How to give a lecture/ presentation:

Scripts or bullet?

This week’s discussion was about how to approach giving a presentation: the preparation, structure and how to conduct yourself. The presentations are an opportunity to share what we have been working on this term: project idea, artist inspiration, process and experimentation.

The most interesting part for me, however, was the discussion about working from a script or bullet points – our lecturer suggested using a script and rehearse, but many of the class preferred a different method. There are pros and cons to both methods:

Script

Pros:

•  Ensure key points are thoughtfully explained and executed the same way as prepared– no rambling or missing points.

Cons:

• The paper can become a barrier between you and your audience of you aren’t mindful to connect with your audience throughout – remembering to look up!

• Run the risk of being monotonous and less animated in your explanation.

Bullet Points

Pros:

• You’ll have the guides to keep you on track, but the rhythm and flow of these will be more natural.

Cons:

• More likely to run off track or forget certain details.

Reflecting on a recent talk done by an illustrator, she jumped right into her presentation - no notes or anything - but had key points she wanted to discuss. Surprisingly, it was in her rambles and added details that I took away from most… Could this freedom off script also be helpful? Not relying on paper also meant more connection with the audience: eye contact, open body language and observe the feedback in people’s reactions.

Another illustrator did a talk, Rob White. Not only was his practise different, but his approach to the presentation. White used his slides to display large images of his work, discussing with the aid of bullet points on paper off to the side. Overall, he tried to engage with the room and was able to riff most of the presentation; however, there were moments where he would turn his body away and double check his notes – the process was a lil clumsy and paired with monotonous speech, it could become hard to stay engaged throughout.