how many types of presentation do we have

The 6 types of presentation (and why you need them)

Hrideep barot.

• Presentation , Public Speaking

We all have been exposed to different types of presentations right from school years.

Group presentations, lectures by teachers and professors, seminars, webinars or online presentations, e-learning, e-conferences, etc., are all different types of presentations that we come across in our daily lives.

But each of them work for different settings.

In this article, we will take a look at 6 such types of presentations and when and why you need them.

1. Informative Presentations

This is the most common type of presentation, be it in an educational setting or business or corporate setting.

The aim of an informative presentation is to give detailed information about a product, concept, or idea to a specific kind of audience.

They are often analytical or require a rational analysis of the data presented.

Training sessions or one-day workshops are good examples where this kind of presentation is used.

Here is an example of an informative presentation on public speaking and presentations.

Now, there are different situations where you can use informative presentations.

a) Reporting

Although a report is a written explanation of an event, it can also be verbal.

A perfect place to use informative presentations is news reporting , as it requires the presenter to present information systematically.

b) Briefing

This involves explaining both positive and negative aspects of a particular topic in a few words.

It is providing information quickly and effectively about an issue to influence decisions or to come to solutions.

Hence, the decision-making bodies of an organization can make use of this kind of presentation to save time and effectively come to conclusions.

c) Research

Informative presentations are often used to present research findings to a specific audience , as it involves reporting the findings and briefing it to the audience.

Hence, almost everywhere where research takes place, be it in an educational context or occupational , can make use of this kind of presentation.

Tips for giving informative presentations

• As there would be a lot of technical information and statistics, focus on the main points or agenda first and if you have more time, you can add them at the end
• Keep your presentation simple and clear . Avoid complex sentence structures and graphics
• Tell the outline of your presentation briefly in the introduction for a better flow
• Make sure that your presentation does not stretch for too long. 10-15 minutes is what your audience can concentrate on
• Restate your keyphrase at the end and briefly summarize all the important points of your presentation

Speech topics for an informative presentation

• Cropping techniques
• Organic Farming
• Corporate Farming
• Hydroponics
• Sustainable Agriculture, etc
• Climate change
• Environmental issues
• Eco-friendly ways of management
• Eco-politics
• Eco-feminism, etc
• Gender studies
• Gender and education
• Religious studies
• History of education
• Philosophy of education, etc
• Ethnic cultures
• Indigenous cultures
• Multiculturalism
• Popular culture
• Cultural trends, etc
• Business administration
• Business ethics
• Business models
• Promotion and marketing communications
• Finance, etc

2. Persuasive presentations

Persuasion is the art of motivating or convincing someone to act or make a change in their actions or thoughts.

If you are planning to give a persuasive presentation, and are looking for how to give a persuasive speech, check out our article on A Comprehensive Guide to Writing a Persuasive Speech to gain in-depth knowledge about the art of giving persuasive presentations.

Persuasive presentations are also widely used form after informative presentations.

There are various circumstances where persuasive presentations can be used.

a) Policy-making

Government bodies make use of persuasion almost every time, be it the legislative or decision-making bodies, executive bodies, or even courts.

Even election campaigns involve using persuasive presentations as an instrument of their pre-determined goals of swaying the citizens.

For that matter, any executive or management body of an organization can make use of these kinds of presentations.

b) Value judgment

This kind involves answering the question “why” and supplementing it with possible benefits.

Most Ted talks and YouTube videos try to persuade the audience and fall into the persuasive presentation category.

Even religious heads use this as a means of persuading their believers to follow their belief system.

Deciding on a procedure or telling an audience the correct procedure of doing something is another situation.

An example of a persuasive presentation

Bailey parnell: is social media hurting your mental health.

This TED talk by Bailey Parnell is a good example of a persuasive presentation.

She starts strong by asking rhetorical questions that set the mood for her further points.

We can also see how the speaker is genuinely concerned regarding the issue, engaging the audience till the end.

Tips for giving a persuasive presentation

• Start your presentation with a relevant quote or statistics about your topic to establish credibility
• Tell personal anecdotes and examples wherever necessary to develop an emotional connection with your audience
• Deliver your presentation with passion and genuine interest to motivate your audience to think
• Answer the question “why” for better understanding and clarity in your presentation
• State your viewpoint clearly and clarify doubts if your audience seems to have any

Speech topics for persuasive presentations

• Is animal testing ethical?
• Should cosmetic surgery be banned?
• Can the death penalty be the only solution to the rising crime rates?
• Should the legal age be 18?
• Should immigration laws be revised?
• Why you should never add your parents on Facebook
• Guys are more interested in gossip than girls
• It is your major duty to annoy your parents
• You are not enjoying student life if you are not procrastinating
• Endless memes can be made on my life, etc
• Is taming wild and exotic animals ethical?
• The importance of emotional support animals
• Why are bunnies the perfect pet?
• Why do animals make the best companions?
• Why there is a need for patients to have emotional support animals, etc
• How and why there is a need to do business analysis before opening your business?
• Why small businesses are successful and more profitable?
• Why do sales and customer service departments need to be paid more?
• Why does the HR department need to be polite and understanding?
• Why should you not do business with a family member?
• How charity is a means of converting black money to white?
• Why is detaining people on the suspicion of terrorism justified?
• Should euthanasia be made legal?
• Should violent crime offenders be sentenced to death?
• Should foreigners be allowed to buy a property?

3. Demonstrative presentations

This involves demonstrating a process or the functioning of a product in a step-by-step fashion.

So, a master class on communication skills or making a product model is an example of a demonstrative presentation.

Usually, the audience is an active part of such presentations and these can work in any context where you want the audience to learn a new skill.

a) Instructions

This involves giving guidelines or steps of a process or work .

Teaching how to make a car model step-by-step is a good example where you can use this kind of informative presentation to guide your audience.

Another instance can be at the workplace , to train the employees or introduce them to a new product at work.

This type also works with demonstrating recipes and cooking workshops.

An example of demonstrative presentation

The easy guide on making just about any smoothie.

In this recipe demonstration, he tells his audience how many ingredients are involved and briefs them about the outline of his presentation at the start of his speech.

He also shows all steps in real-time so that the audience have a better understanding of the process and keeps them engaged.

Tips to give a demonstrative presentation

• Introduce your product and its function to your audience before telling them how to go about with the steps
• Explain the steps with diagrams or show them in real-time along with the audience
• Give equal time to every person in the audience for clearing doubts, if any
• Keep your introduction short. Not more than 5 minutes
• Discuss options or variations that the audience can try at the end of the presentation

Speech topics for demonstrative presentations

• How to administer CPR
• How to wrap a gift professionally
• How to budget your monthly income
• How to choose a car insurance
• How to restore a piece of antique furniture

4. Inspirational presentations

As the name suggests, this type of presentation involves inspiring others!

The main aim of an inspirational presentation is to motivate or move your audience and is also known as a motivational presentation.

Using techniques like storytelling, narrating personal anecdotes , or even humor work wonders as your audience develops an emotional connection to the message.

This TED talk by Luvvie Ajayi Jones is humorous but a lot more inspirational. Check it out!

Tips for giving an inspirational presentation

• Start with a question that will leave the audience thinking. Pause for some time and then begin with your presentation
• Develop a sense of connection by narrating personal incidents and experiences to grow empathy
• Have some main points that you want to emphasize on
• Make use of humor ! It instantly builds a connection with the listener
• Non-verbal elements like paralanguage, body language, speech modulations, tone, etc., makes a huge difference

Speech topics for an inspirational presentation

• Importance of diversity and inclusion
• Building mental resilience
• Need for change management
• Valuing small victories in life
• How procrastinating is your enemy

5. Business presentations

In the corporate world, presentations are the go-to solution to do anything: planning or strategizing, articulating company goals, screening candidates, status reports , and many more.

Let us take a dive into the different types of business presentations.

a) Sales presentation

Also known as sales pitches , sales presentations involve providing information about a product or a service to sell it.

It has a pre-defined strategy of initiating and closing the sales deal.

This can be done in person or nowadays, on the phone, or via e-communication .

b) Training sessions

Often employees have on-the-job training sessions that are aimed to increase the knowledge and skills of the employees.

This kind can also involve the audience to participate , like in demonstrative presentations.

c) Meetings

Meetings can be called for for different reasons and can be of different forms as well.

Conferences ( both video and in-person), board meetings, informal team meetings, daily reporting, etc., are all various contexts of meeting in a business setting.

d) E- presentations

E- presentations existed before the COVID pandemic as well but were used seldom.

But, with the ongoing pandemic, e-presentations or remote presentations have replaced all other types of presentations and will be with us for a while longer.

However, on the brighter side, it is an eco-friendly alternative to normal face-to-face kind of a set-up, and it also saves transportation and other costs !

e) Seminars

Seminars are widely used in the health sector , usually involving a panel of speakers on a topic. The audience is anywhere between 10 to 100.

It ends with a question and answers session , and the audience gets to take handouts with them.

f) One-on-one or 1:1

Interviews are usually one-on-one and involve presenting your achievements and capabilities to your prospective employer.

Apart from interviews, 1:1 meetings are also used in sales and marketing to crack a business deal.

Tips for giving business presentations

• Include key phrases and other important details on your slides and make them bold
• Avoid casual slangs and informal tone of speech
• If you are giving a sales presentation, explain your product or service in simple and clear words , and list the reasons why it is beneficial for your potential clients
• Make sure to be on time ! Delaying your audience will work against you and leave a bad impression on you and your company
• Know your material or content thoroughly to answer the questions asked by your audience

Speech topics for business presentations

• Implementing an Agile Project
• Introduction to data modeling
• Introduction to UML(Unified Modeling Language)
• Social Media strategies for a successful business
• Business writing for managers

6. Powerpoint presentations

PowerPoint presentations or PPTs are the most effective ones among all types of presentations simply because they are convenient and easy to understand .

They are available in different formats and are suitable to use in practically any type of presentation and context, be it business, educational, or for informal purposes.

There are various types of PowerPoint presentations that you can use depending on the context.

a) PPTs for general audience

• For general audiences, avoid using jargon terms

If you feel that you need to use them, provide the audience some background information about the field or topic being covered

• Avoid using more than 8 words per line, as anything more than that becomes difficult to remember
• Use bullets or a numbered list for better retention
• Try not to read from your PPT
• Give handouts or record your presentation in case anyone wants it

b) PPTs for teaching

• In this case, the PowerPoint is content-based
• Make sure that the words on the slides are visible
• Use bigger font and avoid fancy fonts
• Add relevant pictures and graphics to keep your audience engaged
• You can also add documentaries or relevant videos to aid in understanding

c) Repurpose PPTs

• This involves reinventing an earlier ppt or combining 1 or more than 1 PowerPoints
• Giving new touches to an earlier PPT or changing the format
• You can take any slide of your PPT and upload it on social media for growing your brand or business
• You can even convert your PPT into mp4 , i.e, video format
• You can even add voice and save the mp4 format, and you have a good marketing plan!

d) PechaKucha

• This type of PowerPoint presentation comes from the Japanese word PechaKucha meaning sound of a conversation or chit-chat
• This involves changing slides every 20 seconds
• There can be a maximum of 20 slides , which means your presentation lasts for only 6 minutes and 40 seconds
• The PPT mostly has graphics and fewer words
• This type of presentation is best suited for telling a story or a personal anecdote

e) Multimedia presentations

• This is the best kind of PPT to engage your audience
• It contains texts along with pictures, videos, infographics, music, illustrations, GIFs , and many more
• Add higher resolution images and videos , or even a 360-degree snapshot if you are in the sales and marketing industry
• Adding infographics such as charts and graphs makes the process of understanding easier and saves time
• Music in a PPT helps your audience to be relaxed, at the same time making them alert and engaged

Types of slides in a presentation

PowerPoint presentation slides are broadly classified into 3 categories: Text, Visual, and Mixed slides.

1. Text slides

As the name suggests, this category of slides involve words or texts.

You can format the text as plain sentences or pointers.

You may even arrange them all in a single slide or one line per slide.

The slide seen below is an example where every point is mentioned in a single slide.

2. Visual slides

This type of slide has visual elements such as images or videos , and are better known as conceptual slides since they are a better option than text slide to explain a particular concept.

You can use them at the start of the presentation to better visualize and grasp the meaning of the presentation.

The slide right below is a good example of a visual slide.

3. Mixed slides

Mixed slides combine the texts and visuals to give a comprehensive understanding of any concept or a speech.

Graphs and charts are the best examples of mixed slides.

Mixed slides have an advantage over the other slides; they keep your audience engaged, listening and participating more actively!

Types of Oral presentations

So far we came across 6 types of presentations, and they all share one common feature. They are all one of the types of oral presentations.

Oral presentations involve the use of verbal and non-verbal elements to deliver a speech to a particular or general audience.

All the types we discussed fall into these 4 broad categories:

1. Extemporaneous presentations

This type of presentation involves making short pointers or key phrases to aid while speaking.

You do not memorize, but organize the points and structure the speech way in advance.

Hence, on the day of your presentation, by just looking at the key points , you expand on them and move to the next point.

2. Impromptu presentations

Impromptu presentations are spoken without any preparation . It can be nerve-wracking for many, and hence not many are in favor of it.

There is a valid reason for their fear, as you have to make your speech as you say it!

However, those who are experts in their fields and are called upon to share a few words can easily give this type of presentation.

3. Manuscript presentations

The other extreme of the spectrum is manuscript presentations.

Here you have a script and you speak from it, word by word.

News anchors and show announcers usually engage in this type, since there are a lot of specific details that cannot be said wrong, and also, time constraints.

Usually, a prompter is used, from which the speaker speaks to their audience.

Nowadays, there are teleprompters , that are heavily used in the entertainment and media industry.

It is a digital screen that displays the contents, and the speaker speaks from it.

4. Memorized presentations

This type does not have any notes or cues , but you memorize or rote learn the whole speech.

School and some presentations at the workplace involve using this kind of presentation.

In most cases, we recommend not to memorise your speech in most cases. We’ve made a video on the same and how it could lead to you potentially blanking out on stage. Highly recommend you view this quick vid before choosing memorisation as a presentation path:

But, if you do choose it for whatever reason, since you are free from notes, you are free to focus on other aspects, such as body language and gestures.

Types of presentation styles

There are various presenting styles, but they do not work for all types of presentations.

Let us get familiar with them, and know which style works with which type.

a) The storyteller

This style of presentation involves the speaker narrating stories and engaging the audience emotionally .

This technique works best with persuasive and inspirational types of presentation.

So, how to tell a story in a presentation?

• Understand and know your audience : Knowing your audience will help you with how you will frame your story, at the same time gauging the relevance of your narrative
• Know your message : Be clear with what you want to convey through your story or how you are connecting the story with your actual presentation
• Try narrative a real-life story : Inspiring presenters often take their own stories or the stories of people whom they know as a supplement to their presentation. When the audience listens to your real-life examples, they become genuinely interested in your story
• Add visual aids : Using visual aids such as pictures, videos, multimedia, etc., increases the memory retention and engagement of your audience
• Use the “you” attitude : Tell the story keeping your audience in mind because ultimately they are going to be the receivers and hence, the story should be relevant and should include their point of view as well

Want more storytelling tactics? Mystery, characterisation and the final takeaway are some more key elements of a good story for your next presentation. We’ve gone deeper into this topic in this video if you would like to know more:

b) The Visual style

Most of us are visual learners, making visual information easy to understand and retain.

Visual aids like graphics, images, diagrams, key pointers or phrases , etc., are very useful when giving any type of presentation.

Some tips of presenting with visual style:

• Include only important pointers in your PowerPoint presentation and highlight or bold them
• Try including visuals that complement what you are saying and use them as a supplementary tool to aid in understanding your audience
• If you are giving a business presentation and want to include visuals, instead of plain texts, include graphics and charts to make information simpler to present and understand
• Avoid overly complex visuals as it will confuse the audience more
• Avoid using more than 6 lines per slide

c) Analytic style

If you have data records or statistical information to be presented, an analytic style will be more helpful.

It works best for Informative and Business types of presentations.

Tips to deliver in analytic style:

• Give handouts so that the audience is on track with your presentation and the information will be easier to comprehend
• Focus and speak on selected data as too much data statistics can be overwhelming for the audience
• You can make use of humor and personal anecdotes to keep the presentation interesting and engaging
• If you have too much data and are worried that you will not be able to explain it in the time frame given, avoid writing content of more than 2000 words

Quick tip: In case you have a PDF to present and want to edit the data points, there are multiple software programs that you can use to allow you to easily do this. Check out this list of the Best Free Recording Software Programs to know more.

d) The Connector

The connector style of presentation involves the speaker establishing a connection with the audience by pointing out similarities between them and the listeners.

This style works well with Sales and marketing presentations.

How to give a presentation using connector style?

• Have a Q & A round with the audience at the end of your presentation for clarifying any doubts and avoiding miscommunication
• Use audience polls at the start of your presentation to know your audience and tailor your speech accordingly
• Make use of body language and gestures for delivering your presentation effectively. If you are confused or want to know more about the aspects of how to use body and gestures, check out our article on To walk or stand still: How should you present when on stage?
• Ask questions to your audience at regular intervals for a better audience engagement
• Make use of multimedia sources to keep your audience engaged and entertained

Which type of presentation is best?

Although all the presentation types have their own bonuses and are suitable for certain circumstances, some are universal and can be used with a little bit of modification almost everywhere!

These are persuasive presentations!

You can use them in various settings; from political, business to educational.

Just remember to choose the right topic for the right audience, and a style that you think is the most suitable and you are good to go!

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To conclude

We saw 6 types of presentation and understood it in detail.

We also gained some tips on how to make our presentation more engaging and also came across things to avoid as well.

We then explored the types of slides that you can use, and also the types of presenting orally.

We also gave you some tips and a few topic ideas that you can incorporate in your next speech!

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10 Types of Presentations (With The Best Tips) You Need to Know in 2024

Leah Nguyen • 05 April, 2024 • 17 min read

Benjamin Franklin has a famous quote that ‘nothing can be said to be certain except for death and taxes’. Well, there’s another thing we’d like to throw in…

Death by PowerPoint…

Presentations seem to follow us along in life. From children in school to suited salary people, we’re expected to use different types of presentations to make presentations that delight our audiences.

Executing a well-rounded presentation is by no means an easy task. There are many things to consider, but before we head to finer details, you must know what type of presentation you should deliver to your audience so that they get the message just right .

In this article, we will explore the most common types of presentations you’ll come across in your life, plus a few helpful tips to create them.

Let’s jump in 💪

Table of Contents

• Business Presentations
• Product Presentation
• Marketing Presentation
• Data Presentation
• 5-minute Presentation
• 10-minute Presentation
• Webinar Platforms
• The 10 20 30 Rule
• The 5/5/5 Rule
• The 7×7 Rule

Business Presentation s – Types of Presentation

In the business world, you’ll undoubtedly need presentations for anything, from product launching and strategy planning , to company trend reports and many more.

Let’s take a glance at the different types of presentations you might encounter in the business world 👇

Check out our guide on ‘How to Nail A Presentation Like Apple’ , or tips to host a business presentation successfully.

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In different presentation styles, a product presentation is a great opportunity to show off your newly built or renovated product features to the world.

Unlike other types of business presentations, the main purpose of this presentation is either to build hype around your product with users or to outline the idea of your product to your own team and shareholders.

Tips for delivering a product presentation

• Demonstrate it live . How does the audience know what you’re talking about when all you’ve given them is some vague speech about the product? For a product presentation to reach its full potential, it’s best to demonstrate the features visually so the audience can truly believe in them.
• Present with passion . When it comes to types of presentations in business, this is not the time to instruct or educate your audience about something. You want to introduce a new thing that no one has heard about, penetrate a new segment/market and either get people to incorporate your product into their lives or convince stakeholders that it’s worth a punt. The best way to do that? Make as much noise as possible. 
• Offer a bonus at the end . Give the audience something to walk away with for a powerful ending; this can be an incentive for ordering the new product early or a bit of fun trivia to excite the crowd.

Hosting a product presentation can be big pressure. Our all-rounded guide with real-life examples can help.

Marketing Presentation – Types of Presentation

No matter how solid your product or service is, you’ll have to come up with a proper plan to make it known and sell it to your intended audience.

This is where marketing presentations come into play. They introduce how, when and where you plan to sell your product to the board of directors or other shareholders. They will decide if those strategies are good to go.

Tips for delivering a marketing presentation

• Match your theme with the audience . There’s nothing wrong with being business-boring, but if your company is selling toys for children, your audience won’t understand the fun, bubbly spirit you’re trying to convey. Try to centre the slide designs and the attitude around the target audience.
• Show real-life data . No matter what styles of presentation you choose, back up your bold statements with facts. Don’t rely on a hunch or people will doubt what you’re claiming.

