Explain how to plan and deliver an effective oral presentation.

1. 1 · Open. A presentation is a planned talk to an audience, to inform, persuade or instruct. Success depends on planning and delivery.
2. 2 · Plan: purpose and audience. Decide what the talk must achieve and analyse who is listening and what they need.
3. 3 · Plan: structure.
   • Opening: attention, purpose, preview
   • Body: 3-5 main points with evidence
   • Close: summary and call to action
4. 4 · Prepare visual aids and rehearse. Simple slides or objects; rehearse aloud with timing; use extemporaneous delivery from notes.
5. 5 · Deliver.
   • Voice: volume, pace, pauses
   • Eye contact around the room
   • Upright posture, natural gestures
   • Suitable dress
6. 6 · Manage nerves and questions. Breathe, arrive early; listen to each question, repeat it, answer briefly.
7. 7 · Sri Lankan example. A marketing assistant's 10-minute pitch of a tea gift pack to the sales team, with a timed plan.
8. 8 · Close. Good presenters are made by preparation and practice, not born.

Scoring tip: Draw the planning flow as a quick diagram, then split the answer into ‘planning’ and ‘delivery’ headings.