When many clients come to Ethos3, one of their top concerns is the quality of the transitions from one idea, concept, or message to the next. Within a presentation, transitions can be used 3 different ways:
- As idea connectors
- As relationship establishers
- And as plot developers
There is a plethora of methods to transition between your main points and supporting statements during your presentations. Here are 3 primary ways to do so:
1. Through script
Within your presentation script, make sure you are using transitional words. According to a Michigan State University, transition words can be additive, adversative, causal, and sequential.
Presentation Tips:
Let’s say you are a media company giving a presentation about how you are adapting to the new and ever-changing technology and digital environment. Use additive transition words such as also, and, or, and too when introducing the media company, clarifying a concept, referring to subject matter, or identifying a trend. If the purpose of the presentation is to demonstrate a conflict at the beginning followed by detailed solutions in the middle, utilize adversative transition words and phrases like but, however, and on the other hand. For example, one slide could read like this: The US enjoyed 1,730 daily newspapers in 1981. And the next slide could read like this: But, their presence steadily declined to the point we are at today. Maybe you – as the designated presenter – want to focus on a cause and effect relationship. Maybe the shift from physical formats for information dissemination resulted in the creation of digital platforms in your organization. To convey that reality in your presentation script, use causal transition words and phrases including because, due to, and since. Finally, use sequential transition words if you are trying to inform your audience about the journey – step-by-step – of making the changes within your company to succeed in the industry. Some words to add to your script would be initially, afterwards, eventually, so, and in conclusion.
2. Through narrative
Constructing incredible transitions requires having a structured plot line and presentation narrative. Whether you’ll be operating from a hero’s journey narrative or setting up a problem/solution structure, think of creating a narrative like training for a triathlon.
Presentation Tips:
First, come up with a view or argument. Where you may hope to inspire employees within your media company to innovate so that you can surpass competitors, a triathlete would likely aspire to gain the endurance to complete an Ironman. Start from the goal and add on the various elements. Like a triathlete would outline their training schedule to elevate them to their desired end result, you must do the same with your presentation narrative.
- Discover your 3 main points
- Provide supporting arguments for those big-ticket issues
- Develop a cohesive message
- Add solid evidence
Now, you’ve actually got to train. Rehearse the transitions within your presentation like a triathlete practices each sport – the run, the swim, the bike. And just like that, you’ve reached the day of the Ironman race. You’ve got to come prepared mentally and physically. As the presenter, you need to have the transitions down so you can seamlessly get from point A to point B every time.
Use this story development template to assist you in the narrative creation process!
3. Through imagery
Transitioning from one scene or section of your presentation to the next entails implementing literary devices, as well as visuals to create a unified experience for the audience. Imagery is a device best incorporated in a presentation to relay a specific tone.
Presentation Tips:
The media company presenting on the modifications they have made as a result of the changing environment of their field would foster a progressive and inspirational tone. To maintain this tone throughout your deck, input vibrant images with thin-line icons and subtle animation. The buoyancy of the slides will uplift audiences and keep the visual consistency you crave. In addition to visual components, presenters can invoke imagery through text in the form of similes and metaphors.
By emphasizing the strength of your presentation script, narrative, and imagery in the early stages of development, you can rest assured that your transitions will be flawless. For more tips to improve your script and slides, check out the resources below:
Considering Structure and Organization
Why You Should Separate Content and Design in a Presentation
