1. LEARNING OUTCOMES & TAKE HOME MESSAGE

It is best to stick to no more than three to five major learning points per lecture. Therefore, define a few accessible and easy-to-understand learning outcomes before you start to create your presentation. Make sure that everything in your lecture relates to these learning points. Do not forget to also include a slide with take-home messages at the end of your presentation that reflect the learning outcomes.

2. DESIGN

It is important to keep the presentation design to a basic level and to stick to a consistent layout. Keep in mind that you should make the presentation easy to follow. Use large font sizes and simple fonts. Bullet point lists are always a good idea, but avoid putting more than six lines of six words on a slide. Remember, less is more! You also want to take advantage of visual aids and present figures as diagrams or graphs. (Do not forget to respect your patients' privacy by deleting all patient data in these illustrations).

3. L = LANGUAGE

Beside your verbal skills, you should also pay attention to your body language. Before you start to present, make sure that you stand relaxed and face towards the audience. During the lecture, communicate with your whole body and use spontaneous gestures to reinforce learning points.

4. E = EYE CONTACT

Maintain eye contact throughout your lecture. As soon as you break eye contact for a longer period of time, learners might drift off. A lack of eye contact also gives the impression of anxiety, incompetence, insincerity, and a lack of credibility.

7. U = UNEXPECTED

Create a vivid presentation by providing novelty and variety. A sensational event will be remembered far longer and in more detail than any routine experience.

8. R = REHEARSAL
Before giving the presentation, you should practice and check the learning environment. Prepare notes with key words and rehearse in front of your family, friends, or even just a mirror. Measure the time of your presentation during the rehearsal, to make sure that you will not overrun your allocated time. At the venue, adjust the lighting and try out the technical equipment to ensure its functionality.

9. E = ENGAGEMENT

Engage the listeners with “interactive” sessions, in which they can participate. Ask questions to ensure understanding or let the audience share their experience or opinion on a certain subject. This ensures attention and active involvement. Also, use visual aids and prompts to illustrate key messages.

10. R = RESPOND TO THE AUDIENCE

You can always stop your speech and respond to your audience instead. It can also be useful to build in more formal feedback mechanisms, such as questionnaires, show of hands, or an Audience Response System (ARS).