Speaking from notes.
Speaking from notes. If you decide to speak from notes rather than from a full script, here are some tips for doing so effectively:
- In general, use one note card for each point in your presentation.
- Number the cards in case they get scrambled.
- On each card, start with the major point you want to make in large bold text. Include subpoints in a bulleted list below the main point, again printed large enough for you to see easily.
- Include signpost language on each note, and use it to guide your listeners.
- Practice your presentation using the notes at least twice.
- Use color or brackets to mark material in your notes that you can skip if you run out of time.
The following note card for Shuqiao Song’s introduction reminds her to emphasize her title and her three points. Notice how she has highlighted her signpost language as well as the card’s number.
NOTE CARD FOR AN ORAL PRESENTATION