Presentations at Grand Rounds
1.Introduction « 2. Format of the Presentation « 3. COMMON PROBLEMS
Common Problems
Failure to understand the difference between a Bedside Presentation and a Public Presentation
1. Presentation goes on too long
2. Unnecessary detail about clinical features
3. Insufficient time left for discussion
Remedy
1. Retain only the detail essential to making a particular point
Lack of Focus
Symptoms
1. Presentation goes on too long
2. Excessive detail about clinical features
3. Insufficient time left for discussion
Remedy
1. Define the point your case illustrates and build your presentation around this
Lack of Rehearsal
Symptoms
1. Presentation goes on too long
2. Audio-visual problems
Remedy
1. Practise aloud and time your presentation
2. View your audio-visual material (using data projector if necessary). This is essential if you intend to play video clips through the data projector.
Audience not adequately prepared to enter open discussion
Symptoms
1. Desultory discussion
2. Embarrassing silences
3. Critical comments from audience
Remedy
1. Make sure you have identified the point of the presentation and the areas for which you hope there will be discussion.
2. Make sure title is explanatory
3. Ask key people to be present
Inappropriate Discussion
Symptoms
1. Textbook lecture
2. Inappropriately chosen literature review
3. Excessive length
4. Bored or restless audience
Remedy
1. Plan the discussion properly
2. Ask a senior colleague for advice on what to include
3. Consider omitting discussion completely, and priming members of audience to participate instead
4. Always leave 15 minutes free for audience participation
Poor use of audio-visual aids
Symptoms
1. Equipment failures
2. Distracting animations
3. Inappropriate colour schemes
4. Unreadable tables and text
5. Excessive text
Remedy
1. Learn and rehearse use of equipment (including laptop and data projector)
2. Learn the basic principles of design for Powerpoint presentations or overheads