You’re just one step away from creating an awesome marketing presentation. Nail the talk by checking our guide .

Methods of Data Presentation – Types of Presentation

In a world where every business relies on data analysis to make a difference, turning hard digits into meaningful and understandable insights is the role of a data presentation .

Make informed decisions, see the gap, and take the risky leap; all are possible if you have the ability to make sense of your data through various visualisation methods like bar charts, line graphs, histograms, and such.

Tips for delivering a data presentation

• Communicate the numbers clearly . You’ll have to stop assuming that everyone, including your boss, knows what you’re talking about. More often than not, they don’t, and it’s not their job to dig below the surface. Explain to them what the numbers mean and why this is important before presenting any data; the audience will surely appreciate that.
• Avoid presenting too many different things on one slide . We’ve seen people tackling four to five different types of charts on a single slide and it’s not nice. It’s overwhelming to process all of the data across all the different formats, so next time, go through one thing at a time to give the audience a chance to understand and remember it.

We’ve got these 10 methods of data presentation to make your numbers as clear as day. Examples and great tips included!

Timed Presentation – Types of Presentation

Do you know that the most impactful presentations in the world never exceed 20 minutes?

Real-life cases have proven that a lengthy one-hour talk is not as effective or memorable as a shorter one. That’s why more presenters are shifting to timed presentations where they are compelled to deliver concise content within a specific time block.

The most common time presentations that you often meet in business or education settings are 5-minute presentations and 10-minute presentations . They are short, and will push you to make the most out of them.

5-minute Presentation – Types of Presentation

A 5-minute presentation is made for busy people who don’t want to waste half an hour listening to someone ramble. However, this type of presentation is one of the most difficult forms of presentation to master, because being concise but also informative is harder than you think.

Tips for delivering a 5-minute presentation

• Plan the timing . There’s not much room for procrastination when you’ve only got 5 minutes, so divide what you’re going to say into different time blocks. For example, make an introduction no longer than 1 minute, then dedicate the most time to explaining the main points.
• Remember that less is more . As you have such a short timeframe, don’t cram too much information like you’re stuffing a turkey; be selective with the content you choose…Try the 5-5-5 rule if you have trouble turning your back from a maximalist lifestyle. 
• Practice flowing . If you’re stuttering or giving out spaces of prolonged silence, you’re already losing so much precious time. Set the timer, practice speaking at a normal speed and see if there are any parts in which you should speed up, consider cutting or say in another way.

Check out our comprehensive guide on how to hold a 5-minute presentation , including free topics to get you started.

10-minute Presentation – Types of Presentation

When you want to introduce a new topic, perspective, or study to your audience, a 10-minute presentation is enough to bring all the new, exciting information to the table without exhausting them.

Even though they are longer than 5-minute presentations, one can still fumble at fitting the material during the 10 minutes. However, you can get over the fear of going overtime with our tips:

Tips for delivering a 10-minute presentation

• Know your structure . Typically a 10-minute presentation format includes an introduction (1 slide) – a body (3 slides) and a conclusion (1 slide). Your presentation should contain no more than three ideas as that’s the optimal number for the audience to remember. 
• Start with a bang . In the first few seconds the audience can already decide if your presentation is worth listening to, so use any means necessary to grab their attention. It can be a provocative statement, a “what if” scenario, or a hard-hitting question that you plan to address during the talk.
• Get interactive . A 10-minute presentation exceeds the average attention span of humans, which is 7 minutes . Counter that by adding interactive activities that actively engage the audience in the talk like a fun poll, word cloud , or live Q&A session.

You can’t turn your presentation into gold without a proper topic. Check out our 50 unique topics for a 10-minute presentation .

Webinar Platforms – Types of Presentation

A webinar is an online event hosted by an individual or an organisation. The keynote speaker will give a presentation and interact with the audience entirely online.

With the shift to remote working, training and learning, webinar platforms have become a popular choice for many organisations due to their convenience. You can join virtually anytime, anywhere in just a few clicks. 

No need for costly set-up, all you need is a video conferencing platform plus the type of presentation software that ensures you get all the interaction you need.

Tips for delivering a webinar presentation

• Test out the equipment beforehand . “ Wait, I don’t know why it’s like this”; “Please wait a few minutes since we’re having minor issues” – these are phrases that turn the audience off immediately after they join. Recheck everything and have a backup plan whenever a technical issue arises.
• Define a plan to create engagement . The biggest problem with having a webinar is the audience won’t be able to engage as much as they can in a physical space. Try having an ice-breaker game as the base, with quizzes , word clouds, or open-ended questions as the icing on the cake, and wrap up with a sentiment poll or a Q&A as the cherry on top for a robust and dynamic webinar.

Check out 10 best practices for a webinar presentation that’s sure to keep people coming back for more.

The Golden Rules of Presentation – Types of Presentation

Are we implying that a successful presentation has a holy grail formula to follow? – Yes, we are!

If you are still learning the ropes of storytelling and presentation design, and have always fantasised about delivering an impeccable presentation, then these simple, easy-to-follow rules should keep you nicely on track.

The 10 20 30 rule – Types of Presentation

This may sound like a collection of gibberish numbers, but honestly, they make total sense.

The 10 20 30 rule states that your presentation should…

• Contain a maximum of 10 slides
• Be a maximum length of 20 minutes
• Have a minimum font size of 30 points

With the 10-20-30 rule, you can say goodbye to hour-long presentations that have everyone mentally checked out.

Tips for delivering a 10 20 30 rule presentation

• Follow the guide wholeheartedly . Don’t just sneakily sneak a couple more slides into the 10 presentation slides you have already; the science says that people can’t process more than 10 concepts in a presentation. Go over that and the chances of you losing the crowd drastically increases.
• Mind the idea . No presentation rule in reality is going to save you if your idea is terrible. Focus on researching what piques the audience’s interest, reach out to them beforehand if necessary and let them know how you can address their big questions.

Here’s the full guide: The 10 20 30 Rule: What it is and 3 Reasons to Use it .

The 5/5/5 rule – Types of Presentation

A 5/5/5 rule is one of the types of presentation that:

• Contains no more than 5 words per line of text
• Has 5 lines of text per slide
• Has no more than 5 text-heavy slides in a row

The 5/5/5 rule is incredibly effective for people who are struggling with measuring how much text is enough. You can focus on your main points with ease and end up with more professional-looking presentations (aka make use of negative space and emphasise what really matters).

Tips for delivering a 5/5/5 rule presentation

• Use data and images to tell the story . With just a chart or line graph you can draw out so many key points and takeaways from it. Replace texts with visuals if possible since it’s a more powerful way to communicate. 
• Make use of headings, short phrases, and common abbreviations . For example, instead of writing The website’s overall click-through rate increased by 10% compared to last year , you can rephrase it to The website’s CTR ↑10% YOY (CTR: click-through rate, YOY: year-over-year, which are common abbreviations in business). You can elaborate more on the numbers in the talk, so don’t throw everything on the slide.

Here’s the full guide:​​ The 5/5/5 Rule: How and Why to Use It (With Examples) .

The 7×7 rule – Types of Presentation

The 7×7 rule is a presentation design guideline that suggests no more than 7 lines of text per slide. This can include bullet points or short phrases and no more than 7 words per line.

Why the 7×7 Rule?

• Focus:  It forces you to present the most essential information, making your slides less overwhelming for the audience.
• Clarity:  Concise text improves readability and helps your audience quickly grasp your key points.
• Memory:  People can better process and remember short bursts of information.
• Visual appeal:  Slides with less text create more space, making them cleaner and more visually engaging.

Tips for delivering a 7×7 rule presentation

• Focus on the big picture: Since you’ll be limited with text, prioritise communicating the core concepts of your presentation. Use your spoken words to expand on the key points on your slides.
• Needing more tips? Here’s a more detailed guide for the 7×7 rule presentation .

The Takeaway

Presentations come in all shapes and sizes, and the key to creating an outstanding experience for your audience is matching them with the right type of presentation. Once you’ve got it right, you’ve established yourself on a solid platform that can launch your successful speech🚀

The best type of presentation engages the audience and makes it memorable. Try AhaSlides today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are presentation styles important.

Presentation style is important because it helps with communication effectiveness, enhances audience engagement, shows professionalism and credibility

What is the most important in a presentation?

A presentation should deliver a message with clarity to the audience. They should know what it is about, and the actions to take after the presentation.

What are the 4 key elements of a powerful presentation?

The 4 keys of a powerful presentation are content, structure, delivery and visual aids.

Leah Nguyen

Words that convert, stories that stick. I turn complex ideas into engaging narratives - helping audiences learn, remember, and take action.

Tips to Engage with Polls & Trivia

More from AhaSlides

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Different types of presentations

Get your team on prezi – watch this on demand video.

Meghan Ryan July 29, 2022

Before you start building a presentation, you need a good structure. Ask yourself the purpose of your presentation – why are you getting in front of your audience? Are you trying to convince them to care about an issue and take action? Who are you speaking to – colleagues, customers, or investors? Asking yourself these questions will help you start to determine the type of presentation and structure it accordingly. Read on to discover different types of presentations and how to structure them.

Persuasive presentations

What is a persuasive presentation.

A persuasive presentation is one that tries to convince the audience to accept a certain position and to take action. It uses facts, logic, and emotion to help the audience understand the impact of a certain situation and see it from a different perspective.

How to make a persuasive presentation

• Start your presentation off strong and make the first 30 seconds of your presentation count. This presentation type needs a good hook that draws the audience in and starts getting them invested in the topic.
• Introduce the problem that needs to be solved and compare it with your solution.
• Build a narrative around your solution. Use evidence, back up your ideas with statistics and findings, and use emotion to pull your audience through the narrative. You should be building to a strong conclusion at this point.
• End with a summary of your points and relate them back to the actions that your audience takes.

This type of presentation requires confidence. Show that you feel passionate about your topic and believe in your solution to your audience. They need to feel trust in you to follow your ideas. Rehearse your presentation, but not to the point that you have every single line memorized. You want to sound authentic, not as though you’re rattling off facts and figures.

Persuasive presentation examples

Some of the most common types of persuasive presentations are product or business pitches, but there are so many more out there. Seeing how someone persuades their audience might give you some inspiration, so here we’ve compiled a few of our favorite examples of this type of presentation.

Watch this product pitch by Thriftplan, a workspace-saving solution helping companies retain their talent and employees manage their long-term savings.

This presentation on deforestation shows the effects that deforestation has had on the planet and introduces ways to become a “tree hugger” and combat it:

Learn more about what goes into an effective persuasive speech by reading our article on the topic.

Informative presentations

What is an informative presentation.

An informative presentation is a type of presentation that is just there to provide information. Unlike a persuasive presentation, you’re not necessarily delivering it to get your audience to take action or change their minds. This type of presentation is often analytical. It may just “report the facts,” but you might also want to include some analysis of the information.

How to make an informative presentation

• This type of presentation needs to be about a specific topic, so research your topic thoroughly. Whether that means gathering data from your team or colleagues, or going to the library or interviewing experts, you’ll want to take every step you can in order to seem like an expert in front of your audience.
• Consider your crowd and write this presentation type for them. If your audience knows a lot about your topic, you can skip some of the background information, like when you deliver a report to your team. A teacher will want to go into much more detail if they’re preparing a lesson plan, though.
• Write a thesis statement and organize the presentation around that. This will help you structure all the data and information that you’re discussing, rather than just doing a data dump.
• End on a call to action. This type of presentation is of course different from a persuasive presentation, but it’s good practice to give your audience something to do with the information you just presented.

Informative presentation examples

You have likely come across this type of presentation often throughout your workday. Here’s one by Devin Banerjee describing parental leave policies in the financial sector.

Motivational presentations

What is a motivational presentation.

Motivational speaking might be one of the most enviable types of presentations for people. Motivational presentations can turn a mere story into an inspiring tale. Very similar to a persuasive presentation, a good motivational presentation will convince you to do something, rather than just waiting for it to happen. It has a clear purpose, often pulling from a personal story written for a specific audience, and inspires the audience to make a change in their lives.

How to make a motivational presentation

• Know your purpose. This is important for any type of presentation, but none more so than for this presentation type. You need to know the purpose of your presentation and build upon a singular message.
• Understand your audience and write your content for them.
• Start your presentation with a strong hook, like a question, a personal story, or a compelling statistic.
• Include a personal narrative or a story that your audience can closely relate to. This helps them understand the core message of your presentation and feel more compelled to take action at the end.
• Conclude your presentation with a call to action. Your audience is motivated to make a change, so they need an outlet to do so.

Motivational presentation examples

There are so many motivational presentations out there, and many of them live here on Prezi. Look at this presentation on climate change, which compels you to take action and combat climate change on your own.

Instructive presentations

What is an instructive presentation.

An instructive presentation provides specific directions to accomplish a task. It might be a little longer than most types of presentations because you’ll need to discuss it step by step. In the end, your audience should walk away from this type of presentation more informed and with a new skill.

How to make an instructive presentation

• Determine exactly what you want your audience to learn at the end of your presentation. This type of presentation goes beyond just sharing facts. People want to learn how to do something, so make sure you have a clear idea of what that is.
• Map out the steps. Be clear about all ideas and information that is packed into your presentation.
• Have an understanding of your audience’s level of knowledge. Are they an informed audience or fresh to the topic you’re presenting? This type of presentation will be different depending on the audience you’re with.
• Use visuals and examples throughout your presentation so people new to the topic can more easily follow along.

Instructive presentation examples

Teacher Nucleo Vega teaches how to play and understand eighth-note subdivisions in his instructional video:

For even more examples of instructional presentations, read our article on the best instructional videos on Prezi.

Training presentation

What is a training presentation .

A training presentation is like a lesson that uses pictures and talking to teach something. People use it to help others learn about a specific topic or how to follow a certain process. It’s like a teacher’s tool to share information, show examples, and make sure everyone understands. You might see these types of presentations in school, at work, or in workshops to help people get better at something or understand new subjects. 

How to make a training presentation

• Start by clarifying the main goal of your presentation. Are you teaching a new skill, explaining a process, or sharing important information? Understanding your purpose will help you structure your content effectively.
• Consider who your audience is and what they already know about the topic. Tailor your presentation to their knowledge level, interests, and needs. This will make your training more relevant and engaging.
• Structure your presentation logically with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Use headings, subheadings, or an outline to create a coherent flow of information. Make sure your key points are easy to follow.
• Use visuals like images, charts, and diagrams to complement your text. Visuals help explain concepts and make your presentation more visually appealing. However, keep visuals simple and uncluttered to avoid overwhelming your audience.

Discover more insights and tips on online training and Prezi’s impact.

Training presentation examples

This Prezi on effective onboarding for PMs is a great example of a training presentation. It goes into detail about onboarding methods. This would be useful training material for product managers or their supervisors looking to provide instructional advice when taking on a new role. 

Status update presentation

What is a status update presentation .

A status update presentation typically includes information about what has been done, what is currently being worked on, and any challenges or issues that need attention. It’s a way for a team or organization to communicate openly about the state of their projects and ensure everyone is on the same page. These types of presentations are often given in meetings to keep stakeholders informed and make decisions based on the project’s progress.

How to make a status update presentation

• Clearly communicate the specific timeframe covered in your status update, whether it’s a weekly, monthly, or project milestone report. This ensures your audience understands the context and timeline of the information presented.
• Identify and focus on the most relevant Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for your project, such as completion rates, milestone achievements, or budget status. These metrics should succinctly convey the essential aspects of your project’s progress.
• Employ charts, graphs, or visuals to illustrate progress effectively. Visual representations, like Gantt charts depicting project timelines and task dependencies, aid in conveying complex information clearly and concisely.
• Proactively address potential risks or challenges that may impact the project’s timeline or goals. Clearly communicate any issues and provide mitigation strategies to demonstrate transparency and preparedness in managing project uncertainties.
• Clearly outline the next steps for the project and assign responsibilities. Summarize key action items, including upcoming milestones, tasks, and deadlines, to make it easy for your audience to understand what requires attention or action in the upcoming period.

Example of a status update presentation

The structure of this Prezi provides a comprehensive year plan. It includes dynamic segments that offer a creative outlet for setting goals. The presentation covers setting goals, tracking progress, and getting started with your plans, which also makes a great base structure for a well-rounded status update presentation.

Pitch presentation

What’s a pitch presentation .

A pitch presentation is like a quick talk where someone explains their business idea, product, or service to persuade others to get on board. It shows why the idea is good, who it helps, and how it can succeed. People often use these types of presentations when they want support, financial investments, or to team up with others. They share key details about the problem their idea solves, who it’s for, and why it’s a great opportunity. The goal is to grab the audience’s interest and convince them it’s worth backing or investing in. You often see these types of presentations in startups or when someone is trying to get support for a new project.

How to make a pitch presentation

• Start with a strong intro to grab attention. Clearly state the problem your idea solves, keeping it brief and impactful.
• Explain the problem your idea tackles and introduce your solution. Keep it straightforward, emphasizing how your idea provides a solution.
• Present info about the market opportunity, including target audience, market size, and relevant trends. Use data to show that there’s a real need for your solution.
• Highlight your idea’s Unique Selling Proposition (USP). Clearly state the benefits your solution offers, focusing on what makes it stand out.
• End with a clear call to action. Summarize key points and provide a way for your audience to follow up or get involved.

Remember, keep it simple, engaging, and tailored to your audience’s interests and needs. Discover more tips on how to create a successful pitch presentation and investor pitch deck .

Pitch presentation examples

The Elevator Pitch Prezi is a good example of a pitch presentation. The presentation starts by stating the problem and then providing a solution, ending with a call to action – which is great for persuading potential investors. Discover more good sales pitch examples in this article.

Crisis communication presentation 

What’s a crisis communication presentation .

A crisis communication presentation is like a talk that happens when there’s a serious issue or emergency. It’s a way to share important information and updates with people who need to know—like employees, stakeholders, or the public. In these types of presentations, you’d cover what the crisis is, what steps are being taken to deal with it, and what the next moves are. It’s about keeping everyone informed and on the same page during challenging times. The goal is to be transparent, provide clarity on the situation, and let people know what’s being done to handle the crisis. It’s a crucial tool in managing and addressing unexpected and difficult situations.

How to create a crisis communication presentation

• Identify the nature of the crisis and tailor your message to the concerns of your specific audience.
• Your presentation should address what happened, its impact, ongoing resolution efforts, and preventive measures for the future. Keep the language simple and direct.
• Demonstrate understanding and empathy for those affected. Maintain transparency about the situation, including uncertainties, and commit to providing updates.
• Anticipate and prepare for potential questions, including difficult ones, to maintain control of the message.
• Support your message with helpful visuals like charts or timelines. Practice delivering your presentation confidently, with attention to non-verbal cues like body language.

By combining these elements, you can create a sense of trust with your audience and convince them you’re handling the situation effectively. Remember, honesty is key when it comes to these types of presentations. 

Prezi for all types of presentations

Prezi is a presentation platform that stands out for its dynamic features, making it ideal for various presentations. Its unique zooming user interface allows presenters to create visually engaging presentations, moving easily between ideas and topics.

The versatility of Prezi enables presenters to convey various moods and emotions effectively. Whether you’re delivering a corporate report, an educational lesson, or a personal story, Prezi’s array of templates and design options can be tailored to fit lots of different types of presentations. This flexibility means that your presentation aligns perfectly with your content, from serious and formal to playful and informal.

Moreover, different types of presentations require different presentation styles. Learn about presentation styles and explore what suits best for you and your presentation type by watching the following video.

Prezi Video

Prezi Video adds another layer of engagement by allowing you to present live alongside your content virtually. This feature is particularly useful in today’s hybrid work environments, as it fosters a more personal connection with your audience. With Prezi Video, you can interact with your visuals in real-time, creating a more immersive experience across all types of presentations. This blend of visual storytelling and live presentation helps to keep the audience engaged and improves the overall impact of your message.

Prezi’s AI text editing tool

Creating Prezi presentations just got even easier! With Prezi’s AI text editing tool , you can easily create all types of presentations in less time. This feature helps you shorten, expand, highlight, and summarize content to help you communicate your ideas better. It simplifies the process by offering relevant suggestions, making it easier to create cohesive presentations. 

Prezi with all its accessible features makes it easy to create content for any industry, from different types of business presentations to classroom and learning environments, Prezi’s versatility makes it a great platform for all. 

Final thoughts on different types of presentations

There are a lot of types of presentations out there, but they’re only effective if you understand the structure of each and utilize the structure to your advantage. Find more examples of presentations in our presentation gallery , or check out Prezi to start creating your own presentation today.

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6 Types of Presentation You Must Know (+ Tips)

Are you tired of giving the same old boring presentation, using the same format every time? Have you ever wondered if there are different types of presentations to achieve different objectives?

If any of these questions resonate with you, this blog is the perfect resource.

