Do Not Read Your Paper
The written word is designed for the eye, not the ear. The audience wants to hear you explain your work, not listen to the paper being read word-for-word.
ASME Turbo Expo Author Resources
Technical Presentation Tips
Transform your accepted paper into an engaging and informative conference presentation. Use these practical techniques to prepare, rehearse, and deliver your technical work with confidence.
Presentation Essentials
Your Presentation Success Formula
Keep the audience engaged by speaking naturally, organizing the talk carefully, and preparing for the time available.
Prepare Speaker Notes
Use concise notes, cue cards, or prompts for each main idea. Organize and number the notes in the order in which they will be used.
Capture Attention Early
Start with a simple purpose statement and a compelling point or question that gives the audience a reason to listen.
Manage Your Time
Rehearse the complete talk and condense the explanation as needed until the presentation fits comfortably within the allotted time.
Preparation Checklist
Build an Effective Presentation
Use this checklist to turn the written paper into a presentation that is clear, concise, and easy for listeners to follow.
Define the Purpose
Open with one simple sentence that states what the presentation will explain.
Identify the Main Ideas
Divide the material into key ideas that listeners can readily understand.
Use a Logical Sequence
Arrange the main ideas in the order that will be clearest to the audience.
Create Natural Transitions
Use connecting phrases to link each idea to the next part of the presentation.
Summarize Supporting Findings
State subordinate conclusions in one sentence or a short series of concise statements.
Deliver a Clear Conclusion
End with one simple sentence that communicates the main conclusion.
Rehearse the Full Talk
Practice the complete presentation, including slide changes and transitions.
Allow Time for Discussion
Stay within the presentation limit so the session has adequate time for questions and discussion.
Presentation Flow
Structure Your Talk
Guide listeners through the presentation with a clear opening, logically ordered ideas, smooth transitions, and a concise conclusion.
Introduce the Purpose
Tell the audience what the presentation will cover in one simple, declarative sentence.
Example: “I want to tell you about a new design for valve seals that has resulted in considerable improvement in sealing.”
Gain Audience Interest
Use a short, compelling statement or question to establish why the subject deserves attention.
Example: “Can high-pressure steam safety valves ever be sealed satisfactorily?”
Present the Main Ideas
State each main idea in a short sentence and use key words or phrases to recall the supporting information.
Connect the Sections
Remind the audience of the idea just presented and prepare listeners for what comes next.
Example: “Now that the cause of poor sealing is clear, it is time to consider the advantages of thin, flexible sealing surfaces.”
Conclude Effectively
Summarize the supporting conclusions before stating the main conclusion in one clear and memorable sentence.
Overall Presentation
Deliver the Talk Effectively
Strong delivery helps the audience understand the technical value of the work and remain engaged throughout the presentation.
- Talk directly to the audience rather than reading the paper.
- Use short, simple sentences that are easy to understand.
- Speak clearly and bring energy to the presentation.
- Speak into the microphone throughout the complete talk.
- Handle notes or cue cards naturally while presenting.
- Maintain attention on the audience when referring to slides.
Share