How to Give a Great Presentation

Step1
Write It Down - Start by writing out the presentation in detail so you can memorize it. Later, you will put the major points you will be covering on cue cards or index cards but before you can do that, you need to know the material.
Step2
Practice - You can practice giving the presentation in front of a mirror or do it for a friend who can give you feedback on how you did. If you are inexperienced at giving presentations, the more you can practice, the better.
Step3
Prepare Visual Aids - Use a software program to come up with slides that can be printed out and distributed to your audience during the talk. Or, if you do not have access to a computer, use a whiteboard and flipcharts. Color, sound effects and pizzazz will help inject some levity into your pitch, but use these special effects sparingly. You do not want to detract from the importance of the information you are presenting.
Step4
Prepare the Room - Make sure the lighting is right and everyone can see you and your screen or whiteboard and flipcharts. Whenever possible, use symbols, graphs and aids to keep people interested in your presentation. Make sure your handouts are readily available and notepads and pens are provided to the audience if needed.
Step5
Prepare Yourself - Some people get a dry mouth from nervousness before getting up in front of a group. Have water for yourself and other materials you need. Use a laser pointer or marker during the talk to add some spark. Provide refreshments for your audience. Before beginning the presentation, take four big deep breaths. Try to imagine you are talking with your family and friends. Be relaxed and casual. Talk loudly and clearly.
Step6
Do A Dry Run - Go through the presentation as if you are actually giving it to a group. This means starting up your computer and setting up any projectors, flipcharts, etc. This is often when you realize the light bulb in the projector has burned out or that you have no clue how to connect the computer to the projection machine. Use a microphone and PA system if it is available. Fix these details ahead of time.
Step7
Handle Your Audience - If you want all questions to wait until the end, say so at the start of your show and stick with your plan. It is often best to allow questions as you go, because you may inadvertently leave out a detail, and this could hurt your presentation and confuse your audience.
Step8
Get Feedback - If possible, hand out a feedback questionnaire to the audience at the end of the presentations, following the point when you open up the opportunity for any remaining questions to be addressed. Read the feedback responses and make any corrections that you need to make before your next presentation.