In today’s world, presentations are an essential part of almost every profession. At some point in your life, whether you are a student, business professional, or teacher, you will have to deliver a presentation. But do you know there are different types of presentations, each with a specific purpose and objective?

This blog will cover the six essential types of presentation that you should be familiar with. We will explain each type, its purpose, and some tips to deliver it effectively.

Let us delve into the different types of presentation and explore them together.

Why Do We Need Different Types of Presentations?

Different types of presentations effectively communicate ideas and information in a variety of settings and for different audiences. The purpose of a presentation can vary depending on the goals of the presenter and the needs of the audience. For example, a sales pitch may require a persuasive and visually appealing presentation to convince potential customers to buy a product, while a training session may need a more instructional and detailed approach.

The choice of presentation type depends on several factors, such as the purpose of the presentation, audience’s needs and preferences, and the presenter’s strengths and weaknesses. By selecting the appropriate type of presentation, the presenter can effectively communicate their message and achieve their desired outcome.

What are Different Types of Presentations?

To effectively communicate ideas and information, it is important to understand the different types of presentations that can be used for different purposes and audiences. Below is a list of different types of presentations:

Informative Presentations

Demonstrative presentations, persuasive presentations, instructional presentations, inspirational presentations, entertaining presentations.

Let’s explore them one by one:

Informative presentations, as the name implies, provide information or knowledge to the audience about a specific topic.

This type of presentation is often used in educational settings or business environments where information needs to be communicated clearly.

Tips for Creating Effective Informative Presentations:

• Know Your Audience: Understanding your audience is the key to creating an effective informative presentation. This means knowing their level of knowledge on the topic and what information will be most relevant and useful to them.
• Choose a Clear Topic: A clear and concise topic is essential for an informative presentation. This ensures that the audience understands the presentation’s focus and helps keep the content organized and easy to follow.
• Organize Your Content: Organizing your content into a logical structure can help to make the presentation easier to follow and understand. This means starting with an introduction, providing background information, and then moving into the main content of the presentation.

Demonstrative presentations are one of the many types of presentation methods that aim to show or demonstrate how something works or how a particular process is completed. 

These presentations are highly effective in technical or scientific fields but can also be used in other industries where hands-on demonstrations are necessary.

Tips for Creating Effective Demonstrative Presentations

• Choose the Right Props: Choosing the right props or models is essential for an effective demonstrative presentation. Ensure that the props accurately represent the topic and are easy to understand and use.
• Highlight Key Points: To make a demonstrative presentation effective, it is crucial to emphasize the critical points. This can help maintain the audience’s attention and concentration on the presented topic.
• Use Visual Aids: Incorporating visual aids like videos or images can significantly improve a demonstrative presentation. They can assist in simplifying intricate procedures or processes and increase audience engagement.

The purpose of persuasive presentations is to convince the audience to take a specific action or adopt a particular point of view. This type of presentation is focused on influencing the audience’s beliefs or behavior by presenting arguments, evidence, and emotional appeals.

These types of PowerPoint presentations are often used in sales, marketing, and advocacy, but they can also be used in other industries where persuasion is necessary.

The key to creating an effective persuasive presentation is to know your audience and tailor your message to their needs and interests.

Tips for Creating Effective Persuasive Presentations

• Use Emotional Appeals: Emotional appeals such as fear, guilt, or empathy can effectively persuade the audience. Ensure that your emotional appeals are relevant and not manipulative to the topic.
• Use Statistics and Facts: Using statistics and facts can add credibility to your persuasive presentation. Ensure that your statistics and facts are accurate and relevant to the topic.
• Use Stories: Using stories can be effective in persuading the audience. Stories can help to create an emotional connection with the audience and make your message more memorable.
• Provide a Clear Call to Action: Ensure your call to action is clear, actionable, and directly related to the topic.

Instructional presentations provide step-by-step instructions on how to perform a task or complete a process.

These presentations are often used in training, education, and technical fields.

Whether you’re teaching a new software program, demonstrating a manufacturing process, or explaining a complex concept, instructional presentations can be an effective tool for breaking down information into digestible pieces.

Tips for Creating Effective Instructional Presentations

• Identify Your Objectives: Identifying your objective is important for an effective instructional presentation. This helps you to focus your presentation on the most critical information and ensure that you are meeting the needs of your audience.
• Keep It Simple: Use simple language, avoid technical jargon, and break down complex procedures into manageable steps.
• Provide Examples: Use real-world examples relevant to your audience and demonstrate how the concepts or procedures can be applied.

Inspirational presentations are those types of presentations that aim to motivate, inspire, and uplift the audience. These presentation types are often used in business, education, and personal development.

These presentations are meant to help the audience see things from a new perspective, feel empowered to take action, and believe in their ability to make positive life changes.

Tips for Creating Effective Inspirational Presentations

• Use Personal Stories: Personal stories can help connect with the audience personally and inspire them to take action. Share your own experiences and struggles, and demonstrate how you overcame challenges and achieved success.
• Use Quotes and Examples: Using quotes and examples can help to reinforce your message and inspire the audience. Use quotes from influential personalities and provide examples of successful individuals who have achieved their goals.
• Provide Actionable Steps: Provide specific steps for the audience to achieve their goals and overcome challenges.

As the name suggests, entertaining presentations are meant to engage and captivate the audience with humor, storytelling, or other entertaining elements.

The primary goal of this type of presentation is to entertain the audience, leaving a lasting impression and making the presentation memorable.

Different types of PowerPoint presentations have specific goals, and entertaining presentations are often used in settings such as events, social gatherings, etc.

Tips for Creating Effective Entertaining Presentations

• Use Humor: Humor is a powerful tool that helps to engage and entertain the audience. Use jokes, puns, and witty remarks to add a touch of humor to your presentation.
• Tell a story: Use anecdotes, personal experiences, or fictional stories to create a narrative the audience can relate to.
• Use interactive elements: Incorporating interactive elements such as quizzes, polls, and games can effectively interrupt the monotony of the presentation and enhance audience engagement. Use these elements to encourage audience participation and create a more dynamic experience.
• Practice timing: Timing is everything when it comes to entertaining presentations. Make sure your presentation is well-timed, and avoid going over time, as this can disrupt the flow of the presentation and cause the audience to lose interest.
• Engage the audience: Engage the audience throughout the presentation by asking questions, encouraging participation, and creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

READ MORE: 10 Practical Ways To Improve Your Presentation Skills Today

Wrapping It Up

Understanding the different kinds of presentations is crucial for delivering an impactful and compelling message. By knowing the forms of presentation and their specific goals, you can tailor your content and delivery to achieve your desired outcome.

Whether you’re looking to inform, demonstrate, persuade, instruct, inspire, or entertain, the key is to know your audience and engage them through your content and delivery. By implementing the tips for each type of presentation, you can create a powerful and engaging presentation that leaves a lasting impression.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Take the time to rehearse and refine your presentation to ensure you deliver it confidently and clearly.

People Are Also Reading:

• PowerPoint Presentation Tips: How To Make A Good PowerPoint Presentation
• 9 Best Presentation Ideas That Your Viewers Will Adore

3 Most Important Presentation Tips To Make Your Presentation StandOut

How to make a presentation: a comprehensive guide.

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

Updated: December 16, 2020

Published: September 24, 2018

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.

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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Ace the Presentation

7 Different Types of Presentation

The passionate art of presentation – where you stand in front of an audience, take a deep breath, and talk about something you’ve prepared on. It can be on anything and everything under the sun – the global economic crisis, the history of the Renaissance, a story of how you overcame hardships in life, you name it. These are all presentations, yet each of them is a different kind. So, exactly how many kinds of presentations are there?

There are 7 different types of presentations that are most common. They are Educational, Instructional, Motivational, Problem-solution, Progress, Storytelling , and Visual. Each of these has its own unique delivery style and techniques, which are part of its structure. 

If you’re someone who truly wishes to master the art of presentation, it is quite important that you learn in-depth about each and every one of these 7 styles. In this article, we’ll cover all of these in detail so that you’ll know exactly which techniques to apply and go about for each one. Are you ready to be a master of presentations? Let’s begin.

In-depth Look Into The 7 Different Types of Presentation

Without making you wait, let’s jump right into the 7 different types of presentation that we mentioned previously and see how each one is unique in its own way.

1) Educational Presentations

Use Cases: To present new or existing ideas, share ground-breaking research, and discuss innovative concepts.

Tone: Informative, engaging, inspiring.

Educational presentations are perhaps the most common type of presentation. This is where you try to teach your audience about a specific topic and help them to gain a better understanding of it. It can be on science, technology, culture, history, psychology – basically, anything you can think of. 

Often, you’ll see these kinds of presentations being used in academic settings such as conferences, lectures, and seminars. We’re sure you must have sat through quite a few of these presentations during your time at school or university. The idea of these presentations is to share knowledge, provide information, and also inspire the audience to learn something new. 

Key things to keep in mind while delivering educational presentations:

• The information that you’re providing should be well-researched and accurate. You can’t give an educational presentation based on opinions, you have to ground it in facts and data.
• The delivery has to be engaging, otherwise, the audience will not learn anything. A boring educational presentation is as good as no presentation, so make sure you’re keeping your audience intrigued by what you have to say.
• Avoid information overload. It’s possible that you might give too much information at the same time and confuse your audience. Keep the presentation organized and concise, and make sure you put focus on the main points.

Examples of educational presentations:

• TED Talks are a fantastic example of educational presentations. You have speakers from all walks of life who come onto the stage and talk about their field, and the audience is all ears.
• University lectures where professors take their students through presentations on their field of expertise, depending on the course the students have applied for.
• A doctor taking a session on health and well-being and informing their audience about proper nutrition and exercise for a long-lasting life.

2) Instructional Presentations

Use Cases: To train people, provide instructions for a certain task or process, and teach how to use some product or service.

Tone: Detailed, organized, and patient.

Sometimes, you don’t just want to give your audience a bunch of information on some topic. You want to take them through the process of something, step-by-step. This is where instructional presentations come into play. Whether it’s for learning a new language, coding software, or even something as simple as using your new washing machine, instructional presentations are what help.

These presentations are designed in such a way that they help your audience learn how to perform specific tasks or achieve a particular goal. You’ll often see these being used in workshops, training sessions, and even tutorials. The instructor will give detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to do something, and the audience is expected to follow along. 

Key things to keep in mind while delivering instructional presentations:

• Make sure to explain each step in the process so that the audience knows exactly what to do.
• Allow your audience to practice what they’ve learned, either during the presentation (with the help of props or demos) or after the presentation.
• Make use of visual aids as much as possible since this will help your audience to learn better what you’re doing.

Examples of instructional presentations:

• A cooking show where the chef is showing you exactly how to sear a perfectly medium-rare steak or bake a moist and fluffy cake. 
• A makeup or DIY program (especially on YouTube where you can find tons of these), that takes you through a step-by-step process of achieving the look you want.
• A workshop on how to use Microsoft Excel, where the instructor will take you through the different options, functions, and steps on how you can input data and create graphs and charts.

3) Motivational Presentations

Use Cases: To inspire or motivate your audience to take action, overcome adversity, or offer practical tips for achieving goals.

Tone: Informative, uplifting, emotional.  

Presentations are not always about teaching something new. You can even use presentations to inspire and encourage your audience to take action, chase their dreams, and even overcome some of the challenges that they’re facing in life. These kinds of presentations are called motivational presentations.

A lot of corporate events and personal development seminars use this particular type of presentation to get their message across. If used properly, it’s quite effective in getting a call to action across to your audience. 

Key things to keep in mind while delivering motivational presentations:

• Use the power of emotions, as it will help connect with your audience better.
• Body language and tone of voice are quite important in striking a chord with your audience, so utilize them effectively.
• A great idea is to start with an inspiring story or anecdote (from your personal life, which will make it even better) so that your audience gets some sense of what to expect.

Examples of motivational presentations: 

• A sports coach delivers a passionate speech to their team before the big game (especially in college football) to get them pumped up.
• A TEDx Talk delivered by a famous entrepreneur about how to make it big in the business world. 
• Motivational speakers take their audience through some helpful, practical topics (such as Jordan Belfort from Wolf of Wall Street. Watch one of his best motivational presentations here – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjj9qOxGCgkandpp=ygUbam9yZGFuIGJlbGZvcnQgcHJlc2VudGF0aW9u ).  

4) Problem-Solution Presentations

Use Cases: To address a specific issue and then come up with good solutions.

Tone: Analytical, solution-oriented, persuasive.

It often happens that you might find yourself in a situation where there’s some problem you need to address, and it’s your job to come up with solutions. Here’s where you can use a problem-solution presentation. Doesn’t matter if you’re a team leader wanting to fix a project issue or even a scientist giving an innovative solution to an age-old conundrum – these presentations are your go-to.

You can find these kinds of presentations usually used in business meetings, science conferences, and sometimes also in political debates (such as the election face-off between the presidential candidates), where they identify problems and argue for solutions.

Key things to keep in mind while delivering problem-solution presentations:

• It’s super important that you clearly define the problem at hand. A well-defined problem is half the solution. 
• When you propose solutions, make sure they’re not only practical but also feasible. It should be relevant to the problem at hand.
• Persuasion is your best friend here because you need to let your audience know that your solution is the best one.

Examples of problem-solution presentations:

• A company board meeting where the CEO presents a strategic plan to overcome a financial crisis or mentions how to address the problems with a merger.
• A climate scientist presenting at a conference talking about some new technology that can address the climate crisis. 
• A political debate where the candidate outlines their policy to address a pressing social issue (think Biden vs. Trump in the last election).

5) Progress Presentations

Use Cases: To provide updates on a project, outline the progress made so far, and discuss future plans.

Tone: Informative, precise, forward-looking.

When you are knee-deep in a project, it’s important that you keep all your stakeholders in the loop. Enter progress presentations! These are handy little things that serve as a status check on what’s happened so far, highlight achievements, and even go into the roadblocks faced and the way ahead.

Most business managers and project teams use these progress presentations to keep everyone updated on what’s been happening. It helps a lot in managing expectations and making sure everyone’s on the same page.

Key things to keep in mind while delivering progress presentations:

• Don’t beat around the bush, be super clear. Your audience needs to know exactly where you (or the project) stand.
• Try to talk about both successes and failures. This makes it more realistic, and your audience is more likely to accept what you’re saying.
• Always end with the next steps. Don’t stop with whatever’s happened. Make sure you show your audience the next step forward.

Examples of progress presentations:

• Research students and doctoral students present their thesis progress to their advisors.
• Project managers, especially in IT companies, presenting progress reports to their clients.
• Scientists talking about their research updates at conferences.

6) Story-telling Presentations

Use Cases: To share personal experiences, narrate historical events, or even tell a story that conveys a particular message.

Tone: Engaging, emotional, captivating.

Here’s a presentation that’s neither strictly educational, instructional, nor motivational, yet all of these at the same time. Story-telling presentations are narratives. It’s how you use the power of a pretty great story to engage, entertain and even convey some message you have to your audience.

There’s really no particular place where these presentations are seen more. From classrooms to corporate seminars, and even in casual social gatherings, you’ll see story-telling presentations connecting with people.

Key things to keep in mind while delivering story-telling presentations:

• Choose a compelling story. Your story should not be boring and monotonous, it needs to be engaging and relevant.
• Emotions are super important. You can’t have a good story if it does not make your audience feel something.
• Use visuals and sounds to enhance your story and make it more captivating.

Examples of story-telling presentations:

• Keynote speakers are at graduation ceremonies talking about their personal journeys and weaving stories for their audience.
• History teachers talk about some great historical battles that happened to engage their students.
• TEDx speakers narrate their life stories and challenges they had to overcome.

7) Visual Presentations

Use Cases: To present complex data, illustrate trends, or when need your visuals to be the primary source of information.

Tone: Informative, engaging, visual.

In a visual presentation, images are king. Here, your words take a backseat to make way for diagrams, charts, graphs, infographics, and other visual elements. The goal is simple – show your data and ideas in the most understandable and engaging way to your audience.

When it comes to scientific research, market analysis, or even something like architectural design, you need to use visual presentations to break it down and make it easy to understand for your audience. Even for fields like graphic design and photography, these presentations ensure that your work speaks for itself.

Key things to keep in mind while delivering visual presentations:

• Visuals should be clear and easy to understand. The goal is to increase comprehension, not confuse your audience even more.
• While visuals are a major part, don’t neglect your verbal communication aspect. Your explanations and commentary of what’s on the screen can make a lot of difference.
• Before making any visual presentations, learn a little about design principles. It’s as important for your presentation to be aesthetically pleasing as it is to be informative.

Examples of visual presentations:

• A data analyst presenting market trends and forecasts using graphs and charts to present before a senior team.
• An architect showcasing to their clients a building design using 3D models and digital renderings.
• A graphic designer presenting their portfolio in a job interview in order to impress the recruiters.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, each of these 7 presentation styles is unique in its own way and have its own set of situations where they are effective. We hope this article has helped you get a deeper understanding of how different presentation styles work and how to use them to make your message understood. Make sure you practice a lot for whichever presentation style you’re opting for, and we’re sure you’ll wow your audience. All the best!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Even after reading through this article, you might still have a few questions surrounding the types of presentations. Let us answer some of the most common ones. 

Q.1. What is the most common type of presentation?

A. Educational or Informative presentations are usually the most common types of presentations that you’ll find. This is because from primary school onwards, you’re exposed to these presentations almost every single day from your teachers!

Q.2. Which is the hardest type of presentation?

A. The hardest presentation is subjective because it depends on your skills as a presenter and also on the topic that you’re speaking about. Generally speaking, motivational presentations are considered pretty hard because you have to connect deeply with your audience, which requires a lot of experience to do well.

Q.3. How to give a good presentation?

A. If you want to learn how to give a great presentation, there’s a fantastic guide from Harvard Business Review that can help you out. Check it out here – https://hbr.org/2013/06/how-to-give-a-killer-presentation . 

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Types of Presentations

Presentations can be called ideal objects for visualizing ideas. Slides allow you to focus on important things in more detail or discuss complex things. There are usually some types of visuals for presentations that are extremely effective in illustrating the relationships between things and processes. You can use images, text, drawings, graphs, charts, and screenshots when creating slides. But how to design a presentation? What are the nuances you need to know before crafting slides? For starters, you should know the difference between presentation types.

Why Do You Need to Craft Slides?

There is a simple rule of storytelling: if you can't tell something, you have to show it! That is why people of different professions and fields of activity should use presentations. A set of slides greatly simplifies the visualization and systematization of various information nuances. In addition, presentations are a great addition to public speaking, reporting, or academic debates.

Presentations: Types of Slides and Their Purpose

Any presentation is not just a set of slides. Instead, your goal is to keep important aspects related to the general topic, goals, and ideas. But how to design a presentation? And where to start in the first place? To begin with, you should pay attention to the types of presentations and their purpose. Such knowledge will give you the key to further action.

Presentations for Business

Your presentation graphic design will be very different from standard slides. Much of the difference will come from the goals of your presentation. For example, a business needs clear statistics, direct answers, and slide control. Here are the types of presentations you should know.

As a rule, pitch deck presentations help young entrepreneurs get funding by showing business prospects. Such slides allow you to list your company's benefits, the number of new customers, or revenue growth over a certain period. In other words, each slide is a demonstration of your attractiveness in a commercial sense.

In addition, pitch deck presentations allow you to present to investors the project team, new talented employees, or growth paths that will become real by investing in your project. In some way, such a presentation is analogous to a shop window where representatives of business structures can see the most important things.

Sales Presentation

Imagine that your company has been successful for a certain period. Surely you need details to report to investors or the project team. That is why you need a sales presentation because it can show how profitable and effective the period of the company's activity was through such a presentation. For example, you can show the gross income, operating profit, the growth rate of your product, and other information.

Sometimes such a sales presentation aims to promote new teams within the company based on the statistics of the goods or services provided. You can also add selling propositions, pricing information, testimonials, and other things that will show the positive growth dynamics of your company.

Marketing Presentations

Most marketing presentations consist of slides designed to promote products and services. Your goal as a presentation creator is to find effective ways to promote your sales pitch. For example, you must show how profitable cooperation with you is or how good your products or services are.

As a rule, marketing presentations contain graphic elements designed to create a solid image and reputation of a good company worth trusting. That is why you should choose bright facts that allow you to gather a loyal audience. Also, such slides may include future business plans or goals that can be implemented through certain actions.

30-60-90 Day Plan

Many people who want a good position in any company should create a 30-60-90 day plan. So this is a strategic action plan for thirty, sixty, and ninety days. In other words, you must show what you intend to do in a new position to justify your trust.

In a way, your 30-60-90 day plan is a manifesto and a demonstration of your ambitions. Showing the action plan on slides demonstrates the steps you are ready to take and the tools you use to implement all the ideas. In addition, such a presentation aims to achieve loyalty among the company owners or top managers.

