Oral Presentation
Technical Writing

Often, technical writers must present their materials—either to demonstrate their efficacy or to persuade a prospective customer (or superior) of the need and value of the materials they’ve prepared. A good oral presentation is clear, informative, entertaining, and memorable. The best way to give an effective oral presentation is to PREPARE it carefully. Even the most nervous of public speakers will be more confident if she has prepared the presentation carefully, practiced the presentation a number of times, and attempted to prevent or anticipate any possible glitches.

Assignment: As part of your ongoing work on the website project (the website proposal and the website itself), you will prepare an oral presentation for Ms. Courtney Blair to show her your completed website and help her to understand its benefits to your company. Your report should be about 7 minutes in length and—for the most part—your visuals will consist of the website you’ve created. If you like, you may also prepare accompanying data (such as charts indicating how the website will enhance a company’s visibility or sales) and “toggle” between your website and the document camera (and you’ll all have the opportunity to practice using this before you give your presentation).

You may use note cards if you like, but I’d prefer you not read—word for word—from a prepared script. A “memorized” speech lacks spontaneity and usually does not engage your audience. While you should have a very clear agenda, try to sound natural and use natural body movements. Although you’ll be giving this presentation to the class (and remember, we want you to do well!) try to give the presentation as if you were actually presenting it to Ms. Courtney Blair and some of the other top associates in the company. In other words, while you might use humor or some other