Academic presentations offer a valuable opportunity to share your research and connect with colleagues. However, while many researchers excel at the research, translating that work into engaging presentations can be challenging—especially when presenting in a language that isn’t our native tongue or in unfamiliar contexts.

Creating effective presentations is a skill that – like all other skills – can be developed with practice and attention to key principles. Here are some approaches that have helped me make some of my academic talks more accessible, engaging and memorable for diverse audiences.

Know your audience

Every presentation should be tailored to those who will be listening. Consider your audience’s level of expertise, what they care about, and how your work connects to their interests. Understanding who you’re presenting to helps determine appropriate vocabulary, necessary background information, and relevant examples that will resonate across different contexts.

Practice thoughtfully

A smooth delivery requires rehearsal, particularly for those presenting in a second or third language. Practicing a presentation multiple times improves confidence and fluency. Focus especially on your opening, as a comfortable start sets a positive tone for the entire talk, and also helps the audience settle in and feel at ease. Recording yourself and seeking feedback from colleagues can help identify areas for improvement.

Establish clear motivation

Begin by explaining why your research matters. A compelling motivation frames everything that follows and helps your audience connect with your work. Rather than simply presenting data, consider framing your talk around a question, problem, or insight that highlights the significance of your contribution to the field.

Simplify your slides

Minimalist slides support comprehension, particularly for multilingual audiences. Aim for one key idea per slide, often conveyed through a single line of text or an image. This approach reduces cognitive load for listeners and ensures they can follow your narrative without becoming overwhelmed by information.

Use visual communication

Visual elements can transcend language barriers. Where possible, use diagrams, images, and examples rather than lengthy text descriptions. Clear visuals help audience members follow your reasoning, even if they miss some of your verbal explanation. For complex concepts, consider building understanding through concrete examples before moving to abstractions.

Develop your presentation style

Finding a comfortable presentation style takes time. Small adjustments like varying your vocal tone, using natural gestures, and making occasional eye contact can enhance engagement. If culturally appropriate, thoughtfully incorporated humour can help create connection, though it should be used judiciously and tested with a practice audience first.

Prepare for questions

Anticipating questions helps reduce presentation anxiety. Consider what clarifications your audience might need and prepare concise responses. For presenters working in additional languages, having a few prepared phrases for handling complex questions can be helpful—such as asking for clarification or offering to continue the discussion after the session.

Effective academic presentations require balancing content expertise with communication skills. By focusing on clarity, engagement, and audience needs, researchers can create presentations that successfully share their valuable work with the broader academic community.