presentation style description

The 8 Types of Presentation Styles: Which Category Do You Fall Into?

Updated: December 16, 2020

Published: May 05, 2016

Types of Presentations

• Visual Style
• Freeform Style
• Instructor Style
• Coach Style
• Storytelling Style
• Connector Style
• Lessig Style
• Takahashi Style

Everyone on the internet has an opinion on how to give the “perfect” presentation.

One group champions visual aids, another thinks visual aids are a threat to society as we know it. One expert preaches the benefits of speaking loudly, while another believes the softer you speak the more your audience pays attention. And don’t even try to find coordinating opinions on whether you should start your presentation with a story, quote, statistic, or question.

But what if there wasn’t just one “right” way to give a presentation? What if there were several? Below, I’ve outlined eight types of presentation styles. They’re used by famous speakers like Steve Jobs and Al Gore -- and none of them are wrong.

Check out each one and decide which will be most effective for you.

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Types of Presentation Styles

1. visual style.

What it is: If you’re a firm believer slides simply exist to complement your talking points, this style is for you. With this speaking style, you might need to work a little harder to get your audience engaged, but the dividends can be huge for strong public speakers, visionaries, and storytellers.

When to use it: This style is helpful when speaking to a large audience with broad interests. It’s also great for when you need to throw together slides quickly.

Visual style presenter: Steve Jobs

2. Freeform Style

What it is: This impromptu style of presenting doesn’t require slides. Instead, the speaker relies on strong stories to illustrate each point. This style works best for those who have a short presentation time and are extremely familiar with their talking points.

When to use it: Elevator pitches, networking events, and impromptu meetings are all scenarios in which to use a freeform style of speaking. You’ll appear less rehearsed and more conversational than if you were to pause in the middle of a happy hour to pull up your presentation on a tablet.

Freeform style presenter: Sir Ken Robinson

3. Instructor Style

What it is: This presentation style allows you to deliver complex messages using figures of speech, metaphors, and lots of content -- just like your teachers and professors of old. Your decks should be built in logical order to aid your presentation, and you should use high-impact visuals to support your ideas and keep the audience engaged.

When to use it: If you’re not a comfortable presenter or are unfamiliar with your subject matter (i.e., your product was recently updated and you’re not familiar with the finer points), try instructor-style presenting.

Instructor style presenter: Al Gore

4. Coach Style

What it is: Energetic and charismatic speakers gravitate towards this style of presenting. It allows them to connect and engage with their audience using role play and listener interaction.

When to use it: Use this presentation style when you’re speaking at a conference or presenting to an audience who needs to be put at ease. For example, this style would work well if you were speaking to a group of executives who need to be sold on the idea of what your company does rather than the details of how you do it.

Coach style presenter: Linda Edgecombe

5. Storytelling Style

What it is: In this style, the speaker relies on anecdotes and examples to connect with their audience. Stories bring your learning points to life, and the TED’s Commandments never let you down: Let your emotions out and tell your story in an honest way.

When to use it: Avoid this style if you’re in the discovery phase of the sales process. You want to keep the conversation about your prospect instead of circling every point or question back to you or a similar client. This style is great for conference speaking, networking events, and sales presentations where you have adequate time to tell your stories without taking minutes away from questions.

Storytelling style presenter: Jill Bolte Taylor

6. Connector Style

What it is: In this style, presenters connect with their audience by showing how they’re similar to their listeners. Connectors usually enjoy freeform Q&A and use gestures when they speak. They also highly encourage audience reaction and feedback to what they’re saying.

When to use it: Use this style of presenting early in the sales process as you’re learning about your prospect’s pain points, challenges, and goals. This type of speaking sets your listener at ease, elicits feedback on how you’re doing in real time, and is more of a dialogue than a one-sided presentation

Connector style presenter: Connie Dieken

7. Lessig Style

What it is: The Lessig Style was created by Lawrence Lessig , a professor of law and leadership at Harvard Law School. This presentation style requires the presenter to pass through each slide within 15 seconds. When text is used in a slide, it’s typically synchronized with the presenter’s spoken words.

When to use it: This method of presentation is great for large crowds -- and it allows the speaker to use a balance of text and image to convey their message. The rapid pace and rhythm of the slide progression keeps audiences focused, engaged, and less likely to snooze.

Lessig style presenter: Lawrence Lessig

8. Takahashi Style

What it is: This method features large, bold text on minimal slides. It was devised by Masayoshi Takahashi , who found himself creating slides without access to a presentation design tool or PowerPoint. The main word is the focal point of the slide, and phrases, used sparingly, are short and concise.

When to use it: If you find yourself in Takahashi’s shoes -- without presentation design software -- this method is for you. This style works well for short presentations that pack a memorable punch.

Takahashi style presenter: Masayoshi Takahashi

Slides from one of Takahashi’s presentations:

Whether you’re speaking on a conference stage or giving a sales presentation , you can find a method that works best for you and your audience. With the right style, you’ll capture attention, engage listeners, and effectively share your message. You can even ask an AI presentation maker tool to create presentations for you in your preferred style

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Blog Beginner Guides 8 Types of Presentations You Should Know [+Examples & Tips]

8 Types of Presentations You Should Know [+Examples & Tips]

Written by: Krystle Wong Aug 11, 2023

From persuasive pitches that influence opinions to instructional demonstrations that teach skills, the different types of presentations serve a unique purpose, tailored to specific objectives and audiences.

Presentations that are tailored to its objectives and audiences are more engaging and memorable. They capture attention, maintain interest and leave a lasting impression. 

Don’t worry if you’re no designer —  Whether you need data-driven visuals, persuasive graphics or engaging design elements, Venngage can empower you to craft presentations that stand out and effectively convey your message.

Venngage’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface, extensive presentation template library and customizable design options make it a valuable tool for creating slides that align with your specific goals and target audience. 

Click to jump ahead:

8 Different types of presentations every presenter must know

How do i choose the right type of presentation for my topic or audience, types of presentation faq, 5 steps to create a presentation with venngage .

When it comes to presentations, versatility is the name of the game. Having a variety of presentation styles up your sleeve can make a world of difference in keeping your audience engaged. Here are 8 essential presentation types that every presenter should be well-acquainted with:

1. Informative presentation

Ever sat through a presentation that left you feeling enlightened? That’s the power of an informative presentation. 

This presentation style is all about sharing knowledge and shedding light on a particular topic. Whether you’re diving into the depths of quantum physics or explaining the intricacies of the latest social media trends, informative presentations aim to increase the audience’s understanding.

When delivering an informative presentation, simplify complex topics with clear visuals and relatable examples. Organize your content logically, starting with the basics and gradually delving deeper and always remember to keep jargon to a minimum and encourage questions for clarity.

Academic presentations and research presentations are great examples of informative presentations. An effective academic presentation involves having clear structure, credible evidence, engaging delivery and supporting visuals. Provide context to emphasize the topic’s significance, practice to perfect timing, and be ready to address anticipated questions. 

2. Persuasive presentation

If you’ve ever been swayed by a passionate speaker armed with compelling arguments, you’ve experienced a persuasive presentation . 

This type of presentation is like a verbal tug-of-war, aiming to convince the audience to see things from a specific perspective. Expect to encounter solid evidence, logical reasoning and a dash of emotional appeal.

With persuasive presentations, it’s important to know your audience inside out and tailor your message to their interests and concerns. Craft a compelling narrative with a strong opening, a solid argument and a memorable closing. Additionally, use visuals strategically to enhance your points.

Examples of persuasive presentations include presentations for environmental conservations, policy change, social issues and more. Here are some engaging presentation templates you can use to get started with: 

3. Demonstration or how-to presentation

A Demonstration or How-To Presentation is a type of presentation where the speaker showcases a process, technique, or procedure step by step, providing the audience with clear instructions on how to replicate the demonstrated action. 

A demonstrative presentation is particularly useful when teaching practical skills or showing how something is done in a hands-on manner.

These presentations are commonly used in various settings, including educational workshops, training sessions, cooking classes, DIY tutorials, technology demonstrations and more. Designing creative slides for your how-to presentations can heighten engagement and foster better information retention. 

Speakers can also consider breaking down the process into manageable steps, using visual aids, props and sometimes even live demonstrations to illustrate each step. The key is to provide clear and concise instructions, engage the audience with interactive elements and address any questions that may arise during the presentation.

4. Training or instructional presentation

Training presentations are geared towards imparting practical skills, procedures or concepts — think of this as the more focused cousin of the demonstration presentation. 

Whether you’re teaching a group of new employees the ins and outs of a software or enlightening budding chefs on the art of soufflé-making, training presentations are all about turning novices into experts.

To maximize the impact of your training or instructional presentation, break down complex concepts into digestible segments. Consider using real-life examples to illustrate each point and create a connection. 

You can also create an interactive presentation by incorporating elements like quizzes or group activities to reinforce understanding.

5. Sales presentation

Sales presentations are one of the many types of business presentations and the bread and butter of businesses looking to woo potential clients or customers. With a sprinkle of charm and a dash of persuasion, these presentations showcase products, services or ideas with one end goal in mind: sealing the deal.

A successful sales presentation often has key characteristics such as a clear value proposition, strong storytelling, confidence and a compelling call to action. Hence, when presenting to your clients or stakeholders, focus on benefits rather than just features. 

Anticipate and address potential objections before they arise and use storytelling to showcase how your offering solves a specific problem for your audience. Utilizing visual aids is also a great way to make your points stand out and stay memorable.

A sales presentation can be used to promote service offerings, product launches or even consultancy proposals that outline the expertise and industry experience of a business. Here are some template examples you can use for your next sales presentation:

6. Pitch presentation

Pitch presentations are your ticket to garnering the interest and support of potential investors, partners or stakeholders. Think of your pitch deck as your chance to paint a vivid picture of your business idea or proposal and secure the resources you need to bring it to life. 

Business presentations aside, individuals can also create a portfolio presentation to showcase their skills, experience and achievements to potential clients, employers or investors. 

Craft a concise and compelling narrative. Clearly define the problem your idea solves and how it stands out in the market. Anticipate questions and practice your answers. Project confidence and passion for your idea.

7. Motivational or inspirational presentation

Feeling the need for a morale boost? That’s where motivational presentations step in. These talks are designed to uplift and inspire, often featuring personal anecdotes, heartwarming stories and a generous serving of encouragement.

Form a connection with your audience by sharing personal stories that resonate with your message. Use a storytelling style with relatable anecdotes and powerful metaphors to create an emotional connection. Keep the energy high and wrap up your inspirational presentations with a clear call to action.

Inspirational talks and leadership presentations aside, a motivational or inspirational presentation can also be a simple presentation aimed at boosting confidence, a motivational speech focused on embracing change and more.

8. Status or progress report presentation

Projects and businesses are like living organisms, constantly evolving and changing. Status or progress report presentations keep everyone in the loop by providing updates on achievements, challenges and future plans. It’s like a GPS for your team, ensuring everyone stays on track.

Be transparent about achievements, challenges and future plans. Utilize infographics, charts and diagrams to present your data visually and simplify information. By visually representing data, it becomes easier to identify trends, make predictions and strategize based on evidence.

Now that you’ve learned about the different types of presentation methods and how to use them, you’re on the right track to creating a good presentation that can boost your confidence and enhance your presentation skills . 

Selecting the most suitable presentation style is akin to choosing the right outfit for an occasion – it greatly influences how your message is perceived. Here’s a more detailed guide to help you make that crucial decision:

1. Define your objectives

Begin by clarifying your presentation’s goals. Are you aiming to educate, persuade, motivate, train or perhaps sell a concept? Your objectives will guide you to the most suitable presentation type. 

For instance, if you’re aiming to inform, an informative presentation would be a natural fit. On the other hand, a persuasive presentation suits the goal of swaying opinions.

2. Know your audience

Regardless if you’re giving an in-person or a virtual presentation — delve into the characteristics of your audience. Consider factors like their expertise level, familiarity with the topic, interests and expectations. 

If your audience consists of professionals in your field, a more technical presentation might be suitable. However, if your audience is diverse and includes newcomers, an approachable and engaging style might work better.

3. Analyze your content

Reflect on the content you intend to present. Is it data-heavy, rich in personal stories or focused on practical skills? Different presentation styles serve different content types. 

For data-driven content, an informative or instructional presentation might work best. For emotional stories, a motivational presentation could be a compelling choice.

4. Consider time constraints

Evaluate the time you have at your disposal. If your presentation needs to be concise due to time limitations, opt for a presentation style that allows you to convey your key points effectively within the available timeframe. A pitch presentation, for example, often requires delivering impactful information within a short span.

5. Leverage visuals

Visual aids are powerful tools in presentations. Consider whether your content would benefit from visual representation. If your PowerPoint presentations involve step-by-step instructions or demonstrations, a how-to presentation with clear visuals would be advantageous. Conversely, if your content is more conceptual, a motivational presentation could rely more on spoken words.

6. Align with the setting

Take the presentation environment into account. Are you presenting in a formal business setting, a casual workshop or a conference? Your setting can influence the level of formality and interactivity in your presentation. For instance, a demonstration presentation might be ideal for a hands-on workshop, while a persuasive presentation is great for conferences.

7. Gauge audience interaction

Determine the level of audience engagement you want. Interactive presentations work well for training sessions, workshops and small group settings, while informative or persuasive presentations might be more one-sided.

8. Flexibility

Stay open to adjusting your presentation style on the fly. Sometimes, unexpected factors might require a change of presentation style. Be prepared to adjust on the spot if audience engagement or reactions indicate that a different approach would be more effective.

Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and the best type of presentation may vary depending on the specific situation and your unique communication goals. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the most effective presentation type to successfully engage and communicate with your audience.

To save time, use a presentation software or check out these presentation design and presentation background guides to create a presentation that stands out.    

What are some effective ways to begin and end a presentation?

Capture your audience’s attention from the start of your presentation by using a surprising statistic, a compelling story or a thought-provoking question related to your topic. 

To conclude your presentation , summarize your main points, reinforce your key message and leave a lasting impression with a powerful call to action or a memorable quote that resonates with your presentation’s theme.

How can I make my presentation more engaging and interactive?

To create an engaging and interactive presentation for your audience, incorporate visual elements such as images, graphs and videos to illustrate your points visually. Share relatable anecdotes or real-life examples to create a connection with your audience. 

You can also integrate interactive elements like live polls, open-ended questions or small group discussions to encourage participation and keep your audience actively engaged throughout your presentation.

Which types of presentations require special markings

Some presentation types require special markings such as how sales presentations require persuasive techniques like emphasizing benefits, addressing objections and using compelling visuals to showcase products or services. 

Demonstrations and how-to presentations on the other hand require clear markings for each step, ensuring the audience can follow along seamlessly. 

That aside, pitch presentations require highlighting unique selling points, market potential and the competitive edge of your idea, making it stand out to potential investors or partners.

Need some inspiration on how to make a presentation that will captivate an audience? Here are 120+ presentation ideas to help you get started. 

Creating a stunning and impactful presentation with Venngage is a breeze. Whether you’re crafting a business pitch, a training presentation or any other type of presentation, follow these five steps to create a professional presentation that stands out:

• Sign up and log in to Venngage to access the editor.
• Choose a presentation template that matches your topic or style.
• Customize content, colors, fonts, and background to personalize your presentation.
• Add images, icons, and charts to enhancevisual style and clarity.
• Save, export, and share your presentation as PDF or PNG files, or use Venngage’s Presentation Mode for online showcasing.

In the realm of presentations, understanding the different types of presentation formats is like having a versatile set of tools that empower you to craft compelling narratives for every occasion.

Remember, the key to a successful presentation lies not only in the content you deliver but also in the way you connect with your audience. Whether you’re informing, persuading or entertaining, tailoring your approach to the specific type of presentation you’re delivering can make all the difference.

Presentations are a powerful tool, and with practice and dedication (and a little help from Venngage), you’ll find yourself becoming a presentation pro in no time. Now, let’s get started and customize your next presentation!

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10 Types Of Presentation Styles You Should Know

Have you ever felt like engaging your colleagues during a presentation is a bit of a daunting task? Well, it can be quite challenging, and even more so if you do not have the right strategy and presentation skills . But what if I tell you that finding the right approach is incredibly rewarding? 

There are various presentation styles , each designed to inform and entertain in its own way. It’s essential to consider your audience and the topic to determine which style will resonate best. When you tailor your presentation to meet its goals and connect with your colleagues, it becomes more captivating and memorable. 

A well-crafted presentation always grabs attention, keeps the interest alive, and leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re delivering a persuasive pitch or a hands-on demonstration, choosing the right format can make all the difference.

In this blog, we will discover different types of presentation styles and learn how to prepare for a presentation in the workplace.

What are presentation styles?

If you’re gearing up for a presentation, one key element to keep in mind is the different techniques and methods you can use. Presentation style is all about the techniques you use to deliver your speech as a business professional. The ideal style often depends on several factors, including your subject matter, your coworkers, and your approach to explaining concepts. 

Sometimes, you might stick to one main style for the entire presentation, while other times, blending different styles can help convey your topic more effectively.

Now let us walk you through over 10 different presentation formats, along with their pros and cons, to help you find the one that fits you best.

10 Types Of Presentation Styles In The Workplace

1. storyteller.

Many presenters choose the storytelling style when they have enough time to dive into their topic. This approach is great for presentations that don’t rely heavily on numbers or statistics. 

Storytelling is all about using personal anecdotes and emotions to grab your coworkers’ attention and connect with them. It usually kicks off with a personal story that ties back to the main topic. This style works especially well if you know your audience isn’t as engaged by charts or data.

• Pros : Engaging and relatable; creates an emotional connection.
• Cons : Needs a strong narrative to keep the audience's interest.

2. Visual 

This style is all about using visuals to enhance your topic and make your points clearer. Presenters often incorporate charts, images, graphs, and other visual aids to help the audience better grasp the subject. It’s key to strike a good balance between text and visuals to create a well-rounded presentation. 

This approach works particularly well if you’re dealing with complex or detailed information that you want your colleagues to understand easily.

• Pros : Captivating and helping clarify complex ideas; aids memory retention .
• Cons : Over-reliance on visuals can overshadow the message.

3. Informative

This presentation style focuses on sharing knowledge and helping your employees understand a specific topic better. Whether you’re tackling something as complex as quantum physics or breaking down the latest social media trends, the goal is to make the information accessible.

When you’re delivering an informative presentation, it’s helpful to simplify tricky concepts using clear visuals and relatable examples. Organize your content in a logical way—start with the basics and gradually dive deeper. And don’t forget to keep jargon to a minimum! Encouraging questions along the way can really help clarify things for everyone.

• Pros : Clear and straightforward; great for sharing essential information.
• Cons : Can be dry if not engaging enough.

4. Persuasive

A persuasive presentation is like a verbal tug-of-war, where the goal is to get your audience to see things from your perspective. You’ll want to back up your points with solid evidence, logical reasoning, and a bit of emotional appeal to really connect.

To make this style effective, it’s crucial to know your audience well and tailor your message to their interests and concerns . Start with a strong opening to grab attention, build a solid argument, and finish with a memorable closing. Plus, using visuals wisely can really help drive your points home!

• Pros : Powerful for influencing opinions and motivating action.
• Cons : Might come off as pushy if not done thoughtfully.

5. Demonstrative

A demonstrative presentation style is all about showing your audience how to do something step by step . It’s a great way to provide clear instructions, helping them replicate the action you’re demonstrating.

This style is especially useful for teaching practical skills or explaining processes in a hands-on way. You’ll often see it used in educational workshops, training sessions , cooking classes, DIY tutorials, tech demos, and more.

• Pros : Hands-on and easy to follow; perfect for teaching skills.
• Cons : Can be time-consuming and requires proper materials.

6. Interactive

This presentation style focuses on engaging the employees right from the start. The speaker often hands out outlines or notes before diving in, which helps everyone follow along. They might also use whiteboards or other visuals to keep things interactive and make the points clearer.

