Sixty-four percent of undergraduate students report experiencing public speaking anxiety, according to a recent study.
To address this common fear, researchers published a comprehensive guide of detailed strategies for preparing and delivering effective presentations at international dermatology conferences. They conducted a literature review using the PubMed database and dermatology society resources, supplemented by personal experiences, to develop a structured checklist that addresses scientific content, logistical considerations, and social engagement.
The study, published in the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, highlighted the prevalence of public speaking anxiety, particularly among women in dermatology. In addition to the 64% of undergraduate students who reported experiencing public speaking anxiety, the data also indicated that social anxiety disorders have a lifetime prevalence of 12.1%. The researchers emphasized preparation as a key strategy to mitigate performance-related stress and proposed the PRESENT model, which includes planning, reducing textual content, elucidating methods, summarizing results, delivering effectively, noting limitations, and transforming current thinking.
Led by Hemali Shah, MD, of the Department of Dermatology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, the researchers recommended verifying conference requirements—including background templates and disclosure obligations—before preparing slides. Presentation content should follow the Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion/Conclusions framework, and presenters should place the most emphasis on the results and discussion sections. The researchers also suggested using large fonts for readability, limiting text to key points, and ensuring high-contrast color schemes. Graphical content should be concise, and references must be included on slides. For patient-related presentations, the researchers reinforced the necessity of anonymizing images and obtaining patient consent.
Rehearsal is an essential step. Specifically, multiple practice sessions before an audience for feedback are recommended. Non-native English speakers are advised to seek linguistic support to enhance clarity. Networking is emphasized as a central component of conferences: the researchers suggested distributing business cards and QR codes that link to professional profiles, as well as maintaining new connections postconference while presenters rest and recover.
Logistical preparation includes arriving at least 24 hours before the presentation, testing audiovisual equipment, and familiarizing oneself with the presentation room. The researchers discuss strategies such as deep breathing and power posing to help presenters manage prepresentation anxiety. Presenters are advised to engage with the audience, maintain eye contact, and manage questions professionally, acknowledging any knowledge gaps when necessary.
Full disclosures can be found in the published study.
