You're pressed for time in your presentation. How do you decide what content to prioritize?

1 Know Your Core

Your presentation should revolve around a central thesis or objective. When time is scarce, zero in on this core message. Ask yourself what the one thing you want your audience to remember is. This might be a groundbreaking idea, a call to action, or a vital piece of information. Make sure every part of your presentation serves this central point. If it doesn't, it's a candidate for cutting. Keep your key message simple and repeat it, as repetition can help your audience remember it.

2 Distill the Essentials

Identify the must-know information that supports your core message. This includes key facts, figures, and concepts that are crucial for understanding your topic. Imagine you're explaining your subject to a friend with limited background knowledge. What would they absolutely need to know to grasp the essence of your presentation? This exercise helps you strip away the non-essential details and focus on the content that truly matters.

3 Simplify Complex Ideas

Complex topics often require detailed explanations, but when time is short, you need to simplify. Break down complex ideas into their most basic components and present them in a way that is easy to digest. Use analogies or stories to make abstract concepts more concrete and relatable. Remember, if you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough. Your ability to simplify will not only save time but also make your presentation more accessible.

4 Engage with Stories

Stories can convey your message quickly and memorably. When you're short on time, use a relevant anecdote that encapsulates your main points. A good story has the power to illustrate complex ideas, evoke emotions, and make your message stick. It's also more likely to be remembered than a slide full of bullet points. So, find a narrative thread that ties your key points together and let it drive your presentation.

5 Visualize Your Points

Visual aids like slides, charts, and graphs can communicate complex information swiftly and effectively. When time is tight, rely on these visuals to convey data or concepts that would take longer to explain verbally. Ensure each visual is clear, simple, and directly related to your core message. A well-designed visual can often speak for itself, allowing you to move quickly through your content without sacrificing understanding.

6 Adjust on the Fly

Even with careful planning, you might find yourself running out of time during your presentation. Be prepared to adjust in real-time. This might mean skipping over less critical slides or summarizing points you intended to discuss in more detail. Pay attention to your audience's cues—if they seem engaged with a particular topic, it might be worth spending a bit more time there, even if it means cutting something else.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?