By involving the audience in key talking points throughout the presentation, speakers help them feel connected to the discussion. Plus, having printouts allows attendees to jot down notes or questions, making it easier for them to understand the topic and participate in the conversation. It creates a more collaborative and enjoyable experience for everyone!

• Pros : Keeps the audience involved and alert; encourages participation.
• Cons : Can be challenging to manage if there are too many questions.

7. Instructional

Training presentations are all about teaching practical skills , procedures, or concepts—think of them as the more focused version of demonstration presentations. Whether you’re showing new employees how to use software or guiding aspiring chefs through the art of making a souffle, training presentations aim to turn beginners into experts. 

To make your training or instructional presentation as impactful as possible, try breaking down complex concepts into bite-sized pieces. Using real-life examples can really help illustrate your points and make them relatable.

Another great way to engage your audience is by adding interactive elements , like quizzes or group activities . This not only reinforces understanding but also keeps everyone involved and active in the learning process!

• Pros : Ideal for specialized audiences; shows expertise.
• Cons : Can be too complex for general audiences, leading to confusion.

8. Motivational

A motivational presentation is all about inspiring your audience to take action. The speaker often shares stories, analogies, and personal experiences to spark enthusiasm and encourage people to pursue their goals. When done well, these presentations can really lift morale, strengthen team spirit, and drive positive change.

However, it’s crucial to tailor the content to your employees and deliver it in a dynamic, engaging way. If the presentation misses the mark, it might not have the impact you’re hoping for. 

• Pros : Boosts morale and can create a sense of unity and purpose.
• Cons : If not tailored to the employees, the message may not resonate and can feel irrelevant.

9. Progress Reports

Using infographics, charts, and diagrams can help present your data visually, making complex information easier to digest. By visualizing your data, it becomes simpler to spot trends, make predictions, and strategize effectively based on solid evidence.

• Pros : Ensures that all team members are on the same page regarding goals and future plans.
• Cons : Focusing too much on challenges can create a negative atmosphere if not balanced with positive updates.

A sales presentation is basically a meeting where a seller showcases their product or service to a potential buyer with the goal of making a sale. These presentations can vary widely, ranging from carefully scripted pitches to more casual, conversational discussions. The main aim is to connect with the buyer and highlight how the product or service can meet their needs.

• Pros : Allows for face-to-face interaction, building rapport and trust with the buyer.
• Cons : There's always the chance that the buyer won't be interested, which can be disheartening.

How to prepare for a presentation?

Once you've identified the type of presentation you're giving, it’s time to explore the methods and techniques for delivering it effectively. 

Here are some of the most effective presentation techniques to deliver lively and engaging presentations to the audience. 

There are various methods for how you approach a specific task or a problem. These methods cover:

• How do you structure your speech? 
• How do you deliver it to the audience?

So here is how you prepare for a presentation once you have analyzed your own presentation style in the workplace:

1. Know Your Audience

Start by thinking about who you’ll be presenting to. What are their interests and concerns? Understanding your audience will help you tailor your message and make it more relevant.

2. Define Your Purpose

What do you want to achieve with your presentation? Are you informing, persuading, or training? Having a clear goal will guide your content and structure.

3. Organize Your Content

Outline the main points you want to cover. A simple structure like an introduction, body, and conclusion works well. Make sure each section flows logically into the next.

4. Use Visual Aids

Consider incorporating visuals like slides, charts, or videos to make your points clearer and keep your audience engaged. Just be sure they complement your message, not distract from it.

5. Practice, Practice, Practice

Rehearse your presentation several times. You can do this in front of a mirror, record yourself, or practice with a friend. Familiarity with your material will boost your confidence.

6. Prepare for Questions

Think about potential questions your audience might have and prepare your answers. This will help you feel more at ease during the Q&A session.

7. Check Your Tech

If you’re using technology, make sure everything works smoothly ahead of time. Test your slides, any equipment, and the room setup to avoid surprises on the day of the presentation.

8. Stay Calm and Confident

On the day of the presentation, take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves. Remember, it’s okay to be a bit nervous—just focus on sharing your knowledge with the audience.

9. Engage with Your Audience

During the presentation, make eye contact, ask questions, and encourage participation. This creates a more interactive experience and keeps everyone involved.

10. Follow Up

After your presentation, consider sending a follow-up email with key takeaways or additional resources. It shows you care about the audience’s understanding and keeps the conversation going.

In Conclusion 

Now that you’ve explored the different presentation styles , it’s time to pick one that fits your needs. Which style do you think will resonate best with your audience and achieve your goals?

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on what you want to accomplish, the context of your presentation, and who you’ll be speaking to. If it feels right, consider using visual aids, like PowerPoint, to help convey your message effectively.

But wait! Do you want to explore the most-demanded course on How To Ace The Game Of Presentation With The Right Presentation Style and Skill ? Then stop surfing and head to Calibr.AI to discover the ready-made course tailored to your needs.

Calibr LXP is a user-friendly learning experience platform that allows you and your team to onboard new members and offer diligent training to each member without any hassle. Our LMS tool , integrated with an AI-powered course authoring tool, makes it easier for your designers and trainers to create the course from scratch, utilize interactive elements, and conduct assessments to analyze the learner's progress by the end of the course. 

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1. What is the best presentation style to use?

The best presentation style depends on your audience and your goals. Consider whether you want to inform, persuade, or engage your colleagues, and choose a style that aligns with that objective. Experimenting with different styles can also help you find what resonates best with your audience.

2. How can I make my presentation more engaging?

To make your presentation engaging, use a mix of storytelling, visuals, and interactive elements. Ask questions, encourage participation, and use relatable examples to connect with your audience. Keeping your energy up and being passionate about your topic also makes a big difference!

3. How do I handle questions during my presentation?

Prepare for questions by anticipating what your audience might ask and having answers ready. During the presentation, encourage questions and create a welcoming atmosphere for discussion. If you don’t know the answer, it’s okay to admit it and offer to follow up later.

4. What are some common mistakes to avoid in presentations?

Common mistakes include overloading slides with text, speaking too fast, or failing to engage the audience. Avoid jargon that your audience may not understand, and ensure your technology works properly before you start. Practicing your delivery can help you feel more confident and polished.

5. How can I improve my public speaking skills?

Improving your public speaking skills takes practice! Rehearse your presentations regularly, and seek feedback from peers. Watching skilled speakers can also provide inspiration and techniques you can incorporate into your own style .

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As an enthusiastic English literature graduate, Chandni enjoys writing as much as a toddler enjoys animation. She discovered her passion for writing and expressing thoughts through this form amidst the nail-biting months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ever since then, she has volunteered in various anthology books that have been published on Amazon. Her experience working on a diverse range of verticals has enabled her to excel in this domain and face new challenges as they come. With a contagious thrill and excitement at the workplace, Chandni embraces wearing different hats and soaks up information like a sponge.

11 Types Of Presentations To Engage Your Audience

• By Judhajit Sen
• April 28, 2024

Key Takeaways

• Presentations serve diverse purposes, from educating and persuading to motivating and problem-solving, and various styles are offered to engage audiences effectively.
• Educational presentations foster understanding through structured learning objectives and interactive elements like quizzes, while persuasive style of PowerPoint presentations sway opinions with compelling narratives and strategic visuals.
• Motivational style of presentations inspire action through personal stories and powerful messages, while progress report presentations track advancements transparently, aiding informed decision-making.
• Demonstrations and instructional presentations guide audiences step-by-step, fostering interaction and skill acquisition, while sales presentations blend charm and persuasion to showcase solutions effectively. Storytelling presentations captivate with relatable narratives, fostering genuine connections, and problem-solution presentations tackle challenges strategically, proposing viable solutions.
• Informative style of presentations empower audiences with valuable insights, simplifying complex topics with clear visuals and relatable examples, while visual presentations enhance understanding concisely, leveraging the power of images to engage effectively.
• Mastering these engaging presentation styles unlocks the potential to inform and inspire, ensuring audience engagement and success in dynamic environments.

Presentations serve various purposes in the business world, catering to different needs and goals. They inform by sharing strategies and educating about organizational goals, instruct employees with directions and new skills, induce with emotion and logic to drive action, and aid decision-making by presenting crucial information.

The essential purposes of presentations lie in their ability to transfer knowledge from speaker to audience. They encompass demonstrations, lectures, or speeches aiming to inform, educate, or entertain. Combining these goals enhances a presentation’s power and impact, improving outcomes in various situations.

Informing involves updating on projects, sharing research, or presenting data. Persuading seeks to sway opinions or prompt specific actions, such as proposing ideas or making sales pitches. Educating aims to teach new skills, demonstrate product usage, or share insights. Entertaining captivates audiences through humor, storytelling, or engaging performances.

Different presentation types and styles lead to diverse results, improving work relationships with clients, effectiveness in proposing ideas, and career growth. Experimenting with various approaches enhances skills, enabling more efficient goal achievement. When wielded adeptly, different presentation styles become potent tools for success in the dynamic business landscape.

The following are 11 types of presentation styles that can be used to engage your audience.

Educational Presentations

Educational presentations introduce unfamiliar audiences to specific topics, making them invaluable for explaining complex processes and sharing crucial information. They are instrumental in teaching audiences about various subjects and fostering understanding and engagement.

Educational presentations are structured around clear learning objectives. They aim to facilitate comprehension and retention of the material being presented. They often incorporate detailed visuals and instructions, which is beneficial for teaching new employees company procedures and policies.

Aids like charts, graphs, images, and videos are commonly used to illustrate and reinforce key concepts, enhancing audience understanding. Additionally, interactive elements like quizzes, activities, or group discussions deepen learning and engagement.

Lectures, workshops, training sessions, webinars, and e-learning modules exemplify educational presentations. These versatile formats cater to diverse learning needs and preferences, providing interactive learning experiences and knowledge acquisition opportunities.

Persuasive Presentations

Persuasive presentations wield the power of conviction to sway audiences towards a particular viewpoint or action. These presentations function as verbal negotiations, employing compelling arguments, logical reasoning, and emotional appeals to win over listeners.

Understanding your audience’s motivations is vital to tailoring your message to their interests and concerns. Crafting a narrative with a strong opening, solid arguments, and a memorable close enhances persuasion. Strategic use of visuals reinforces key points, aiding in audience engagement .

Examples of this style of presentations abound, from pitches for environmental conservation to advocacy for policy change or addressing social issues. They aim to influence beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors, urging audiences towards specific actions or adopting new perspectives.

In business, these kinds of presentations are ubiquitous, whether pitching for funding, advocating for technology adoption, or pushing educational reform. They articulate problems and propose solutions backed by data to compel stakeholders towards desired outcomes.

These presentations demand confidence as they seek to prompt action, such as purchasing a product or embracing a new idea. Unlike informative type of presentations, persuasive ones inform and seek to change minds and inspire action. They utilize research findings, storytelling, and emotional connections to bolster their case.

Persuasive presentations are effective tools for sales pitches, marketing initiatives, or political speeches. They utilize rhetorical devices, metaphors, and aids to engage audiences, offering new perspectives while appealing to emotions and logic. Ultimately, they aim to influence decisions and drive desired outcomes, making them indispensable in various contexts.

Motivational Presentations

Motivational presentations inspire and uplift audiences, urging them to overcome challenges and embrace positive change. They employ personal stories and powerful messages to resonate with listeners and spark enthusiasm.

These inspirational presentations are effective tools for organizational leaders to motivate employees and boost morale. Recruiters also leverage motivational kind of presentations, sharing success stories to attract new candidates.

Utilizing personal experiences as focal points, motivational speakers captivate audiences and drive them to action. Adapting to the audience’s level of engagement is crucial for maximum impact.

These types of presentations foster excitement and empowerment through storytelling, encouraging individuals to pursue personal or professional growth. Aids like slides and videos enhance key points and emotional connections.

Keynote speeches, team-building events, and personal development workshops exemplify motivational style of presentations. While not as dramatic as TED Talks, company overview presentations serve to connect with audiences, boost morale, and inspire action.

In various fields, like sports and entertainment, these presentations stir emotions and inspire audiences to achieve excellence. Athletes share stories of resilience, while industry professionals discuss creative journeys and societal impacts.

Motivational style of presentations typically inspire confidence, encourage change, and uplift spirits by forming emotional connections and delivering clear calls to action, making them invaluable tools for personal and professional development.

Progress Report Presentations

Progress report presentations update stakeholders on the advancement of projects, campaigns, or initiatives, akin to progress reports. These presentations encompass vital metrics, status updates, potential hurdles, and pending tasks. They offer a platform for project teams to share their progress, inviting questions and contributions.

Consider a company implementing a marketing strategy. In such cases, progress presentations become essential. They offer insights into the campaign’s journey, including status updates, data collection, and task adjustments. Take, for instance, the team stand-up presentation, characterized by its structured agenda, updates, discussions, and Q&A sessions, ensuring alignment and focus.

Projects and businesses evolve continuously, like living organisms. Status presentations act as navigational aids, providing updates on achievements, challenges, and future plans, like a team GPS. Transparency reigns supreme, utilizing visuals like infographics and charts to simplify complex data, facilitating trend identification and informed decision-making. Visual representation enhances comprehension, aiding prediction and strategy formulation grounded in evidence.

Demonstration Presentations

Demonstration presentations, also known as How-To presentations, guide audiences through step-by-step processes or techniques, offering clear instructions for replication. They excel in teaching practical skills and hands-on procedures, commonly found in workshops, training sessions, and cooking classes. Creative slides enhance engagement and aid information retention.

Incorporating visuals, props, and live demonstrations, speakers break down complex tasks into manageable steps, fostering audience interaction and effectively addressing queries.

Demonstration presentations elucidate complex concepts using visuals and demonstrations. They cater to diverse audiences, from internal employees seeking software insights to potential investors exploring technological innovations.

Preparation is vital, involving extensive research to distill intricate topics into digestible sections. Aids like graphs and charts simplify complex information, ensuring accessibility for all audience members. This meticulous approach ensures comprehension and engagement across varied knowledge levels.

Instructional Presentations

Instructional presentations guide audiences through specific tasks or processes to enhance understanding and facilitate action. Similar to educational presentations but more focused on providing instructions, they offer step-by-step guidance on achieving goals or performing activities.

Webinars, workshops, and training sessions exemplify instructive presentations, which deliver new information and teach new skills. For instance, a human resources instructional presentation might detail how employees can enroll in a new insurance plan.

Technical and detailed, instructional presentations explain tasks systematically, ensuring clarity and ease of comprehension. Each instruction must be clear, understandable, and actionable, fostering successful implementation.

Presenters may use aids like diagrams and videos to elucidate each step, making complex processes accessible. Tutorials, product demonstrations, and how-to guides exemplify instructional presentations, empowering audiences to learn and apply new knowledge effectively.

In corporate settings, instructional presentations train employees on software usage or policy changes, fostering practical skills acquisition. Similarly, they break down complex concepts into manageable parts in educational contexts, encouraging engagement through interactive elements and practical demonstrations.

Whether guiding new employees through software usage or instructing chefs on culinary techniques, instructional presentations aim to transform novices into experts. By breaking down concepts, using real-life examples, and incorporating interactive elements, they maximize learning and practical application, ensuring audiences leave equipped with valuable skills and knowledge.

Sales Presentations

Sales presentations are the cornerstone for businesses seeking to win over potential clients or customers, blending charm and charisma to showcase products, services, or ideas. They prioritize a clear value proposition, engaging storytelling, confidence, and a compelling call to action. Emphasizing benefits over features, adept presenters preempt objections and employ storytelling to demonstrate solutions to audience-specific problems. Visual aids enhance memorability and impact.

In the sports industry, sales presentations often involve sponsorship proposals, leveraging demographic data, engagement statistics, and past successes to illustrate potential returns. Similarly, presentations pitch new projects or content distribution deals in the media and entertainment sector. For instance, production companies pitch series concepts to streaming platforms, highlighting creative aspects and market analysis to align with the platform’s brand and audience demographics.

Sales presentations infuse enthusiasm with persuasion, aiming to translate it into tangible business outcomes. They are versatile tools for promoting service offerings, product launches, or consultancy proposals, leveraging industry expertise and experience to captivate stakeholders and secure deals.

Storytelling Presentations

Storytelling presentations captivate audiences by weaving narratives to convey information effectively. This approach finds utility across academic and business domains, fostering engagement and resonance with specific audiences. Incorporating personal anecdotes or relevant examples enhances relevance and understanding.

This style revolves around personal stories or anecdotes, eschewing data-heavy content. Its conversational tone facilitates easy comprehension and audience connection. Storytellers employ simple, familiar language akin to casual conversation, ensuring accessibility and relatability.

Presenters structure their stories with an introduction that presents the problem, followed by the main plot point elucidating the topic, and concluding with a reflection that resonates with the audience. This approach fosters genuine connection and audience engagement, steering clear of a lecturing tone.

While effective for conference speaking and networking events, storytelling may not suit sales discovery phases, where the focus should remain on the prospect. However, it shines in settings, allowing ample time for storytelling without detracting from audience interaction.

Ultimately, storytelling presentations breathe life into learning points, adhering to principles like TED’s Commandments to evoke genuine emotions and honesty. This style fosters a profound connection with the audience, transcending mere dissemination of information.

Problem-Solution Presentations

Problem-solution presentations offer a strategic approach to tackling organizational or client-centric challenges. They begin by identifying and analyzing a problem before proposing one or more solutions, a format prevalent in the consulting and tech industries.

In consulting scenarios, presentations delve into operational inefficiencies backed by data analysis or market research, offering tailored solutions like new technologies or process enhancements. Similarly, tech companies pitch software solutions to address data management or security challenges.

Problem-solution presentations expedite internal decision processes by outlining problems, solution options, and potential outcomes. For instance, a company aiming to boost social media engagement explores strategies like giveaways or enhanced content creation, using marketing presentation templates to organize discussions and guide decisions.

These presentations follow a logical approach, identifying root causes, proposing solutions, and detailing implementation plans and timelines. They serve diverse purposes, from business proposals to project plans and research reports, aiding decision-making efforts by presenting problems and offering viable solutions for consideration.

Informative Presentations

Informative presentations serve as foundational tools in public speaking , aiming to educate and enlighten audiences on specific topics. Unlike presentations designed to entertain or inspire, the primary objective here is to share valuable information clearly and concisely.

These presentations rely on factual accuracy and clarity, often incorporating data and research to support the information presented. They follow a logical structure, starting with an introduction, explaining the primary information in the body, and concluding with a summary or conclusion.

Language in informative kind of presentations should be clear and straightforward, avoiding confusing jargon.  Visual aids like charts and graphs enhance  audience understanding.

Examples of informative type of presentations span various contexts, from academic lectures on scientific findings to business workshops explaining software features. In educational settings, professors impart knowledge on historical events or scientific discoveries. In business, financial analysts present market trends to inform strategic decisions.

The audience’s enhanced understanding and knowledge retention measure informative style of presentations’ success. They empower audiences with valuable insights, making complex topics accessible and relevant. Effective delivery involves simplifying content, providing relatable examples, and encouraging audience engagement through questions for clarity.

Visual Presentations

Visual presentations include infographics, images, charts, and other visual elements and offer concise and engaging ways to convey information. They are ideal for time-constrained topics or those needing minimal explanation. They aim to enhance audience understanding and attention and are often used by businesses to showcase product benefits, such as before-and-after images in a hair product presentation.

Technology complements visual presentations, offering advantages in supporting claims with compelling visuals. This style recognizes the adage that “a picture is worth a thousand words.” Formality in this style hinges more on the speaker and topic than the visuals, providing flexibility in adapting to different contexts.

Key characteristics include the emphasis on visuals, ranging from images to creatively presented data, and the ability to adapt to various presentation styles. Visuals can supplement any presentation, aiding comprehension of complex topics.

