The Importance of Practice Before a Presentation

If you are preparing for an upcoming presentation, you may be wondering how many times you need to practice your presentation before the big day. While there is no set answer, it is advisable that you learn good practice habits so you are well prepared. For many, rehearsing simply means going over the slides and talking points in their head a few times. However, true practice involves delivering the entire presentation out loud several times. The truth is that you can spend countless hours putting together the perfect presentation but if you don’t spend enough time practicing your delivery, your presentation will miss the mark. Here are a few reasons why you should devote plenty of time to practicing your presentation. 

Practice Will Boost Your Confidence

Speaking in front of a group is a nerve-wracking and stressful experience for most people. The best way to alleviate those nerves and gain confidence is to practice. Simulate real-world conditions as best you can. Stand in front of a mirror or small group of friends or family. Set up your slideshow and practice using the clicker in your hand. Wear the outfit you plan to present in. Run through the entire presentation several times until you feel confident in your delivery. You even want to plan for things that might go wrong and come up with a plan. Doing so will make you feel more at ease on the day of your presentation since you have a solid backup plan in place. 

Practice Improves Body Language

Many people forget about the importance of body language and how much it can impact their presentation delivery. Many people look down and avoid eye contact, or they forget to smile. They might even fidget with their hands unknowingly. Practice your presentation in front of a mirror or record yourself and play it back. This will help you see what your body is doing while you are talking. You can pay attention to your gestures and body language and make improvements as necessary. 

Practice Allows You to Make Edits

Your presentation may look great on paper but it might not be so perfect when you actually deliver it. Perhaps it is too long, your technology is too complicated, people can’t read your font, or something you say out loud just doesn’t sound right. Rehearsing your speech will allow you to make edits and reorganize your presentation. 

Practice Makes You Feel Ease

The more you rehearse your speech ahead of time, the more comfortable you will feel when it comes time to present. Practice until you know your material backwards and forwards. This will help calm your nerves and put you at ease so you can deliver a seamless presentation.