Business Plan

And here is the most important type of presentation for startups. Your business plan is a step forward to attract investors and show the prospects of your ideas and the possibilities of their implementation. Moreover, you are selling an idea that will become a reality if someone gives you money.

In addition, a business plan is a type of presentation that should show the niche you want to occupy. Perhaps you should also point out your competitors and the ways you are using to leave them far behind. As a rule, such presentations should be concise and provide the final audience with a summary of the prospects for your business.

Budget Presentations

Most startups and companies need budget presentations, as they allow you to determine the appropriateness of certain financial flows. In addition, slides with data are needed to visualize spending on payroll projects and purchasing goods and services. In other words, most financial processes can be visualized through the presentation.

Let's say the company's management wants to optimize the costs of managing subsidiaries and decides to hold a meeting. With detailed budget presentations, they can quickly consolidate their focus on those transactions that can be reduced in number.

Slides for Teachers

Presentation graphic design can be especially amazing if you are a teacher. Your task is to prepare for classes and create a comfortable springboard for students ready to gain knowledge. That is why every slide must be polished. Here are examples to help you learn more.

Lecture Presentation

Many teachers must create slides to visualize information and a springboard for academic activities. For example, a good lecture presentation allows you to focus on certain facts, terms, or research results. In other words, slides are vital for visualizing important lecture facts. The lecture presentation has a classical academic structure, graphs, images, tables, and diagrams.

Course Presentation

Each course presentation is a set of slides vital to condense a piece of learning content in a structured and interactive format. All slides are based on information relevant to the main topic. In addition, the course presentation should contain key ideas, goals, and tools to achieve them. In general, these are academic slides that make it extremely easy to visualize the tasks of your course.

Lessons Plan Presentation

Teachers must craft lessons plan presentation weekly to interact more effectively with students. As a rule, such a set of slides allows young people to learn more about what information they will receive during the lesson. In addition, the lessons plan presentation is a springboard for teachers who do not want to forget important details while explaining new topics.

Research Presentation

Typically, the average research presentation includes a short intro, your hypotheses, a brief description of the methods, and graphs related to your findings. Here you will interpret the data and be able to show how valuable your finds turned out to be. As a rule, any research presentation is a springboard that helps students understand exactly how students should approach the visualization of the results of their work.

Interactive Planner

Sometimes your main goal may be to create a so-called interactive planner. So this is a presentation, the purpose of which is to create a systematic approach to the company's development. It is all about the visualization of goals that can be changed in the future. In other words, your interactive planner is a set of slides aimed at systematically analyzing a business or individual goals in the context of a common (global) idea.

Case Presentation

As a rule, any case presentation is a way of interaction between the professor and the audience. Such a set of slides allows you to organize the most important information related to the academic or medical process. In other words, your case presentation is a way to tailor complex terms and key data to the needs of a specific audience.

For Students

Every student should know how to design presentation slides right. But your slides' type and visual style depend on your academic assignment. Here are the most popular presentation types you should know about.

Thesis Presentation

As a rule, creating a solid thesis presentation can take time. The fact is that such a set of slides should describe in detail the goals, research methods, and results of your work. Each thesis presentation slide is a brick that forms a solid wall of information relevant to your topic. Here you can add graphs, charts, images, and tables to visualize in detail the work you have done.

Dissertation Defense Presentations

While writing your dissertation, you must prepare data to defend your position and research. Typically, you will need to create data comparison slides, research graphs, and visual patterns to help build a base for your judgments. So this is why dissertation defense presentations are so important. They should become a mix of your ideas and an auxiliary source for your speech. Try to sort your slides according to the order of your paragraphs. And do not forget about the data you will use during your performance. That is why dissertation defense presentations should copy the general paper structure.

Research Paper Presentation

Imagine that you have to write a research paper and craft a dozen slides to support your idea. Usually, a research paper presentation is a basis that is needed to emphasize certain parts of your paper. As a rule, students must craft 10-15 slides with background information, key ideas, results, and data interpretation. In other words, your research paper presentation is important for you and your professor, who will probably analyze the results of your work.

Admission Presentation

As a rule, each first-year student must create an admission presentation as an addition to the essay. This work is part of the admission process to show that the future student is worthy of becoming part of the academic community. Usually, the average admission presentation is a set of slides that contain key ideas, goals, ambitions, and sources of your inspiration. Plus, colleges and universities don't have strict formatting and style requirements, so you can craft your slides to suit your inspiration.

Presentation Design Tips: Everything You Need to Know About Slides

Surely you want to craft your slides well and stick to certain rules. That is why you should check out these design tips for presentations. Read each tip carefully, and you will surely be able to create a good presentation.

1. Stay Away From Bullet Points

The bullet points aren't necessary. Moreover, they can turn an original presentation into a trivial PowerPoint template. Instead, list important aspects of your presentation using the paragraph form. Such a presentation graphic design idea will allow you to stick to the original approach and say no to the boring enumeration of dozens of parameters. Try to keep your slides lighter regarding the amount of content on the page.

2. Insert a Single Animation Style

The animation style is important for storytelling because your audience should not be distracted from key information. In addition, different animation styles when switching slides can confuse your audience. Try to choose only animations that work and look natural. Surely you are not interested in visual effects that will lead to total design presentation failure.

3. Highlight Key Points

Try to use shapes, bright fonts, or characters pointing to put a visual emphasis on some piece of information. This strategy is extremely effective as it allows you to focus your audience's attention on the things that matter most. In addition, highlighting key data using graphic elements helps to prioritize zones and makes it easier to perceive any information.

4. Incorporate Data Visualization

Data visualization is what you need to make your presentation look solid. Use pie charts, bar charts, graphs, and other types of content that allow your audience to understand certain nuances quickly. For example, you can add a percentage pie chart describing the percentage of people who do not subscribe to streaming services. Visualization is the key to simplicity and elegance.

5. Keep Your Slide Design Consistent

You may love variety and vibrant color combinations, but your presentation needs to be solid. Keep your slide design consistent, and you'll see how much better your visual style will get. Use the same fonts, color elements, and data visualization types. This approach is extremely important for those who want to achieve effective presentations.

6. Break Up Sections

One of the key secrets is to break up sections. This strategy allows you to separate important information blocks and prepare your audience for new slides. For example, use blank slides with pictures, large print for subtitles, or even short videos. Your visual content should create a clear transition that will help the audience prepare for a new block of slides ahead of time.

7. Limit A Single Takeaway Per Slide

Some people like to create 3-5 slide presentations and add a few paragraphs to each page. But such a strategy is not profitable in advance since it will be difficult for your audience to focus on important things. So instead, center all your text and visuals around one takeaway or idea. First, this strategy will allow you to make each slide lighter and more visually appealing. Secondly, each page will be like one of the chain links that look monolithic.

Final Words

As you can see, there are quite a few types of presentations depending on the goals you are pursuing. Knowing a clear differentiation and approach to create each slide will help you stand out from the crowd and craft something special. And don't forget about tips to help you avoid common mistakes. Many ideas are simple enough that you won't have to analyze them for long.

Keynote vs Powerpoint

Presentation design techniques

Types of presentations

Presentation Types and Styles Explained

Table of Contents

From high school, then all through college, and now in the workplace — presentations have been a pillar of passing down knowledge to various audiences. 

But, what are presentations? 

They are a tool used to inform and educate audiences in a fun and informative way. 

Well, that is the simple way of explaining their purpose and meaning. 

We want to dig in deeper, and that is what this article will bring to you — a deeper understanding of different types and styles of presentation, so you never get overwhelmed or confused when you need to make a presentation. 

We will discuss: 

• Different types and styles of presentations,
• The purpose of using presentations in the workplace, and 
• How to utilize and recognize types and styles of presentations.

We will also show you: 

• Famous presenters for each style, 
• How you can use each presentation style, and
• A quote for each style to work as a useful reminder if you ever get confused.

Let’s dive in, shall we?

What are the purposes of presentations?

Sometimes, when a term is widely used, to the point where we subconsciously know the meaning and its purpose, it’s hard to pinpoint the true definition from memory. 

So, let’s start with the basics — what is the definition of presentations? 

Presentation is a manner of passing down knowledge from the speaker to the audience. A presentation can be a: 

• Demonstration,
• Lecture, or 
• Speech. 

The purpose of a presentation is whatever goal you set up to achieve. Those goals can be:

• To educate, 
• To persuade, and/or 
• To entertain.

According to LinkedIn’s article 4 goals for any speech, pitch or presentation , when you combine the goals we mentioned, your presentation will become powerful, meaningful, and impactful. The goals mentioned above are general and can be applied to any situation. Different types and styles of presentation can lead to different results. With the right type and style, you can: 

• Better your work and image with clients,
• Be more effective when presenting new ideas or solutions, and
• Ensure more progressive career growth.

These are only some of the business goals you can achieve with the right presentation type and presenting style. The more types and styles you try out, the more skillful you become, which helps you achieve your goals more efficiently.

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What are the different presentation types?

Presentation types illustrate the way you structure your presentation . 

We’ve mentioned the 4 purposes of presentations — every goal or purpose corresponds to a certain type. Before you can choose a structure, you need to answer the question “ What is the purpose of this presentation? ” 

And methods and techniques, which we’ll talk about later, help you maintain that structure.

Once you know what you want to achieve with your presentation, you can choose its type. 

Here’s what you need to know about each presentation type:

Type #1: Informative presentations 

Informative presentations are analytical and, as the name states, informative. With this type of presentation, your end goal is to inform and educate . 

Your audience only has to listen and soak up all the knowledge that is given by you. 

With this type of presentation, you can report on new findings and new data or deliver a lecture. 

Since the goal is to educate, your presentation must be precise and correct. Make sure that the information you are communicating has real value. When presenting, try to engage your audience with visuals of your data to help them understand.

Type #2: Persuasive presentations

To use persuasive presentations, you must answer the question “ What do I want my audience to do after listening to me ?”

The point of this type of presentation is to persuade your audience, change their minds, or offer a new point of view, so that they take action .

Persuasive presentation comes in handy if you are presenting a new product or a service and you want your audience to feel the urge to buy said product.

When you use this presentation type you must exude confidence, since you are your audience’s only source of information for your product. 

Type #3: Motivational presentations

You’ve probably heard of motivational speakers, and if you haven’t, here’s a quick crash course. Motivational presentations have a purpose to inspire and change people’s minds . 

Most people who use this type of presentation have a story to tell. These people use their own experiences as key points in their presentations to help the audience to relate to them. 

Since the goal is to inspire and change people’s minds, you have to have a powerful topic to discuss. 

Remember to cater to your audience and adjust your presentation to them and their level.

Type #4: Instructive presentations

Instructive presentation is technical, precise, and often longer than other types we mentioned. This type is here to offer instructions to an audience. 

So, if your goal is to explain step by step how to achieve a goal or do a task— an instructive presentation should be your choice. 

When you are delivering this type of presentation you need to make sure that every instruction is clear, understandable, and easy to follow.  

How to determine which presentation type you should use?

To choose the correct type for your presentation, you must determine your goal. Once you have your goals clear, it will be easy to see which type works best with your presentation. 

Here are some helpful questions that will help you to narrow it down to one type: 

• What do I want the audience to take away from my presentation?’
• What am I trying to give the audience? Is it information, a lecture, or a look into a new product/feature?
• What obstacles are keeping me from delivering my presentation effectively?

Determining the correct type for your presentation is a trial-and-error process. You will find that some types are more your speed, while others might give you trouble. But, keep in mind that the end goal should always be to give your audience what they came for. 

No matter which type you prefer, they all exist for a reason. Give them all a chance, and remember that practice makes perfect.

Presentation methods and techniques

When you define the type of your presentation, it’s time to get into methods and techniques for delivering a presentation. 

There are a lot of ways you can deliver your presentation, and here is our take on it. 

Presentation methods

A method is how you approach your problem . 

When it comes to presentation methods, we linked them with public speaking. Methods cover:

• How you choose to deliver your presentation and 
• How you structure your speech. 

Here are the 4 main methods:

Method #1: Impromptu or unscripted 

The impromptu method applies to speeches that are: 

• Not prepared , 
• Emotionally charged, and 
• ‘Given on the spot’. 

This method of speaking is purely done by improvising, so there are no written rules on how it should be done. 

Improvising and making up your speech as you go is not a wrong way to deliver your presentation. Still, instead of basing your entire speech on your ability to ramble on, incorporate this method in segments where you see fit or feel inspired to do so. 

Method #2: Memorizing 

The memorizing method implies that the speaker needs to know their speech word for word. 

It is mostly used in oratory contests for high school and college students. This method is difficult, and you would need to spend a lot of time reading and memorizing your text.

But, this method is the easiest when it comes to performance anxiety. Since the text is perfectly constructed and your only job is to memorize and relay it to the audience, it’s less nerve-racking. 

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• How not to be nervous for a presentation

The memorizing method, while being challenging at its core, can be freeing once the speaker is on stage. With this method, you can practice your body language to go with the text. And since the text is scripted and perfected, the speaker can move around the stage as they see fit.

Method #3: Extemporaneous

Extemporaneous is a synonym for impromptu and unscripted — so why is a synonym to a method we’ve already covered, now a completely new method? 

Well, that is because when it comes to the extemporaneous method, we think of a speaker that allows help during their performance . 

The extemporaneous method is a combination of the first two methods we mentioned. This method allows the speaker to prepare their speech and use notes and key points as an aid to keep on course. However, they will not learn their presentation by heart, but use their own words and speak in a conversational manner.

Method #4: Scripting 

The scripting method used to require a written speech from which the orator reads to the audience. Nowadays, we can see this method used by news outlets, with a teleprompter. 

So, to make use of this method, you need to write down your speech and read it proficiently to your audience. 

When it comes to in-person presentations and public speaking, this method is not the go-to. 

You shouldn’t spend the whole presentation just reading off of papers. When we present, we need to maintain eye contact and overall connection with the audience — and holding a piece of paper in front of the audience will get in the way of that connection.

Presentation techniques 

Presentation techniques are what you use before and during the presentation to make it compelling, informative, and easier to understand . 

Here are some of the techniques that we find quite useful: 

Technique #1: Practice

As a presenter, you want to make sure that everything goes smoothly — and for that to happen, you need to practice. The key to giving the best presentation is to practice relentlessly. 

Some useful tips to help you make the most of your practice are to: 

• Practice in front of a friend. — Practicing in front of a friend will not only help you with performance anxiety, but a friend might also have some useful tips on how to perform better. 
• Film yourself practicing. — When you film yourself giving your presentation aloud, it will help you to get used to cameras and the spotlight. Also, the camera will capture every mistake you make, and from there you can see what needs to be worked on.
• Practice in the auditorium. — It will do you good if you can practice giving your presentation in a meeting room or the auditorium. If you practice in the place you will be presenting, you will get used to the space, and it will be familiar to you on the day of your presentation.

Technique #2: Use visuals 

There is no need to overwhelm your audience with endless blocks of text. Think about how you can transform the data or information into a simple visual . 

The important thing to remember is that your audience might not be on the same level of knowledge as you. So, use visuals to help them follow your point. 

Technique #3: Incorporate stories 

No matter how informative and to the point your presentation is, including a story that is illustrating your point can be very helpful to your audience. 

Not only is storytelling a great way to engage and entertain your audience, but it is also a great way to show how your information is relevant to real-world events.

If you are curious to see what more you can do to prepare for your presentation, check out our article: 

• How to prepare for a presentation: Your 9-step guide to a successful presentation

Technique #4: Incorporate appropriate style 

Your presentation style is how you choose to deliver your presentation as a speaker. Style builds on the methods we have mentioned earlier, and it comes down to how you choose to speak to your audience. You can be a storyteller or a coach to your audience, and with each style comes a different influence. 

Methods and techniques are a great starting point when you are approaching your presentation structure and topic. 

But, there are different styles of presentation that you also should consider before walking up to that stage. Let’s learn more about them.

What is a presentation style?

A style is your preferred way of doing things, and when it comes to presentations, a style is how you choose to deliver your speech . Everything from your vocabulary to your tone defines your presenting style. 

If you are not sure what your personal presentation style is, you can always pick and choose from the already-established styles. Those include: 

• Storyteller, 
• Instructor, 
• Closer, 
• Connector, 
• Coach, 
• Lessig style, and
• Visual style.

Let’s get into more detail about each one of them.

Style #1: The Storyteller

The storytelling style consists of a (usually personal) story or anecdote. 

This style is used when the presentation doesn’t have any data or numbers that need to be explained. 

You can use this style to emphasize your point and to easily relay your goal to the audience. 

The storytelling style is great for the beginning of the presentation, as it is there to capture the audience’s attention. 

Formality level for the Storyteller style: Low

Since this style uses the speaker’s personal experiences and anecdotes to help the audience relate to the topic easily, the language used is conversational. There is no need for any excessive formality , and the speaker can address the audience in a friendly and familiar tone.

The Storyteller style characteristics

What characteristics should you be aware of when you want to utilize this style? 

The vocabulary that storytellers use is simple and conversational. Think about how you tell a story to your friends, colleagues, or family. Once you have that in mind, becoming a storyteller on stage won’t be a problem. 

Since the formality level is low, there is no need to overcomplicate things or to use synonyms for words that already have simpler and more known versions. 

Your story should have an introduction, where you will introduce the problem. Then, you can move into the main plot point that explains your topic. And finally, you should have a conclusion where you can circle back to the beginning and where you will untangle the web you cast and leave your audience with a final thought.

The pros of the Storyteller style 

Now let’s look at some of the pros of this style: 

• It’s easy to follow. 
• It illustrates your problem and solution in a creative way.
• It’s relatable and, therefore, more influential to the audience.

The cons of the Storyteller style 

Here are the cons of being the storyteller type: 

• A story that’s too long or not interesting enough can leave your audience bored. 
• Getting too caught up in the story can make your presentation longer than it should be.

Who is the Storyteller style best suitable for?

This style is great if you want to truly connect with your audience and have them feel as if you speak to them, rather than at them. Many people don’t like to be lectured, and if you are trying to make a point or a message stick out, try out the storytelling style.

Famous presenter with the Storyteller style

The storytelling style is preferred among TED talk speakers. 

But, when we think of storytelling, one particular speaker comes to mind — Nick Vujicic. He overcame great obstacles and has learned how to take what’s best from life. So now, when he tries to spread his message of endurance, he puts his trust into the storytelling style and lets his emotions and experiences speak to his audience. 

Quote by Nik Vujicic that embodies the Storyteller style

“ What really matters are the lives you touch along the way and how you finish your journey .” ― Nick Vujicic

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Style #2: The Instructor

The instructing style of presenting shares some traits of the storytelling style. It still uses the power of metaphors to get the message across to the audience. 

But, the difference is that the instructing style has more of a commanding voice . The instructor can carefully align the story and the data in a logical and compelling manner, leaving the audience convinced and educated.

Formality level for the Instructor style: Medium

A lot of politicians use the Instructor style when they are trying to influence a larger crowd. Since this style has a higher formality level than the storytelling one, it allows the speaker to use more serious vocabulary and address the audience as superior. 

The Instructor style characteristics:

The Instructor’s style is characterized by logic and command. As we mentioned, the speaker who is fond of the Instructor’s style needs to be able to handle the facts and connect with the audience. 

So, the main characteristics of this style would be: 

• More formal use of language, 
• Commanding voice, and  
• Persuasive nature.

The pros of the Instructor style 

Let’s take a look at some of the pros of this style: 

• It helps get a complicated message across. 
• It’s persuasive. 
• It’s fairly easy to use. 

The cons of the Instructor style 

Here are some of the cons to be aware of: 

• The speaker could be deemed distant or cold. 
• The audience can lose interest if the presentation is too focused on pure data. 

Who is the Instructor style best suitable for?

This style is great if the speaker has a complicated topic to discuss with a less knowledgeable audience. This style is used mainly for lectures and political speeches. 

Famous presenter with the Instructor style

A famous presenter with the Instructor style is none other than the former Vice President of the United States, Al Gore. He uses metaphors, data, his own personal experience, and even visuals to bring complex issues closer to a wide audience.

Quote by Al Gore that embodies the Instructor style

“ When you have the facts on your side, argue the facts. When you have the law on your side, argue the law. When you have neither, holler. ” — Al Gore

Style #3: The Closer style

The Closer style of presenting is a style that demands action from the audience . Presenters who opt for this style want their audience to not only learn something new but to get up from their seats with a newfound urge to make a change. 

This style is a personification of a call to action. The presentations made in this style are short, since the speaker has a goal in mind. They then use this style to convincingly reach said goal.

Formality level for the Closer style: Medium

This style is a great tool to connect with the audience. So, to make a connection between the speaker and the audience, the formality level drops. But instead of treating the audience as friends, the speaker simply talks to them. 