Various forms, including slideshows, videos, infographics, or posters, serve as vehicles for visual presentations, facilitating quick comprehension and creating memorable experiences. Techniques like color schemes and layout design enhance visual appeal and are suitable for marketing campaigns, educational materials, and scientific presentations.

Mastering Different Types of Presentations: A Guide for Engaging Audiences

Presentations are versatile tools, offering a spectrum of styles to captivate audiences. Each approach serves a unique purpose, from educating and persuading to motivating and solving problems. 

Educational presentations foster understanding through structured learning objectives and interactive elements like quizzes. Persuasive presentations sway opinions with compelling narratives and strategic visuals. 

Motivational presentations inspire action through personal anecdotes and powerful messages. Progress report presentations track advancements transparently, aiding informed decision-making. 

Demonstration presentations guide audiences step-by-step, fostering interaction and comprehension. Instructional presentations offer practical guidance, empowering skill acquisition. 

Sales presentations blend charm and persuasion to showcase solutions effectively. Storytelling presentations captivate with relatable narratives, fostering genuine connections. Problem-solution presentations tackle challenges strategically, proposing viable solutions. 

Informative type of presentations empower audiences with valuable insights, simplifying complex topics with clear visuals and relatable examples. Visual presentations concisely enhance understanding, leveraging images’ power to engage effectively. 

Mastering these successful presentation styles unlocks the potential to inform and inspire, ensuring audience engagement and success in dynamic environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are educational presentations, and why are they important?

Educational presentations introduce unfamiliar audiences to specific topics, aiming to explain complex processes and share crucial information. They are instrumental in teaching audiences various subjects, fostering understanding and engagement. Examples include lectures, workshops, training sessions, webinars, and e-learning modules. These presentations use structured learning objectives and interactive elements like quizzes to facilitate comprehension and retention.  

2. How do informative style of presentations differ from other types of presentations?

Informative type of presentations focus on sharing valuable information clearly and concisely. Unlike presentations designed to entertain or inspire, their primary objective is to educate and enlighten audiences on specific topics. They rely on factual accuracy and clarity, often incorporating data and research. Language should be clear and straightforward, avoiding confusing jargon.  Visual aids like charts and graphs enhance  audience understanding.

3. What are some examples of informative presentations, and where are they commonly used?

Examples of informative presentations span various contexts, from academic lectures on scientific findings to business workshops explaining software features. In academic settings, professors impart knowledge on historical events or scientific discoveries. In business, financial analysts present market trends to inform strategic decisions. The success of informative presentations is measured by the audience’s enhanced understanding and knowledge retention.

4. How can visual presentations enhance audience engagement?

Visual presentations rely primarily on infographics, images, charts, and other visual elements to offer concise and engaging ways to convey information. They aim to enhance audience understanding and attention, suitable for time-constrained topics or those needing minimal explanation. Visuals can supplement any presentation, aiding comprehension of complex issues. Techniques like color schemes and layout design enhance visual appeal and are suitable for marketing campaigns, educational materials, and scientific presentations.

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9 Types of Presentations You Should Know (With Examples)

8 Effective Ways to Introduce Yourself in a Presentation

How to write a problem statement slide, how to write the perfect titles for your slides, pro tips to create an impactful employee induction presentation.

Mastering the art of crafting and delivering presentations is vital across diverse contexts and industries. In a world where effective communication often determines success or failure, understanding the various types of presentations is key. Each presentation type fulfills a distinct role, which we will understand in this article. So, let’s get going!

Why is it Important to Understand Different Types of Presentations?

Different presentations serve distinct purposes, each tailored to achieve specific goals and connect with audiences uniquely.  Imagine trying to motivate a team using the same approach you would use to deliver a technical report – it just would not work. 

Whether aiming to inform, persuade, train, or inspire, understanding and utilizing various presentation styles ensures you communicate your message properly and engage your audience on the right level. Each presentation type, from informative to persuasive, is like a tool in a toolkit designed for specific tasks to help you achieve your objectives.

Moreover, adapting to different styles keeps your communication fresh and dynamic. A one-size-fits-all approach can lead to disengagement, whereas using the right style for the proper context maintains interest and maximizes impact. 

Types of Presentations

1. informative presentation.

Informative presentations are designed to educate the audience on a specific topic. They provide clear, factual, and comprehensive information that enhances understanding. These presentations are commonly used in academic settings, corporate training sessions, and public awareness campaigns. 

For instance, a professor might deliver an informative presentation on the impacts of global warming, outlining the scientific principles, current data, and potential future scenarios. 

To make such presentations more effective, focus on organization and clarity. Commence with an introduction that sets the context and outlines the main points you will cover. Break down each section to address a specific aspect of the topic, providing detailed explanations supported by evidence and examples. Make sure to harness the power of visuals and charts to explain complicated data in simple terms.

2. Persuasive Presentation

Persuasive presentations convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take specific actions. These presentations are essential in various contexts, such as marketing, sales, and advocacy. 

The best way to increase their impact is by proactively addressing potential objections and counter-arguments. This approach demonstrates thorough understanding and preparation, which strengthens your credibility. 

Incorporate testimonials, case studies, and real-life examples to enhance persuasion by providing tangible proof of your claims. Deliver a clear and compelling call to action at the end of the presentation to encourage the audience to take the desired step, whether supporting a cause or changing a behavior. 

For example, this style can be used by non-profit leaders to advocate for a cause, such as raising funds for calamities, creating awareness, etc.

3. Demonstrative Presentation

How-to-do or demonstrative presentations focus on showing the audience how to do something through detailed, step-by-step instructions. They are particularly effective in educational settings, workshops, and training sessions where practical knowledge and hands-on experience are essential. 

For example, a project manager conducting a training session might give a demonstrative presentation on using a new project management software. The manager would guide the team through each stage of the software, from setting up a new project to tracking progress and generating reports, ensuring that participants understand and can replicate the steps independently.

Interactive elements, such as allowing the audience to follow along or ask questions in real-time, can further enhance understanding and retention. 

4. Sales Presentation

Have you ever found it challenging to convince customers to buy a product or service? Here sales presentations can help you navigate the challenge. These presentations showcase your unique value propositions, address the pains of your audience, and convey how your products can improve their situation.

For example, a sales representative for a new software solution might present its advanced features, user-friendly interface, and how it can streamline the client’s workflow, ultimately saving time and increasing productivity.

To make a sales presentation effective, you must understand the audience’s needs and tailor your content accordingly. Highlight the product’s core competencies, such as its superior performance, cost-effectiveness, or innovative features. Close your presentation and encourage the audience to take the next step, whether scheduling a follow-up meeting, requesting a demo, or making a purchase. 

5. Motivational Presentation

A motivational presentation aims to inspire and energize the audience, encouraging them to achieve their goals or make positive life changes. Such presentations often appeal to emotions, using powerful stories, personal experiences, and uplifting messages to connect with the audience on a deeper level. 

For instance, a keynote speaker at a corporate event might share their journey from overcoming significant challenges to achieving success, emphasizing resilience and perseverance as keys to personal and professional growth.

You can curate an engaging narrative that resonates deeply with the audience’s aspirations and struggles and engage them with relatable anecdotes and success stories that forge an emotional connection. Use inspirational quotes, vivid imagery, and energetic delivery to boost the motivational effect, encouraging listeners to visualize their own success and fully believe in their potential.

Offer practical advice, set achievable challenges, or provide valuable resources to support their journey. By leaving the audience with a strong sense of empowerment and clear direction, you can drive meaningful change and ignite a proactive mindset that propels them toward success.

6. Status or Progress Presentation

A status or progress presentation provides an update on the current state of a project, initiative, or objective. This type of presentation is essential for keeping stakeholders informed about progress, identifying issues, and aligning team efforts with overall goals. 

For instance, a project manager might deliver a status presentation to the executive team, highlighting key milestones achieved, current challenges, and any adjustments needed to stay on track. The presentation typically includes an overview of completed tasks, upcoming deadlines, and a review of budget and resources.

To make a status presentation impactful, focus on clarity and transparency. Organize the content to cover major areas such as progress made, key metrics, and any deviations from the original plan. Further, highlight both successes and setbacks to build trust and ensure that stakeholders have a clear understanding of where things stand.

7. Pitch Presentation

Pitch presentation is a critical tool for making a compelling case, whether an entrepreneur seeking venture capital, a startup aiming to attract customers, or a non-profit organization looking for funding.

In a highly competitive environment, a well-crafted pitch can differentiate you from others by clearly articulating what makes your offering unique and how it addresses a specific need or problem. 

By highlighting key aspects such as market demand, competitive advantages, and potential returns, a pitch presentation can capture the interest of investors, customers, or supporters, making it easier to secure the necessary support or resources. 

Pitch presentations are a critical opportunity to make a solid first impression and establish credibility. They provide a platform to showcase your expertise, vision, and commitment, which can build trust and confidence among your audience. A compelling pitch persuades stakeholders to take action and lays the foundation for future relationships and opportunities. 

8. Instructive Presentations

Instructive presentations are designed to instruct, educate, and inform an audience about a particular topic or skill. They are often used in academic settings, corporate sessions, workshops, and seminars. 

They incorporate examples, case studies, and practical applications to present key points and make the content more relatable and engaging. One key element of an instructive presentation is clarity. Presenters must ensure that their explanations are straightforward and avoid jargon unless the audience is already familiar with the topic. 

For example, a digital marketing expert can deliver an instructional presentation for small business owners who are new to online marketing.

9. Decision-Making Presentation

A decision-making presentation is designed to assist an audience in evaluating various options and making informed choices based on the information presented. 

These presentations are commonly used in business meetings, strategic planning sessions, and project evaluations. The goal is to present data, analyses, and recommendations in a way that highlights the pros and cons of different alternatives, ultimately guiding the audience toward a well-considered decision. 

Effective decision-making presentations often include visual aids such as comparison charts, decision matrices, and risk assessments. By providing a structured approach and clear criteria for evaluation, these presentations help the audience weigh their options methodically.

A Detailed Guide to Help You Choose the Right Presentation Type

Choosing the right presentation type is crucial for effectively communicating your message. The kind of presentation you select can significantly impact your audience’s engagement, understanding, and retention of the information. 

Here are some key tips to consider when deciding on the most suitable presentation type for your needs.

(i). Communication Objectives

Before selecting a presentation type, it is essential to define your goals clearly. Do you wish to inform, persuade, or motivate your audience? Understanding your key goals will guide the structure and style of your presentation. 

For instance, informative presentations are ideal for delivering factual information or educating an audience about a particular topic. These presentations should be clear, concise, and well-organized. On the other hand, if you wish to motivate your viewers, inspirational presentations are the way to go.

(ii). Audience Diversity

Knowing your audience’s demographics, background, and preferences is essential for choosing the right presentation type. Consider factors such as age, gender, education level, and cultural background to tailor your presentation style. Additionally, assess the audience’s familiarity with the topic. 

For example, for a knowledgeable audience, you can delve into more complex details, while for a general audience, it is better to keep the information accessible and straightforward. Understanding your audience’s interests and preferences can also help you choose a presentation type that will keep them engaged.

(iii). Context and Setting

The context and setting of your presentation can significantly influence your choice of presentation type. Evaluate the environment where your presentation will take place. Is it in a large auditorium, a small conference room, or online? Each setting has different requirements for presentation types and delivery methods. 

Also, consider the formality of the event. Formal settings may require a more structured and professional approach, while informal settings allow for a relaxed and conversational style. The audience size is another critical factor; larger audiences may need more structured and visually engaging presentations, while smaller groups can allow for more interaction and discussion.

(iv). Content Complexity

The complexity of your content should guide the presentation type you choose. For straightforward information, use clear and concise slides, infographics, or bullet points to avoid overwhelming the audience with too much information at once. 

Consider using detailed visuals, charts, diagrams, and multimedia elements for more intricate topics. Breaking the content into manageable sections and providing summaries can help reinforce key points and ensure the audience comprehends complex information.

For example, for detailed topics like financial performance, you can opt for informative presentations, while for simple subjects such as project progress, a status presentation would be more appropriate.

(v). Personal Style

Your personal presentation style plays a significant role in the effectiveness of your delivery. Choose a presentation type that aligns with your strengths and comfort level. If you are confident in storytelling, consider a narrative-driven presentation, whereas if you are more comfortable with data, focus on data-driven presentations. 

Utilize your preferred methods for engaging the audience, whether it’s through humor, interactive elements, or compelling visuals. Leveraging your strengths can enhance your presentation’s impact and make it more engaging for your audience.

Suppose your strength lies in convincing and negotiating with people. Here, you can leverage your skills to deliver a compelling persuasive presentation and convince the audience to take a desired action.

(vi). Time Constraints

The time available for your presentation will affect how much content you can cover and the depth of detail you can provide. For brief time slots, focus on key points and ensure clarity and conciseness, using impactful visuals and avoiding overloading the audience with information. 

With more extended presentations, you can delve deeper into the topic, include interactive elements, and engage in discussions with the audience. Plan for breaks and ensure a logical flow of information to keep the audience intrigued throughout.

Tips to Ace All Types of Presentations

1. use visuals.

Use professional PowerPoint templates to create presentations and give your slides a professional look. You can add visuals such as charts, graphs, images, and even videos to make your presentation look stunning. Ensure that your visual resonates with the topic and does not distract the audience from the main theme of the presentation.

2. Structure It Correctly

The structure of your presentation is crucial as it acts as an anchor for the audience. Start by introducing your topic, followed by details such as pros and cons, metrics, data, etc., and then summarize with a strong conclusion.

3. Incorporate Stories

Stories wire human beings into listening and have a great impact on engagement as well. By using stories in your presentation, you can communicate your message in a much better manner and make it more impactful.

4. Make It Interactive

Encourage interaction through questions, discussions, or activities. Engaging with your audience keeps them interested and makes your presentation more dynamic.

5. Deliver it Right

Consider various aspects of delivery to maximize the effectiveness of your presentation.

• Body Language and Gesture

Utilize gestures and movement to emphasize points and convey enthusiasm. Positive body language enhances your credibility and engages your audience.

• Maintain Eye Contact

Make eye contact to convey confidence and build rapport with your audience.

• Pay Attention to Pace and Tone

Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Modify your tone to emphasize essential points and maintain audience interest. Avoid speaking too fast or monotonously.

• Be Authentic

Be yourself and let your personality shine through. Authenticity helps build credibility with your audience, making your message more relatable and memorable.

6. Wrap Your Presentation on Time

Respect your audience’s time by staying focused on your key messages. Avoid unnecessary details and keep your presentation concise and to the point. 

7. Practice

Rehearse your presentation often to refine your delivery, timing, and transitions. Practicing helps build confidence and allows you to handle unexpected issues smoothly. Anticipate potential questions and prepare concise, thoughtful responses. Handling questions confidently demonstrates your expertise and readiness. You should also be prepared for technical difficulties and have a backup plan in place. Stay calm and composed, and use any issues to demonstrate problem-solving skills.

Understanding and effectively utilizing different presentations can significantly enhance your ability to communicate and achieve your objectives. By selecting the appropriate presentation style and applying best practices, you can ensure that your communication is impactful, persuasive, and aligned with your goals. 

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Presentation styles: Explore different ways of presenting

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Anete Ezera June 01, 2023

In the realm of public speaking and professional communication, mastering different presentation styles is essential for engaging and captivating your audience. Whether you’re delivering a business pitch, an educational lecture, or a sales presentation, the way you present your content can make a significant impact on conveying your message effectively. This article aims to explore various presentation styles and highlight the versatility of Prezi presentations that can elevate your delivery to new heights. From the classic approach to storytelling and demonstrations, we’ll delve into how Prezi can support and enhance each presentation style.

Why is it important to choose the right presentation style?

Selecting the appropriate types of presentation styles is crucial for effectively delivering your message and engaging your audience. The choice of style can significantly impact the overall effectiveness and success of your presentation. Here are some reasons why it’s important to choose the right style for your presentation.

Audience engagement

Different presentation styles have varying levels of audience engagement. By selecting a style that aligns with your audience’s preferences and expectations, you can enhance their level of engagement and create a more impactful presentation. For example, an interactive style may be ideal for engaging a tech-savvy audience, while a visual style can captivate visually-oriented individuals.

Message clarity 

Each presentation style has its strengths in conveying specific types of information. For instance, a storytelling style is effective for presenting narratives and evoking emotions, while a demonstration style is suitable for showcasing the practical application of a product or process. Choosing the right style ensures that your message is communicated clearly and resonates with your audience.

Retention and memorability

A well-suited presentation style enhances the audience’s ability to remember and retain information. By utilizing visuals, interactive elements, or a freeform approach, you can create a memorable experience that helps your audience internalize and recall key points long after the presentation is over. The right style can make your content more memorable, increasing its impact and effectiveness.

Personal connection

The presentation style you choose can also influence the level of personal connection you establish with your audience. Some styles, such as a freeform or conversational approach, foster a sense of rapport and authenticity. By selecting a style that aligns with your personality and communication style, you can establish a stronger connection with your audience and create a more engaging and relatable experience.

Brand representation

Your presentation style should also align with your brand identity and values. Consistency in style and tone across your presentations helps build brand recognition and reinforces your messaging. Choosing a style that is consistent with your brand image ensures a cohesive and professional representation of your organization or personal brand.

Audience needs and preferences

Understanding your audience’s needs, preferences, and expectations is paramount when choosing a presentation style. By considering factors such as their industry, demographics, and familiarity with presentation formats, you can tailor your style to cater to their specific requirements. This customization enhances their overall experience and increases the likelihood of achieving your presentation goals.

To explore the different presentation styles in a video format, watch our comprehensive video on this topic:

Classic presentation style

The classic style of presentation serves as the foundation for many public speeches and business presentations. It follows a structured and logical approach, with a clear introduction, main points, and conclusion. This style often utilizes bullet points, accompanied by concise explanations. By employing the classic style of presentation, speakers can effectively communicate their ideas, engage their audience, and leave a lasting impact.

Integrating Prezi into the classic style of presentation introduces an interactive dimension, enabling you to craft visually appealing slides that captivate and sustain audience interest. Through Prezi’s dynamic capabilities, such as zooming and panning, you can accentuate essential details and maintain an engaged audience from start to finish. For a classic presentation style, check out the following Prezi presentation templates.

Storytelling presentation style

Storytelling style presentation is a powerful technique that can breathe life into your content. It goes beyond simply relaying facts and figures. It taps into the power of narrative, engaging the audience’s imagination, emotions, and personal experiences. Through storytelling, you can create a shared experience with your listeners, allowing them to relate to your message on a deeper level. By presenting information in the form of a story, you can captivate attention, maintain interest, and ensure better retention of key points. 

Storytelling also provides a framework for organizing complex information, as it follows a natural progression of beginning, middle, and end. It allows you to introduce characters, conflicts, and resolutions, which help in clarifying concepts and illustrating the practical applications of your ideas. This style invites active participation from the audience, as they become invested in the narrative and eagerly anticipate the outcome. Overall, storytelling is a potent tool that enriches presentations by fostering emotional connections, enhancing understanding, and leaving a lasting impact on your audience.

Prezi offers a range of templates and design options that enable you to create visually stunning storytelling presentations. You can incorporate images, videos, and other multimedia elements to enhance the storytelling experience. With Prezi’s seamless transitions and cinematic effects, you can take your audience on a captivating journey, effectively conveying your message in a memorable way.

Learn more about storytelling style presentations in this article.

Demonstration presentation style

Demonstration presentations are particularly useful when showcasing a product, process, or concept. This style involves actively illustrating how something works or how to perform a task. Furthermore, the demonstration presentation styles cater to different learning styles, accommodating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners. Through a combination of visual aids, live examples, and interactive elements, this style ensures a memorable and impactful experience that resonates with the audience long after the presentation is over.

