"We translate complex science into terms the non-scientist can understand and relate to."
Chris Atack, Atack Associates

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Thoughts on writing presentation for live audiences

Writing good presentations is an art and a science. For that reason, we take a scientific approach as much as possible.

We make sure we understand the key messages and the expectations of the audience. We check to see if we can communicate the essential points in the time available. If not, we work with clients to focus their messages, so they fit the available time.

And when writing, we follow the five simple rules below. All are obvious, all are important. All of them revolve around meeting the needs and fulfilling the expectations of the audience.

Rule # 1: keep them with you all the way

Make the language light, the connections clear and the relevance of the material obvious.

Rule # 2: keep them interested

Keep the flow moving at a good pace. Don't get bogged down with endless facts, figures, laundry lists or minutiae. Make the point and move on briskly!

Rule #3: keep them involved

Interactive exercises at regular intervals keep them engaged. Give them a quiz. Ask them questions. Make them feel they're part of the show. (They are!)

Rule #4: give them value

A presentation implies an unspoken bargain. Audience members give you their valuable time. In return, you give them information of value. Speakers have to deliver relevant, useful content or the audience will feel cheated.

Rule #5: use visual aids sparingly

Slides and overheads are great to summarize key messages. Graphs, simple charts or pictures can hammer home some points in a way words can't. But too much visual support can break up the flow of a presentation and distract from what's being said. Using visuals is a balancing act.