Short Note: Checklist for a Successful Oral Presentation

Abstract

I am probably like most of you in that preparing a talk is not my favorite part of being a seismologist. Between chasing earthquakes in the far north and preparing a talk, my preference is clear. Presenting our scientific work, however, is essential to the progress of our careers and to the development of seismology. Since so much relies on communicating our knowledge to colleagues, oral presentations deserve care and preparation. In a recent Eastern Section meeting, for example, I felt that some oral presentations could have had more impact with the help of some basic rules. I am not a public speaking expert; like you, I am an Earth scientist. I had the chance, however, to attend many speeches of my now-retired colleague Henry …