Prezi’s interactive features allow you to embed videos, animations, or step-by-step visual guides to provide a clear demonstration. You can create a path through the presentation that guides the audience through each step, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience. Prezi’s flexible canvas provides ample space to showcase details and highlight important features, making your demonstration impactful and informative.

Interactive presentation style

The interactive presentation styles break away from the traditional one-way flow of information and encourage active participation from the audience. It involves incorporating interactive elements, such as quizzes, polls, and collective exercises, to engage the audience and promote a two-way communication process. By embracing interactive presentation styles, speakers can transform their presentations into dynamic and engaging experiences that foster collaboration, encourage audience involvement, and create a shared learning environment.

With Prezi’s interactive capabilities, presenters can spark discussions, successfully hold people’s attention, and create a collaborative environment that keeps the audience involved and invested in the presentation. For an interactive presentation, discover the Prezi presentation example below.

Visual presentation style

A visual presentation style relies heavily on visually appealing elements to convey information. It emphasizes the use of graphics, images, charts, and infographics to enhance understanding and capture the audience’s attention. 

This style leverages the principle of visual hierarchy, organizing information in a visually logical manner to guide the audience’s attention and comprehension. Visual presentations not only make information more digestible but also enhance retention and recall. The combination of relevant visuals and concise text creates a harmonious blend that aids in understanding and increases the overall impact of the presentation.

Prezi provides a wide array of visually stunning templates, design elements, and multimedia integration options to create visually impactful presentations. Presenters can leverage Prezi’s drag-and-drop editor to easily incorporate eye-catching visuals, ensuring that complex concepts are simplified and memorable. By combining Prezi’s visual capabilities with storytelling techniques, presenters can create visually engaging presentations that resonate with their audience.

Learn more about the visual presentation style here.

Freeform presentation style

The freeform style of presentation offers presenters the flexibility to adapt their content on the go, responding to audience reactions and tailoring the presentation in real-time. It allows for spontaneity, improvisation, and a more conversational tone. 

While it requires confidence, knowledge, and the ability to think on one’s feet, the freeform style allows for a more fluid and natural presentation that can resonate deeply with the audience. It’s a format that encourages active participation, facilitates meaningful discussions, and provides an opportunity for presenters to truly connect and build rapport with their listeners.

Prezi’s open canvas and non-linear structure provide the perfect platform for freeform presentations. Presenters can navigate freely between topics, zoom in on important details, and adjust the flow based on audience engagement. Prezi’s zooming and panning capabilities enable presenters to have a dynamic and fluid presentation, allowing for seamless transitions and a personalized delivery that connects with the audience.

Prezi for different presentation styles

Mastering various presentation styles is crucial for effectively conveying your message and captivating your audience. Prezi serves as an invaluable tool that enhances each presentation style, allowing you to create engaging, visually stunning, and interactive presentations. Whether you choose the interactive, visual, or freeform style, Prezi’s features and versatility enable you to craft memorable presentations that leave a lasting impact. Embrace the power of Prezi as you embark on your journey to deliver exceptional presentations that captivate, inform, and inspire your audience. Elevate your communication skills to new heights of excellence and unlock the true potential of your ideas with Prezi’s transformative capabilities.

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8 Popular Presentation Types You Should Be Using [+7 Presentation Styles]

Table of Contents

Presentations play a vital role in communication, serving as essential tools for conveying information and messages to audiences, whether it’s for individuals, businesses, or professionals. They are used to inform, persuade, inspire, motivate, build goodwill, and introduce new ideas or products.

Presentations encompass demonstrations, introductions, lectures, or speeches that serve diverse purposes in various spheres, such as education from high school to college and in professional settings, to impart knowledge to different audiences. Given the distinct contexts and objectives, understanding the range of presentation types becomes crucial, enabling one to choose the most fitting approach for a specific setting, audience, and ultimate objective, effectively communicating to achieve the desired results.

This article will explore eight widely used presentation types, which you can effectively employ based on your specific objectives, and seven presentation styles to enhance your overall delivery.

Why Should You Learn About Different Presentation Types

Learning about different presentation types is essential for several reasons:

1. Tailor Your Message

Knowing various presentation styles helps you customize your content for different audiences, ensuring your message resonates with their interests and preferences.

2. Achieve Specific Goals

Each type of presentation serves distinct purposes, such as informative or persuasive presentations, allowing you to target specific objectives precisely.

3. Enhance Communication Skills

Familiarity with diverse presentation types improves your overall communication abilities, including organizing information, delivering it clearly, and engaging your audience effectively.

4. Boost Creativity and Innovation

Understanding different styles encourages you to experiment with unique approaches, using storytelling, interactive elements, or multimedia to create memorable experiences for your audience.

5. Gain a Broader Perspective

Exposure to various presentation techniques offers insights into effective communication strategies, inspiring continuous improvement and refinement of your skills.

6. Personal and Professional Growth

Learning about different presentation types is an investment in your development as a communicator, making you a more valuable asset in any setting that requires impactful communication.

7. Confident and Memorable Presentations

By leveraging the right presentation type, you can deliver confident, compelling, and memorable presentations that leave a lasting impact on your audience.

8 Popular Presentation Types You Should Know in 2023

Learning and understanding different presentation types is crucial for effective communication and engagement with diverse audiences. Here are eight popular presentation types you should know:

1. Informative Presentations

Informative presentations are a common type of communication designed to provide valuable information, facts, and insights to the audience. The primary goal is to educate and enhance the audience’s knowledge on a specific topic or subject matter. These presentations are widely used in various settings, including academic environments, corporate training sessions, conferences, and public events.

An effective informative presentation should be well-organized and structured, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. The presenter should thoroughly research the topic, gather relevant data, and present it in a compelling and easy-to-understand manner. Visual aids, such as charts, graphs, and images, can enhance the audience’s understanding and retention of the information.

The success of an informative presentation depends on the presenter’s ability to engage the audience, maintain their interest, and deliver the content clearly and concisely. It is essential to avoid overwhelming the audience with too much information and instead focus on delivering key points that are relevant and impactful.

Informative presentations are crucial in disseminating knowledge, raising awareness, and fostering learning among diverse audiences. They are valuable tools for sharing expertise, addressing complex issues, and building credibility and authority in various fields.

2. Persuasive Presentations

Persuasion is an art through which an individual influences the opinions, thoughts, and actions of others. Persuasive presentations are designed to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint, take specific action, or support a particular idea, product, or cause. The primary goal is to influence the audience’s beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors through compelling arguments and emotional appeal. These presentations are commonly used in sales pitches, marketing campaigns, political speeches, and advocacy efforts.

An effective persuasive presentation should have a strong and persuasive message supported by evidence, examples, and compelling stories. The presenter must understand the audience’s needs, values, and concerns and tailor the presentation to address them effectively. Visual aids and rhetorical devices can be employed to enhance the persuasive impact of the message.

Engaging the audience and building trust is critical in persuasive presentations. Presenters should establish credibility, demonstrate expertise, and use compelling language to build rapport with the audience. It is essential to acknowledge opposing viewpoints and address potential objections to strengthen the compelling argument.

Persuasive presentations can influence opinions, drive action, and bring about meaningful change. They require effective communication skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to connect with the audience on a personal level.

3. Demonstration Presentations

Demonstration presentations are a type of presentation whose main objective is to show the audience how something works or how to perform a specific task. The presenter typically showcases a product, a process, or a skill through live action, step-by-step instructions, or interactive exercises. These presentations are common in training sessions, product launches, and educational settings.

The success of a demonstration presentation relies on clear and concise communication. The presenter must break down complex processes into easily understandable steps and use visual aids, such as videos, slides, or physical props, to enhance the demonstration. Hands-on experiences or audience participation can also be incorporated to make the presentation more engaging and memorable.

The key to a compelling demonstration presentation is to make it practical and relatable to the audience’s needs and interests. Presenters should anticipate questions, provide troubleshooting tips, and ensure that the audience leaves with a clear understanding of the demonstrated concept or skill. A well-executed demonstration presentation can leave a lasting impression on the audience and foster a deeper connection between the presenter and the attendees.

4. Storytelling Presentations

Storytelling presentations are a powerful and engaging way of delivering information or ideas using narratives and storytelling techniques. Instead of relying solely on data and facts, storytelling presentations use compelling stories to connect with the audience on an emotional level and convey the message effectively.

In storytelling presentations, the presenter crafts a narrative that follows a structured plot, including a beginning, middle, and end. The story often revolves around relatable characters, real-life experiences, or hypothetical scenarios. The goal is to captivate the audience’s attention, evoke emotions, and make the content memorable.

Storytelling presentations are widely used in various contexts, including business pitches, marketing campaigns, educational presentations, motivational presentations, and public speaking events. They are particularly effective for conveying complex ideas, influencing decisions, and building strong connections with the audience.

To create an impactful storytelling presentation, presenters must identify the central message they want to convey and build a story that supports and reinforces that message. A well-crafted storytelling presentation can leave a lasting impression, inspire action, and make the information more relatable and relevant to the audience.

5. Interactive Presentations

Interactive presentations are a dynamic and engaging way of involving the audience in the presentation process. Unlike traditional one-way presentations, interactive presentations encourage active participation and feedback from the audience, making the experience more memorable and effective.

Presenters use various tools and techniques to interact with the audience in interactive presentations. This can include polls, quizzes, Q&A sessions, live demonstrations, interactive slides, and audience participation activities. Presenters can gauge their understanding, address specific questions or concerns, and tailor the content to suit the audience’s needs by involving the audience.

The benefits of interactive presentations are numerous. They promote better retention of information, increase audience engagement and attention, and foster a sense of collaboration between the presenter and the audience. Interactive presentations are particularly effective in educational settings, training workshops, team-building sessions, and events where audience interaction is crucial for the presentation’s success.

Presenters should carefully plan and design interactive elements to create a compelling interactive presentation to align with the presentation’s objectives and the audience’s preferences. This may include choosing appropriate technology tools, preparing interactive content, and maintaining a dynamic and approachable presentation style to encourage audience participation.

6. Multimedia Presentations

Multimedia presentations incorporate various forms of media elements, such as text, images, audio, video, animations, and interactive features. These presentations leverage technology to deliver information compellingly and engagingly, appealing to both visual and auditory senses.

The presenter combines different media elements in a multimedia presentation to create a seamless and coherent narrative. For example, slides with text and images may be interspersed with video clips, audio narration, or animations to illustrate key points or add emphasis. This multi-sensory approach enhances the audience’s understanding and retention of the content, making the presentation more memorable and impactful.

Multimedia presentations are commonly used in business settings for sales pitches, product launches, and marketing campaigns. They are also prevalent in educational environments for teaching complex concepts, conducting training sessions, and delivering online courses. Moreover, multimedia presentations are used in various events, conferences, and public speaking engagements to captivate the audience and convey information effectively.

To create a successful multimedia presentation, presenters must carefully select and integrate media elements that align with the presentation’s objectives. Additionally, attention should be given to the presentation’s design, flow, and timing to ensure a cohesive and visually appealing experience for the audience.

7. Pitch Presentations

Pitch presentations are concise and compelling presentations designed to persuade potential investors, clients, or stakeholders to take action, such as investing in a project, partnering with a company, or supporting a new idea. These presentations are commonly used in the business world – startup environments and entrepreneurial ventures to secure funding, form partnerships, or gain support for a business concept.

Pitch presentations typically follow a structured format, focusing on the problem the presenter aims to solve, the proposed solution or product, the market opportunity, and the potential return on investment. They are often delivered orally, supported by visual aids like slides or multimedia elements to enhance the message’s impact.

A successful pitch presentation requires clear and concise communication, showcasing the value proposition, unique selling points, and differentiation from competitors. Presenters must be confident, engaging, and well-prepared to effectively convey their ideas and capture the interest and trust of their audience. The goal is to leave a lasting impression and compel the listeners to take the desired action, making pitch presentations crucial in various business and entrepreneurial endeavors.

8. Conference or Keynote Presentations

Conference or keynote presentations are high-profile presentations delivered at major events, conferences, or industry gatherings. They are typically delivered by thought leaders, industry experts, CEOs, or influential figures who are invited to share their insights, knowledge, and expertise with a large audience. These presentations highlight the event and are often scheduled as the main attraction or the closing session.

Keynote presentations are designed to inspire, motivate, and inform the audience about the latest trends, innovations, or developments in a particular field. They are also a form of motivational presentations that aim to leave a lasting impact on attendees, leaving them with valuable takeaways and new perspectives. These presentations are usually longer than regular presentations and are carefully curated to captivate the audience and maintain their attention throughout.

Effective conference or keynote presentations require strong storytelling, engaging visuals, and powerful delivery. Presenters must connect with the audience personally, using their charisma and stage presence to leave a memorable impression. These presentations can significantly influence the opinions and decisions of the attendees, making them an essential element of successful conferences and events.

By mastering these eight presentation types, you can adapt your communication approach to suit different contexts, engage your audience effectively, and achieve your presentation goals in 2023 and beyond.

What is a Presentation Style & 7 Presentation Styles

Presentation style refers to the unique and individual way in which a presenter delivers a presentation or speech. It encompasses various elements, including the tone of voice, body language, use of visual aids, speaking speed, and overall demeanor during the presentation. The presentation style can greatly impact how the audience perceives and engages with the presented content.

Presenters may have different styles, from formal and authoritative to casual and conversational. Some presenters may prefer a more interactive and engaging approach, while others may focus on delivering information in a straightforward and informative manner.

The choice of presentation style should align with the presentation’s objective and the audience’s preferences. A well-developed presentation style can enhance the effectiveness of the message and create a positive and memorable experience for the audience.

7 Presentation Styles

Presenters can adopt various presentation styles to engage their audience and effectively convey their message. Here are seven common presentation styles:

1. Storyteller Style

The Storyteller’s presentation style revolves around crafting a compelling narrative that captivates the audience. The presenter uses storytelling techniques, such as vivid descriptions, personal anecdotes, and emotional appeals, to create a memorable experience.

By weaving a story around the main message or content, the Storyteller engages the audience emotionally, making the information more relatable and easier to remember. This style is often used in motivational speeches, marketing pitches, and presentations where the goal is to evoke emotions and leave a lasting impact on the audience.

Aside from the above examples, a motivational presentation also leverages uses the storyteller style to motivate their audience and get them to achieve their desired outcome.

2. Instructor Style

A structured and informative approach characterizes the Instructor’s presentation style. Presenters using this style act as educators, providing clear explanations, demonstrations, and examples to convey information effectively. The focus is on straightforwardly sharing knowledge and expertise, making complex concepts understandable for the audience.

The Instructor style is commonly used in academic lectures, training sessions, and workshops, where the goal is to facilitate learning and provide valuable insights to the audience.

3. Closer Style

The Closer presentation style emphasizes the persuasive aspect of a presentation. Presenters using this style focus on influencing the audience’s beliefs or actions. They often use powerful arguments, logical reasoning, and evidence to convince the audience to take a specific course of action or adopt a particular viewpoint.

The Closer style is commonly used in sales pitches, business presentations, fundraising events, and political speeches, where the goal is to win over the audience and achieve a specific outcome.

4. Connector Style

The Connector presentation style emphasizes building connections with the audience. Presenters using this style strive to establish rapport, create a sense of community, and foster engagement. They often use personal anecdotes, humor, and audience interaction to make the audience feel involved and connected to the content.

The Connector style is commonly used in team meetings, workshops, and networking events, where the goal is to build relationships and create a positive atmosphere.

5. Coach Style

The Coach presentation style focuses on guiding and empowering the audience. Presenters using this style act as mentors, providing support, encouragement, and actionable advice. They aim to inspire the audience and help them achieve their goals.

The Coach style is commonly used in personal development workshops, leadership training, and motivational speeches, where the goal is to motivate and uplift the audience.

6. Lessig Style

The Lessig style, named after law professor Lawrence Lessig, is a presentation style that heavily relies on visual aids, particularly slides. The presenter uses limited text on slides and incorporates compelling images, graphics, and videos to complement their speech.

The Lessig style is highly effective for conveying complex ideas visually and engagingly. This style is commonly used in technology-related presentations, TED Talks, and scientific discussions.

7. Visual Style

The Visual style strongly emphasizes using visual aids to convey information. Presenters using this style use slides, charts, infographics, and other visual elements to support their message. The goal is to enhance understanding and retention by presenting visually appealing, easy-to-follow information.

The Visual style is commonly used in educational presentations, product demonstrations, and data-driven discussions, where the visual representation of information is crucial for audience comprehension.

Each presentation style has its strengths and can be effective based on the presenter’s objectives, the audience’s preferences, and the context of the presentation. A skilled presenter can adapt their style to suit the content and create a memorable and impactful presentation.

Presentation Techniques To Inspire You

Presentation techniques refer to the various methods and strategies presenters use to deliver their message and engage the audience effectively. Some common presentation techniques include:

1. Storytelling

Storytelling technique involves presenting information or messages in the form of a narrative. It captivates the audience emotionally, making the content more relatable and memorable. By weaving stories into presentations, presenters can create a deeper connection with the intended audience and effectively convey complex concepts engaging and impactfully.

2. Visual Aids

Visual aids involve using images, charts, graphs, videos, and other visual elements to support and enhance the presentation’s message. These visuals help clarify complex information, make the content more engaging, and improve audience understanding. Effective use of visual aids can make a presentation more memorable and compelling, especially in an instructional presentation.

3. Eye Contact

The eye contact technique involves maintaining consistent eye contact with the audience throughout the presentation. This non-verbal communication helps build trust and engagement with the listeners, making them feel connected and valued. By looking at individuals and groups, the presenter can gauge reactions and adjust the delivery to keep the audience attentive and involved.

4. Body Language

Body language technique involves using non-verbal cues such as gestures, posture, and facial expressions to enhance communication during a presentation. Positive body language, like open gestures and confident posture, can convey enthusiasm and credibility, while negative cues, like fidgeting or avoiding eye contact, can undermine the message. Mastering body language can improve audience engagement and overall presentation impact.

5. Interactivity

The interactivity technique involves engaging the audience through activities, questions, or discussions during a presentation. Most presenters for an educational presentation use this technique to create a more dynamic and memorable experience for the audience by encouraging participation and feedback. It fosters better understanding, retention, and involvement, making the presentation more impactful and effective.

6. Pace and Tone

The pace and tone technique involves varying the speed and pitch of speech during a presentation. By adjusting the pace, presenters can create emphasis, maintain interest, and add excitement or seriousness to their message. An effective pace and tone keep the audience engaged, enhance clarity, and convey emotions appropriately, making the presentation more compelling.

Humor technique involves using jokes, anecdotes, or lighthearted elements to entertain the audience during a presentation. When used appropriately, humor can break the ice, create a relaxed atmosphere, and make the content more memorable. It helps engage the audience, build rapport, and keep their attention, making the presentation enjoyable and impactful.

8. Call to Action

The Call to Action (CTA) technique prompts the audience to take a specific action after the presentation, such as signing up for a newsletter, visiting a website, or purchasing. It motivates the audience to act on the information presented, turning passive listeners into active participants and achieving the desired outcome or goal of the presentation. Even though this is widely used across various types of presentations, this technique is a must-have for a business presentation.

By combining these presentation techniques and tailoring them to the audience and content, presenters can deliver engaging and impactful presentations that leave a lasting impression on their specific audience.

The 3 Golden Rules of Presentations

Here are the three most prominent golden rules of presentations that you should also consider when creating your presentations:

1. The 10-20-30 Rule

The 10-20-30 rule of presentation is a guideline proposed by Guy Kawasaki, a venture capitalist and former Apple employee. This rule aims to help presenters create more effective and engaging presentations. Here’s what it entails:

• 10 Slides: According to the rule, a presentation should not exceed ten slides. Keeping the number of slides limited ensures that you focus on the most critical points and avoid overwhelming your audience with too much information.
• 20 Minutes: The presentation should ideally be delivered within 20 minutes. This time frame helps maintain the audience’s attention and prevents the presentation from becoming too lengthy and tedious.
• 30-Point Font Size: The text on your slides should be in at least a 30-point font size. Using a larger font size makes the content more readable, especially for audiences seated further away from the screen or for individuals with visual impairments.

