How do you use data and evidence to persuade and inform your listeners?

1 Choose relevant and reliable data and evidence

The first step in using data and evidence is to choose the right sources and types of information that match your purpose, audience, and context. You want to use data and evidence that are relevant to your topic, meaningful to your listeners, and reliable in terms of accuracy, validity, and authority. For example, if you are presenting a proposal for a new project, you might use data and evidence from previous projects, market research, customer feedback, industry trends, or expert opinions. You should also avoid using data and evidence that are outdated, biased, incomplete, or misleading.

2 Organize your data and evidence logically

Organizing data and evidence logically and coherently in your presentation is the second step in using them. You should choose data and evidence that support your main message, key points, and arguments, as well as show the connections and implications of your information. It is important to avoid using too much or too little data and evidence, or presenting them in a random or confusing order. To organize your data and evidence, you may use an introduction to introduce your topic, main message, and preview your key points; a body to present each key point supported by relevant and reliable data and evidence; and a conclusion to summarize your main message, key points, data and evidence, and provide a call to action or recommendation.

3 Visualize your data and evidence effectively

The third step in using data and evidence is to visualize them effectively in your presentation. To do this, you should select visual aids, such as charts, graphs, tables, diagrams, or images, that communicate your data and evidence clearly, concisely, and creatively. When selecting the right type of visual aid for your data and evidence, you can use a pie chart for showing proportions, a bar chart for showing comparisons, or a line chart for showing trends. Additionally, you should use colors, fonts, labels, legends, and titles that are easy to read and remember. You may also consider animation, transitions, or interactivity to highlight or emphasize your data and evidence or to show changes or relationships. Finally, captions, annotations, or narration can be used to explain or interpret your data and evidence or provide context or insights.

4 Explain your data and evidence clearly

Explaining data and evidence clearly in your presentation is key to achieving your goals and objectives. To do this, use language, tone, and style that are appropriate for your audience, purpose, and context. Avoid using jargon, acronyms, or technical terms that could confuse or alienate your listeners. To explain your data and evidence successfully, use simple and precise words and sentences that accurately convey the information. Additionally, use examples, stories, analogies, or metaphors to illustrate or relate the data and evidence to your listeners' experiences or interests. You can also use questions, feedback, or interaction to check or enhance understanding and involvement. Finally, use transitions, signposts, or summaries to link or review the data and evidence, or to show their relevance or importance. By following these tips and best practices you can create effective presentations that will deliver memorable results.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?