The Closer style characteristics

The Closer style is persuasive and somewhat commanding. People who are fond of the Closer style cut right to the chase and make their audience get to a decision. With this presentation style, there are no boring statistics or data. The key points are clear and delivered with a short and clear explanation.

The pros of the Closer style 

Here are some of the pros of the Closer style: 

• The presentation is short.
• The Closer is confident and knows how to deliver a point.
• The audience rarely gets bored with this style.

The cons of the Closer style 

Take a look at some of the cons of this style: 

• Some audiences aren’t ready to make a quick decision.
• Some audiences might feel that this style is too harsh or rash.

Who is the Closer style best suitable for? 

The Closer style is best to use when you need your audience to make a decision or to give them the urge to make things happen. 

This style is mainly used by CEOs and salesmen.

Famous presenter with the Closer style

Many presenters use this style, but the one that stands out the most is the philosopher Ruth Chang. She has delivered great presentations on how to make hard decisions. She keeps her presentations short, sweet, and straight to the point. 

Quote by Ruth Chang that embodies the Closer style

“A world full of only easy choices would enslave us to reasons.” — Ruth Chang

Style #4: The Connector style

The Connector style speaker is most comfortable engaging with the audience . Some could say that the storytelling style is very similar to the Connector in that sense. Both styles base their presentations on the connection with the audience. The difference here is that the Connector is both a presenter and a member of the audience — and they are comfortable in both roles. 

This style of presentation (as the name suggests) allows the speaker to connect to the audience, and therefore deliver the materials easier. One way that this style connects the speaker and the audience is through Q&A.

Formality level for the Connector: Low 

Since this style’s main purpose is to connect the speaker to the audience, the formality level is low. The speaker appears as one of the audience, even though they are on stage. To keep the audience engaged and get them to ask questions, the Connector treats the audience as friends and acquaintances. 

The Connector style characteristics

The user of this style needs to appear as if they are one of the members of the audience, but they just happen to be on the stage instead in a seat. One of the main characteristics that stand out for this style is the eagerness of the speaker to engage with the audience. When a speaker is a Connector, they will constantly ask questions and listen to the audience’s opinions.

The pros of the Connector style

Let’s take a look at the pros of this style: 

• The audience is engaged and encouraged to participate.
• The presentation flows at a relaxed pace.
• The audience feels connected to the subject.

The cons of the Connector style

• Audience might not be comfortable with asking questions.
• The presentation might be longer than planned. 
• Too many opinions will derail the presentation.

Who is the Connector style best suitable for?

The great thing about the Connector style is that it can be used in any presentation and any setting. Since the main goal of this style is to connect the speaker and the topic with the audience, there are no rules or limits as to where it can and where cannot be used.

Famous presenter with the Connector style

Padraig Hyland is a TED Talk speaker and a specialist in audience engagement, so it is only natural that he uses the Connector style. He has delivered countless speeches on how to be a great presenter and how to connect with any audience.

Quote by Padraig Hyland that embodies the Connector style

“ To successfully navigate the current disruption, organizations need to nourish their authentic leadership voice and create a new story that engages their people on the journey .” — Padraig Hyland

Style #5: The Coach style

What is a coach? In every sense of the word, a coach is a person who guides you, teaches you, and helps you achieve your goals. 

It is the same with the coaching style. The person who uses this style guides their audience with their own enthusiasm for the subject. The Coach style is mainly used in motivational speeches, as it allows the coaches to interact with the audience and share knowledge on a topic they feel passionate about.

Formality level for the Coach style: Medium

The Coach style serves as a guide . It gives the speaker freedom to use their knowledge and personal experience to drive the audience to feel the same passion about the subject as the speaker does. To achieve that level of familiarity with the audience, the formality level drops, and the speaker talks to the audience as a teacher and, well, as a coach would.

The Coach style characteristics

The Coach style allows the speaker to guide their audience from point A to point Z, through knowledge and passion, which makes the presentation interactive and informative. 

This style of presentation can be seen in motivational speeches, lectures, and speeches delivered by sports coaches. The main characteristic that follows this style is that it is delivered by enthusiastic speakers.

The pros of the Coach style 

Here are some of the pros of this style to look into: 

• It allows the speaker to connect to the audience through enthusiasm. 
• Presentations in this style are interactive and engaging. 
• It gives the audience step-by-step instructions on the topic.

The cons of the Coach style 

Let’s examine some of the cons: 

• The speaker’s passion can be overwhelming to the audience.
• The speaker can forget to ask for feedback . 

Who is the Coach style best suitable for?

The Coach style, since it serves as a guide, is commonly used by motivational speakers and in self-help presentations. 

They tend to choose this presentation style because it allows them to connect with the audience while still delivering a detailed step-by-step on the topic they are discussing.

Famous presenter with this style

There are a lot of motivational speakers today that are a fan of the Coach style, but the one that caught our attention is Mel Robbins. She is a lawyer and a motivational speaker that helps her audience to form healthy habits and attain discipline to achieve their goals.

Quote by Mel Robbins that embodies the Coach style

“ You have been assigned this mountain so you can show others that it can be moved .” — Mel Robbins

Style #6: The Lessig style

If you are in a time crunch, but you have a lot of material to cover, then the Lessig style is the perfect style for you. 

The Lessig style was invented by Lawrence Lessig, and it states that a speaker should spend only 15 seconds on each slide or point during a presentation . This style usually agrees very well with the visual style. 

Since not all presentations have slides, this style cannot be used with any type of presentation. However, if you have too many slides and too many points to make, then the Lessig style can help you use your time slot well.

Formality level for the Lessig style: Depends

The Lessig style is not a style of speaking per se, but a style for presentation time management . So, the formality of the language you use will be up to you and your topic. You can decrease or increase the formality level and the Lessig style would still be the same.

The Lessig style characteristics

The main characteristic of this style is that it includes slides or at least some visual aid. 

This style is also the one that is not concerned with your verbal cues and style of speaking. If you choose to try out this style you can combine it with any of the styles we previously mentioned.

The pros of the Lessig style 

Here are the pros of this style: 

• It’s easy to use. 
• It helps you keep track. 
• It saves time.

The cons of the Lessig style

Here are some of the cons of this style: 

• It is not applicable to presentations without slides. 
• Sometimes the suggested 15-second rule isn’t enough. 
• The presentation may feel rushed or unfinished.

Who is the Lessig style best suitable for?

The Lessig style bases its rules on slides and visual aids, so it’s best suitable for presentations that consist of slides. The topics for this style are endless, and it is up to the speaker to see where this style works best in their presentation.

The most logical choice is, of course, the founder of this style — Lawrence Lessig, a lawyer and a political activist. 

Quote by Lawrence Lessig that embodies the Lessig style

“ Technology means you can now do amazing things easily .” — Lawrence Lessig

Style #7: The Visual style

Presentations can be all about the slides, data, or videos, and there are also powerful presentations that are delivered with only the speaker on the stage. But, technology is not something to shy away from . There are great advantages to using technology and feeding your audience with visuals that will support your claims. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. 

Formality level for the Visual style: Depends

The formality of this style doesn’t depend on the visuals used, but on the speaker and the topic. The great thing about the visual style is that it can be used with almost any topic and type of data. So, when using this style of presentation, you can choose the level of formality you feel comfortable with.

The Visual style characteristics

The Visual presentation style’s main characteristics are the visuals, as the name suggests. The visuals can be anything from a picture, video, or creatively shown data and statistics. 

This style can be used together with any other style that we mentioned, as long as you add some pictures or other visual elements.

The pros of the Visual style 

Here are the pros of the Visual style: 

• Visuals help the audience understand the presentation better — sometimes, they can illustrate your point better than your own words. 
• Visuals can help you move your presentation forward. 

The cons of the Visual style 

Here are some of the cons of the Visual style: 

• Overusing visuals in your presentation can take focus away from you. 
• Visuals can be redundant. 

Who is the Visual style best suitable for?

If you are creative enough or confident enough to not let the glamor of visuals take over your spotlight, you can incorporate visuals into any workplace presentation. Visuals can be helpful almost everywhere, and they can aid your audience if the topic is too complicated for them to follow.

Famous presenter with the Visual style

One of the best visual presenters is Steve Jobs. He was one of the founders of Apple, and every year he used to give a great visual presentation or a rundown of Apple’s new product releases.

Quote by Steve Jobs that embodies the Visual style

“ For you to sleep well at night, the aesthetic, the quality, has to be carried all the way through .” — Steve Jobs

How to determine which presentation style to use?

If you are wondering which style to use, first you need to ask yourself what kind of audience will be attending your presentation . Once you have an idea of who you will be talking to, you can start to think about your presentation style. 

Also, you need to know what is the purpose of your presentation and what you wish to achieve. 

Beyond that, try out different styles until you find the one you are comfortable with.

Collaborate easily with Pumble — Even when creating presentations

If you’re working on a presentation with your colleagues — no matter what type of a presentation it might be — you’ll probably find yourself in need of an efficient communication tool. 

Luckily, Pumble, a team communication app , makes your collaboration more simple and efficient, while keeping communication lines open at all times. 

Here are all the ways Pumble can help you create various types of presentations:

• Thanks to the voice call feature, you can stay connected to your colleagues while you work together on the presentation. 
• If there is a problem you have to address , you can always give them a quick video call and share your screen with them so you can brainstorm or problem-solve together. 
• If you need a second (or third, fourth, etc.) opinion , you can always ask for it on some of the Pumble channels . 
• If you have to provide further explanations or continue the discussion without cramming the channel space, you can continue your conversation in threads or reach out to particular colleagues via direct messages .   

Finally, one of the best things about Pumble is that you can never lose important information or shared files because it has unlimited history . 

Jana Pavlovic is a communication author and researcher. She enjoys educating herself and others on various team collaboration and technology topics. She found that working from home in a hybrid-type company is her perfect combination for work-life balance, and she’s eager to share her new-found knowledge with you.

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8 Types of Presentations and Examples of When You Can Use Them

Presentations help you communicate ideas in a simple way that sticks with your target audience. here’s what you need to know to have success with all types of presentations..

For your presentation to be effective, you need to choose the right format and recognize the nuances of each one. Here’s a look at eight types of presentations you can use to share your knowledge.

8 Types of Presentations

1. Providing Information

The primary purpose of any type of presentation is to provide information to an audience. The difference between this method and others is that there are many elements you have to consider in order to be effective. That includes slide design , talking points, and usually, a time limit.

2. Teaching

When you’re educating, use several examples to illustrate your points. If your audience doesn’t understand something you’re talking about, give them specific examples so they can see for themselves what you mean.

Repetition is key when you teach a new concept. It’s important to include a variety examples throughout your slide deck to reinforce your information. This helps combat your audience getting bored or tired from hearing the same thing over and over again.

3. Reporting

You can use presentations when reporting by showing research findings and conclusions. The most important thing to remember is that you need to design your slides to highlight your most critical data. That way, your audience will walk away understanding its high points.

It’s important to know your audience before you jump into your presentation and start selling. Research must be the first step of the process, so you can design a presentation that speaks to your people.

Also, be sure to not overwhelm yourself or others by packing too much information into one slide.

5. Problem-Solving

While it’s a less common use case, you can also use presentations to sort out problems. This is especially useful when you’re working with a team. It acts as a simple way to get everyone on the same page before making a decision.

6. Decision Making

Once you come to an agreement that something is an issue and discover some ways to solve it, there are still choices you need to make. You can use presentations to explore and explain different options before you finalize your next step forward.

7. Entertaining

Creating a presentation with entertainment in mind is a nice way to break up any potential monotony and deliver important information, at the same time.

The entertainment factor doesn’t necessarily have to be goofy or fun, but it should be compelling for the audience and capture their attention. Visuals are particularly important here.

8. Motivational

Stories are good tools for bringing any message home. Use personal anecdotes and examples that illustrate points. This will help people remember your message when they need it most, and it also makes it easier for the audience to connect with you.

3 Presentation Use Cases

Want to take your information and put it in presentation format for your audience? Before you start, use these examples to gain inspiration.

1. Business Presentation Examples

Business presentations don’t have to be boring. Take these tips to wow your colleagues and your audience. 

Conferences

There are many different companies and ideas competing for attention at conferences. Use storytelling and bold design choices to stand out.

Raising Awareness

Getting a new initiative going in an organization is no easy feat. Use a presentation to fill in stakeholders on what you want to do and get their approval.

Sales Decks

Selling has a direct impact on revenue goals, so it’s critical for your presentation to support that. Include questions, pain points, and supporting data to let your potential customers know you “get” them.

2. Presentation Ideas for Kids and Students

Education requires a lot of listening and absorbing information. Help kids and students show what they know with these presentation formats.

All About Them

For younger or new students, this is an easy presentation idea. They can create slides that explain details about themselves to learn the art of public speaking. It also helps their peers get to know them better.

Charts and Graphics

Facts and data play a key role in understanding a concept. However, keeping track of them all can be intimidating. Take them through the process of communicating complex ideas visually, with this presentation idea for students.

Storytelling

Stories are an important part of early learning but, eventually, we all learn there’s a place for stories outside of a book. Students and kids can create presentations that focus on this skill.

3. Virtual Presentation Ideas

Virtual presentations are more prevalent than ever, but engaging an audience when you aren’t in the same room isn’t easy.

If you’re sharing ideas with a group, make it interactive by giving a workshop-style presentation. Be sure to leave room to ask and answer questions, as well as save space for group discussions.

Ask Me Anything

The question and answer format is a popular presentation type, but you can add even more interest with slides. Use images, fonts , and colors that are on brand and increase engagement. 

Information and Gamification

Gamification results in 14% higher scores on skill-based assessments. To amplify people’s understanding of the concepts you present, use gamification throughout your slide deck.

How to Put Together Presentation Ideas without PowerPoint

If you’re looking for creative presentation ideas without PowerPoint , Shutterstock Create’s slideshow presentation maker is easy to use. Our designer-crafted templates are super-simple to customize and make your own in just a few clicks. 

We have thousands of graphics in a multitude of styles, shapes, and sizes you can use to create designs that others will notice. We also offer gorgeous stock photos to help you communicate exactly what you need to with each visual. Everyone has something to teach, now it’s your turn. Use these ideas to create all types of presentations and communicate effectively.

Need some more presentation inspo? We’ve got you covered:

• How to Make a Professional Video Presentation
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• Google Slides vs. PowerPoint: Which Is Best to Make a Slideshow?

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Blog Beginner Guides How To Make a Good Presentation [A Complete Guide]

How To Make a Good Presentation [A Complete Guide]

Written by: Krystle Wong Jul 20, 2023

A top-notch presentation possesses the power to drive action. From winning stakeholders over and conveying a powerful message to securing funding — your secret weapon lies within the realm of creating an effective presentation .  

Being an excellent presenter isn’t confined to the boardroom. Whether you’re delivering a presentation at work, pursuing an academic career, involved in a non-profit organization or even a student, nailing the presentation game is a game-changer.

In this article, I’ll cover the top qualities of compelling presentations and walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to give a good presentation. Here’s a little tip to kick things off: for a headstart, check out Venngage’s collection of free presentation templates . They are fully customizable, and the best part is you don’t need professional design skills to make them shine!

These valuable presentation tips cater to individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, encompassing business professionals, sales and marketing teams, educators, trainers, students, researchers, non-profit organizations, public speakers and presenters. 

No matter your field or role, these tips for presenting will equip you with the skills to deliver effective presentations that leave a lasting impression on any audience.

Click to jump ahead:

What are the 10 qualities of a good presentation?

Step-by-step guide on how to prepare an effective presentation, 9 effective techniques to deliver a memorable presentation, faqs on making a good presentation, how to create a presentation with venngage in 5 steps.

When it comes to giving an engaging presentation that leaves a lasting impression, it’s not just about the content — it’s also about how you deliver it. Wondering what makes a good presentation? Well, the best presentations I’ve seen consistently exhibit these 10 qualities:

1. Clear structure

No one likes to get lost in a maze of information. Organize your thoughts into a logical flow, complete with an introduction, main points and a solid conclusion. A structured presentation helps your audience follow along effortlessly, leaving them with a sense of satisfaction at the end.

Regardless of your presentation style , a quality presentation starts with a clear roadmap. Browse through Venngage’s template library and select a presentation template that aligns with your content and presentation goals. Here’s a good presentation example template with a logical layout that includes sections for the introduction, main points, supporting information and a conclusion: 

2. Engaging opening

Hook your audience right from the start with an attention-grabbing statement, a fascinating question or maybe even a captivating anecdote. Set the stage for a killer presentation!

The opening moments of your presentation hold immense power – check out these 15 ways to start a presentation to set the stage and captivate your audience.

3. Relevant content

Make sure your content aligns with their interests and needs. Your audience is there for a reason, and that’s to get valuable insights. Avoid fluff and get straight to the point, your audience will be genuinely excited.

4. Effective visual aids

Picture this: a slide with walls of text and tiny charts, yawn! Visual aids should be just that—aiding your presentation. Opt for clear and visually appealing slides, engaging images and informative charts that add value and help reinforce your message.

With Venngage, visualizing data takes no effort at all. You can import data from CSV or Google Sheets seamlessly and create stunning charts, graphs and icon stories effortlessly to showcase your data in a captivating and impactful way.

5. Clear and concise communication

Keep your language simple, and avoid jargon or complicated terms. Communicate your ideas clearly, so your audience can easily grasp and retain the information being conveyed. This can prevent confusion and enhance the overall effectiveness of the message. 

6. Engaging delivery

Spice up your presentation with a sprinkle of enthusiasm! Maintain eye contact, use expressive gestures and vary your tone of voice to keep your audience glued to the edge of their seats. A touch of charisma goes a long way!

7. Interaction and audience engagement

Turn your presentation into an interactive experience — encourage questions, foster discussions and maybe even throw in a fun activity. Engaged audiences are more likely to remember and embrace your message.

Transform your slides into an interactive presentation with Venngage’s dynamic features like pop-ups, clickable icons and animated elements. Engage your audience with interactive content that lets them explore and interact with your presentation for a truly immersive experience.

8. Effective storytelling

Who doesn’t love a good story? Weaving relevant anecdotes, case studies or even a personal story into your presentation can captivate your audience and create a lasting impact. Stories build connections and make your message memorable.

A great presentation background is also essential as it sets the tone, creates visual interest and reinforces your message. Enhance the overall aesthetics of your presentation with these 15 presentation background examples and captivate your audience’s attention.

9. Well-timed pacing

Pace your presentation thoughtfully with well-designed presentation slides, neither rushing through nor dragging it out. Respect your audience’s time and ensure you cover all the essential points without losing their interest.

10. Strong conclusion

Last impressions linger! Summarize your main points and leave your audience with a clear takeaway. End your presentation with a bang , a call to action or an inspiring thought that resonates long after the conclusion.

In-person presentations aside, acing a virtual presentation is of paramount importance in today’s digital world. Check out this guide to learn how you can adapt your in-person presentations into virtual presentations . 

Preparing an effective presentation starts with laying a strong foundation that goes beyond just creating slides and notes. One of the quickest and best ways to make a presentation would be with the help of a good presentation software . 

Otherwise, let me walk you to how to prepare for a presentation step by step and unlock the secrets of crafting a professional presentation that sets you apart.

1. Understand the audience and their needs

Before you dive into preparing your masterpiece, take a moment to get to know your target audience. Tailor your presentation to meet their needs and expectations , and you’ll have them hooked from the start!

2. Conduct thorough research on the topic

Time to hit the books (or the internet)! Don’t skimp on the research with your presentation materials — dive deep into the subject matter and gather valuable insights . The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel in delivering your presentation.

3. Organize the content with a clear structure

No one wants to stumble through a chaotic mess of information. Outline your presentation with a clear and logical flow. Start with a captivating introduction, follow up with main points that build on each other and wrap it up with a powerful conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

Delivering an effective business presentation hinges on captivating your audience, and Venngage’s professionally designed business presentation templates are tailor-made for this purpose. With thoughtfully structured layouts, these templates enhance your message’s clarity and coherence, ensuring a memorable and engaging experience for your audience members.

Don’t want to build your presentation layout from scratch? pick from these 5 foolproof presentation layout ideas that won’t go wrong. 

4. Develop visually appealing and supportive visual aids

Spice up your presentation with eye-catching visuals! Create slides that complement your message, not overshadow it. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, but that doesn’t mean you need to overload your slides with text.

Well-chosen designs create a cohesive and professional look, capturing your audience’s attention and enhancing the overall effectiveness of your message. Here’s a list of carefully curated PowerPoint presentation templates and great background graphics that will significantly influence the visual appeal and engagement of your presentation.

5. Practice, practice and practice

Practice makes perfect — rehearse your presentation and arrive early to your presentation to help overcome stage fright. Familiarity with your material will boost your presentation skills and help you handle curveballs with ease.

