Time. Don't exceed your allotted time; generally keep presentation to 80% of the allotted time. [In the course, can use full time.]
Content. Can you summarize in few well-constructed sentences?
Structure. A well-prepared abstract,
an organized set of well-chosen viewgraphs,
a concise `cheat-sheet,' and
an outline to keep you on track during talk.
Know your stuff. Accurate, well-phrased scientific descriptions portray speaker as a knowledgeable, reliable source of information.
Rehearse. Always rehearse a presentation. For each talk, prepare from scratch, always with the specific audience in mind.
Formulation and Argumentation. Talk proceeds as a logical unfolding of information; each step firmly based on the previous one.
To communicate effectively, avoid jargon. Speech reflects thought processes; often an imprecise speaker is an unfocused thinker.
Delivery. As in writing, the end of the sentence is the stress position; Here audience expects most important or new information.
Slowing down is a remedy for 90% of most speakers' problems.
Looking straight at members of the audience establishes that you are not just in front of them, but talking to them.