Introduction > Presenting Science > Using Your Voice Effectively > Clarity

Clarity The clarity of your presentation is related to a number of factors, including the volume and tone of your voice. The speed at which you speak will either positively or negatively affect the quality of your presentation. If you're nervous you're more likely to speak faster, partly to get the presentation over and done with. However, the faster you speak, the softer your voice becomes. As you progress through your slides, you may start talking slowly, then speed up as your presentation progresses. At the start of every slide, try to slow down your speech. If you are using prompt cards, write a note to yourself to slow down. Although you should try to sound relaxed during your presentation, make sure you enunciate your words correctly, pronouncing all the t's. It can seem overly 'posh' and unnatural to do this, but your audience will expect you to speak 'properly'. Avoid using slang terms as well - it can come across as unprofessional and older generations or international colleagues are unlikely to understand you. Try to avoid using 'ums' and 'erhs' during your presentation, or repeating several phrases such as the classic football phrase 'you know what I mean'! Exercise Try a few exercises to warm up your voice and help your articulation

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