How do you present mechanical engineering results to different audiences?

1 Know your audience

Before you start working on your presentation, you need to identify who your audience is and what they want to know. Are they technical experts, decision-makers, or laypeople? What are their goals, interests, and concerns? How much detail and explanation do they need? How will they use your results? Answering these questions will help you decide what content to include, what language to use, and what tone to adopt.

2 Choose your format

Depending on your audience and purpose, you may choose different formats to present your results, such as slides, posters, reports, or videos. Each format has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you need to consider how to best convey your message and visuals. For example, slides are suitable for oral presentations, but they should not be overloaded with text or data. Posters are ideal for displaying graphs and images, but they should have a clear layout and structure. Reports are more comprehensive and detailed, but they should have a clear summary and conclusion. Videos are more dynamic and interactive, but they should have a clear script and narration.

3 Use clear and concise language

Regardless of your format, you should use clear and concise language to present your results. Avoid jargon, acronyms, and technical terms that your audience may not understand, or explain them if necessary. Use simple and active sentences, and avoid long and complex ones. Use transitions and signposts to guide your audience through your presentation. Use examples, analogies, and stories to illustrate your points and make them more relatable.

4 Visualize your data

One of the most effective ways to present your results is to use visual aids, such as graphs, charts, diagrams, or photos. Visual aids can help you show trends, patterns, relationships, or comparisons that may not be obvious from numbers or text. However, you need to make sure that your visual aids are clear, accurate, and relevant. Use appropriate scales, labels, colors, and legends to make your data easy to read and interpret. Avoid clutter, distortion, or misleading representations that may confuse or misinform your audience.

5 Engage your audience

To make your presentation more interesting and memorable, you need to engage your audience and invite their feedback. You can do this by using rhetorical questions, polls, quizzes, or demonstrations to stimulate their curiosity and involvement. You can also use humor, anecdotes, or personal experiences to connect with your audience and show your personality. You can also encourage questions, comments, or suggestions from your audience and respond to them politely and professionally.

6 Practice and refine

Finally, you need to practice and refine your presentation before you deliver it. You can do this by rehearsing your presentation aloud, timing yourself, and recording yourself. You can also ask for feedback from someone who represents your audience or has expertise in your field. You can then use the feedback to improve your content, language, visuals, and delivery. By practicing and refining your presentation, you can increase your confidence and competence and make a positive impression on your audience.

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?