The 10-20-30 rule emphasizes simplicity, conciseness, and visual clarity in presentations. By adhering to this guideline, presenters can deliver more impactful messages, engage their audience effectively, and leave a lasting impression.

2. The 5/5/5 Rule

The 5/5/5 rule is a presentation technique designed to help presenters structure their content concisely and engagingly. It suggests dividing the presentation into three distinct parts:

• 5 Slides: Limit the presentation to just five slides. Each slide should focus on a specific key point, and visuals should be used to support the content. This helps keep the presentation focused and avoids overwhelming the audience with excessive information.
• 5 Minutes: Deliver the presentation within a five-minute time frame. This time constraint encourages presenters to be clear and to the point, delivering the most critical information without going into unnecessary detail.
• 5 Sentences per Slide: Each slide should contain a maximum of five sentences. This forces presenters to use concise language and avoid cluttering the slides with too much text, ensuring that the audience can easily grasp the main ideas.

The 5/5/5 rule is an effective way to structure presentations, making them more engaging and impactful. By adhering to this rule, presenters can effectively communicate their message, keep the audience’s attention, and deliver a memorable presentation.

3. The 7×7 Rule

The 7×7 rule is a presentation guideline that suggests limiting each slide to a maximum of seven lines of text with no more than seven words per line. This approach is intended to keep presentations concise, visually appealing, and easy for the audience to follow. By following the 7×7 rule, presenters avoid overwhelming their audience with dense text and create more visually engaging slides.

The principle behind the 7×7 rule is to encourage presenters to focus on key points, use bullet points or concise phrases instead of long sentences, and rely on visuals and graphics to support the content. This approach helps maintain the audience’s attention and makes it easier for them to retain the information presented. Ultimately, the 7×7 rule helps presenters deliver clearer and more effective presentations.

How Can All Time Design Help You Design Visually Appealing Presentations?

As a creative design agency with a team of professional designers, we can help you create visually appealing presentations that stand out and captivate your audience. Here’s how All Time Design can assist you in crafting exceptional presentations:

• Custom Designs: Our team of skilled designers can create custom presentation designs tailored to your specific needs, branding, and audience.
• Creative Concepts: With our expertise in design and creativity, All Time Design can develop innovative concepts and layouts that make your presentations visually stunning.
• Visual Storytelling: We excel in visual storytelling, helping you convey your message effectively through compelling graphics, imagery, and infographics.
• Consistent Branding: All Time Design ensures that your presentations align with your brand identity, maintaining consistency across all your marketing materials.
• Engaging Animations: Our designers can add subtle yet impactful animations to enhance your presentation’s overall appeal and engagement.
• Data Visualization: If your presentation involves data, our designers can skillfully transform complex data into visually appealing, easy-to-understand charts and graphs.
• Professional Polish: With a keen eye for detail, All Time Design ensures that every presentation element is polished, from font choices to color schemes.
• Timely Delivery: We understand the importance of deadlines and deliver high-quality presentations on time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your project.
• Client Collaboration: All Time Design values client input and collaborates closely with you to incorporate your ideas and feedback into the design process.
• Post-Presentation Support : Even after completing the project, All Time Design provides ongoing support, making adjustments and revisions as needed.

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Home / Design / 11 Different Types of Presentation Styles

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11 different types of presentation styles.

Presentations have several use cases. Designing an effective presentation is a skill and a task. Since different situations call for various types of presentations, it can be confusing to choose a specific presentation style.

Let’s explore eleven different types of presentations and where to use them. From informative to persuasive, motivational to instructional, we’ll cover each type in detail, providing tips and strategies to help you deliver powerful and engaging presentations that leave a lasting impact on your audience.

Bonus:  AI Presentation Maker – The Effortless Way to Generate Presentations

So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to mastering the art of presentation!

Purpose of a Presentation

Source: Unsplash

• Informing:  The primary purpose of a presentation is to provide information to the audience. It can include updates on the progress of a project, sharing research findings, or presenting data and statistics.
• Persuading:  Another purpose of a presentation is to persuade the audience to take a specific action or to change their thinking about a topic. It can include presenting a proposal, making a sales pitch, or advocating for a particular cause.
• Educating:  Presentations can educate the audience on a particular topic, such as teaching a new skill, demonstrating how to use a product, or sharing insights on a subject.
• Entertaining:  In some cases, the purpose of a presentation can be to entertain the audience. It can include delivering a keynote speech at a conference or event, performing a stand-up comedy routine, or using humor and storytelling to engage and captivate the audience.

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11 Different Presentation Styles

To ensure that the presentation resonates with your audience, it’s crucial to understand the type of presentation. Let’s take a closer look at different presentation styles:

1. Educational

An educational presentation aims to teach or inform the audience about a specific subject or topic. It is usually structured around a clear learning objective or outcomes. It facilitates understanding, retention, and engagement with the presentation material.

You can include a range of visual aids like charts, graphs, images, or videos to illustrate and reinforce key concepts. This presentation style includes interactive elements like quizzes, activities, or group discussions to enable deeper learning.

Examples of educational presentations are lectures, workshops, training sessions, webinars, and e-learning modules.

2. Instructional 

An instructional presentation provides step-by-step guidance on how to perform a particular task or activity. The goal is to help the audience understand and follow instructions or procedures that will enable them to accomplish a goal or objective.

Instructional presentations typically involve clear and concise explanations of each step in the process, with visual aids such as diagrams, illustrations, or videos to help demonstrate the steps visually. You may also use props or other tools to help illustrate key concepts.

Instructional presentations include tutorials, how-to guides, product demonstrations, and training sessions for specific skills or processes.

Bonus: 10 Ideas For Impactful Presentation Openings

3. Motivational 

A motivational presentation inspires and energizes the audience, encouraging them to take action or adopt a particular mindset. The goal is to create excitement, enthusiasm, and empowerment in the audience, motivating them to strive for personal or professional success.

It features powerful storytelling, personal anecdotes, or quotes that convey a positive message or reinforce key themes. Visual aids such as slides, videos, or props can illustrate key points or create an emotional connection with the audience.

Keynote speeches, team-building events, and personal development workshops are examples of motivational presentations.

4. Persuasive 

A persuasive presentation convinces the audience to adopt a specific viewpoint. The goal is to persuade with a particular idea, product, or service. To create a persuasive presentation, identify and understand the needs and desires of the audience and tailor the content accordingly.

The presentation will often include a clear call to action with statistical data, case studies, testimonials, or other evidence to support the argument. Storytelling or personal anecdotes create an emotional connection with the audience and reinforce the key message.

A persuasive presentation can be for sales pitches, marketing presentations, and political speeches.

Bonus: Crafting Compelling Sales Pitches: A Step-by-Step Guide with Free Presentation Maker

5. Problem-Solving 

A problem-solving presentation identifies, analyzes, and solves a specific problem. It presents a clear and logical approach to solving a problem and gaining the audience’s buy-in and support for the proposed solution.

The content involves identifying and analyzing the root causes of a problem and proposing a viable solution. The presenter can use diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate the problem and proposed solution. It can also include a plan for implementing the solution and a timeline for achieving results.

Problem-solving presentations can be related to business proposals, project plans, and research reports.

Bonus:  5 Online Presentation Tools That Will Make Your Deck Stand Out

A visual presentation emphasizes the use of visual aids to convey information. It uses graphics, images, videos, or other visual elements to enhance the audience’s understanding and retention of the presented material.

Visual presentations can be in different forms – slideshows, videos, infographics, or posters. For those seeking to engage audiences with various design templates , leveraging such resources can significantly enrich your presentation’s visual storytelling. They communicate complex information quickly and clearly, or when you want to create a memorable and engaging experience.

You may use various techniques to create a visually appealing presentation, such as color schemes, typography, and layout design. You can use it for marketing campaigns, educational materials, and scientific presentations.

7.StoryTelling Presentation

Humans connect with stories. This presentation style weaves a narrative around your message, making it relatable and memorable. It captures the audience’s attention and makes complex concepts more relatable.

It’s a powerful presentation style for product launches, case studies, brand building, and social change initiatives.

8. Data-Driven Presentation

Numbers speak volumes. This presentation style heavily relies on charts, graphs, and other data visualizations to present complex information clearly and compellingly. Market research presentations and financial reports often utilize this approach.

Bonus: 8 AI Presentation Makers That Will Help You Win Over Your Audience

9. Live Demonstration Presentation

Show, don’t tell! This presentation style showcases a product, service, or process in action, allowing the audience to experience its value firsthand. 

You can show how something works or how to perform a task step-by-step.

Product demos, software walkthroughs, and scientific experiments are examples of this type of presentation.

10. Interactive Presentation

Interactive presentations encourage audience participation and engagement through polls, quizzes, Q&A sessions, or group activities. They’re ideal for workshops, brainstorming sessions, or team-building events where collaboration and interactivity are essential.

Bonus: 7 Key Elements to Include in Your Sales Strategy Presentation

11. Status or Progress Report Presentation

Status and progress reports are vital tools for keeping stakeholders informed about project advancement, challenges, and next steps. But simply reciting data points won’t win over your audience. Crafting a compelling presentation is crucial to ensuring everyone stays invested and aligned.

Software development projects and marketing campaign needs this presentation style.

Simplified: Your Only Needed Presentation Maker

The  AI presentation maker  from Simplified offers an effortless way to design stunning presentations that will impress any audience. It offers a library of thousands of photos and videos and lets you add gifs directly to your artboard. You don’t have to spend hours generating professional and on-brand decks.

Source: Simplified

The AI presentation maker enables you to create outstanding presentations in a few steps. Start by going to the Design Dashboard and clicking “Generate with AI.” Then, choose “AI Presentation,” input your presentation topic, and click “Generate.” The AI Presentation Maker will automatically create a visually appealing and customizable presentation in seconds.

Simplified indeed simplifies making presentations and is all you need to create a powerful and engaging presentation.

Simplified  is more than a Presentation Maker. It provides comprehensive solutions for all your content needs. You can plan,  write ,  design  posts,  edit videos ,  schedule ,  manage  multiple accounts from a single platform, publish content,  track metrics , and more. Simplified also has 1000s of built-in  graphic design templates  and  video templates  that make content creation a breeze. And the best part is all this is for free!

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5 Unique Types Of Presentation - Which Suits Your Purpose Best

Table of contents.

In today’s fast-paced world, effective communication has become an indispensable skill. Whether in the classroom, the boardroom, or on a global stage, the way we present our ideas can make all the difference. While traditional presentations certainly have their place, it’s essential to explore new and innovative approaches to captivate your audience and convey your message with impact.

In this blog of the art of presentation, we will journey beyond the conventional, shedding light on five types of presentations that show the way we share information, tell stories, and engage our audience. Each of these presentation types harnesses the power of creativity, technology, and human connection to leave a lasting impression and drive meaningful change.

Why Are Different Presentation Styles Needed?

Different types of presentation styles are needed because they serve diverse purposes, engage various audiences, and are suited to specific situations. Here are several reasons why various styles are necessary:

Audience Diversity

Audiences vary in terms of their interests, knowledge levels, and preferences. Some may respond better to data-driven informative presentations, while others may be more receptive to inspirational or entertaining presentations. Using different styles allows you to cater to the needs and preferences of different audience groups.

Communication Objectives

Different presentations serve different communication goals. Informative presentations aim to educate, persuasive presentations aim to convince, and motivational presentations aim to engage and inspire. Using the appropriate style aligns your presentation with your specific objectives.

Content Complexity

The complexity of the content being presented may dictate the presentation style. Complex technical information might require a demonstrative or how-to style, while a simple and emotionally charged message may be best conveyed through an inspirational or storytelling approach.

Engagement and Retention

Varied presentation types help keep audiences engaged and improve information retention. Mixing up presentation formats prevents monotony and boredom, making it more likely that your audience will stay focused and remember the key talking points.

Context and Setting

The context and setting of a presentation matter. A formal business presentation may require a more structured and data-driven approach, while a casual team meeting might benefit from interactive discussions. Adapting your style to the context enhances the effectiveness of your communication.

Audience Feedback

Presenters often adjust their styles based on audience feedback. If you notice that your audience is disengaged or confused, you may choose to switch to a different style or incorporate more interactive elements to address their concerns and create genuine interest.

Cultural and Regional Differences

Different styles can also be influenced by cultural and regional norms. What works in one culture may not be as effective in another. Being aware of these differences and adapting your style accordingly is essential for effective cross-cultural communication.

Technology and Innovation

As technology evolves, new styles and tools emerge. Virtual reality presentations, for example, have become increasingly popular for their immersive qualities. Staying up-to-date with technological advancements can open up new possibilities for engaging your audience.

Personal Style and Strengths

Every presenter has their own strengths and preferences. Some may excel at delivering data-driven presentations, while others may be more comfortable with inspirational or interactive styles. Adapting your style to your strengths can enhance your confidence and impact.

What Are The Different Types Of Presentations?

Educational/informative presentations.

The educational or informative presentation types are meant to provide the audience with new information about a topic. They aim to educate and enhance the audience’s understanding of the subject matter. These presentations often use visual aids such as charts, graphs and data to support the information being shared.

Instructional Presentations

An instructive presentation, often referred to as a how-to presentation, is a type of presentation that is designed to teach the audience a specific skill, provide step-by-step guidance on completing a task, or impact knowledge on a particular topic. The primary purpose of this presentation method is to facilitate learning and help the audience acquire new information or abilities. These are often used in training with new employees to give them a better understanding of a job they are expected to do.

Motivational Presentations

A motivational presentation aim to entertain, motivate or inspire the audience. They may include storytelling, humour, and emotional appeals to engage and uplift the audience. This inspirational presentation style is often seen in speeches with motivational speakers, at TED Talks or keynote addresses.

Persuasive Presentations

A persuasive presentation is designed to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint, take specific actions, or make decisions in line with the presenter’s goals. They often involve the use of compelling arguments, emotional appeals, and persuasive techniques to sway the audience’s opinions.

Progress Presentations

The progress presentation method is a type of presentation that provides an update on the status, development or advancement of a project, task or any ongoing work. These presentations are usually delivered at regular intervals throughout the duration of a project to inform stakeholders, team members or decision makers about the current state of affairs.

What Are The Benefits To Using Different Types Of Presentations?

Using different types of presentations has several benefits, depending on the context, audience and goals of your presentation. Here are some advantages of incorporating diverse presentation styles:

Audience Engagement and Response

Varying presentation styles cater to different audience preferences. By adapting your style to the preferences of your audience, you can capture their attention more effectively, and keep the audience thinking throughout your presentation. Varied presentations types allow you to convey information from multiple angles, making it easier for the audience to grasp complex concepts. Some people may respond better to visual aids, while others prefer interactive discussions or storytelling.

Improved Quality And More Memorable

Different presentation styles can stimulate different parts of the brain, which can enhance memory retention. Engaging visuals, emotional storytelling, and interactive activities can all contribute to better recall of your message.

Having a repertoire of presentation types makes you a more versatile and adaptable communicator. You can choose the style that best fits the message, situation, and audience, increasing the chances of successful communication.

You Can Adapt To Connect With The Nature Of The Topic

Different situations require different approaches. Whether you’re giving a formal business presentation, a training workshop, or a casual team meeting, choosing the appropriate style helps you align with the context and achieve your goals effectively.

Are There Only 5 Types Of Presentation?

No, we’ve simply selected the most common types we see. The five most common types of presentations— educational/informative, instructional, motivational, persuasive, and progress—are popular because they serve fundamental communication needs and are versatile in various contexts.

These five presentation styles are the most popular because they address fundamental communication objectives and cater to diverse audience needs. Their versatility allows presenters to adapt to various situations, whether it’s delivering critical information, influencing decisions, inspiring change, teaching skills, or fostering collaboration. Additionally, these styles can be combined or customized to suit specific goals and audiences, further contributing to their widespread use and popularity.

Wrapping Things Up On Types Of Presentations

Learning and using different presentations can be a valuable skill for personal growth and professional development. It challenges you to become a more versatile and effective communicator. By choosing the right style for your message and audience, you can maximize the impact of your presentations and impactful presentations are more likely to achieve their intended goals.

In summary, the benefits of using different types of presentations lie in their ability to make your communication more effective, engaging, and adaptable. Being able to switch between styles allows you to connect with various audiences, convey your message more convincingly, and achieve better outcomes in your personal and professional endeavours.

As we conclude our journey through these versatile approaches, it becomes abundantly clear that the power of presentation lies not just in what we say, but how we say it.

Each presentation style, in its uniqueness, encapsulates a facet of the human experience—a story to tell, a lesson to learn, a cause to champion, a skill to acquire, or a problem to solve. While the styles themselves are distinct, they are not mutually exclusive; they interweave and overlap, offering a rich tapestry of communicative tools for us to master.

So, as you embark on your next presentation, remember the versatile repertoire at your disposal. Tailor your approach to your objectives, your audience, and the unique message you wish to convey. Embrace the power of creativity, technology, and human connection. For in the realm of presentations, it is not merely the words spoken or the slides displayed that matter most; it is the lasting impact etched into the hearts and minds of those who bear witness.

What Ever Type Of Presentation You Need, Create It With The Geeks!

At Presentation Geeks, we live and breathe PowerPoint presentation design . We have designed over 50,000 slides for a wide variety of clients and pride ourselves on having a 100% 5 star review rating.

If you’re looking for a design agency to take your presentations off your hands, work with the geeks at Presentation Geeks and be sure that the slide deck will exceed your expectations!

Contact us today to see how we can help you reach your business goals.

Author:  Content Team

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Presentation styles: the secret of choosing the right style for you

Sep 27, 2022

Posted by: Gemma King

Choose the right presentation style and information will flow effortlessly from you to your audience. They will ooh and ahh along with you and remember the take-home points for weeks to come.

Choose the wrong presentation style and the only person to walk away having learned something will be… you.

So, let’s get it right! We've got plenty of tips, tricks and one big secret that will help you nail it first time, every time.

Which presentation style is right for me?

Lots of articles promise to help you find the presentation style that suits you best. Sounds ideal, right? Surely, that’s the only one you need? Well, not quite…

It’s time to let you in on that secret: you're asking the wrong question.  You're looking for the right presentation style to suit  you ... but you should be asking something else altogether.

Which presentation style is right for my topic and audience?

That's more like it!

The style you use depends on a huge number of factors, and almost none of them are you! Here are just a handful of things you’ll want to consider when choosing your presentation style:

• Who’s attending? Have they paid to come, or are they being paid (i.e., is it part of their job)? Do they all know each other already, and if not, would they like to?
• What is the objective of the session? Is it to share an update (are you sure it shouldn’t be an email?), to impart some knowledge, or to persuade people round to a point of view?
• When and where is the presentation being held? Is it hybrid, virtual or in person? Is it in your usual office space, or somewhere more interesting? What tech is available?

Each approach has different strengths and weaknesses. They work in different situations, and for different people. To choose the right one, you’ll need to have a good idea of the content and objectives of your talk - we can’t help you with that, but we can share some rules to help you choose the right presentation style for the job, every time.

Presentation styles and when to use them

Visual presentation.

Visual presentations can be so powerful. This approach works well if the subject matter lends itself to impressive images or videos, but also if it’s complicated and requires people to get their head around new concepts. Images can really help to untangle ideas, and help people remember them again in the future.

This approach works for most audiences and environments, online or offline. It’s a great default if you’re presenting to a large or varied audience.

There are a few things to remember:

• Keep it simple - big, bold images are better than detailed diagrams.
• Even if you’re using charts or tables, get rid of any text that isn’t completely essential. All of it… no, really!
• For in-person events, check the images you have chosen will look good on whatever size screen you’ll be using.
• Make sure that viewing the images isn’t integral to getting value from the talk; think about people with visual impairments (or a bad view/poor internet connection).

