The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 encourages project-based and experiential learning across all educational levels. It means students will now learn by facing real-world challenges, investigating and solving tangible problems, answering tricky questions, and demonstrating their understanding through a presentation. It leads us to the importance of presentation skills.

Strong presentation skills help you share your learning more clearly, confidently, and persuasively. This skill doesn’t just help in academics but also through presentation skills which is paramount especially in workplaces.

In this article, we will explain the importance of presentation skills, their benefits in both academic and professional life, and strategies for improving your presentation skills.

What is the importance of presentation skills?

Presentation skills are more than just speaking in front of an audience. They influence how ideas are received, understood, and remembered. Moreover, they help in shaping many other essential skills. Here is why having good presentation skills is essential for you:

1. Ensure academic success

As mentioned, project-based learning is the new approach in the revised education policy, and good presentation skills help you fare well in your academic life.

Effective presentation skills allow you to communicate your message confidently in classroom settings, conferences, and seminars. It enables you to secure better grades and cement your way to academic success.

2. Foster personal growth

Good presentation skills aren’t just crucial for academic success, but also trigger personal growth. Speaking before an audience is enough to build confidence. It enables you to conquer stage fright and sharpen your conviction and courage. Moreover, it also cultivates leadership qualities.

3. Improve communication

Presentations are never close-ended. Communications and discussions flow as students share their ideas and knowledge with their peers and teachers. Additionally, presenting a project requires you to work on your vocal tone and body language. It enhances overall communication skills. 

4. Teach to deal with difficult situations or conversations

Not all presentations go as smoothly as planned. You might find yourself facing situations that put your courage and skills to test.

Speaking in front of a large audience, technical difficulties, a critical audience, time constraints, and unexpected counter questions can put anyone under pressure.

By frequently giving presentations, you can learn to deal with these difficult situations. The resulting confidence and courage will help you navigate real-life challenges.

5. Ensure professional development

The importance of presentation skills in workplace is indispensable. Employers often hire candidates who can convey their message effectively.

School projects provide an opportunity to hone presentation skills and improve employability. The confidence and communication skills gained through presentations can help you in job interviews and throughout your professional life.

How to improve presentation skills?

Refining presentation skills is essential to attain academic and professional success. Although it is not easy, a little strategic planning and lots of practice can make a big difference.

Here are some tips that can help you improve your presentation skills:

1. Prepare well

A little preparation before presentation goes a long way. Investing some time in preparing for the presentation will keep you calm, composed, and confident during your presentation.

Start by rehearsing in front of the mirror. Once you feel a little confident, practice in front of a crowd and ask for feedback. Record yourself and take notes of things you need to work on.

2. Understand your audience

Understanding your audience will help you create content that resonates with their interests. It allows you to choose an appropriate language and tone to persuade your audience. For instance, if your audience comprises students younger or older than your class, you can change the language or examples to make your presentation more engaging and effective.

3. Engage with the audience

Instead of reading from the slideshow and explaining with a straight face, make your presentation more engaging by involving your audience. Interact with them. Ask questions.

One of the best ways to keep your audience engaged in your presentation is by using stories. Storytelling is one of the most effective ways to connect with the audience.

Share stories or anecdotes relevant to the message you want to deliver. This technique will help you create a lasting impact on your audience.

4. Pause

Effective pauses do not disrupt the flow of a presentation, but give the audience a chance to react and engage with the content. Here is how to take effective pauses:

• Take a moment to pause before you begin your presentation
• Take a few seconds to read your audience and build some anticipation
• Then small pauses after finishing a vital sentence or section
• When you want to emphasize something, pause before and after the statement to create an impact
• Pause when transitioning from one section to another to prevent confusion among your audience
• Pause when answering or asking a question

5. Pay attention to your body language

A presentation isn’t only about words and numbers but body language also creates a powerful impact and affects the reception.

Keep your back straight and maintain eye contact with your audience. Use appropriate gestures when speaking about something important.

Refrain from keeping your hands in your pockets or your arms crossed. Do not slouch. Excessive movements or fidgeting can hinder the communication process.

Bad body language can make you come across as nervous, unconfident, and unprepared.

6. Do not use filler words

Filler sounds, words, and phrases, such as “um,” “uh,” “er,” “ah,” “okay,” “right,” “basically,” “actually,” “like,” “you know,” “kind of,” “I mean,” “what I mean is,” etc., can weaken the impact of your message. Using too many filler words indicates a lack of preparation and confidence.

7. Be creative

Do not fill your presentation slides with text, numbers, and charts. Use some creativity to create an engaging presentation. Include pictures, videos, and even models in your presentation to deliver your message. A creative presentation will keep your audience engaged.

8. Answer questions confidently

If there is a Q&A session after the presentation, prepare for it as well. Create a list of anticipated questions and prepare your answers in advance.

Take some time to gather your thoughts before answering any question. If you do not know the answer, tell them honestly instead of blabbering or taking random guesses.

The bottom line

The importance of presentation skills cannot be overstated. Many essential life skills stem from being able to speak confidently in front of a large audience.

Now that you understand the importance of presentation skills, utilize these tips to refine your presentation abilities and prepare yourself for academic and professional success.