Help! I have a class presentation!

[Morgan241191]

I have really bad anxiety and I need to present in front of the whole class tomorrow. Does anyone have any tips?

[White_Rose]

Dear Morgan

Hello and welcome to the forum.

The dreaded presentations. Yes I know the feeling. So first steps, have you got your presentation written, any supporting materials like power point, comfortable with what you want to say. That doesn't mean you are comfortable delivering it. If these steps are all in place you can go ahead.

Have you practised the presentation, either on your own or to a couple of people you know well? Presentations are a matter of rehearsal until you become settled and confident to present. That said it's always good to be a little nervous and have a bit of adrenalin to help.

So you have finalised your presentation, all your aids are with the presentation, you know how to work any media you are using and most of all you know you have something worthwhile to present.

Rehearse a couple of times.

The look at yourself and say "I know my stuff. I may get a little nervous but then everyone gets nervous. My audience will be sympathetic because they will have done this or are going to do it. And who knows, they may learn something from me in how to deliver a presentation.

If you feel unsure for a moment, take a deep breath, sip of water if there is any, and get yourself back on track. No need to apologise for a small pause. It will seem longer to you than the audience. Remember to smile.

ALWAYS REMEMBER YOUR AUDIENCE IS PRIVILEGED TO HEAR WHAT YOU HAVE TO SAY.

Let us know how you go.

Mary

[Just Sara]

Hi Morgan and welcome!

Just to add to Mary's great tips, engaging with your classmates at the end might help as well.

When I did a class presentation, I gave an opportunity for them to ask questions near the end. They were really inquisitive and because I knew lots about the topic, it turned into a discussion and subsequently gave me a high distinction.

Also, don't look at your classmates too much while you're going thru the motions, look at your lecturer more often. They're the ones who'll give you more encouragement than anyone. A smile can work wonders from them. If you do look towards your peers, only focus on their hair, not their faces. This way it looks like you're engaging with them.

You'll score points for this even if your content might lack info or pizzazz. As Mary says; take regular breaks to breathe deeply. This will tell your brain you're relaxed and minimise any physical anxiety.

If you're able, let the class know in the beginning you're nervous and apologise for being a little uncomfortable. "I ask that you're patient as I'm a bit nervous. Please bear with me as things progress. Thankyou for understanding"

The fact you're on here asking for support's a credit to you. Good luck with it and let us know how you went and if our tips helped you settle.

Kind thoughts;

Sez

[Megzt84]

Hi Morgan,

I recently had to do a number of presentations for a course I did at work. At the end of the day the ones who said they had been the most nervous did not actually show it. You may feel super nervous but just remember that they will not even notice.

My tips are to speak slowly rather than rush. This usually helps me stay more calm. Also practise speaking to yourself at home tonight.

If you feel nervous right at the start take a really deep breath.

You've got this