good questions to ask a presenter after a research presentation

160 Questions to Ask After a Presentation

Asking questions after a presentation is not just about seeking clarity on what was discussed. It’s a golden opportunity to delve deeper, engage with the speaker, and enhance your understanding of the subject matter. But knowing which questions to ask isn’t always straightforward.

In this piece, we’re about to break down the art of crafting impactful questions post-presentation that will not only benefit you but also add value to the entire audience’s experience.

Table of Contents

Questions to Ask After a Presentation for Feedback

Questions to ask after a presentation interview, questions to ask students after a presentation, questions to ask after a research presentation, questions to ask after a business presentation, questions to ask after a marketing presentation, questions to ask after a book presentation, reflection questions to ask after a presentation, frequently asked questions, final thoughts.

• Can you summarize the key points of the presentation?
• What aspect of the presentation did you find most engaging?
• Were there any areas that were unclear or confusing? If so, what were they?
• How would you rate the overall organization and flow of the presentation?
• Did the visual aids (such as slides or charts) enhance your understanding of the topic? Why or why not?
• Did the presenter maintain good eye contact and use body language effectively?
• Was the presenter’s tone and pace suitable for the content and audience?
• Were there any statistics or facts presented that stood out to you? Why?
• Did the presenter address potential counter-arguments or opposing views adequately?
• Were the objectives of the presentation clearly stated and met?
• How well did the presenter handle questions or interruptions during the presentation?
• Was there anything in the presentation that seemed unnecessary or redundant?
• What would you suggest to improve the presentation for future audiences?
• How did the presentation change or influence your thinking about the subject?
• Did the presentation feel tailored to the audience’s knowledge and interest level?
• Was there a clear and compelling call to action or concluding statement?
• Did the presentation feel too short, too long, or just the right length?
• What was your overall impression of the presenter’s credibility and expertise on the subject?
• How would you rate the relevance and importance of the topic to the audience?
• Can you identify any biases or assumptions in the presentation that may have influenced the message?
• How did you determine what content to include in your presentation?
• Can you explain the rationale behind the structure and flow of your presentation?
• What challenges did you face while preparing this presentation, and how did you overcome them?
• Were there any points in the presentation where you felt you could have elaborated more or less? Why?
• How did you decide on the visual elements and design of your presentation?
• Can you describe your intended audience and how you tailored the content to engage them?
• How did you ensure that the information presented was accurate and up-to-date?
• Were there any counter-arguments or opposing views on this topic that you considered including?
• How would you adapt this presentation for a different audience or context?
• How do you handle unexpected questions or interruptions during a presentation?
• Can you give an example of how you’ve handled negative feedback on a presentation in the past?
• How do you measure the success of a presentation? What metrics or feedback do you seek?
• What techniques do you use to engage an audience that may not be familiar with the topic?
• How do you balance the need to entertain and inform in a presentation?
• How do you prioritize information when you have a limited time to present?
• What strategies do you employ to ensure that your main points are memorable?
• How do you deal with nerves or anxiety before or during a presentation?
• Can you describe a situation where a presentation did not go as planned and how you handled it?
• How do you keep up with the latest trends and best practices in presenting?
• Is there anything you would change about this presentation if you were to do it again?
• How did you feel about the presentation? Were you confident or nervous, and why?
• What was the main message or goal of your presentation, and do you think you achieved it?
• How did you decide on the structure of your presentation?
• What research methods did you use to gather information for this presentation?
• Were there any challenges you encountered while preparing or presenting, and how did you address them?
• How did you ensure that your visual aids or multimedia elements supported your key points?
• What part of the presentation are you most proud of, and why?
• Were there any areas where you felt uncertain or that you would like to improve upon for next time?
• How did you tailor your presentation to fit the knowledge level and interest of your audience?
• What techniques did you use to engage the audience, and how do you think they worked?
• How did you practice your presentation, and what adjustments did you make as a result?
• Did you feel the time allotted for your presentation was sufficient? Why or why not?
• How did you decide what to emphasize or de-emphasize in your presentation?
• What feedback did you receive from peers during the preparation, and how did you incorporate it?
• Did you have a clear conclusion or call to action, and why did you choose it?
• How do you think your presentation style affects the way your audience receives your message?
• What would you do differently if you were to present this topic again?
• Can you reflect on a piece of feedback or a question from the audience that made you think?
• How has this presentation helped you better understand the subject matter?
• How will the skills and insights gained from this presentation experience benefit you in the future?
• Can you elaborate on the research question and what prompted you to investigate this topic?
• How did you choose the methodology for this research, and why was it the most suitable approach?
• Can you discuss any limitations or constraints within your research design and how they might have affected the results?
• How do your findings align or contrast with existing literature or previous research in this field?
• Were there any unexpected findings, and if so, how do you interpret them?
• How did you ensure the reliability and validity of your data?
• Can you discuss the ethical considerations involved in your research, and how were they addressed?
• What are the practical implications of your findings for practitioners in the field?
• How might your research contribute to theoretical development within this discipline?
• What recommendations do you have for future research based on your findings?
• Can you provide more details about your sample size and selection process?
• How did you handle missing or inconsistent data within your research?
• Were there any biases that could have influenced the results, and how were they mitigated?
• How do you plan to disseminate these findings within the academic community or to the broader public?
• Can you discuss the significance of your research within a broader social, economic, or cultural context?
• What feedback have you received from peers or advisors on this research, and how has it shaped your work?
• How does your research fit into your long-term academic or professional goals?
• Were there any particular challenges in conveying complex research findings to a general audience, and how did you address them?
• How does this research presentation fit into the larger project or research agenda, if applicable?