Storytelling

It’s no surprise that Storytelling makes an appearance on a Pip Decks list! Steve Rawling, Author of Storyteller Tactics , has already explained Why Storytelling is so Important For Businesses . It helps you win people’s attention and connect with them emotionally - both crucially important if you’re going to ask them for something in return!

So if you are aiming to persuade, this presentation style is particularly useful. It’s also great when you want to talk about a big picture - for example, a new product or feature - while remembering to highlight the little picture: the impact on an individual person.

Free Flowing

This approach can be like poetry to watch! If you know your subject matter inside out and you know the audience is super into it - for example, because they have paid to be there - this presentation style could be the one for you.

Free flowing does not mean unrehearsed - it just means that you’re not relying on slides, data or a script. It’s just you and your encyclopaedic knowledge of whatever it is you’re talking about.

So for example, if you’re a consultant who has been paid to do a deep dive into company culture or some really cool audience research, it could be fun just to talk through all the things you found so cool about that work.

It’s also great for formal and informal pitches, and is conversational so can help people feel comfortable asking questions too (find out more about encouraging lots of questions ).

Interactive

Choosing to involve your audience is a brave move, but when it works it really pays off! This is a particularly strong approach if your topic is something it's easy to have a casual conversation about. If it's something super complex, getting people to contribute from the audience could end in silence. 

If you're choosing this approach, you'll want to plan it carefully beforehand. What are you going to ask people for? A show of hands can be an easy 'in' to this presentation style, rather than asking people to talk out loud in front of everyone.

For example, if you're talking about the results of some research you have run, you can set a challenge: "Let's see if we've got any budding researchers in the room! What do you think I found when I did this? Raise your hand if you think sales increased". The good thing is that whether the audience is mostly right or wrong is irrelevant - it makes them feel like they are part of a conversation. It also keeps them on their toes!

Other presentation styles

There are lots of other styles to choose from: highly stylised approaches, like the Lessig method (one slide per minute, each featuring just one word or idea). You can deliver your talk like a stand-up comic (that is, in delivery rather than content, although the odd joke can help, too!).

You can also share materials beforehand, or even ask for people to answer a short digital survey, and then facilitate a discussion of each point instead of delivering all of the content yourself. 

Take some time to watch talks on YouTube, or watch some TED talks, on similar topics, to see what else might work for you.

Combining presentation styles

You can combine any of the above, as well as your own unique approaches. For example, any of the above can be paired with the visual presentation style. And most approaches can incorporate a story, too.

Just make sure that you finish whatever you start - don’t kick off with a story unless you’re going to end the story at some point. You can use a whole story at once, or revisit it throughout the talk - but do tie up any loose ends!

Presentation style rules that always apply

There are a few things to remember regardless of the presentation style you choose to use. These are universal truths - yet you’ll see people get them wrong time and time again! Mostly, that’s because breaking these rules can make you feel more comfortable - but it comes at the cost of the quality of your presentation.

When it comes to text, less is more. None is great, too! Definitely do not put your script up on screen - people can read much more quickly than you can talk, and they will.

Focus on being still. Not completely statue still, but without any fidgeting or fiddling with your hair, hand wringing etc. These things are really noticeable!

Talk slowly - so slowly that it starts to feel a little bit silly is usually about the right pace. Even if you practice at this speed, you’ll inevitably speed up when you’re in front of an audience.

Having your script visible, fidgeting and talking quickly might all help you get through the experience, but they hinder the audience. If you want to know more universal truths, try Steve Rawling’s Essential tips for your first presentation . You won’t regret it!

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Presentations

Presentation Design: Beginner’s Guide (Tips, Tools & Templates)

Written by: Chloe West

A good presentation doesn’t just rely on presentation design. There’s your public speaking , the ability to connect with your audience and how well you understand your topic.

However, that doesn’t mean that presentation design isn’t important. Everything goes hand-in-hand when creating a presentation that will keep your audience engaged and talking about your topic for days to come.

Ready to design a presentation that knocks the audience’s socks off? We’ve put together a beginner’s guide to help you understand the types of presentations, beginner design tips and more.

You'll find some incredible presentation templates to help you get the ball rolling on your design. You can customize them however you want, and the best part is you don't have to be a design pro to make them pop!  

In this video, we've put together our top 13 presentation design tips to help you wow your audience and create the most epic slide deck they've ever seen.

Here's a short selection of 8 presentation design guidelines you can use when you edit, share and download your content with Visme. View them below:

Table of Contents

Why presentation design is important, what are the different types of presentations.

• 20 Presentation Design Tips for Beginners

5 Presentation Design Trends to Inspire You

15 presentation templates for various use cases.

A presentation is so much more than a simple stack of slides with text and images on it; or at least, it should be. Especially since creative, colorful visuals are so much more memorable than simple text on a screen.

Presentation design is important because with it, you can envelop your ideas, narrative, visuals, data and statistics all into one place and tell a compelling story that leads your audience to the conclusion you want them to reach. 

When you create a presentation with proper design, you then have the opportunity to share your point of view, grow your business and get your audience to see your vision and hear you loud and clear. 

The sad truth is that many people dread going to presentation meetings because of the long, visually lacking and non-stimulating slideshow designs. 

Although what someone has to say during their presentation might be crucial to the business or even life-changing, a listener might lose all interest simply due to the poor design of the presentation.

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With proper presentation design, you can tell your story clearly, inspire your audience to take your next steps and have them engaged with what you’re saying all the way through.

Don’t miss a massive business opportunity just because of poor presentation design.

If you have an upcoming presentation but you don’t have the skillset of a professional designer, don’t worry. Just because you aren’t a designer doesn’t mean you can’t have a professional presentation like one.

With a tool like Visme, you can access professionally designed templates that will act as a guide for you to create your next inspiring presentation . Get started today for free.

There are a variety of different types of presentations and reasons that you would need one. Let’s cover the most common types so you know what to expect and when you might want to consider putting together your own presentation.

Type #1: Educational Presentations

There are a lot of reasons you might need to create a presentation for school – giving a book report, presenting an idea, sharing a hypothesis and study results, etc.

Additionally, teachers have to give presentations all the time, and are always looking for ways to create more engaging slides that keep students interested.

To help ensure your presentation is stunning, try using an educational presentation template like the one below.

Type #2: Investor Pitch Decks

This is an incredibly important type of presentation for startups and small businesses. Trying to get funding for your business idea? You’re going to need to create an investor pitch deck .

At Visme, we’ve actually put together the quintessential pitch deck theme with a variety of different slide ideas to help you craft the ideal, completely professional pitch.

Type #3: Webinar Presentations

Webinars are popular online presentations used for lead magnets and generating new sales and sign-ups. These tend to be informational presentations that lead to a sales pitch towards the end.

Here’s a great webinar presentation template you can use to get started with your own.

Type #4: Sales Presentations

A sales presentation or sales pitch deck is a type of presentation you might need to give if you’re pitching a product or service to a potential customer or client.

These often share your company’s unique selling propositions, pricing information, testimonials and the like.

Here’s an interactive sales presentation template you can use to get started.

Type #5: Report Presentations

Oftentimes, you’ll be asked to present a report based on sales and marketing performance, website data, revenue or some other data that your team or supervisors want to learn more about.

This can come in many different forms, like a business report document or even an infographic, but many people also love to give simple report presentations.

Utilize a template like the one below to set the stage for your report data.

Type #6: Keynote Presentations

A keynote presentation is more like a speech that is given in front of a larger audience. Think TED Talks and keynote speakers at conferences and events. While most of the speech is done by the presenter, slides are still helpful for keeping the audience engaged and on track.

A keynote presentation can use a template like the one below, that’s bright and includes only the main points from the presentation.

12 Presentation Design Tips for Beginners

Are you ready to master presentation design? We’ve got 12 easy-to-follow tips to help you create a slide deck that keeps your audience’s attention and has every audience member handing on to every word.

For other tips to help you create and deliver the best presentation possible, become a certified presenter with our free online course.

Let’s dig in.

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Tip #1: Use No More Than 6 Lines of Text

An effective presentation isn’t filled with copy. You won’t be reading straight off your slides, so you want to include only your main points and must-know information on your slides. Your speech fills in the rest.

Not only does this help make your presentation as a whole much more engaging, but it also improves your presentation design.

Take a look at the example below. The minimal text option looks way better than the slide with paragraphs of copy.

Tip #2: Stick to 2-3 Fonts and Colors

Our next tip focuses on your presentation’s typography and color scheme. While it may be exciting to use as many different fonts and colors as possible, design best practices dictate that you should only utilize two or three total.

Your fonts and colors should have jobs, as well.

Choose one font for your headers and another for your body copy. You might work in a third accent font as well.

Your color choices should be similar. Use one or two main colors throughout, then throw in an accent color for good measure. Make sure your colors work well together and help convey the right message.

Not sure why this is so important? Let’s show you an example of what we mean.

The slide on the left has too much going on. With all of those fonts and colors, it looks cluttered, and it’s hard to pay attention to the actual concept the slide is trying to convey.

But on the right, we see a nice mixture of three fonts and three colors, pulling the entire slide design together.

Tip #3: Pay Attention to Visual Hierarchy

One big thing to remember when adding text to your next presentation is visual hierarchy . Essentially, this means that the order someone reads something on your slide should be obvious, based on font size, color or weight.

Take a look at this example below. On the right, it’s easy to read and makes sense. On the left, the visual hierarchy is all out of whack, leaving the reader confused.

Tip #4: Take Advantage of Powerful Visuals

An engaging presentation takes advantage of visual elements. Think stock photos, icons, illustrations, videos, even charts and graphs. All of those can level up your Visme or PowerPoint presentation design.

You want to make sure that your visuals perfectly represent the words on your slides as well. Or, if you have no words on the slide, make sure they perfectly represent the words that you’re saying in your speech.

Visuals should always add to your presentation, rather than take away. But you also want to make sure that each of your slides has some kind of visual representation so you’re not sharing boring words on a slide, like in the example below.

The left slide is dull and boring. Sure, we can read what it says, but do we want to? On the other hand, the slide on the right is engaging, incorporating a high-quality image that visualizes the words on the slide.

Tip #5: Stay Away From Bullet Points

When learning how to create your first presentation using Microsoft PowerPoint way back in elementary school, one of the typical PowerPoint design tips was to use bullet points for each slide’s main points.

Don’t do that.

Any good presentation design tutorial these days will tell you that you should stay away from bullet points as best you can. They’re boring and outdated and there are better ways to showcase your content.

Take a look at the examples below. The left slide is already putting you to sleep. As we can see on the right, the bullet points aren’t necessary. 

It’s more engaging and conversational when the list is laid out in paragraph form, and it doesn’t look like the traditional PowerPoint template that we’ve all come to dread.

Tip #6: Insert a Single Animation Style

Our next tip for creating a memorable presentation is to only use one single animation style throughout the entire slideshow. 

With a presentation tool like Visme, you can easily access custom animation capabilities that make your design elements seem like they’re floating on the slide. However, you don’t want to throw too many different animation styles into a single slide or presentation.

This can overwhelm your viewer and take attention away from your value proposition and the story you’re trying to tell.

Instead, find one animation style that works and stick with it throughout your presentation.

Tip #7: Highlight Key Points

Using shapes, bright fonts, characters pointing to your copy and similar elements is a great way to highlight your key information on each side. 

Not only does this help keep attention on the page, but it makes your design even easier. Take a look at the example below.

Adding the pink rectangle around the page content helps to highlight the point you’re trying to make and allow your audience to more easily understand your message.

Tip #8: Incorporate Data Visualization

Another important presentation design tip is to incorporate data visualization when showcasing numbers and statistics in your slides.

This can be anything from a bar graph or pie chart visualizing different data in a chart or graph all the way to a percentage radial or a pictogram visualizing basic numbers.

Take a look at this example below. Look at how much more engaging the slide with the data widget is. Using design elements like these make both complex and simple numbers and statistics easier to understand and remember.

Tip #9: Keep Your Slide Design Consistent

Our next tip involves your slide design. This goes back to your fonts and colors as well as other design elements like icon styles, lines, shapes and more.

Each slide throughout your presentation should have a similar look and feel. You want to keep the design cohesive so that it’s obvious to your audience that your slides go together and you’re still talking about the same topic.

Take a look at the example below. On the right, we see a stunning, cohesive presentation design; on the left, we see a smorgasbord of colors, fonts and design elements that make no sense whatsoever.

You want your presentation to look like the example on the right.

Tip #10: Break Up Sections

Another pro tip is to break up the different sections of your presentation with section header slides. These can be anything from a blank slide with only a background photo, include a quote, share your new section’s title and more.

Take a look at the variety of section break slides we offer alongside our Modern presentation theme below.

Tip #11: Stick to a Single Transition Style

Your transition is how one slide exits off the screen and the next slide appears. While tools like Visme and PowerPoint offer a variety of transition options, it’s important to remember that simple is best.

With that being said, you only want to utilize one transition style throughout. Find a favorite or at least one you like for this presentation. If you have a few favorites, switch between them for each presentation you give.

Tip #12: Limit A Single Takeaway Per Slide

When creating a clean, crisp and clear slide design, you’ll want to center all your text and visuals around one single takeaway or idea.

If you crowd your slide with multiple main ideas, things look messy and unorganized, thus giving your presentation a poor design.

As you can see in our example below, when there are multiple main ideas and lots of crowded text, your slide will be immediately overwhelming and you’ll lose your crowd almost immediately.

But on the other hand, when you have a single takeaway with a few points to go along with your main idea, your slide is easily digestible and looks sleek.

If your presentation is on the longer spectrum, then it’s good to keep your slides moving and changing constantly as to not bore your crowd. 

Tip #13: Adjust The Size, Weight and Color of Your Font to Emphasize An Idea 

To enhance your presentation design, you need to ensure that each slide has a focal point; a place where the eye is immediately drawn to.

Typically, you want this focal point to be on your main idea. This way, your audience will immediately be guided to what you have to say next and what they can expect.

One way you can manipulate and direct the eye to go where you want it to is by adjusting the size, color and weight of your font, as you can see in our example.

To highlight your main point or the driving force of your statement, you can change the color of a single word or adjust the font weight to bold. 

This will bring your idea to the forefront of your slide design, thus making it your focal point and emphasizing your main idea. 

The opposite of this idea stands true as well. If you have less important ideas that you need to have on your slide to jog your memory, you can use a lighter font-weight or complementary color to the background to make it stand out less.

Tip #14: Keep Your Presentation Notes Separate

The main rule for having a visually appealing presentation design is to keep things simple. This means that the less text you have on the slide, the better.

Your slide should highlight only your main idea, as we mentioned in a previous point, a few supportive statements and visual elements. 

Thus, you should not have your presentation notes written plainly on the slide for all to see. This will make your slide look and feel chaotic for your audience. 

If you are worried that you’ll forget your main idea or supporting arguments, then you can use a presentation presenter like Visme that keeps your presentation notes separate.

This way, you can still rest assured that all the information you need to convey for each slide is stored carefully away and you can quickly access it, without overcrowding your slide and forfeiting beautiful slide design.

Tip #15: Dedicate an Entire Slide to a Crucial Question or Remark

No one likes presentations that are limited to just a few slides, therefore obliging them to stare at the same slide for 10 minutes.

To keep up a pleasant presentation design and pace, and to keep things visually interesting, you can create slides that are dedicated solely to an impactful quote or a crucial question that supports your entire presentation scope.

So while you may be tempted to add all the answers to your question and supportive data to your slide, it may be best to keep things simple and let your statement do just that; make a statement.

Tip #16: Embed Videos to Your Slides

If you have a video to share with your audience, don’t just boringly add the link to it to your slide; embed the video right within your presentation. 

This will bring your slide to life and will make things easier for you as a presenter, so you don’t have to leave your presentation and do the awkward dance of loading your video. 

You can use a presentation tool like Visme to help you create beautiful slides and embed your videos right into them.

Tip #17: Use Negative Space to Your Advantage

Negative space, or white space, is your best friend when it comes to making a visually appealing presentation slide. 

While many times overlooked or seen as a design inconvenience, you can use extra space to actually make your design look ten times better. 

Let me show you an example.

As you can see, by simply decreasing the size of the design elements and without changing anything else, we were able to achieve a more minimal and professional-looking slide.

Make sure that you maintain the same amount of space between elements to create design cohesiveness. 

Tip #18: Use a Contrasted Background to Make Text Jump Out

One common mistake we see in presentation design is the failure to use color contrast to make your text pop.

Many times, the text gets lost or mixed in with the background because of complementary color usage. 

While staying within the grounds of a color palette is a great idea, you want to make sure that you use contrasting backgrounds and font colors in order to get your text to stand out to the reader.

As you can see in our example, when the text has a complementary color to the background, it’s hard to read. But when the text has a contrasting color, it’s appealing to the eye and is easy for the reader to see. 

You can use a design tool like Visme to find professionally chosen, complementary-yet-contrasting color palettes to use for your presentation design.

Tip #19: Use Backgrounds to Bring Depth to A Visual

Why use a plain background when you can use shapes, photos, textures and more? 

If you want to bring some depth to your slide and really get your text and visuals to stand out, you can use high-resolution images or shapes as a background.

As you can see in our example, when you use a simple one-color background, it looks much plainer than if you were to add more to your background.

Do choose a background that matches your slide design, though. If you pick a busy design, you risk overwhelming your viewer and losing their attention.

So make sure you choose a “calm” design if you have a lot of texts and visuals and a more bold design if you have less text and visuals to display.

Tip #20: Use a Presentation Template

Want a presentation design tip that will never go out of style? Start with a template rather than trying to create your own slide deck from scratch!

With a presentation software like Visme, you can start with a stunning presentation template that has been professionally designed by our team of graphic designers.

Browse our presentation template library below.

Presentation Templates

Ecommerce Webinar Presentation

Buyer Presentation

PixelGo Marketing Plan Presentation

Technology Presentation

Product Training Interactive Presentation

Work+Biz Pitch Deck - Presentation

Create your presentation View more templates

Sometimes you just need a little inspiration to kick off your presentation design. 

If you want to create a show-stopping and attention-grabbing presentation, then it’s good to know what presentation design trends are in right now.

Here are 5 of the hottest presentation design trends that are popular amongst presenters.

B+W with a Splash of Color

One popular presentation design trend right now is to create your entire presentation in black and white and then to add a single pop of color to each slide. 

Take the presentation below.

Image Source

By using a black and white color palette and using a bold choice of color, you can bring attention where it is needed and create a strong focal point for your viewer.

It’s up to you to decide where, how often and how much color you will use per slide. 

Sometimes you only need to add in a tiny colored shape to bring attention to your slide, and other times you may want to add in two to three large colored visuals to your slide. The choice is completely up to you.

Unexpected Neon Colors

You heard it here first, bold and contrasting neon colors are the way of the future for presentation design.

This design trend is great for product presentation and pitch decks, but not only. You can use this technique to spice up any presentation that you’re worried could be potentially lacking in the speech department. 

Because using neon colors is so unexpected, you can use this technique to grab your viewer’s attention and keep them wanting to see more.

The trick is to not use an overwhelming amount of different neon colors, but instead to choose one or two and use them as accents against a contrasting background.

Monochrome Color Palette

Monochrome color palettes that are used in presentation design are always seen as sleek and professional. 

A monochrome color palette is a single color displayed in different strengths, for example, lighter or darker variants of the color blue. 

One way to use the monochrome color palette technique is to use the darkest color for the background and the lighter variants of the color for the text, visuals and graphic design elements. 

You can also try it the other way around and use the lightest colors for the background and the darkest ones in the foreground. 

Play around with the monochromatic design until you find the perfect fit for your slide.

Isometric Illustrations

If you haven’t noticed already, many companies have been transitioning from a minimal design approach to using isometric illustrations for their branding.

