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Master Your Message: Practice Your Presentation Out of Order

Master Your Message_ Practice Your Presentation Out of Order

When practicing your presentation, don't always start at the beginning. I know—that sounds odd. But trust me, it’s one of the best things you can do to really know your material and be ready for anything.

Here’s what usually happens: People always begin with their opening. Over and over. They get great at that part. But what about the middle? The end? If something goes wrong mid-presentation (and it might), can you recover smoothly? Practicing from different starting points builds flexibility—and confidence.

Sometimes begin with your Opening to set the tone and make a strong first impression. That part is important. But then, switch it up. Try jumping into the Middle, especially if it's content-heavy. You’ll catch spots that need clarity or stronger transitions. Fix those spots!

Then practice from your Closing. That’s your last chance to drive your message home—don’t treat it like an afterthought. Remember: "The last thing you say and do is the first thing the audience will remember."

Finally, challenge yourself: Start at a Random Point. This will really test how well you know your material. If you can confidently pick up anywhere and still make sense, you're not just rehearsed—you’re prepared.

Mixing up your practice this way gives you command of your content. It removes the crutch of linear memorization and helps you truly own your message. You’ll sound more natural and be better equipped to adapt to real-life surprises—tech issues, late starts, tough questions.

Bottom line: Don’t rehearse in a straight line. Practice smarter, not just harder. If you don't follow this suggestion, knowing you haven't done it might weigh on you throughout your talk and make your delivery less effective. Follow this suggestion for practicing your talk and it will be absolutely, positively - NO SWEAT!

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About the Author         Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!”


Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, andPresentation Skills.


They do this because they know:"Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities."


They also know:We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts.

He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT!


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My books can be purchased on amazon.com.           "NO SWEAT Public Speaking”           “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!”



If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com.


Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated


 
 
 

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