• Can you provide more insight into the interdisciplinary aspects of your research, if any, and how they contributed to the depth or breadth of understanding?
• Can you elaborate on the primary objectives and expected outcomes of this business initiative?
• How does this strategy align with the overall mission and vision of the company?
• What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) that you’ll be monitoring to gauge success?
• Can you discuss the risks associated with this plan, and how have you prepared to mitigate them?
• How does this proposal fit within the current market landscape, and what sets it apart from competitors?
• What are the potential financial implications of this plan, including both investments and projected returns?
• Can you provide more detail about the timeline and milestones for implementation?
• What internal and external resources will be required, and how have you planned to allocate them?
• How did you gather and analyze the data presented, and how does it support your conclusions?
• How does this proposal take into account regulatory compliance and ethical considerations?
• What are the potential challenges or roadblocks, and what strategies are in place to overcome them?
• Can you explain how this initiative aligns with or affects other ongoing projects or departments within the company?
• How will this plan impact stakeholders, and how have their interests and concerns been addressed?
• What contingency plans are in place if the initial strategy doesn’t achieve the desired results?
• How will success be communicated and celebrated within the organization?
• What opportunities for collaboration or partnership with other organizations exist within this plan?
• How does this proposal consider sustainability and the potential long-term impact on the environment and community?
• How have you incorporated feedback or lessons learned from previous similar initiatives?
• What are the key takeaways you’d like us to remember from this presentation?
• How can we get involved or support this initiative moving forward?
• Can you elaborate on the target audience for this marketing campaign, and how were they identified?
• What are the main objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) for this campaign?
• How does this marketing strategy align with the overall brand values and business goals?
• What channels will be utilized, and why were they chosen for this particular campaign?
• Can you discuss the expected return on investment (ROI) and how it will be measured?
• What are the creative concepts driving this campaign, and how do they resonate with the target audience?
• How does this campaign consider the competitive landscape, and what sets it apart from competitors’ efforts?
• What are the potential risks or challenges with this marketing plan, and how will they be mitigated?
• Can you provide more details about the budget allocation across different marketing channels and activities?
• How have customer insights or feedback been integrated into the campaign strategy?
• What contingency plans are in place if certain elements of the campaign do not perform as expected?
• How will this marketing initiative be integrated with other departments or business functions, such as sales or customer service?
• How does this campaign consider sustainability or social responsibility, if at all?
• What tools or technologies will be used to execute and monitor this campaign?
• Can you discuss the timeline and key milestones for the launch and ongoing management of the campaign?
• How will the success of this campaign be communicated both internally and externally?
• How does this marketing strategy consider potential regulatory or compliance issues?
• How will the campaign be adapted or customized for different markets or segments, if applicable?
• What lessons from previous campaigns were applied in the development of this strategy?
• How can we, as a team or as individuals, support the successful implementation of this marketing plan?
• What inspired the main theme or concept of the book?
• Can you describe the intended audience for this book, and why they would find it appealing?
• How did the characters’ development contribute to the overall message of the book?
• What research was conducted (if any) to ensure the authenticity of the setting, characters, or events?
• Were there any challenges or ethical considerations in writing or presenting this book?
• How does this book fit into the current literary landscape or genre? What sets it apart?
• What do you believe readers will find most engaging or thought-provoking about this book?
• Can you discuss any symbolic elements or literary devices used in the book and their significance?
• How does the book’s structure (e.g., point of view, chronological order) contribute to its impact?
• What were the emotional highs and lows during the writing or reading of this book, and how do they reflect in the story?
• How does the book address or reflect contemporary social, cultural, or political issues?
• Were there any parts of the book that were particularly difficult or rewarding to write or read?
• How does this book relate to the author’s previous works or the evolution of their writing style?
• What feedback or responses have been received from readers, critics, or peers, and how have they influenced the presentation?
• What are the main takeaways or lessons you hope readers will gain from this book?
• How might this book be used in educational settings, and what age group or courses would it be suitable for?
• Can you discuss the process of editing, publishing, or marketing the book, if applicable?
• How does the book’s cover art or design reflect its content or attract its target readership?
• Are there plans for a sequel, adaptation, or related works in the future?
• How can readers stay engaged with the author or the book’s community, such as through social media, book clubs, or events?
• How do you feel the presentation went overall, and why?
• What part of the presentation are you most proud of, and what made it successful?
• Were there any moments where you felt challenged or uncertain? How did you handle those moments?
• How did you perceive the audience’s engagement and reaction? Were there any surprises?
• What feedback have you received from others, and how does it align with your self-assessment?
• Were there any technical difficulties or unexpected obstacles, and how were they addressed?
• How well did you manage your time during the presentation? Were there areas that needed more or less focus?
• How did you feel before the presentation, and how did those feelings change throughout?
• What strategies did you use to connect with the audience, and how effective were they?
• Were there any points that you felt were misunderstood or could have been communicated more clearly?
• How did the preparation process contribute to the overall success or challenges of the presentation?
• What did you learn about yourself as a communicator or presenter through this experience?
• Were there any ethical considerations in the content or delivery of the presentation, and how were they handled?
• How does this presentation align with your long-term goals or professional development?
• How would you approach this presentation differently if you had to do it again?
• How has this presentation affected your confidence or skills in public speaking or presenting?
• What resources or support would have enhanced your preparation or performance?
• How will you apply what you’ve learned from this presentation to future projects or presentations?
• How did your understanding of the topic change or deepen through the process of preparing and presenting?
• What steps will you take to continue improving or building on the skills demonstrated in this presentation?