If you want to have a professional-looking presentation design and make a statement to your team, you can use isometric illustrations to achieve that.  

Because isometric illustration design is so versatile, what you choose to present while using this design technique is equally as versatile. 

Isometric illustrations will work perfectly for any type of presentation, from product presentations and corporate presentations to technical presentations and monthly reports.

Simple Minimalism

And finally, a design trend that will likely never go out of style is simple minimalism. 

Just because it’s simple doesn’t mean it isn’t complex. Minimalism has always been show-stopping and that is because of the rule “Less is more.”

For each slide, a good rule of thumb is to convey just enough information for the reader to understand what’s going on and use a neutral color palette. 

Showcase your most important ideas in bold, use modern fonts and your minimal slideshow will have your audience captivated immediately. 

If you’re still hungry to find more presentation design trends, then no worries. We have an entire list of 100+ creative presentation ideas and design trends that we created just for you to draw inspiration from.

Ready to put some of these presentation design tips into action? At Visme, we have hundreds of presentation templates to help you get started. Take a look at these 15 presentation templates for various use cases below.

Template #1: Brand Guidelines Presentation Template

If you have brand guidelines created for your business, one great way to share them with your team and stakeholders is to put together a custom presentation showing off your style guide.

This presentation template makes it easy to display your font combinations and color palette for your brand. And if you’re just starting out or looking to rebrand, you can even design a logo in Visme.

Our Dynamic Field feature makes your presentation design quick and painless. You can create dynamic fields and change their values across your projects and presentations with a single click. 

Template #2: Pitch Deck Presentation Template

New businesses who are looking to secure funding for their startup need a clean and eye-catching pitch deck design for pitching investors.

Using a theme like the one above gives you access to a variety of different startup stories for you to choose from when creating your presentation and highlighting the most important aspects of your business.

Made in partnership with FounderSuite, this pitch deck presentation template is perfect for your next investor pitch.

Template #3: Competitor Analysis Interactive Presentation Template

If you’re going to have a successful business, you need to have a firm understanding of who your competition is and what they bring to the table. This will be essential in marketing, for your sales team and just as a general understanding for your company.

This competitor analysis presentation template comes with built-in interactive features to help you get a good understanding of who your competitors are and what potential threats they pose.

Template #4: Business Plan Presentation Template

Another essential business presentation is your business plan. This template offers the exact presentation structure you need to build out your business plan. All you need to do is replace the placeholder text with your own!

Template #5: Marketing Plan Presentation Template

And any good marketing team needs a thorough marketing plan. This presentation template is similar to our business plan presentation template in that we’ve laid out the entire presentation outline for you. All you need to do is input your own strategy.

Template #6: Webinar Presentation Template

One great form of lead generation is hosting a webinar . This webinar template allows you to insert all of the information and sales pitch you want to share with your webinar attendees, all in a stunning, cohesive design.

Simply insert your own info, then brand the design so it matches your company’s fonts, colors and other style guide elements.

Template #7: SWOT Analysis Presentation Template

Have you ever conducted a SWOT analysis for your business? It covers the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that your company faces.

Putting together a SWOT analysis is a great idea when starting a business or adjusting your marketing plan, and this template dedicated to laying out each section is the perfect place to start.

Template #8: Keynote Presentation Template

Are you going to be a keynote speaker at an upcoming event? You should only be focusing on creating stellar content that will wow your audience, rather than how to create your design. Use a template like this to make sure your design is eye-catching no matter what.

Template #9: Employee Handbook Interactive Presentation Template

If your business is bringing on new employees, you’ll likely need to put together an employee handbook to make sure everyone understands your company’s mission and the overall guidelines for working with your business.

An interactive presentation template like this one is a great starting point for creating and distributing your own employee handbook.

Not only can you insert helpful information within this presentation, but you can also link back to resources on your intranet or website and simply share the digital version of this presentation via a private or password protected link.

Template #10: Training Manual Presentation Template

In a similar vein, it can also be helpful to create a training manual for the different roles and departments that your company hires for.

Training manuals like this help new employees start off on the right foot, understanding exactly what’s expected of them in their role and day-to-day tasks. Customize this template with your own training information to share with new team members.

Template #11: Case Study Presentation Template

Another great use case for your next presentation is to share a case study . Showcase how your customers are using your tool and highlight success stories that could drive potential customers to sign up for your product or service.

Template #12: Informational Presentation Template

Regardless of who your audience is, presentations are the perfect format for sharing information. Create an informational presentation to embed in a blog post or share on SlideShare. Present important information to your team. Create presentations to share useful information at conferences and events.

There are so many different reasons you might need to create an informational presentation, and this template is the perfect fit.

Template #13: Creative Brief Interactive Presentation Template

When working with a freelancer, contractor or designer, sometimes you’ll need to present a creative brief so everyone working on the project knows exactly what the outcome is supposed to be.

Using an interactive presentation template like the one above is a great idea for conveying the information in an engaging way that will be easy to remember.

Template #14: Guy Kawasaki Presentation Template

Guy Kawasaki coined the 10-20-30 rule when it comes to presentations. 10 slides, 20 minute presentation, with fonts no smaller than 30pt.

If that’s what you’re looking for, this presentation template is exactly what you need.

Template #15: Ignite Presentation Template

Ignite is a special type of presentation. Speakers give a 5-minute presentation on their topic alongside 20 slides that auto-advance every 15 seconds.

This means you can’t have too much text on any given slide, as you need to keep the tempo of the presentation.

If you’re planning to give an Ignite presentation, this template offers up the perfect starting point for ensuring you’re not using too much text.

Create Your Own Stunning Presentation Design

Ready to get started designing your own presentation? Give Visme’s presentation software a try and create the best presentation design you’ve ever made. We can’t wait to see what you come up with!

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About the Author

Chloe West is the content marketing manager at Visme. Her experience in digital marketing includes everything from social media, blogging, email marketing to graphic design, strategy creation and implementation, and more. During her spare time, she enjoys exploring her home city of Charleston with her son.

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• Interactive Presentation

Presentation Description Mastery: A Step-by-Step Guide in 2024

Anh Vu • 05 April, 2024 • 7 min read

The correct presentation description is what makes it more interesting for the target audience.

It will provide an opportunity to make a text that will attract the attention of the target audience and help convey the key idea. But for this task to be completed, you need to make the description high quality. Let's consider in more detail how to create an appealing presentation description.

Table of Contents

• Three Key Ideas
• Harmonious combination of speech and presentation
• Use the Services of Professionals
• The relationship of presentation elements
• Match the content of the presentation with its purpose
• Ignore the Myths About Ideal Scope
• Use the tips from the list below
• Put yourself in the audience place 
• Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for Better Engagement

• How to start a presentation
• Script presentation

Start in seconds.

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1. Three Key Ideas - Presentation Description

To make it easier for the audience to perceive the meaning of what was said, the thoughts outlined in the presentation should be structured. Therefore, it is worth asking yourself: “If the audience remembered only 3 ideas from my speech, what would they be about?”. Even if the presentation is voluminous, it should revolve around these 3 key ideas. This does not narrow the meaning of what has been said. On the contrary, you will be able to focus the attention of the target audience around a few basic messages.

2. Harmonious Combination of Speech and Presentation - Presentation Description

Often speakers use the presentation as a dubbing of what they are saying. But this option is completely ineffective. It makes no sense to give the same content in different forms. The presentation should be an addition, not just a repetition of what has been said. She can emphasize key ideas, but not duplicate everything. An option is appropriate when the main essence of what was said is briefly structured in the presentation.

3. Use the Services of Professionals - Presentation Description

The team of professional EssayTigers writers will create a great presentation text for you that will work for you. This description will strengthen the idea and reveal it from the best side.

4. The Relationship of Presentation Elements - Presentation Description

Those presentations, the components of which look too fragmented, do not inspire confidence. The audience gets the impression that the material is grouped randomly. It is very difficult to understand such material. And most importantly, the audience needs to understand why this information is being offered to them. When there is no single plot, there is no unifying meaning. People who will be introduced to the presentation will not understand what exactly they want to say. Work to ensure that the relationship between the components of your presentation is built correctly. Then, having read one slide, the audience will expect another.

The most significant vector of efforts should be directed to what arouses people's interest. Winning the fight for attention is a major win that can help you win other people's love.

5. Match the Content of The Presentation with Its Purpose - Presentation Description

The goals may be different. If the task is to convince people of the benefits of a product or the benefits of an affiliate program, you need numbers, research, facts, and comparative characteristics. Emotional arguments in this case, as a rule, do not work. And if you need to enhance the meaning of an artistic or literary presentation, the presentation may consist of slides with art objects and short quotes or aphorisms. In each case, you need to pay attention to the context of the situation. If it is an informal context where people are sharing something creative, the text for the presentation can be written in a more free form. And if you need to convincingly argue in a given situation, textual content requires a clear structure.

6. Ignore the Myths About Ideal Scope - Presentation Description

The description really shouldn't be too overloaded. This is the only tip that applies to all presentations. But its exact volume cannot be inscribed in some universal formula. It all depends on:

• performance time;
• the number of facts that you want to convey to the audience;
• the complexity of the information presented and the need for it to be complemented by specific explanatory footnotes.

Focus on the topic, the specifics of the content, and the time you have to spend on the presentation.

7. Use the Tips from The List Below - Presentation Description

We offer recommendations that will help make the text more literate, concise, and capacious:

• On one slide, reveal only one thought, this will not scatter the attention of the audience.
• If one of the ideas you want to convey to people is not easy to understand, break it up into several slides and provide footnotes with explanations.
• If the text can be diluted with images without losing its meaning, do it. Excess textual information is very difficult to perceive.
• Don't be afraid of brevity. A clearly stated idea is remembered much better than too abstract, long, and vague formulations.
• Ask the audience for feedback after concluding the presentation! You could use a live Q&A tool to make this process easier, to make people feel comfortable to give you a response for improvement later on!

These tips are simple, but they will help.

8. Put Yourself in The Audience Place - Presentation Description

If you don't know how people will be able to perceive what you plan to convey to them, put yourself in the place of the audience. Consider whether it would be interesting for you to listen to such a talk and watch the accompanying presentation. If not, what could be improved? This approach will allow you to look at the situation critically and prevent shortcomings instead of facing their consequences.

You could utilize different interactive tools for online presentations, to make sure that your slides are interesting and attractive to participants. Few features you could try include:

• Divide your team into groups by AhaSlides random team generator , to gather more diverse responses!
• AhaSlides' AI  Online Quiz Creator  brings sheer joy to any lesson, workshop or social event
• AhaSlides  free word cloud > Generator adds sparks to your presentations, feedback and brainstorming sessions, live workshops and virtual events.

About The Author

Leslie Anglesey is a freelance writer, journalist, and author of various articles with a passion for telling stories about the economic and social situation in the world. In case of any inquiries or suggestions kindly reach out to her at [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do you write a presentation description.

Presentation description helps the audience perceive easily the meaning and the structure of the presentation. It is the very basic information for a presentation, and before writing a presentation description, you should ask yourself: “If the audience remembered only 3 ideas from my speech, what would they be about?”. You could also use the AhaSlides idea board to organize thoughts and opinions better in the presentation!

How long should a presentation description be?

There is no fixed rule on the length of a presentation description, as long as it provides sufficient information so that the audience can have a comprehensive view of the topic, structure, and purpose of the presentation. A good presentation description could make the audience know what the presentation is about and why they should participate in it.

Tips to Engage with Polls & Trivia

More from AhaSlides

How to Give a Killer Presentation

Lessons from TED by Chris Anderson

Summary .   

For more than 30 years, the TED conference series has presented enlightening talks that people enjoy watching. In this article, Anderson, TED’s curator, shares five keys to great presentations:

• Frame your story (figure out where to start and where to end).
• Plan your delivery (decide whether to memorize your speech word for word or develop bullet points and then rehearse it—over and over).
• Work on stage presence (but remember that your story matters more than how you stand or whether you’re visibly nervous).
• Plan the multimedia (whatever you do, don’t read from PowerPoint slides).
• Put it together (play to your strengths and be authentic).

According to Anderson, presentations rise or fall on the quality of the idea, the narrative, and the passion of the speaker. It’s about substance—not style. In fact, it’s fairly easy to “coach out” the problems in a talk, but there’s no way to “coach in” the basic story—the presenter has to have the raw material. So if your thinking is not there yet, he advises, decline that invitation to speak. Instead, keep working until you have an idea that’s worth sharing.

A little more than a year ago, on a trip to Nairobi, Kenya, some colleagues and I met a 12-year-old Masai boy named Richard Turere, who told us a fascinating story. His family raises livestock on the edge of a vast national park, and one of the biggest challenges is protecting the animals from lions—especially at night. Richard had noticed that placing lamps in a field didn’t deter lion attacks, but when he walked the field with a torch, the lions stayed away. From a young age, he’d been interested in electronics, teaching himself by, for example, taking apart his parents’ radio. He used that experience to devise a system of lights that would turn on and off in sequence—using solar panels, a car battery, and a motorcycle indicator box—and thereby create a sense of movement that he hoped would scare off the lions. He installed the lights, and the lions stopped attacking. Soon villages elsewhere in Kenya began installing Richard’s “lion lights.”

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How to Structure your Presentation, with Examples

August 3, 2018 - Dom Barnard

For many people the thought of delivering a presentation is a daunting task and brings about a  great deal of nerves . However, if you take some time to understand how effective presentations are structured and then apply this structure to your own presentation, you’ll appear much more confident and relaxed.

Here is our complete guide for structuring your presentation, with examples at the end of the article to demonstrate these points.

Why is structuring a presentation so important?

If you’ve ever sat through a great presentation, you’ll have left feeling either inspired or informed on a given topic. This isn’t because the speaker was the most knowledgeable or motivating person in the world. Instead, it’s because they know how to structure presentations – they have crafted their message in a logical and simple way that has allowed the audience can keep up with them and take away key messages.

Research has supported this, with studies showing that audiences retain structured information  40% more accurately  than unstructured information.

In fact, not only is structuring a presentation important for the benefit of the audience’s understanding, it’s also important for you as the speaker. A good structure helps you remain calm, stay on topic, and avoid any awkward silences.

What will affect your presentation structure?

Generally speaking, there is a natural flow that any decent presentation will follow which we will go into shortly. However, you should be aware that all presentation structures will be different in their own unique way and this will be due to a number of factors, including:

• Whether you need to deliver any demonstrations
• How  knowledgeable the audience  already is on the given subject
• How much interaction you want from the audience
• Any time constraints there are for your talk
• What setting you are in
• Your ability to use any kinds of visual assistance

Before choosing the presentation’s structure answer these questions first:

• What is your presentation’s aim?
• Who are the audience?
• What are the main points your audience should remember afterwards?

When reading the points below, think critically about what things may cause your presentation structure to be slightly different. You can add in certain elements and add more focus to certain moments if that works better for your speech.

What is the typical presentation structure?

This is the usual flow of a presentation, which covers all the vital sections and is a good starting point for yours. It allows your audience to easily follow along and sets out a solid structure you can add your content to.

1. Greet the audience and introduce yourself

Before you start delivering your talk, introduce yourself to the audience and clarify who you are and your relevant expertise. This does not need to be long or incredibly detailed, but will help build an immediate relationship between you and the audience. It gives you the chance to briefly clarify your expertise and why you are worth listening to. This will help establish your ethos so the audience will trust you more and think you’re credible.

Read our tips on  How to Start a Presentation Effectively

2. Introduction

In the introduction you need to explain the subject and purpose of your presentation whilst gaining the audience’s interest and confidence. It’s sometimes helpful to think of your introduction as funnel-shaped to help filter down your topic:

• Introduce your general topic
• Explain your topic area
• State the issues/challenges in this area you will be exploring
• State your presentation’s purpose – this is the basis of your presentation so ensure that you provide a statement explaining how the topic will be treated, for example, “I will argue that…” or maybe you will “compare”, “analyse”, “evaluate”, “describe” etc.
• Provide a statement of what you’re hoping the outcome of the presentation will be, for example, “I’m hoping this will be provide you with…”
• Show a preview of the organisation of your presentation

In this section also explain:

• The length of the talk.
• Signal whether you want audience interaction – some presenters prefer the audience to ask questions throughout whereas others allocate a specific section for this.
• If it applies, inform the audience whether to take notes or whether you will be providing handouts.

The way you structure your introduction can depend on the amount of time you have been given to present: a  sales pitch  may consist of a quick presentation so you may begin with your conclusion and then provide the evidence. Conversely, a speaker presenting their idea for change in the world would be better suited to start with the evidence and then conclude what this means for the audience.

Keep in mind that the main aim of the introduction is to grab the audience’s attention and connect with them.

3. The main body of your talk

The main body of your talk needs to meet the promises you made in the introduction. Depending on the nature of your presentation, clearly segment the different topics you will be discussing, and then work your way through them one at a time – it’s important for everything to be organised logically for the audience to fully understand. There are many different ways to organise your main points, such as, by priority, theme, chronologically etc.

• Main points should be addressed one by one with supporting evidence and examples.
• Before moving on to the next point you should provide a mini-summary.
• Links should be clearly stated between ideas and you must make it clear when you’re moving onto the next point.
• Allow time for people to take relevant notes and stick to the topics you have prepared beforehand rather than straying too far off topic.

When planning your presentation write a list of main points you want to make and ask yourself “What I am telling the audience? What should they understand from this?” refining your answers this way will help you produce clear messages.

4. Conclusion

In presentations the conclusion is frequently underdeveloped and lacks purpose which is a shame as it’s the best place to reinforce your messages. Typically, your presentation has a specific goal – that could be to convert a number of the audience members into customers, lead to a certain number of enquiries to make people knowledgeable on specific key points, or to motivate them towards a shared goal.

Regardless of what that goal is, be sure to summarise your main points and their implications. This clarifies the overall purpose of your talk and reinforces your reason for being there.

Follow these steps:

• Signal that it’s nearly the end of your presentation, for example, “As we wrap up/as we wind down the talk…”
• Restate the topic and purpose of your presentation – “In this speech I wanted to compare…”
• Summarise the main points, including their implications and conclusions
• Indicate what is next/a call to action/a thought-provoking takeaway
• Move on to the last section

5. Thank the audience and invite questions

Conclude your talk by thanking the audience for their time and invite them to  ask any questions  they may have. As mentioned earlier, personal circumstances will affect the structure of your presentation.

Many presenters prefer to make the Q&A session the key part of their talk and try to speed through the main body of the presentation. This is totally fine, but it is still best to focus on delivering some sort of initial presentation to set the tone and topics for discussion in the Q&A.

Other common presentation structures

The above was a description of a basic presentation, here are some more specific presentation layouts:

Demonstration

Use the demonstration structure when you have something useful to show. This is usually used when you want to show how a product works. Steve Jobs frequently used this technique in his presentations.

• Explain why the product is valuable.
• Describe why the product is necessary.
• Explain what problems it can solve for the audience.
• Demonstrate the product  to support what you’ve been saying.
• Make suggestions of other things it can do to make the audience curious.

Problem-solution

This structure is particularly useful in persuading the audience.

• Briefly frame the issue.
• Go into the issue in detail showing why it ‘s such a problem. Use logos and pathos for this – the logical and emotional appeals.
• Provide the solution and explain why this would also help the audience.
• Call to action – something you want the audience to do which is straightforward and pertinent to the solution.

Storytelling

As well as incorporating  stories in your presentation , you can organise your whole presentation as a story. There are lots of different type of story structures you can use – a popular choice is the monomyth – the hero’s journey. In a monomyth, a hero goes on a difficult journey or takes on a challenge – they move from the familiar into the unknown. After facing obstacles and ultimately succeeding the hero returns home, transformed and with newfound wisdom.

Storytelling for Business Success  webinar , where well-know storyteller Javier Bernad shares strategies for crafting compelling narratives.

