Present your main points one by one in logical order;


2. Pause at the end of each point (give people time to take notes, or time to think about what you are saying);


3. Make it absolutely clear when you move to another point. For example:
   • "The next point is that ...;"
   • "OK, now I am going to talk about ...;"
   • "Right. Now I'd like to explain ...;"
   • "Of course, we must not forget that ...;"
   • "However, it's important to realize that...."
   
   
4. Use clear examples to illustrate your points;


5. Use visual aids to make your presentation more interesting.

The Conclusion

1. It is very important to leave your audience with a clear summary of everything you have covered;


2. It is also important not to let the talk just fizzle out. Make it obvious that you have reached the end of the presentation;


3. Summarize the main points again, using phrases such as, "To sum up...," "So, in conclusion...," and "OK, to recap the main points...;"


4. Restate the purpose of your talk, and say that you have achieved your aim with phrases such as "I think you can now see that...," "My intention was...," and "It should now be clear that...;"
5. Thank the audience and invite questions.

Adapted from the University of Canberra's Oral Presentation Webpage.