Stage 3 · Lesson 2 of 7
A simple structure
A short talk needs only a simple shape. One that works for most class and work presentations: the problem (why should anyone care?), what you did or found, the evidence, and what it means or what you want next. Open with the problem or a short concrete example, not "Hello, today I will talk about...".
Tell people at the start what you will cover so they can follow, and repeat the main message at the end. For a demo, show the result early, then explain how it works.
Common trapfollowing the order you did the work in, which is rarely the order an audience needs to hear it.
A question to check yourself and an AI practice session come when you add the roadmap to your account. Add it
Resources for this stage
Start with· follow one of these
- CourseFreeIntroduction to Public Speaking (University of Washington, Coursera)
University of Washington on Coursera · Beginner
A free-to-audit University of Washington course on preparing and giving talks
- VideoFreeHow to Speak So That People Want to Listen (Julian Treasure, TEDGlobal 2013)
Julian Treasure (TEDGlobal 2013)
Short, practical talk on voice, pace and habits that make people stop listening
Practise
Keep handy
Struggling right now? If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, contact local emergency services or a crisis line: Find a helpline (any country), Umang (Pakistan), Tele-MANAS, 14416 (India).