Another popular choice for using a story to structure your presentation is in media ras (in the middle of thing). In this type of story you launch right into the action by providing a snippet/teaser of what’s happening and then you start explaining the events that led to that event. This is engaging because you’re starting your story at the most exciting part which will make the audience curious – they’ll want to know how you got there.

• Great storytelling: Examples from Alibaba Founder, Jack Ma

Remaining method

The remaining method structure is good for situations where you’re presenting your perspective on a controversial topic which has split people’s opinions.

• Go into the issue in detail showing why it’s such a problem – use logos and pathos.
• Rebut your opponents’ solutions  – explain why their solutions could be useful because the audience will see this as fair and will therefore think you’re trustworthy, and then explain why you think these solutions are not valid.
• After you’ve presented all the alternatives provide your solution, the remaining solution. This is very persuasive because it looks like the winning idea, especially with the audience believing that you’re fair and trustworthy.

Transitions

When delivering presentations it’s important for your words and ideas to flow so your audience can understand how everything links together and why it’s all relevant. This can be done  using speech transitions  which are words and phrases that allow you to smoothly move from one point to another so that your speech flows and your presentation is unified.

Transitions can be one word, a phrase or a full sentence – there are many different forms, here are some examples:

Moving from the introduction to the first point

Signify to the audience that you will now begin discussing the first main point:

• Now that you’re aware of the overview, let’s begin with…
• First, let’s begin with…
• I will first cover…
• My first point covers…
• To get started, let’s look at…

Shifting between similar points

Move from one point to a similar one:

• In the same way…
• Likewise…
• Equally…
• This is similar to…
• Similarly…

Internal summaries

Internal summarising consists of summarising before moving on to the next point. You must inform the audience:

• What part of the presentation you covered – “In the first part of this speech we’ve covered…”
• What the key points were – “Precisely how…”
• How this links in with the overall presentation – “So that’s the context…”
• What you’re moving on to – “Now I’d like to move on to the second part of presentation which looks at…”

Physical movement

You can move your body and your standing location when you transition to another point. The audience find it easier to follow your presentation and movement will increase their interest.

A common technique for incorporating movement into your presentation is to:

• Start your introduction by standing in the centre of the stage.
• For your first point you stand on the left side of the stage.
• You discuss your second point from the centre again.
• You stand on the right side of the stage for your third point.
• The conclusion occurs in the centre.

Key slides for your presentation

Slides are a useful tool for most presentations: they can greatly assist in the delivery of your message and help the audience follow along with what you are saying. Key slides include:

• An intro slide outlining your ideas
• A  summary slide  with core points to remember
• High quality image slides to supplement what you are saying

There are some presenters who choose not to use slides at all, though this is more of a rarity. Slides can be a powerful tool if used properly, but the problem is that many fail to do just that. Here are some golden rules to follow when using slides in a presentation:

• Don’t over fill them  – your slides are there to assist your speech, rather than be the focal point. They should have as little information as possible, to avoid distracting people from your talk.
• A picture says a thousand words  – instead of filling a slide with text, instead, focus on one or two images or diagrams to help support and explain the point you are discussing at that time.
• Make them readable  – depending on the size of your audience, some may not be able to see small text or images, so make everything large enough to fill the space.
• Don’t rush through slides  – give the audience enough time to digest each slide.

Guy Kawasaki, an entrepreneur and author, suggests that slideshows should follow a  10-20-30 rule :

• There should be a maximum of 10 slides – people rarely remember more than one concept afterwards so there’s no point overwhelming them with unnecessary information.
• The presentation should last no longer than 20 minutes as this will leave time for questions and discussion.
• The font size should be a minimum of 30pt because the audience reads faster than you talk so less information on the slides means that there is less chance of the audience being distracted.

Here are some additional resources for slide design:

• 7 design tips for effective, beautiful PowerPoint presentations
• 11 design tips for beautiful presentations
• 10 tips on how to make slides that communicate your idea

Group Presentations

Group presentations are structured in the same way as presentations with one speaker but usually require more rehearsal and practices.  Clean transitioning between speakers  is very important in producing a presentation that flows well. One way of doing this consists of:

• Briefly recap on what you covered in your section: “So that was a brief introduction on what health anxiety is and how it can affect somebody”
• Introduce the next speaker in the team and explain what they will discuss: “Now Elnaz will talk about the prevalence of health anxiety.”
• Then end by looking at the next speaker, gesturing towards them and saying their name: “Elnaz”.
• The next speaker should acknowledge this with a quick: “Thank you Joe.”

From this example you can see how the different sections of the presentations link which makes it easier for the audience to follow and remain engaged.

Example of great presentation structure and delivery

Having examples of great presentations will help inspire your own structures, here are a few such examples, each unique and inspiring in their own way.

How Google Works – by Eric Schmidt

This presentation by ex-Google CEO  Eric Schmidt  demonstrates some of the most important lessons he and his team have learnt with regards to working with some of the most talented individuals they hired. The simplistic yet cohesive style of all of the slides is something to be appreciated. They are relatively straightforward, yet add power and clarity to the narrative of the presentation.

Start with why – by Simon Sinek

Since being released in 2009, this presentation has been viewed almost four million times all around the world. The message itself is very powerful, however, it’s not an idea that hasn’t been heard before. What makes this presentation so powerful is the simple message he is getting across, and the straightforward and understandable manner in which he delivers it. Also note that he doesn’t use any slides, just a whiteboard where he creates a simple diagram of his opinion.

The Wisdom of a Third Grade Dropout – by Rick Rigsby

Here’s an example of a presentation given by a relatively unknown individual looking to inspire the next generation of graduates. Rick’s presentation is unique in many ways compared to the two above. Notably, he uses no visual prompts and includes a great deal of humour.

However, what is similar is the structure he uses. He first introduces his message that the wisest man he knew was a third-grade dropout. He then proceeds to deliver his main body of argument, and in the end, concludes with his message. This powerful speech keeps the viewer engaged throughout, through a mixture of heart-warming sentiment, powerful life advice and engaging humour.

As you can see from the examples above, and as it has been expressed throughout, a great presentation structure means analysing the core message of your presentation. Decide on a key message you want to impart the audience with, and then craft an engaging way of delivering it.

By preparing a solid structure, and  practising your talk  beforehand, you can walk into the presentation with confidence and deliver a meaningful message to an interested audience.

It’s important for a presentation to be well-structured so it can have the most impact on your audience. An unstructured presentation can be difficult to follow and even frustrating to listen to. The heart of your speech are your main points supported by evidence and your transitions should assist the movement between points and clarify how everything is linked.

Research suggests that the audience remember the first and last things you say so your introduction and conclusion are vital for reinforcing your points. Essentially, ensure you spend the time structuring your presentation and addressing all of the sections.

How to make a great presentation

Stressed about an upcoming presentation? These talks are full of helpful tips on how to get up in front of an audience and make a lasting impression.

Nancy Duarte

The secret structure of great talks

David McCandless

The beauty of data visualization

Chris Anderson

TED's secret to great public speaking

Julian Treasure

How to speak so that people want to listen

Simon Sinek

How great leaders inspire action

More From Forbes

Which of these 4 presentation styles do you have.

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We all have our own presentation style, but have you ever thought about how your particular style compares to others? And the strengths and weaknesses of your presentation style?

After years of research, my team and I have found there are four primary presentation styles: the Closer, the Data Scientist, the Director and the Storyteller. You can discover your own style with the quiz What’s Your Presentation Style?

One style isn’t better than other; but picking the wrong style for a particular audience can cause trouble for even the best presenter.

One of the traits that differentiates presenters is whether they like communicating with emotions or data. Some presenters make emotional connections with their audience, while others prefer to persuade through facts and analytics. Another characteristic that differentiates presenters is whether they stick to a structured presentation or they go off script and jump around.

There’s more to presentation styles than just these characteristics, but as a starting point, these differences are emblematic of the myriad ways we deliver presentations.

Here are descriptions of each of the four presentations styles (the Closer, the Data Scientist, the Director and the Storyteller). See which style you think resonates with you, and then take the presentation styles quiz to corroborate your intuition.

The Data Scientist

Some of the most innovative ideas in today’s world are powered by big data and analytics. The Data Scientist presentation style captures that wonderfully. Knowing that the business world is increasingly moving in an analytical direction, one of your biggest strengths is how you fill your presentations with data analysis.

While some presenters would rather tell a story and focus on narrative, you use data, analytics, facts, and figures to make your point and persuade your audience. Nobody will ever accuse you of giving a presentation filled with fluff. While some presenters can speak for an hour and say absolutely nothing, you will rarely, if ever, have that problem. Your presentations deliver hard data, information and analysis.

One potential downside to watch out for is facing an audience that doesn’t grasp or want all of your analytics. They’ll lose interest in what you’re saying perhaps because they want a presenter who connects with them emotionally or who gains their buy in by skipping right to the big finale. When you find yourself in this situation it will test your presentation skills. You’ll need to be able to assess what presentation style your audience prefers and know how to stretch outside of your Data Scientist comfort zone.

Faced with a world that increasingly loves analytics, having a Data Scientist presenter on the team can be a great benefit.

The Storyteller

Some of the most persuasive presentations in history have been engaging narratives and stories. As humans we are fundamentally emotional creatures and that’s why your Storyteller presentation style is so powerful. The Storyteller that can tap those emotions and weave a persuasive narrative typically delivers successful presentations.

Some presenters are much happier delivering dozens of slides with charts and graphs. But as a Storyteller, one of your greatest strengths is staying focused on making an emotional connection with your audience. An audience may not remember every single data point or statistic, but they will remember a great story or emotional connection. When an audience doesn’t connect with data, or they’re getting bored with too many slides, you’re able to skip all of that, feel their pain and get them connected to you.

One potential downside to watch out for is audiences that just want a factual answer to a simple question. Sometimes an audience isn’t quite ready to make an emotional connection to a presenter and, in those cases, you’ll be faced with a big decision. You’ll need to be able to assess what presentation style your audience prefers and know how to stretch outside of your Storyteller comfort zone.

In a world where emotion sells, and stories are so memorable, having a Storyteller presenter on board can be a big advantage.

The Closer doesn’t mess around. Knowing the reputations of many type-A CEOs, the Closer can jump into a presentation, cut right to the chase, deliver the bottom line and skip all the boring stuff.

Some presenters are dedicated to outlines, slides, timelines, and scripts, but not you. As a Closer, you see the end goal and you go right for it. Why spend 60 minutes dragging your audience to a conclusion when you can get right to the point and be done in 15 minutes?

While patience isn’t necessarily your biggest virtue, distilling a presentation to its essence is. And that’s one of your greatest strengths. You can see the destination and get right to it. And as a result, your audiences will rarely, if ever, get bored or miss the central point.

One potential downside to watch out for is that, at some point, you may run into an audience that isn’t ready to move as quickly as you. And that may leave them feeling like your presentation style is too abrupt or harsh. Or that you’ve bounced around too much, leaving them feeling disoriented. You’ll need to be able to assess what presentation style your audience prefers and know how to stretch outside of your Closer comfort zone.

With today’s world of information overload, having a Closer who can distill a presentation to its essence can be a terrific asset.

The Director

The Director gives order to presentations. As a Director you like presentations to have a clear linear flow, with logically structured slide decks and clear transitions across topics and presenters. While some people are content to jump in front of a crowd and speak extemporaneously, you are much happier with an outline, slides, timelines, and scripts.

Sometimes a presentation misses the mark (perhaps running into a bored or distracted audience). And while some presentation styles (like the Closer or Storyteller) will happily trash the slide deck ad go ‘off-script’, you’re much more likely to stay the course and see it through.

This is one of the greatest strengths of the Director. You deliver ordered, logical and structurally sound presentations. It’s highly unlikely that you would walk into a presentation unprepared. And when you’re working on a team presentation, you’re typically the one to whom the others will turn to ensure that the slides, outlines, timelines and scripts are well executed.

One potential downside to watch out for is when the presentation you’ve so carefully prepared is a poor fit for your audience. Perhaps there was a last minute change in the attendance or some emergency sprung up. But regardless of why, you may someday face a test of whether you’re willing to scrap your thorough preparation and react on the fly. You’ll need to be able to assess what presentation style your audience prefers and know how to stretch outside of your Director comfort zone.

Ultimately, with today’s complex and complicated presentations and teams, having a Director on board can be a great asset.

So, what’s your presentation style? As I said at the beginning, one style isn’t better than another. The key is to first understand your own particular presentation style so you can match your style to that of your audience. Whether you’re pitching your boss, delivering a sales presentation, speaking to your employees or an audience of thousands, matching your style to your audience is an essential step to effective presenting.

Mark Murphy is a NY Times bestselling author, founder of Leadership IQ, a leadership training speaker, and creator of the leadership styles assessment .

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SAP Consultant Job Description: Roles, Responsibilities & Skills

Do you enjoy working with technology and helping others? Then, you might like a career as an SAP consultant. In this blog, we will discuss the SAP Consultant Job Description explaining role, responsibilities, and skills required. It will help you decide if this career matches your professional skills, experience, interests and objectives.

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What role does a well-crafted SAP Consultant Job Description play in job hunting? How can it be perfected to attract more candidates? These are likely some of the questions that brought you here, reading this blog, in search of answers. Well, let us share a secret. 

The key to finding a skilled SAP consultant begins with an engaging job description. A post that includes all relevant details draws more candidates. As they say, “First impressions are the best." Every candidate will read a job description before applying for a job. Therefore, you must add a few interesting parts about your company culture.  

Don't forget to explain your goals, qualifications, roles and responsibilities in the job description. A clear and detailed job description keep readers engaged and help them envision what it would be like to work at your firm. Read this blog craft a job description that meets your organisation’s needs and attracts top talent. 

Table of Contents  

1)  Role of an SAP Consultant 

2) SAP Consultant Job Responsibilities 

3) Educational Requirements for SAP Consultants  

4) Essential Skills for SAP Consultants 

5) How to Become an SAP Consultant? 

6) Industries in Demand for SAP Consultants 

7) Sample SAP Consultant Job Description Template 

8) Conclusion 

Role of an SAP Consultant  

The major role of SAP Consultant is implementing SAP systems. They need to understand the system’s operations and draw accurate conclusions. This promising career has a growing demand for experts and opens doors to numerous job opportunities. 

However, this role is challenging, so aspiring SAP Consultants should possess both technical and interpersonal skills. If you want to know more about SAP Consultant, scroll down to understand their various responsibilities.  

SAP Consultant Job Responsibilities  

SAP Consultant job duties can vary based on their specialty and clients. Here are some major responsibilities of these professionals: 

a) Evaluating client needs through strategies like competitor analysis, data management, and consulting sessions. 

b) Assessing the current software and IT infrastructure to identify strengths, areas for improvement, and potential integrations. 

c)  Preparing reports or delivering presentations on recommended SAP implementations or modifications. 

d) Developing user-friendly programs with intuitive interfaces. 

e) Conducting software tests, like unit tests, to ensure optimal system functionality and seamless feature integration. 

f) Creating technical manuals or user guides for the software solutions they develop or implement.  

Educational Requirements for SAP Consultants   

Most SAP Consultants hold at least a bachelor’s degree, usually in fields like computer science, IT, computer engineering, or related majors. Many also take courses in business administration, finance, or project management. Additionally, some SAP Consultants pursue advanced degrees, such as a master’s in information technology or business administration. 

Essential Skills for SAP Consultants  

When writing a job ad for an SAP consultant, bosses usually want people who are good at both working with others and technical stuff. Good communication and organisation skills can affect how well you behave at work. On the other hand, hard skills, like business programming and Data Analysis, are technical abilities learned through study and training. Employers may seek candidates with the following abilities: 

1) ABAP  

This programming language is essential for SAP consultants to develop, modify, or integrate business application software into a client’s IT infrastructure. 

2) Effective Communication  

Effective communication skills are crucial for understanding a client’s software and IT needs in relation to their business operations and goals. Important communication skills include active listening, clarity, politeness, and consideration. 

3) Industry Knowledge  

Specialising in a particular field, such as finance, marketing, human resources, or business development, allows SAP consultants to develop or implement IT structures that provide the greatest benefit to their clients.

4) Presentation Skills  

Presenting business evaluations and suggested software implementations to clients is a key part of the job. This includes creating visual aids, explaining complex terminology in an understandable way, and summarising findings effectively.

5) Data Management  

SAP consultants analyse various data sets to determine the best software systems or modifications for their clients. This data can include software performance, operational efficiency, employee productivity, and customer needs. 

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How to Become an SAP Consultant?  

To become an SAP Consultant, candidates must meet certain requirements. First, a university degree in computer science or engineering is essential. Additionally, relevant work experience is crucial to succeed in this role. 

Industries in Demand for SAP Consultants  

SAP consultants are professionals who can work across various industries. These days, most of the companies requires software to support its business processes. Some of the industries that most frequently need SAP consultants include: 

1) Financial Sector  

Banks, insurance firms, and other financial institutions utilise SAP programmes to manage financial information, assess risks, ensure regulatory compliance, and develop new products. Key areas include finance, risk management, treasury, and banking. 

2) Logistics  

Companies in the logistics sector use SAP to optimise supply chains, reduce inventory, lower shipping costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. SAP solutions assist with procurement, manufacturing, shipping, quality control, and maintenance. 

3) Industry  

Industrial companies use SAP to create, make, sell, and keep their products. The focus is on quality, cost, innovation, and sustainability. SAP helps with research, making things, selling, and helping customers. 

 SAP experts help customers pick, set up, tailor, and teach them how to use the best SAP tools for their unique needs. To meet customer needs, people should have both technical and business abilities. SAP experts are very sought after and have interesting and varied jobs. 

Get certified with our SAP Training today! It is your gateway to advancing in technology-driven business environments!  

Sample SAP Consultant Job Description Template  

Here is a sample template for your reference. It will help you better understand the responsibilities and requirements of an SAP Consultant Job Description Template. Let’s dive in!  

Conclusion  

A well-crafted SAP Consultant Job Description is necessary for attracting the right talent to your organisation. It is the first point of contact with potential candidates. They get a clear understanding of the role, responsibilities, and company culture from it. Ensure that your SAP Consultant Job Description is detailed and engaging. It help increase your chances of finding the perfect fit for your team. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can become an SAP consultant without prior experience, but you will need to complete SAP training and gain a thorough understanding of SAP modules. Beginners often start with foundational courses and gain work experience to develop essential skills and knowledge before pursuing consultant roles. 

The hierarchy usually starts with SAP Associate Consultant (entry-level), then SAP Consultant (mid-level), followed by SAP Senior Consultant. After getting experience, professionals can advance to SAP Solution Architect or SAP Project Manager, overseeing larger projects and teams. 

The Knowledge Academy takes global learning to new heights, offering over 30,000 online courses across 490+ locations in 220 countries. This expansive reach ensures accessibility and convenience for learners worldwide. 

Alongside our diverse Online Course Catalogue, encompassing 19 major categories, we go the extra mile by providing a plethora of free educational Online Resources like News updates, Blogs , videos, webinars, and interview questions. Tailoring learning experiences further, professionals can maximise value with customisable Course Bundles of TKA . 

The Knowledge Academy’s Knowledge Pass , a prepaid voucher, adds another layer of flexibility, allowing course bookings over a 12-month period. Join us on a journey where education knows no bounds. 

The Knowledge Academy offers various SAP Training , including SAP Supply Chain Management Training, IT Fundamentals Training and SAP Marketing Cloud Training. These courses cater to different skill levels, providing comprehensive insights into the Top 10+ Benefits of SAP .  

Our IT Infrastructure & Networking Blogs cover a range of topics related to SAP Training, offering valuable resources, best practices, and industry insights. Whether you are a beginner or looking to advance your skills in IT Infrastructure & Networking, The Knowledge Academy's diverse courses and informative blogs have you covered. 

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