6. Seek feedback and make necessary adjustments

Don’t be afraid to ask for help and seek feedback from friends and colleagues. Constructive criticism can help you identify blind spots and fine-tune your presentation to perfection.

With Venngage’s real-time collaboration feature , receiving feedback and editing your presentation is a seamless process. Group members can access and work on the presentation simultaneously and edit content side by side in real-time. Changes will be reflected immediately to the entire team, promoting seamless teamwork.

7. Prepare for potential technical or logistical issues

Prepare for the unexpected by checking your equipment, internet connection and any other potential hiccups. If you’re worried that you’ll miss out on any important points, you could always have note cards prepared. Remember to remain focused and rehearse potential answers to anticipated questions.

8. Fine-tune and polish your presentation

As the big day approaches, give your presentation one last shine. Review your talking points, practice how to present a presentation and make any final tweaks. Deep breaths — you’re on the brink of delivering a successful presentation!

In competitive environments, persuasive presentations set individuals and organizations apart. To brush up on your presentation skills, read these guides on how to make a persuasive presentation and tips to presenting effectively . 

Whether you’re an experienced presenter or a novice, the right techniques will let your presentation skills soar to new heights!

From public speaking hacks to interactive elements and storytelling prowess, these 9 effective presentation techniques will empower you to leave a lasting impression on your audience and make your presentations unforgettable.

1. Confidence and positive body language

Positive body language instantly captivates your audience, making them believe in your message as much as you do. Strengthen your stage presence and own that stage like it’s your second home! Stand tall, shoulders back and exude confidence. 

2. Eye contact with the audience

Break down that invisible barrier and connect with your audience through their eyes. Maintaining eye contact when giving a presentation builds trust and shows that you’re present and engaged with them.

3. Effective use of hand gestures and movement

A little movement goes a long way! Emphasize key points with purposeful gestures and don’t be afraid to walk around the stage. Your energy will be contagious!

4. Utilize storytelling techniques

Weave the magic of storytelling into your presentation. Share relatable anecdotes, inspiring success stories or even personal experiences that tug at the heartstrings of your audience. Adjust your pitch, pace and volume to match the emotions and intensity of the story. Varying your speaking voice adds depth and enhances your stage presence.

5. Incorporate multimedia elements

Spice up your presentation with a dash of visual pizzazz! Use slides, images and video clips to add depth and clarity to your message. Just remember, less is more—don’t overwhelm them with information overload. 

Turn your presentations into an interactive party! Involve your audience with questions, polls or group activities. When they actively participate, they become invested in your presentation’s success. Bring your design to life with animated elements. Venngage allows you to apply animations to icons, images and text to create dynamic and engaging visual content.

6. Utilize humor strategically

Laughter is the best medicine—and a fantastic presentation enhancer! A well-placed joke or lighthearted moment can break the ice and create a warm atmosphere , making your audience more receptive to your message.

7. Practice active listening and respond to feedback

Be attentive to your audience’s reactions and feedback. If they have questions or concerns, address them with genuine interest and respect. Your responsiveness builds rapport and shows that you genuinely care about their experience.

8. Apply the 10-20-30 rule

Apply the 10-20-30 presentation rule and keep it short, sweet and impactful! Stick to ten slides, deliver your presentation within 20 minutes and use a 30-point font to ensure clarity and focus. Less is more, and your audience will thank you for it!

9. Implement the 5-5-5 rule

Simplicity is key. Limit each slide to five bullet points, with only five words per bullet point and allow each slide to remain visible for about five seconds. This rule keeps your presentation concise and prevents information overload.

Simple presentations are more engaging because they are easier to follow. Summarize your presentations and keep them simple with Venngage’s gallery of simple presentation templates and ensure that your message is delivered effectively across your audience.

1. How to start a presentation?

To kick off your presentation effectively, begin with an attention-grabbing statement or a powerful quote. Introduce yourself, establish credibility and clearly state the purpose and relevance of your presentation.

2. How to end a presentation?

For a strong conclusion, summarize your talking points and key takeaways. End with a compelling call to action or a thought-provoking question and remember to thank your audience and invite any final questions or interactions.

3. How to make a presentation interactive?

To make your presentation interactive, encourage questions and discussion throughout your talk. Utilize multimedia elements like videos or images and consider including polls, quizzes or group activities to actively involve your audience.

In need of inspiration for your next presentation? I’ve got your back! Pick from these 120+ presentation ideas, topics and examples to get started. 

Creating a stunning presentation with Venngage is a breeze with our user-friendly drag-and-drop editor and professionally designed templates for all your communication needs. 

Here’s how to make a presentation in just 5 simple steps with the help of Venngage:

Step 1: Sign up for Venngage for free using your email, Gmail or Facebook account or simply log in to access your account. 

Step 2: Pick a design from our selection of free presentation templates (they’re all created by our expert in-house designers).

Step 3: Make the template your own by customizing it to fit your content and branding. With Venngage’s intuitive drag-and-drop editor, you can easily modify text, change colors and adjust the layout to create a unique and eye-catching design.

Step 4: Elevate your presentation by incorporating captivating visuals. You can upload your images or choose from Venngage’s vast library of high-quality photos, icons and illustrations. 

Step 5: Upgrade to a premium or business account to export your presentation in PDF and print it for in-person presentations or share it digitally for free!

By following these five simple steps, you’ll have a professionally designed and visually engaging presentation ready in no time. With Venngage’s user-friendly platform, your presentation is sure to make a lasting impression. So, let your creativity flow and get ready to shine in your next presentation!

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6 Different Types of Presentations

Everyone from those who present in front of large audiences on a stage to managers who need to pitch their ideas to co-workers can improve their delivery and impact of their message.

6 Types of Presentations:

1) Providing Information. This format encompasses anything from a team meeting that gives updates on a project or upcoming event to a demonstration that shows product functions.

2) Teaching a Skill. Your company just installed a new system or implemented a new process that requires people to learn how to use the new tool and apply the process.

3) Reporting Progress. As you integrate the new system into your daily routine, your boss wants to know how it’s working. You might schedule a divisional meeting or group off-site to share the progress.

4) Selling a Product or Service. A briefing like this might include a recap of the product or service, next steps and action items, or a discussion of needs and improvements before the product is ready to sell.

For these examples and more, attend our Presentation Skills Workshop

5) Making a Decision. It’s time for the annual holiday party and ideas are being tossed around the office. When giving your input on the location, make sure to share the must-haves and nice-to-haves for the event. When it’s time for the final decision, you can see how your idea stacks up to the other options.

6) Solving a Problem. This could be in a panel setting or other meeting where the problem is identified, the facts of the problem are presented and a list of causes is generated. From here, you lay out the ideal outcome, present solutions and discuss your recommendation.

With any presentation, know your objectives. If your purpose is to inform or update, you will most likely use one of the first three types of presentations. On the other hand, if you’re on a mission to persuade someone, use one of the last three presentation types. Not every presentation has to mold itself into a traditional presentation; it can be an interview, status report, program, pitch, speech or demonstration, for example.

Editor's Note: This post was originally published in November 2014 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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6 Different Types of Presentations

Presentations should be as unique as your business and the information you’re trying to present. However, there are certain types of presentations that are common across industries and teams. Before you worry about which slides to include or how to organize your information, you’ll need to determine which type of presentation is best for your audience. 

To figure this out, ask yourself: Are you entertaining or informing? Are you speaking to colleagues, investors, or potential customers? Asking these questions will help you choose the type of presentation that supports you best. Beautiful.ai is here to make this even easier with a description of different types of presentations to help you choose.

Informative Presentations

An informative presentation is educational, concise, and to the point. While other presentations may entertain or inspire, the main goal of an informative presentation is to share information.

A good example of an informative presentation is a human resources benefits presentation. Human resources needs to explain what benefits employees receive, how benefits work, which important dates employees need to remember, where employees can find more information, and so on. 

An HR benefits presentation for new hires (or any informational presentation) should be short, straightforward, and easy to understand so that new employees will remember the information they’re given. 

Instructive Presentations

A presentation that teaches something is similar to an informative presentation, but it goes beyond sharing facts. It also instructs the audience on a specific topic. People attend or view an instructive presentation with the intention to learn, and they leave with a better understanding of the topic of the presentation.

There are many examples of instructive presentations. Workshops, training sessions, or webinars teach audiences a new skill or procedure by offering specific information or instructions. Explaining new policies to a company is another type of instructive presentation. For example, an HR benefits presentation for new employees may be informative, but a presentation for existing employees about policy changes might lean more towards instructive, especially if employees have to take action or need to ask questions.     

Persuasive Presentations

Many presentations hope to sell something or persuade the audience to take certain actions. Persuasive presentations often present a problem and explain their solution using data. Examples of persuasive presentations include business pitches or sales proposals.

For example, a startup company looking for initial funding may need a startup pitch deck or a Series A presentation to convince investors to back their idea. A startup pitch deck would explain a problem in the market, how their startup will solve that problem, and how they’ll monetize their business. A Series A presentation can help a startup secure more rounds of funding to grow their company and pursue further goals.

Motivational Presentations

One of the most prominent examples of inspiring presentations? TEDTalks. Many motivational speakers use TEDTalks to inspire people to think or change their behavior. 

Motivational presentations in the business world may not be as dramatic or life-changing as a TEDTalk, but they still aim to generate interest or gain an audience’s approval. A company overview presentation is a good example of a motivational presentation. It may present the information of a company — how it was founded, who is leading it, what the company does — but more importantly, it tells the company’s story. 

A company overview presentation connects with the audience. A manager may use it to boost morale at a team meeting. Or an executive may present a company overview to convince potential customers or investors to work with them. Or, an HR rep may use it to make new hires feel welcome and excited to join the company.

Decision-making Presentations

Need to make a decision within the company? A presentation that shares a problem, solution options, and their outcomes can help speed along the process. Decision making presentations might be found in business meetings, government meetings, or all-hands meetings.

For example, let’s say a company wants to improve engagement on their social media channels. There are many ways they might achieve their goal, including hosting giveaways, dedicating more resources to creating Facebook posts or Instagram stories, and researching their audience or competitors to see how they can improve. A marketing campaign plan template for a presentation would keep details of the problem, different options, and possible outcomes organized in one place. It would inform and guide everyone involved in the meeting, helping them make informed decisions on how to move forward.

Progress Presentations

Imagine our hypothetical company decided on a marketing strategy to meet their goals. Now that they have a campaign in place, they need to report on the progress of said campaign. This sixth presentation type shares status updates, progress towards deadlines, collected data so far, any obstacles popping up, and tasks that need to be added or adjusted.

A team stand up presentation is a great example of this type of presentation. Team stand up presentations usually include an agenda, talking points, deliverable updates, discussion topics, and time for questions at the end. This presentation keeps everyone organized and focused, ensuring that everyone is still on the same page and working towards the same end goal.

Whichever Presentation Type You Choose, Create it With Beautiful.ai

Now that you know which presentation type is right for your project, it’s time to create a beautiful and effective presentation. With Beautiful.ai , you don’t need to set aside hours of time to build your presentation, nor do you need design expertise to do it. Use one of our many presentation templates that can be customized for your needs in minutes. No matter what type of presentation you create, Beautiful.ai can help you do it.

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Beautiful is an AI-powered presentation tool that makes it fast and easy for anyone to build clean, modern and professionally designed slides that they can be proud of.

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6 presentation skills and how to improve them

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What are presentation skills?

The importance of presentation skills, 6 presentation skills examples, how to improve presentation skills.

Tips for dealing with presentation anxiety

Learn how to captivate an audience with ease

Capturing an audience’s attention takes practice. 

Over time, great presenters learn how to organize their speeches and captivate an audience from start to finish. They spark curiosity, know how to read a room , and understand what their audience needs to walk away feeling like they learned something valuable.

Regardless of your profession, you most likely use presentation skills on a monthly or even weekly basis. Maybe you lead brainstorming sessions or host client calls. 

Developing effective presentation skills makes it easier to contribute ideas with confidence and show others you’re someone to trust. Although speaking in front of a crowd sometimes brings nerves and anxiety , it also sparks new opportunities.

Presentation skills are the qualities and abilities you need to communicate ideas effectively and deliver a compelling speech. They influence how you structure a presentation and how an audience receives it. Understanding body language , creating impactful visual aids, and projecting your voice all fall under this umbrella.

A great presentation depends on more than what you say. It’s about how you say it. Storytelling , stage presence, and voice projection all shape how well you express your ideas and connect with the audience. These skills do take practice, but they’re worth developing — especially if public speaking makes you nervous. 

Engaging a crowd isn’t easy. You may feel anxious to step in front of an audience and have all eyes and ears on you.

But feeling that anxiety doesn’t mean your ideas aren’t worth sharing. Whether you’re giving an inspiring speech or delivering a monthly recap at work, your audience is there to listen to you. Harness that nervous energy and turn it into progress.

Strong presentation skills make it easier to convey your thoughts to audiences of all sizes. They can help you tell a compelling story, convince people of a pitch , or teach a group something entirely new to them. And when it comes to the workplace, the strength of your presentation skills could play a part in getting a promotion or contributing to a new initiative.

To fully understand the impact these skills have on creating a successful presentation, it’s helpful to look at each one individually. Here are six valuable skills you can develop:

1. Active listening

Active listening is an excellent communication skill for any professional to hone. When you have strong active listening skills, you can listen to others effectively and observe their nonverbal cues . This helps you assess whether or not your audience members are engaged in and understand what you’re sharing. 

Great public speakers use active listening to assess the audience’s reactions and adjust their speech if they find it lacks impact. Signs like slouching, negative facial expressions, and roaming eye contact are all signs to watch out for when giving a presentation.

2. Body language

If you’re researching presentation skills, chances are you’ve already watched a few notable speeches like TED Talks or industry seminars. And one thing you probably noticed is that speakers can capture attention with their body language. 

A mixture of eye contact, hand gestures , and purposeful pacing makes a presentation more interesting and engaging. If you stand in one spot and don’t move your body, the audience might zone out.

3. Stage presence

A great stage presence looks different for everyone. A comedian might aim for more movement and excitement, and a conference speaker might focus their energy on the content of their speech. Although neither is better than the other, both understand their strengths and their audience’s needs. 

Developing a stage presence involves finding your own unique communication style . Lean into your strengths, whether that’s adding an injection of humor or asking questions to make it interactive . To give a great presentation, you might even incorporate relevant props or presentation slides.

4. Storytelling

According to Forbes, audiences typically pay attention for about 10 minutes before tuning out . But you can lengthen their attention span by offering a presentation that interests them for longer. Include a narrative they’ll want to listen to, and tell a story as you go along. 

Shaping your content to follow a clear narrative can spark your audience’s curiosity and entice them to pay careful attention. You can use anecdotes from your personal or professional life that take your audience along through relevant moments. If you’re pitching a product, you can start with a problem and lead your audience through the stages of how your product provides a solution.

5. Voice projection

Although this skill may be obvious, you need your audience to hear what you’re saying. This can be challenging if you’re naturally soft-spoken and struggle to project your voice.

Remember to straighten your posture and take deep breaths before speaking, which will help you speak louder and fill the room. If you’re talking into a microphone or participating in a virtual meeting, you can use your regular conversational voice, but you still want to sound confident and self-assured with a strong tone.

If you’re unsure whether everyone can hear you, you can always ask the audience at the beginning of your speech and wait for confirmation. That way, they won’t have to potentially interrupt you later.

Ensuring everyone can hear you also includes your speed and annunciation. It’s easy to speak quickly when nervous, but try to slow down and pronounce every word. Mumbling can make your presentation difficult to understand and pay attention to.

6. Verbal communication 

Although verbal communication involves your projection and tone, it also covers the language and pacing you use to get your point across. This includes where you choose to place pauses in your speech or the tone you use to emphasize important ideas.

If you’re giving a presentation on collaboration in the workplace , you might start your speech by saying, “There’s something every workplace needs to succeed: teamwork.” By placing emphasis on the word “ teamwork ,” you give your audience a hint on what ideas will follow.

To further connect with your audience through diction, pay careful attention to who you’re speaking to. The way you talk to your colleagues might be different from how you speak to a group of superiors, even if you’re discussing the same subject. You might use more humor and a conversational tone for the former and more serious, formal diction for the latter.

Everyone has strengths and weaknesses when it comes to presenting. Maybe you’re confident in your use of body language, but your voice projection needs work. Maybe you’re a great storyteller in small group settings, but need to work on your stage presence in front of larger crowds. 

The first step to improving presentation skills is pinpointing your gaps and determining which qualities to build upon first. Here are four tips for enhancing your presentation skills:

1. Build self-confidence

Confident people know how to speak with authority and share their ideas. Although feeling good about your presentation skills is easier said than done, building confidence is key to helping your audience believe in what you’re saying. Try practicing positive self-talk and continuously researching your topic's ins and outs.

If you don’t feel confident on the inside, fake it until you make it. Stand up straight, project your voice, and try your best to appear engaged and excited. Chances are, the audience doesn’t know you’re unsure of your skills — and they don’t need to.

Another tip is to lean into your slideshow, if you’re using one. Create something colorful and interesting so the audience’s eyes fall there instead of on you. And when you feel proud of your slideshow, you’ll be more eager to share it with others, bringing more energy to your presentation.

2. Watch other presentations

Developing the soft skills necessary for a good presentation can be challenging without seeing them in action. Watch as many as possible to become more familiar with public speaking skills and what makes a great presentation. You could attend events with keynote speakers or view past speeches on similar topics online.

Take a close look at how those presenters use verbal communication and body language to engage their audiences. Grab a notebook and jot down what you enjoyed and your main takeaways. Try to recall the techniques they used to emphasize their main points, whether they used pauses effectively, had interesting visual aids, or told a fascinating story.

3. Get in front of a crowd

You don’t need a large auditorium to practice public speaking. There are dozens of other ways to feel confident and develop good presentation skills.

If you’re a natural comedian, consider joining a small stand-up comedy club. If you’re an avid writer, participate in a public poetry reading. Even music and acting can help you feel more comfortable in front of a crowd.

If you’d rather keep it professional, you can still work on your presentation skills in the office. Challenge yourself to participate at least once in every team meeting, or plan and present a project to become more comfortable vocalizing your ideas. You could also speak to your manager about opportunities that flex your public speaking abilities.

4. Overcome fear

Many people experience feelings of fear before presenting in front of an audience, whether those feelings appear as a few butterflies or more severe anxiety. Try grounding yourself to shift your focus to the present moment. If you’re stuck dwelling on previous experiences that didn’t go well, use those mistakes as learning experiences and focus on what you can improve to do better in the future.

Tips for dealing with presentation anxiety 

It’s normal to feel nervous when sharing your ideas. In fact, according to a report from the Journal of Graduate Medical Education, public speaking anxiety is prevalent in 15–30% of the general population .

Even though having a fear of public speaking is common, it doesn’t make it easier. You might feel overwhelmed, become stiff, and forget what you were going to say. But although the moment might scare you, there are ways to overcome the fear and put mind over matter.

Use these tactics to reduce your stress when you have to make a presentation:

1. Practice breathing techniques

If you experience anxiety often, you’re probably familiar with breathing techniques for stress relief . Incorporating these exercises into your daily routine can help you stop worrying and regulate anxious feelings. 

Before a big presentation, take a moment alone to practice breathing techniques, ground yourself, and reduce tension. It’s also a good idea to take breaths throughout the presentation to speak slower and calm yourself down .

2. Get organized

The more organized you are, the more prepared you’ll feel. Carefully outline all of the critical information you want to use in your presentation, including your main talking points and visual aids, so you don’t forget anything. Use bullet points and visuals on each slide to remind you of what you want to talk about, and create handheld notes to help you stay on track.

3. Embrace moments of silence

It’s okay to lose your train of thought. It happens to even the most experienced public speakers once in a while. If your mind goes blank, don’t panic. Take a moment to breathe, gather your thoughts, and refer to your notes to see where you left off. You can drink some water or make a quick joke to ease the silence or regain your footing. And it’s okay to say, “Give me a moment while I find my notes.” Chances are, people understand the position you’re in.

4. Practice makes progress

Before presenting, rehearse in front of friends and family members you trust. This gives you the chance to work out any weak spots in your speech and become comfortable communicating out loud. If you want to go the extra mile, ask your makeshift audience to ask a surprise question. This tests your on-the-spot thinking and will prove that you can keep cool when things come up.

Whether you’re new to public speaking or are a seasoned presenter, you’re bound to make a few slip-ups. It happens to everyone. The most important thing is that you try your best, brush things off, and work on improving your skills to do better in your next presentation.

Although your job may require a different level of public speaking than your favorite TED Talk , developing presentation skills is handy in any profession. You can use presentation skills in a wide range of tasks in the workplace, whether you’re sharing your ideas with colleagues, expressing concerns to higher-ups, or pitching strategies to potential clients.

