Quick and Easy Presentation Shortcuts

Looking for the fastest way to go from a blank screen to a finished presentation of exceptional quality? The answer may surprise you.

Step away from the computer.

It’s a drag to stare at a blank screen with a flashing cursor. Especially if it’s past midnight and you’re in a hotel room. Or if you’re sweating bullets before a big client presentation.

But let’s face the facts. It happens to the best of us. Procrastination. Other demands. Unexpected mishaps. Things happen. That’s when it’s all too easy to find that you’re facing a blank screen with no particular clue of where to start your presentation.

The solution does not lie in continued staring at the screen. Believe me. I’ve tried it.

Instead, try this easy 3-step process.

Step 1. Step Away From the Computer
If at all possible, close it. Shut it down. Heck, even cover it with a colorful cloth. Remove your focus from the computer. All the answers, all the creativity that you need does not lie within that chunk of metal.

Step 2. Go Outside
Let your mind wander. Go away from the problem, presentation or big looming issues. These will be there when you come back to the room. You know that, right?

Step 3. Make a Branch Map
Feel free to make a branch map, also known as a mind-map, either outside or inside your room. If you have a journal or sketchpad, get it out and make a sketch of your ideas.

The best part about branch mapping is you can start anywhere. There is no ‘correct’ starting point. Write down an idea. Draw a bubble around it. Write related ideas on lines or branches that stem off of a previous idea.

If you find a big topic, give it a bubble of it’s own.

Making a branch map is amazingly fast. In a matter of minutes, you’ll have the big picture architecture of your presentation.

With this in hand, it’s a lot easier and faster to go back to your room and plan your presentation.

Oh, one more thing. You guessed it, I bet. I’m working on a new Presentation Blueprint that shows step-by-step how to get organized and create exceptional presentations. To get on the early-bird list, just sign up here. You’ll be one of the first to hear when it’s released.

'Til then, use this 3-step method to get out of procrastination…and into action!