CMNS 1140 – Week 8: Effective Presentations

32 question-and-answer flashcards covering purposes, planning, audience analysis, outlines, scripts, presentation structures, visual-aid design, delivery techniques, virtual best practices, and AI tools from the Week 8 CMNS 1140 lecture on Effective Presentations.

What are three common reasons we create presentations?

To share information, to sell or persuade, and to showcase knowledge/expertise.

Which four qualities make a good presentation according to the lecture?

Clear, Credible, Convincing, and Concise.

What are four typical intentions a presenter might have?

Summarize key points, persuade the audience to act, support quick decision-making, and provide status updates.

Two advantages of giving a live presentation.

It offers a synopsis of information and provides an opportunity for immediate Q&A/feedback.

When planning a presentation, what is the first question you should ask?

What is the purpose?

Purpose of the presentation

Why you’re giving this presentation. Will help narrow down the focus, structure, and tone

In Gerald’s 10-minute pitch scenario, what is his primary purpose?

To persuade (sell) Grant Logistics’ Chief Fun Officer on his company’s conference-planning services.

List three audience-analysis questions you should consider before presenting.

Do they care? What are their constraints or concerns? What do they already know or need to know?

What two audience reactions does the concept of ‘relevance’ try to address?

“Why am I here?” and “So what? Why should I care?”

Why is an outline called a ‘roadmap’ for your presentation?

Because it organizes ideas, creates logical flow, and keeps the presenter focused from introduction to conclusion.

What must every outline include besides an introduction and conclusion?

A clear main message (header/title) with supporting points and evidence.

How does a presentation script differ from an outline?

A script converts outline points into full sentences and paragraphs written in clear, conversational language.

Two benefits of preparing a full script before presenting.

It helps the presenter deliver the message clearly and confidently, and ensures key points are expressed concisely.

Name the five core components that should appear in any presentation structure.

Plan/outline, pathway (agenda/objectives), logical flow (intro, key points, conclusion), one key message, and anecdotes/examples.

What are the main sections of a REPORT-style presentation approach?

Main message, Introduction, Problem/Opportunity, Solution, Conclusion & Recommendations.

In a RESEARCH PROJECT presentation, where might the main message appear?

The main message may come at the end, after presenting question, investigation, findings, and analysis.

What storytelling elements define a NARRATIVE approach?

Characters, their quest/puzzle, actions/barriers, possible happy ending, and moral or main message.

How does a SUCCESS STORY approach aim to persuade business clients?

By showing competence through a problem-solution structure that convinces the client they have a problem the presenter can fix.

What is the single most important rule for slide design?

Focus on one clear message per slide.

Two slide-design practices related to formatting and readability.

Use a consistent format and make content easy to read (appropriate font size, contrast, minimal clutter).

How should presenters reference tables or figures verbally or textually?

By explicitly citing them, e.g., “As seen in Table 1” or parenthetical references like “(see Figure 4).”

Why should text be limited on slides?

Excess text distracts the audience; concise bullets help them grasp the key message quickly.

List three general tips for effective visual aids

Communicate a single point, use labels on data, and ensure accurate portrayal of information.

Why is humour sometimes recommended in presentations?

It can engage the audience, lighten the atmosphere, and make the message more memorable.

Four delivery techniques for an excellent in-person presentation.

Practice, maintain visual contact, use open body language, and project the voice clearly.

How can a speaker involve the audience during a presentation?

By asking questions, encouraging interaction, or incorporating activities that require audience participation.

What is one advantage of pausing strategically while speaking?

Pauses give the audience time to absorb information and emphasize key points.

List three best practices specific to virtual presentations.

Use proper lighting and background, look at the camera for eye contact, and engage participants through chat or polls.

Why is standing up recommended when presenting virtually?

Standing raises energy levels and places the body in a more natural presentation posture.

Two ways generative AI can assist in creating presentations.

It can generate an outline or script from prompts and design slide layouts and graphics automatically.

What should you always do after AI generates your content and design?

Refine and customize for accuracy, relevance, tone, and brand alignment.

How does the Presenter Coach tool in PowerPoint help speakers?

It provides rehearsal reports on pace, fillers, originality, and other speaking metrics to improve delivery.