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Presentation Rehearsal: A Pro Checklist

The difference between a shaky presentation and a confident one is usually rehearsal. Here's a pro checklist to practice the right way so you walk in ready.

Digby R. Kerr
By Digby R. Kerr — Wharton MBA, author of 12 books, founder of Kerr University™. 35+ years leading global business.

Rehearse out loud, standing up

Reading slides silently isn't rehearsing. Say it out loud, on your feet, as if the audience were there. Speaking the words is the only way to find the awkward bits and build fluency.

Time it and cut

Run it start to finish and check the clock. Almost every talk runs long — cut ruthlessly to leave room and avoid rushing. Knowing your timing removes a major source of nerves.

Prep questions and tech

List the toughest questions you might get and rehearse answers. Then test your tech — slides, clicker, screen, sound — the day before. Nothing rattles a speaker like a preventable glitch.

Frequently asked questions

How should I rehearse a presentation?

Out loud and standing, timed and trimmed, with tough questions and your tech tested in advance.

Why rehearse out loud?

Speaking reveals awkward phrasing and builds fluency that silent review can't.

How do I avoid running over time?

Time a full run-through and cut ruthlessly.

How can I prepare with a coach?

Book a free 30-minute class to rehearse it 1-on-1 with Digby R. Kerr.

Start with a free 30-minute class

See the Fast-Track Fluency Method™ in action and meet Digby in person. No risk, no obligation.

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