How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Thesis Confirmation

Techniques > Public speaking > Preparing the Presentation > Thesis Confirmation

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

If you have set out a proposal, such as in a Thesis Statement, during the introduction to the talk, then in the conclusion you should confirm that this has been adequately demonstrated or proven.

This is typically done by restating the thesis and then summarizing the points which have been covered in the body of the presentation which address this.

Example

At the start of the presentation I said this country is heading for ruin, which is not a nice thing to say. But having shown you the state of borrowing, the fragility of the banks and the international dismay, now how can anyone believe otherwise?

Discussion

Not all presentations include a thesis but those which do seek to persuade the audience of some important idea. It is generally a good idea in such cases to hammer home the point by confirming that the thesis is proven. In doing so, you are telling the audience what to think and for those who have not fully joined up the dots this is an important point of closure which also confirms and enhances your authority as a subject expert.