Remember to use active listening to read the room and engage your audience with an interesting narrative. Don’t forget to step outside your comfort zone once in a while and put your skills to practice in front of a crowd. After facing your fears, you’ll feel confident enough to put presentation skills on your resume.

If you’re trying to build your skills and become a better employee overall, try a communications coach with BetterUp. 

Elevate your communication skills

Unlock the power of clear and persuasive communication. Our coaches can guide you to build strong relationships and succeed in both personal and professional life.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

The 11 tips that will improve your public speaking skills

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10 Types of Presentations: From Elegant to Persuasive

Shahid shahmiri.

Presentations are a crucial part of any business, and understanding different types of presentations can significantly enhance how well your ideas are received, whether you’re presenting to colleagues or the board of directors.

Having a great presentation on hand doesn’t just help you do better work—it can also help you get more work. 

However, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to creating effective presentations . In this guide, we’ll cover some basic types of presentations and give some examples for each one so that you can create engaging content for the needs of your audience at any given moment.

Elegant Presentations

Elegant presentations are more than just a pretty picture. They’re visually appealing and aesthetically pleasing, but they also have substance. A good creative presentation will catch the eye, draw you in and compel you to learn more about what it has to offer.

Elegant presentations use design principles like simplicity (less is more), balance and harmony to create an overall aesthetic that feels clean and crisp yet still engaging. 

They integrate multimedia elements like video clips or soundtracks into their designs seamlessly so that these elements don’t distract from but rather enhance the overall experience of viewing them.

Learn more about the elegant presentations here: https://www.customshow.com/elegant-presentations/

Persuasive Presentations

The art of persuasion is one of the most powerful tools you can have in your presentation toolkit.

The first step to persuading an audience is finding out what motivates them, and then appealing directly to those motivations. 

Persuasive presentations are designed to influence the audience’s beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors, often encouraging them to take a specific action or adopt a new perspective. Here are a few examples:

Community Project Funding: A community leader pitching to local authorities and stakeholders to secure funding for a neighborhood improvement project, using persuasive arguments about community benefits and long-term positive impacts.

Technology Adoption: An IT professional advocating for the adoption of new software within their company, highlighting efficiency gains and competitive advantages to persuade management and colleagues.

Educational Reform: An educator or school administrator presenting to a school board or parent-teacher association, advocating for curriculum changes or new teaching methodologies, using success stories and research findings to persuade the audience of their effectiveness.

Read more on Persuasive Presentations here: https://www.customshow.com/persuasive-presentations/

Sales Presentations

Sales presentations have a unique passion for persuasion, aiming to convert enthusiasm into tangible business outcomes. 

In the sports industry, a sales presentation might involve a sports marketing team presenting a sponsorship proposal to potential corporate partners. 

This type of presentation would typically showcase demographic data on fan bases, engagement statistics, and success stories of previous sponsorships, all aimed at illustrating the potential return on investment for the sponsor. 

In the media & entertainment sector, sales presentations often revolve around pitching new projects or content distribution deals. 

For example, a production company might present a new series concept to streaming platforms or networks. Such a presentation would highlight the project’s creative aspects, like the storyline and talent involved, and market analysis, projected viewership, and alignment with the platform’s brand and audience demographics.

Read more on effective sales presentation tips and ideas: https://www.customshow.com/effective-sales-presentation-tips-ideas/

Informative Presentations

Informative presentations are foundational in public speaking, designed primarily to educate and enlighten the audience on a specific topic. 

These presentations are factual, clear, and often rely on data and research to accurately convey the information. The key is to present the material in an organized manner, typically following a logical structure that starts with an introduction, followed by the body where the main information is presented, and concludes with a summary or conclusion. 

It’s crucial to keep the language clear and straightforward, avoiding jargon that could confuse the audience, and focus on the relevancy and applicability of the information presented.

Examples of informative presentations include a company’s annual report delivered to employees, a lecture on recent scientific findings, or a workshop explaining new software features. 

In each of these instances, the primary goal is to impart knowledge or share information rather than to persuade or inspire action. 

For instance, in an academic setting, a professor might give an informative presentation on the historical impacts of a significant event, focusing on presenting the facts and findings. 

In a business context, a financial analyst might deliver an informative presentation on market trends, providing detailed analysis and statistics to inform strategic decisions. 

The success of these presentations is measured not by the immediate action of the audience but by their enhanced understanding and knowledge of the topic.

Read more on informative presentations here: https://www.customshow.com/informative-presentations/

Instructional Presentations

Instructional presentations are a cornerstone in educational and training settings, aimed at teaching or instructing the audience on a specific process, concept, or skill. 

The primary focus of these presentations is to facilitate learning and understanding. A successful instructional presentation breaks down complex information into digestible, manageable parts, often using a step-by-step approach. 

The presenter acts as a guide, leading the audience through the material with clarity and precision. It’s crucial to engage the audience, ensuring they are not just passive recipients of information but active participants in the learning process. 

This engagement can be achieved through interactive elements, practical demonstrations, and question-and-answer sessions.

For example, in a corporate training session, an expert might deliver an instructional presentation on using a new software tool, walking employees through each feature with live demonstrations and hands-on exercises. 

In an academic context, a professor might give an instructional presentation on a scientific method, using detailed slides, real-world examples, and interactive experiments to enhance understanding. 

Another example could be a fitness trainer conducting an instructional presentation on proper exercise techniques, incorporating demonstrations, and encouraging audience participation to ensure correct form and understanding. 

Each of these scenarios underscores the instructional presentation’s goal: not just to present information, but to foster learning and practical application.

Read more on the four states of Instructional Presentations

Inspirational Presentations

Inspirational presentations help motivate, uplift, and spark positive change in audiences. These presentations often hinge on the power of storytelling, using personal narratives, success stories, and emotional appeals to connect deeply with the audience. 

In sports, for instance, a motivational speech by a renowned athlete can be profoundly impactful. They might share their journey of overcoming adversity, setbacks, and injuries to achieve success, thereby inspiring budding athletes to persevere and strive for excellence. 

The narrative usually highlights themes of resilience, dedication, and the power of a positive mindset, resonating with individuals in both sports and other life areas.

In the media and entertainment industry, inspirational presentations often take the form of keynote speeches at award shows or industry conferences. 

A celebrated filmmaker or actor might share insights about their creative journey, discussing the challenges of the creative process and the importance of artistic integrity and innovation.

These speeches can inspire artists and professionals in the industry to pursue their passions relentlessly and think outside the box. Another example can be a TED Talk by a media mogul discussing the evolution of digital media and its power to enact social change, encouraging listeners to harness media platforms for advocacy and global connectivity. 

In both sports and entertainment, the crux of inspirational presentations lies in stirring emotional responses and motivating audiences toward personal and professional growth.

Read more on Inspirational Presentations: https://www.customshow.com/inspiring-presentations/

Technical Presentations

A technical presentation is a “how-to” demonstration that uses visuals and demonstrations to explain how something works. 

It’s an effective way of communicating complex information to diverse audiences, from internal employees who need to know how the company’s new accounting software works, to potential investors who want details on your latest innovation in robotics technology.

Technical presentations often require significant preparation time because they require you to navigate the intricacies of your topic while making it understandable for others who may not have as much background knowledge as you do. 

A good approach is starting with research: identify key points in your topic area, then organize them into sections based on their relationship with one another (e.g., first we’ll talk about X; then we’ll move on to Y). 

Make sure each section includes some visual aids like graphs or charts if possible, these will help simplify complex information so everyone can follow along easily!

Read more on the technical presentations here: https://www.customshow.com/technical-presentations/

Team and Stakeholder Presentations

A team or stakeholder presentation is a great way to share your ideas with colleagues who are working on similar projects, but it can be challenging to get people excited about new initiatives. 

When you’re presenting in front of your team members, it’s important to consider their interests and needs before diving into the details. 

If you want them on board with your plan, they must understand why this project matters for them, not just for the company as a whole.

Interactive Presentations

Interactive presentations have revolutionized the way information is shared and received, moving beyond traditional one-way communication to a more engaging, two-way dialogue. 

The essence of these presentations lies in their ability to actively involve the audience, turning passive listeners into active participants. 

This engagement is achieved through various means such as real-time polls, Q&A sessions, interactive quizzes, and even augmented reality experiences. 

For instance, in a corporate setting, a manager might use an interactive presentation during a team meeting to gather instant feedback on proposed initiatives using live polling. This not only gauges the team’s opinion but also fosters a sense of involvement and collaboration.

Learn more on interactive presentations here: https://www.customshow.com/interactive-presentation-software-7-great-ideas-great-companies/

Problem-Solution Presentations

Problem-solution presentations are a strategic approach often used to address specific challenges or issues within an organization or in a client-focused setting. 

The structure of these presentations typically involves first identifying and analyzing a problem, and then proposing one or more solutions. 

This format is particularly effective in consulting scenarios, where a consultant might present to a client company facing operational inefficiencies. 

The presentation would detail the identified issues, perhaps through data analysis or market research, and then propose tailored solutions, such as new technologies or process improvements.

In the tech industry, problem-solving presentations are frequently used to pitch new software or tools. A tech company might present to a potential client the challenges of data management and security, and then introduce their software as a solution that enhances data security and efficiency. 

Suggested tools and software for various presentation needs.

In the world of presentations, having the right tool can make all the difference. Whether you’re delivering a sales pitch, an educational lecture, or an inspirational talk, there’s a software solution that can elevate your presentation. 

Here are some of the top tools and software, each suited for different types of presentation needs:

CustomShow: CustomShow stands out for its business-centric approach, focusing on brand-specific presentation needs. It’s ideal for companies looking to maintain brand consistency across all presentations. With its rich multimedia integration and robust analytics, CustomShow is particularly for sales and marketing presentations that need to leave a lasting impact.

Prezi: Known for its non-linear presentation style, Prezi is great for creating dynamic presentation and visually engaging presentations. Its zooming user interface offers a unique way to capture your audience’s attention, making it suitable for persuasive and instructional presentations.

PowerPoint: A classic in the presentation software realm, Microsoft PowerPoint is versatile and user-friendly. It’s a reliable choice for almost any presentation type, from business and educational to inspirational talks, thanks to its wide range of templates and customization options.

Google Slides: For those who value collaboration, Google Slides is a go-to. Being cloud-based, it allows multiple users to work on a presentation simultaneously, making it perfect for team projects and presentations that require frequent updates.

Keynote: For Mac users, Apple’s Keynote is best for its sleek templates and smooth animations. It’s ideal for elegant presentations where design and aesthetics are key.

Read more on: What do you Need to Think About Before Designing the Presentation?

We hope that you now have a better understanding of the different types of presentations and the tools that are available to help you create them. Take a look at how CustomShow could help in your B2B sales situations .

Read more on : When Creating a Presentation Based on Lots of Data, What Principle Should You Bear in Mind? Read more on : What is the Best Way to Deliver Presentations with Authenticity ?

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Let us show you how customshow does so much more than powerpoint & google slides for your business presentations..

6 Types of Presentations and Which One is the Best for You

Last updated on April 22nd, 2024

Presentations are an important part of the routine lives of students, business people, and other professionals. Different presentations are used for different occasions and purposes, such as student speeches, seminars, conferences, webinars, other eLearning activities, etc.

Choosing a proper presentation type for your next activity or meeting can be hectic for many professionals. That is why you must have a quick idea about how many presentation types are actually there and which one is best for you to achieve your specific goal or objective.

Are there any specific categories of presentations? Why is there a need for different types of presentation methods? This article will answer all of these questions in addition to some free premade presentation templates that have been made to save time and other resources for professionals, students, and business people.

Why Do You Need Different Types of Presentation Styles?

To deliver a persuasive and results-oriented presentation , the speaker must use techniques and tools to engage his audience and retain their attention. To achieve different objectives, a speaker may implement various techniques and methods of delivering his message.

If one expert says that the presenter should speak loudly, the other professional may argue that the visuals must be present throughout your presentation slides. Someone may stress the need for storytelling, while another mentor may think that statistics, infographics, or quotes are integral parts of successful presentations.

What if there was not a single way of delivering a presentation? What if there are several types of presentations that are used on different occasions for achieving specific objectives? Below, 6 different types of presentation styles are mentioned that are used for specific purposes only.

6 Different Types of Presentations (Plus Actionable Tips to Deliver Them)

When do you need specific types of presentation methods? How do they fulfill your specific purposes? Let’s have a look at 6 different types of presentations.

1. Informative Presentations

One of the most common presentation types is an informative presentation used for endless occasions, from educational to corporate business activities.

Why is there a need for informative presentations?

When you want to deliver detailed information or data about a specific product, service, idea, or process to a specific audience, these kinds of presentations are ideal. In such presentations, the speaker may seem analytical and rational to prove and make his concepts understandable to listeners. Informative presentations can be used in many situations . A news anchor may use informative presentations to present his data and information more systematically and comprehensively.  Businesses and institutions’ decision-makers use such presentations to discuss the pros and cons of a specific process, situation, or activity to reach effective solutions for specific problems. Hence, if you are looking forward to delivering a relatively longer presentation, an informative presentation can prove to be an appropriate choice for you. You can look at articles regarding how many slides for a long presentation or how many slides for 30 minutes to have a better idea of how to effectively present longer-duration presentations.

Tips for delivering effective informative presentations

Here are a few tips for informative presentations.

• You should focus on the main points or agenda of your topic first
• Don’t use complex sentences and graphics to avoid confusion among listeners.
• Try telling your presentation’s outline in the introduction section
• Summarize important points and ideas of your presentation in the end

2. Persuasive Presentations

Persuasion is an art through which an individual influences the opinions, thoughts, decisions, and actions of others. Delivering persuasive presentations is a need of the hour for many business people like marketers, project managers, and salespersons.

Why is there a need for persuasive presentations?

There are various circumstances in which persuasive presentations can be used.

Governmental institutions can use persuasive presentations in policy-making and election campaigns to convince their listeners to respond to a specific call to action . Senior executives or management of an organization can leverage such presentations to win the trust and confidence of their relevant stakeholders.  Speakers in TED Talks also need to convince their listeners regarding their concepts and ideas, and they use persuasive presentations to leave a significant impact on the minds of their audience . From youtube videos to sermons of religious leaders, persuasive presentations find their applications in many fields of life. If you are looking for premade free templates for your next persuasive presentation, look at our best PowerPoint Templates specifically made for your needs.

Tips for delivering effective persuasive presentations

Here are some actionable tips for delivering persuasive presentations.

• To develop credibility, start your presentation with a relevant quote or statistical analysis.
• Try to relate your arguments and data with personal experiences and stories.
• Try delivering your presentation passionately with genuine interest and attention.
• Your presentation should be an answer to the queries of your audience. Try to leave no stone unturned to deliver your message efficiently.

3. Demonstrative Presentations

Known as a demonstrative presentation when a presentation is based on the step-by-step demonstration of a product, service, or process . The audience is usually more attentive in such presentations, and you can leverage this added characteristic to your maximum advantage by implementing effective measures. 

Why is there a need for demonstrative presentations?

When an employer or trainer teaches his employees about a specific operational process, activity, or task systematically, he usually uses demonstrative presentation. Instructional videos and training generally depend on such presentations to effectively guide the audience. 

You don’t need to develop demonstrative presentations from scratch all by yourself. Our website Free PowerPoint Templates offers quality premade templates with in-built process demonstrations and infographics for your every possible need. Just download any of your desired templates with a simple click. You can make a few changes to the specific areas of your template as per your requirements, and in no time, your own professionally crafted demonstrative presentation will be ready to deliver. You can also easily get ideas regarding different presentation backgrounds for your next eye-catching and persuasive presentation.

Tips for delivering effective demonstrative presentations

Here are some effective tips for you.

• Try introducing your product, service, or process a bit before its elaborative demonstration.
• Use the maximum number of diagrams and visuals.
• Try clearing the doubts of your listeners during your presentation for better understanding. 
• Spend less time on the introduction part and more time on the demonstration part.
• Try mentioning some options or alternatives for the audience in the end so that they can implement the suggested measures as per their own desires and needs.

4. Inspirational Presentations

Also known as motivational presentations, inspirational presentations aim to inspire and motivate the audience . By developing an emotional connection with the listeners, the speaker tries to convey his ideas and thoughts through stories, personal experiences, and even humor sometimes.

Why is there a need for inspirational presentations?

Motivational speakers use such presentations to inspire their audience and make them see the positive aspects of life and the circumstances they face. For example, in TED Talks, a speaker uses a slide presentation along with his/her verbal speech to influence his/her listeners more effectively. Farewell speeches and presentations delivered by senior executives or management of businesses can also be considered examples of inspirational presentations. 

Tips for delivering effective inspirational presentations

By following the below-mentioned tips, you can become an appealing inspirational speaker.

• Start with a startling question or statement that will leave the audience thinking for a long time.
• Use the storytelling approach to resonate with the minds of your listeners.
•  Emphasize your presentation’s main points and ideas.
• Use humor if it helps in achieving your audience’s attention.
• Improve your body language and posture to establish authority on the stage. 

5. Business Presentations

In the business landscape, presentations are used for countless purposes like business planning, decision-making, developing a strategy, forecasting future results, hiring new employees, analyzing project management activities, etc. 

Why is there a need for business presentations?

As told before, business presentations have numerous applications in several areas of the business world . One of the most common usage of such presentations is in sales and marketing activities. A salesperson can use such a presentation to market his product effectively to convert his listener into a customer. 

Look at our Sales PowerPoint Templates to better understand such presentations. Business presentations are also used in corporate training sessions, meetings, e-presentations, seminars, webinars, one-on-one interviews, etc.

Tips for delivering effective business presentations

Here are some actionable business presentation tips for you.

• Use concise and solid points in your slides by making important keywords either bold or highlighted.
• Avoid informal tone of speech. Business presentations are usually formal and should be delivered accordingly.
• Be punctual during such presentations. Being late or showing irresponsible behavior is highly discouraged by the audience in such kinds of presentations.
• Go prepared in front of the audience so that you can answer all of their questions effectively.

6. PowerPoint Presentations

PowerPoint presentations are one of the most effective and widely used presentation types worldwide . They are easy to develop, deliver and understand. No matter what type of purpose you are trying to achieve, PowerPoint presentations can always come in handy in almost all possible situations you may find yourself in.

Why is there a need for PowerPoint presentations?

You can deliver such presentations for any audience, like for educational, business, formal, or informal purposes. You can use them to educate your listeners and inform them about a specific issue or process. PechaKucha presentations are also very popular for telling a story or narrating a personal experience. You don’t need to design and develop PowerPoint presentations yourself, as our website Free PowerPoint Templates is now offering thousands of free premade templates. Delivering and designing any PowerPoint presentation was never this easy.

In Conclusion

Although all types of presentations have their benefits and specific use cases , some are universal, and by modifying them a little bit, you can use them for various purposes. The best examples of such types of presentations are PowerPoint Presentations that can be used for a variety of purposes with the help of premade templates (as mentioned above). 

Every audience has different requirements; therefore, the presenter must be ready to deliver the desired message or idea per the needs of his listeners. Using the previously mentioned presentation types and methods, any user can now fulfill the demands of every possible situation in which he may have to deliver a presentation. With actionable tips, strategies, and premade templates mentioned above, you are now fully equipped to efficiently hit your desired presentation targets.

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Blog > How to structure a good PowerPoint Presentation

How to structure a good PowerPoint Presentation

08.09.21   •  #powerpoint #tips.

When creating presentations, it is particularly important that they are well organized and have a consistent structure.

A logical structure helps the audience to follow you and to remember the core information as best as possible. It is also important for the presenter, as a good presentation structure helps to keep calm, to stay on the topic and to avoid awkward pauses.

But what does such a structure actually look like? Here we show you how to best organize your presentation and what a good structure looks like.

Plan your presentation

Before you start creating your presentation, you should always brainstorm. Think about the topic and write all your ideas down. Then think about the message you want to communicate, what your goal is and what you want your audience to remember at the end.

Think about who your audience is so that you can address them in the best possible way. One possibility is to start your presentation with a few polls to get to know your audience better. Based on the results, you can then adapt your presentation a little. Use the poll function of SlideLizard and have all the answers at a glance. SlideLizard makes it possible to integrate the polls directly into your PowerPoint presentation which helps you to avoid annoying switching between presentation and interaction tool. You can keep an eye on the results while the votes come in and then decide whether you want to share them or not.

• an informative
• an entertaining
• an inspiring
• or a persuasive presentation?

Typical Presentation Structure

The basic structure of a presentation is actually always the same and should consist of:

Introduction

Make sure that the structure of your presentation is not too complicated. The simpler it is, the better the audience can follow.

