91影视破解版

Public speaking is an art鈥攁nd 91影视破解版鈥檚 Public Communication Center (PCC) has it mastered. Their mentors help presenters use preparation, practice and storytelling to overcome stage fright and create presentations that shine. Below, communication studies professor and PCC co-director Sarah Parker Hughes offers tips for delivering top-notch presentations, including a trick for managing nerves and the magic number of points to emphasize.

The magic formula

Effective presentations begin with organization. Parker Hughes鈥攁 25-year public relations veteran who鈥檚 worked with organizations like the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and the World Wildlife Fund鈥攔ecommends structuring a speech or presentation like you would an essay. Start with an engaging introduction then cover three main points before closing with a memorable anecdote or summary. This magic of three approach is based on evidence that humans process information in groups of three.

Next use storytelling to bring your key points to life. Parker Hughes and PCC peer mentors advise weaving personal experiences and stories into your remarks to humanize the message and help the audience connect.

A great presentation feels like a conversation. Be yourself and let your personality shine.

Sean Daly '25, PCC mentor

PCC mentors assist students with organizing remarks and developing presentation visuals.

Timing and visuals

Once you have your structure ready, think through the presentation鈥檚 timing. The PCC recommends allocating time thoughtfully based on the total duration available. Ensure your introduction grabs the audience鈥檚 attention in a compelling and relatable way and conclude with an interesting and memorable closing. The time devoted to the introduction and conclusion may vary but should be balanced to allow for an impactful start and finish. Divide the remaining time evenly among your main points to maintain clarity and structure.

If you鈥檙e planning to use a slide deck for your presentation, make sure the slides support your remarks rather than overshadowing them. Accomplish this by keeping them brief鈥攅ach should have three bullet points or fewer, with text in 24-point font or more. Incorporate compelling visuals throughout the slides to complement your message and add interest.

Real-life presentation practice and feedback.

Overcoming nerves

Stage fright is a normal part of public speaking. Rather than trying to prevent it, have a toolbox of strategies ready for when it comes on. Professor Kanika Jackson, co-director of the PCC, recommends starting with practice. Putting time into rehearsing your presentation can boost your confidence, an effect that鈥檚 magnified when you practice in front of a live audience of friends or family. PCC mentors also recommend using box breathing to manage nerves: Breathe in for a count of four, hold the breath for a count of four, release the breath for a count of four and hold again for four. Repeat the process for several minutes to reduce stress and improve focus.

Most importantly, remember that good public speaking is about capturing attention and conveying information鈥攏ot perfection.

鈥淭here鈥檚 no such thing as a perfect speaker,鈥� says Jackson. 鈥淪ometimes presenters focus so much on perfection that they feel like they鈥檝e failed if they stumble over a word. But that happens to everyone! Keep going, don鈥檛 dwell on it and don鈥檛 apologize.鈥�

The PCC leadership team.

The PCC's coaching has helped Commencement speakers, TedXTowsonU participants, classroom presenters and more organize remarks, design effective visual aids and deliver the whole package with confidence.

Public speaking is an invaluable life skill. Embrace it! Prepare, practice and lean into the opportunity to share your story. The audience is rooting for you.

Sarah Parker Hughes, professor and Public Communication Center co-director