Personal Introduction

It is best to start your presentation by briefly introducing yourself which helps to build a connection with your audience right away.

Introduce the topic

Then introduce the topic, state the purpose of the presentation and provide a brief outline of the main points you will be addressing.

Mention the length

In the introduction, mention the approximate length of the talk and then also make sure you stick to it.

The introduction should be no longer than two slides and provide a good overview of the topic.

Icebreaker Polls

According to studies, people in the audience only have an average attention span of 10 minutes, which is why it is important to increase their attention right at the beginning and to arouse the audience's interest. You could make a good start with a few icebreaker polls for example. They lighten the mood right at the beginning and you can secure your audience's attention from the start.

For example, you could use SlideLizard to have all the answers at a glance and share them with your audience. In addition, the audience can try out how the polls work and already know how it works if you include more polls in the main part.

Get to know your audience

As mentioned earlier, it is always useful to think about who your audience actually is. Ask them questions at the beginning about how well they already know the topic of your presentation. Use SlideLizard for this so that you have a clear overview about the answers. You can use both single- and multiple-choice questions or also open questions and display their results as a WordCloud in your presentation, for example.

Include a quote

To make the beginning (or the end) of your presentation more exciting, it is always a good idea to include a quote. We have selected some powerful quotes for PowerPoint presentations for you.

Present your topic

The main part of a presentation should explain the topic well, state facts, justify them and give examples. Keep all the promises you made earlier in the introduction.

Length and Structure

The main part should make up about 70% of the presentation and also include a clear structure. Explain your ideas in detail and build them up logically. It should be organized chronologically, by priority or by topic. There should be a smooth transition between the individual issues. However, it is also important to use phrases that make it clear that a new topic is starting. We have listed some useful phrases for presentations here.

Visualize data and statistics and show pictures to underline facts. If you are still looking for good images, we have selected 5 sources of free images for you here.

Focus on the essentials

Focus on what is most important and summarize a bit. You don't have to say everything about a topic because your audience won’t remember everything either. Avoid complicated sentence structure, because if the audience does not understand something, they will not be able to read it again.

Make your presentation interactive

Make your presentation interactive to keep the attention of your audience. Use SlideLizard to include polls in your presentation, where your audience can vote directly from their smartphone and discuss the answers as soon as you received all votes. Here you can also find more tips for increasing audience engagement.

Repeat the main points

The conclusion should contain a summary of the most important key points. Repeat the main points you have made, summarize what the audience should have learned and explain how the new information can help in the future.

Include a Q&A part

Include a Q&A part at the end to make sure you don't leave any questions open. It's a good idea to use tools like SlideLizard for it. Your audience can ask anonymous questions and if there is not enough time, you can give them the answers afterwards. You can read more about the right way to do a question slide in PowerPoint here.

Get Feedback

It is also important to get feedback on your presentation at the end to keep improving. With SlideLizard you can ask your audience for anonymous feedback through star ratings, number ratings or open texts directly after your presentation. You can then export the responses and analyse them later in Excel.

Presentation style

Depending on the type of presentation you give, the structure will always be slightly different. We have selected a few different presentation styles and their structure for you.

Short Presentation

If you are one of many presenters on the day, you will only have a very limited time to present your idea and to convince your audience. It is very important to stand out with your presentation.

So you need to summarize your ideas as briefly as possible and probably should not need more than 3-5 slides.

Problem Solving Presentation

Start your presentation by explaining a problem and giving a short overview of it.

Then go into the problem a little more, providing both intellectual and emotional arguments for the seriousness of the problem. You should spend about the first 25% of your presentation on the problem.

After that, you should spend about 50% of your presentation proposing a solution and explaining it in detail.

In the last 25%, describe what benefits this solution will bring to your audience and ask them to take a simple but relevant action that relates to the problem being discussed.

Tell a Story

A great way to build an emotional connection with the audience is to structure a presentation like a story.

In the introduction, introduce a character who has to deal with a conflict. In the main part, tell how he tries to solve his problem but fails again and again. In the end, he manages to find a solution and wins.

Stories have the power to win customers, align colleagues and motivate employees. They’re the most compelling platform we have for managing imaginations. - Nancy Duarte / HBR Guide to Persuasive Presentations

Make a demonstration

Use the demonstration structure to show how a product works. First talk about a need or a problem that has to be solved.

Then explain how the product will help solve the problem and try to convince your audience of the need for your product.

Spend the end clarifying where and when the product can be purchased.

Chronological structure

When you have something historical to tell, it is always good to use a chronological structure. You always have to ask yourself what happens next.

To make it more interesting and exciting, it is a good idea to start by telling the end of something and after that you explain how you got there. This way you make the audience curious and you can gain their attention faster.

Nancy Duarte TED Talk

Nancy Duarte is a speaker and presentation design expert. She gives speeches all over the world, trying to improve the power of public presentations.

In her famous TED Talk "The Secret Structure of Great Talks" she dissects famous speeches such as Steve Jobs' iPhone launch speech and Martin Luther King's "I have a dream" speech. In doing so, she found out that each presentation is made up of 4 parts:

• What could be
• A moment to remember
• Promise of “New Bliss”

Related articles

About the author.

Helena Reitinger

Helena supports the SlideLizard team in marketing and design. She loves to express her creativity in texts and graphics.

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The big SlideLizard presentation glossary

A podcast is an audio or video contribution that can be listened to or viewed via the Internet. Podcasts can be used for information on specific topics but also for entertainment.

Slide Master

To create your own Template in PowerPoint it is best to use the Slide Master. After updating the Slide Master with your design, all slides (fonts, colours, images, …) adapt to those of the Slide Master.

Slide Layouts

PowerPoint has different types of Slide Layouts. Depending on which type of presentation you make, you will use more or less different slide layouts. Some Slide Types are: title slides, section heading slides, picture with caption slides, blank slides.

Eulogy Speech

A eulogy speech is given at a funeral. It is given by familiy members or friends of the deceased. The aim is to say goodbye and pay tribute to the person who has passed away.

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How to Present to an Audience That Knows More Than You

• Deborah Grayson Riegel

Lean into being a facilitator — not an expert.

What happens when you have to give a presentation to an audience that might have some professionals who have more expertise on the topic than you do? While it can be intimidating, it can also be an opportunity to leverage their deep and diverse expertise in service of the group’s learning. And it’s an opportunity to exercise some intellectual humility, which includes having respect for other viewpoints, not being intellectually overconfident, separating your ego from your intellect, and being willing to revise your own viewpoint — especially in the face of new information. This article offers several tips for how you might approach a roomful of experts, including how to invite them into the discussion without allowing them to completely take over, as well as how to pivot on the proposed topic when necessary.

I was five years into my executive coaching practice when I was invited to lead a workshop on “Coaching Skills for Human Resource Leaders” at a global conference. As the room filled up with participants, I identified a few colleagues who had already been coaching professionally for more than a decade. I felt self-doubt start to kick in: Why were they even here? What did they come to learn? Why do they want to hear from me?

• Deborah Grayson Riegel is a professional speaker and facilitator, as well as a communication and presentation skills coach. She teaches leadership communication at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business and has taught for Wharton Business School, Columbia Business School’s Women in Leadership Program, and Peking University’s International MBA Program. She is the author of Overcoming Overthinking: 36 Ways to Tame Anxiety for Work, School, and Life and the best-selling Go To Help: 31 Strategies to Offer, Ask for, and Accept Help .

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10 Tips for a Persuasive Presentation

Powerful presentation is persuasion. here's how to elevate your impact..

Posted May 11, 2024 | Reviewed by Ray Parker

• Presentations aim to effect change. It's essential to be clear about what change you want to see.
• Powerful presenters embrace and extend empathy to seek first to understand their audience.
• Substance and style both matter to create an audience-informed communication experience.
• Persuasive presentations are relevant, reasoned, real, and resonant.

How many of us realize that giving a presentation or making a speech is all about persuasion , influence, and emotional intelligence ? Impactful presenters understand the power of empathy to understand and engage their audience, the efficiency and kindness of having a clear objective and message, and the importance of substance and style—all as a way to connect in a way that engages and inspires.

Much has been written on the power and behavioral science of persuasion, not least by expert Robert Cialdini. His bestselling book Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion explains seven research-based universal principles of influence .

From my experience as a leadership coach working with thousands of people worldwide, I have compiled a list of ten essentials to elevate our presentation.

1. Maintain an "other" focus. What do you know about your audience and how can you find out more? Ask yourself what kind of a speaker will appeal to your audience, what arguments are likely to resonate with them, and what feelings you want to inspire so the audience will positively respond to your ask. If your audience is predominantly data-driven, you may want to use more evidence-based arguments. If the audience is mixed, a combination of data, authority, and storytelling may be more appropriate. Extend Daniel Goleman’s three types of empathy to gather intelligence , understand your audience, and tailor your intervention to connect more profoundly.

2. Determine a specific objective: Presentations aim to effect change in some way. What change do you want to see in your audience? Every presentation aims to change the audience in some way. For instance, gaining their approval for a certain investment, soliciting their buy-in for a change, or creating a sense of enthusiasm for an idea or initiative. The purpose of a presentation is to bring about change so make sure you are clear on what kind of change you want to bring about.

3. Design a grabber: Our attention spans have shrunk as we have more and more competing demands on our attention . If you want to get someone’s attention you need to grab it at the outset and try and hold on. You can do this in a number of different ways. Throw out a question that demands a response from the audience. Give a surprising fact or statistic, or quote from a well-known figure. Tell a story or an anecdote. A good grabber captures the attention of everyone there, and makes them focus on what you have to say.

4. Crystalize your message and construct your arguments : Your message is the heart of your speech. Craft a brief phrase that clearly defines your proposal in 10-12 words. For example, “This post is about crafting presentations that inspire and engage others to elevate their presentations.” Make it memorable by choosing inspiring words, symbols, catchy expressions, something that will remain in the audience's mind. As Brené Brown says: “Clear is kind,” and a clear message provides a path to develop your ideas.

When you have a clear and concise message, it helps you formulate your arguments. Think of developing your arguments using the rule of three —three compelling arguments to convince but not overwhelm your audience.

5. Prepare a call to action: Remember, we want to change our audience in some way, so we need to make our ask in a clear and concrete manner.

Consider your call to action in terms of what you want your audience to think/feel/do:

• Think—“I want you to think about how you can improve your presentations.”
• Feel—“I want you to feel enthusiastic and motivated so that you can elevate your power to persuade.”
• Do—“I want you to try out some of these tips and tools for yourself.”

6. Craft a memorable closing: Close the speech in an elegant and memorable way. We need people to remember what we've told them, so prepare it well. This is not the time to improvise. Try to connect your closing to your opening grabber, which makes the presentation more memorable. Good preparation means preparing everything to the very end—finish well.

7. Plan your delivery: A dynamic speaker draws listeners in by using vocal variety (tone, intonation, speed, volume, pace, pauses, silence) and body language (posture, gestures, expression, and movement) to highlight important points and hold the audience’s attention. Be intentional: How will you use your voice and your body to emphasize a thought or idea? Think about it: If you increased the time you spent on style or delivery by 20 percent, what would it mean for the impact you make?

8. Think about how you will engage your audience : You want the audience to feel considered throughout. Include pauses so they can process what’s being said; connect with individuals throughout the room and make deliberate eye contact while speaking, especially when delivering key points. Read and respond to the audience by changing how you deliver as you go based on the audience’s nonverbal communication .

9. Rehearse and Practice: Practice is one of the most crucial elements of presenting—and probably the most neglected one. If this is new to you start by reading your presentation in front of a mirror to get comfortable speaking your presentation. Next, video yourself and watch out for nervous or distracting habits to eliminate them and identify any areas where you can improve your delivery. If you are feeling brave, practice in front of an audience and ask for feedback.

10. Prepare your success rituals and mantra: Public speaking and/or stage fright can feel debilitating for some. Have your calm-down ritual prepared and ready to go before you start your presentation. This might be a certain gesture, a power pose, breathwork, or a mantra. Try this tip: Identify three adjectives to describe how you would like to show up during this presentation. This sets an intention and helps focus our cognitive and emotional resources on success.

Powerful presenters embrace and extend empathy to seek first to understand their audience. They use this intelligence to carefully make choices about substance and style to create an audience-informed communication experience that feels relevant, reasoned, real, and resonant and creates a pathway for change.

Palena Neale, Ph.D. , is a women’s leadership coach, lecturer, and founder of unabridged, a boutique leadership development practice.

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Scientists document remarkable sperm whale 'phonetic alphabet'

The various  species of whales  inhabiting Earth’s oceans employ different types of vocalizations to communicate. Sperm whales, the largest of the  toothed whales , communicate using bursts of clicking noises — called codas — sounding a bit like Morse code.

A new analysis of years of vocalizations by sperm whales in the eastern Caribbean has found that their system of communication is more sophisticated than previously known, exhibiting a complex internal structure replete with a “phonetic alphabet.” The researchers identified similarities to aspects of other animal communication systems — and even human language.

Like all marine mammals, sperm whales are very  social animals , with their calls an integral part of this. The new study has provided a fuller understanding of how these whales communicate.

“The research shows that the expressivity of sperm whale calls is much larger than previously thought,” said Pratyusha Sharma, a Massachusetts Institute of Technology doctoral student in robotics and machine learning and lead author of the study published on Tuesday in the journal  Nature Communications .

“We do not know yet what they are saying. We are studying the calls in their behavioral contexts next to understand what sperm whales might be communicating about,” said Sharma.

Sperm whales, which can reach about 60 feet (18 meters) long, have the largest brain of any animal. They are deep divers, feeding on giant squid and other prey.

The researchers are part of the Project CETI (Cetacean Translation Initiative) Machine Learning Team. Using traditional statistical analysis and artificial intelligence, they examined calls made by about 60 whales recorded by the Dominica Sperm Whale Project, a research program that has assembled a large dataset on the species.

“Why are they exchanging these codas? What information might they be sharing?” asked study co-author Shane Gero, Project CETI’s lead biologist and Dominica Sperm Whale Project founder, also affiliated with Carleton University in Canada.

“I think it’s likely that they use codas to coordinate as a family, organize babysitting, foraging and defense,” Gero said.

Variations in the number, rhythm and tempo of the clicks produced different types of codas, the researchers found. The whales, among other things, altered the duration of the codas and sometimes added an extra click at the end, like a suffix in human language.

“All of these different codas that we see are actually built by combining a comparatively simple set of smaller pieces,” said study co-author Jacob Andreas, an MIT computer science professor and Project CETI member.

People combine sounds — often corresponding to letters of the alphabet — to produce words that carry meaning, then produce sequences of words to create sentences to convey more complex meanings.

For people, Sharma said, “There are two levels of combination.” The lower level is sounds to words. The higher level is words to sentences.

Sperm whales, Sharma said, also use a two-level combination of features to form codas, and codas are then sequenced together as the whales communicate. The lower level has similarities to letters in an alphabet, Sharma said.

“Every communication system is tailored to the environment and animal society in which it has evolved,” Sharma added.

The communication system used by sperm whales differs, for example, from the  “songs” of humpback whales  — and, for that matter, from the whistles, chirps, croaks and assorted other vocalizations by various animals.

“Human language is unique in many ways, yes,” Gero said. “But I suspect we will find many patterns, structures and aspects thought to be unique to humans in other species, including whales, as science progresses — and perhaps also features and aspects of animal communications which humans do not possess.”

If scientists can decipher the meaning of what the sperm whales are “saying,” should people try to communicate with them?

“I think there’s a lot more research that we have to do before we know whether it’s a good idea to try to communicate with them, or really even to have a sense of whether that will be possible,” Andreas said.

“At the same time, I’m optimistic that we’re going to be able to learn a lot more about what information is actually encoded in these vocalizations that we’re listening to, what sort of information is contained in these clicks and these codas, as we start to understand the behavioral context in which this occurs,” Andreas added.

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What We Know About the Weapons the U.S. Sends to Israel

The United States accelerated weapons deliveries to Israel after the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attacks.

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By Emma Bubola

• Published May 8, 2024 Updated May 9, 2024

President Biden has paused a shipment of bombs to Israel to prevent them from being used in the assault on the city of Rafah. Administration officials said that 1,800 2,000-pound bombs and 1,700 500-pound bombs are being withheld and that the administration is reviewing whether to hold back future transfers.

The United States is by far the biggest supplier of weapons to Israel, and it accelerated deliveries after the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attacks. It’s hard to determine just how much Israel has received, but here is a closer look at what we know.

What happened after Oct. 7?

Since Oct. 7, the United States has sent tens of thousands of weapons to Israel . For the most part, it accelerated supplies that were already committed under contracts, many of which were approved by Congress and the State Department long ago, according to Bradley Bowman, a military expert at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies in Washington.

“What the U.S. started to do almost immediately was send an extraordinary flow of weapons,” Mr. Bowman, a former U.S. Army officer, said.

According to a report by the Foundation for Defense of Democracies , there were so many arms shipments to Israel that a senior Pentagon official said the Department of Defense sometimes struggled to find sufficient cargo aircraft to deliver them.

Pete Nguyen, a Pentagon spokesman, said in an email that recent assistance has included precision-guided munitions, artillery ammunition, medical supplies and “other categories of critical equipment.”

He added that “the United States has surged billions of dollars in security assistance to Israel since the Oct. 7 attacks.”

How much has been made public?

Lawmakers and news media have recently criticized the lack of public information about the sales. The Defense Department so far has only published two news releases, on Dec. 9 and 29, about the approval of emergency military sales to Israel, while it lists much of the military equipment sent to Ukraine in a regularly updated fact sheet .

As laid out in those news releases, the aid sent to Israel from Oct. 7 to Dec. 29 included 52,229 M795 155-millimeter artillery shells, 30,000 M4 propelling charges for howitzers, 4,792 M107 155-mm artillery shells and 13,981 M830A1 120-mm tank rounds.

But the State Department can legally refrain from telling Congress and the public about some new arms orders placed by Israel since Oct. 7 because they fall below a certain dollar amount.

The Washington Post reported that the United States had approved and delivered more than 100 separate foreign military sales to Israel since Oct. 7.

What did they send?

One sale approved in late October allows for the sale to Israel of $320 million in kits for converting unguided “dumb” bombs into GPS-guided munitions , on top of a previous, $403 million order for the same guidance kits.

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies compiled a list of news reports and official information available about the weapons delivered. According to the reports, that included air defense systems, precision-guided munitions, artillery shells, tank rounds, small arms, Hellfire missiles used by drones, 30-mm cannon ammunition, PVS-14 night vision devices and disposable shoulder-fired rockets.

The Pentagon leased its two Israeli-made Iron Dome antimissile batteries back to Israel, according to the website Breaking Defense.

The U.S. also gave Israel access to the U.S. military stockpiles in Israel for immediate needs. An American official said that Israel’s recently requested munitions from those stockpiles have included bombs ranging from 250 to 2,000 pounds, and that many have been 500-pound bombs.

How is it funded?

The military aid to Israel is funded under a 2016 agreement known as a memorandum of understanding that committed the United States to giving Israel $38 billion in weapons over 10 years.

Additionally, President Biden last month signed an aid package that will send about $15 billion in additional military aid.

Israel regularly receives arms from the Defense Department and from American weapons makers directly, which included the unguided and guided bombs that Israel has bought from the United States over the years and dropped on Gaza in recent months, and also fighter jets, air defense missiles and helicopters.

According to the Council on Foreign Relations, U.S. military aid to Israel has amounted to $216 billion since Israel’s founding in 1948.

John Ismay contributed reporting.

Emma Bubola is a Times reporter based in London, covering news across Europe and around the world. More about Emma Bubola

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

As the Israeli military stepped up pressure on what it calls Hamas’s last stronghold in Gaza, fighting elsewhere in the Palestinian enclave  led to warnings that the militants might remain a force for a long time to come.

On Israel’s Memorial Day, many were drawn to the site of the music festival  that was attacked on Oct. 7 by Hamas, while peace activists broadcast a joint Israeli-Palestinian ceremony .

Around 300,000 Palestinians in southern and northern Gaza were being forced to flee once again , the U.N. said, just as Israel issued new and expanded evacuation orders.

A Key Weapon: When President Biden threatened to pause some weapons shipments to Israel if it invaded Rafah, the devastating effects of the 2,000-pound Mark 84 bomb  were of particular concern to him.

A Presidential Move: Ronald Reagan also used the power of American arms to influence  Israeli war policy. The comparison underscores how much the politics of Israel have changed in the United States since the 1980s.

Netanyahu’s Concerns: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, under pressure from all sides, is trying to reassure his many domestic, military and diplomatic critics. Here’s a look at what he is confronting .

Al Jazeera Shutdown: The influential Arab news network says it will continue reporting from Gaza and the West Bank, but its departure from Israel is a new low in its long-strained history with the country .