What if I disagree with a point made during the presentation?

It’s important to frame disagreement in a constructive and respectful way. You might say, “ I found your point on X intriguing. From a different perspective, could Y also be considered…? ” This opens up a dialogue without dismissing the presenter’s viewpoint.

How can I formulate my questions to encourage a more detailed answer?

Use open-ended questions that start with “ how ,” “ why, ” or “ could you explain… ” as these require more than a yes or no answer and encourage the presenter to provide depth. For example, “ Could you explain the process behind your research findings in more detail? “

By asking insightful questions, you’re not only cementing your understanding of the material presented but also opening doors to further knowledge and collaboration. Remember, the quality of your questions reflects the depth of your engagement and willingness to learn.

So, the next time you find yourself in the audience, seize the opportunity to ask meaningful questions and watch as simple presentations transform into dialogues that inspire and illuminate.

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Bea Mariel Saulo

Bea is an editor and writer with a passion for literature and self-improvement. Her ability to combine these two interests enables her to write informative and thought-provoking articles that positively impact society. She enjoys reading stories and listening to music in her spare time.

18 common audience questions at academic conferences (+ how to react)

While you can practice your conference presentation a hundred times, audience questions are more difficult to prepare for. Nonetheless, several typical audience questions are frequently asked at academic conferences. Be aware of these questions and know how to react!

What is your main argument?

How do your insights differ from previous studies, what is your theoretical contribution, what is the scientific relevance of your research, what is the societal relevance of your research, how do you define … , what is your theoretical framework, what is your conceptual framework, how did you collect your data, what did you do to prevent research biases, have you considered the work of … , why did you not use the method of … , if you could start over, what would you do differently, what are the limitations of your research, are you able to generalise your findings, how will you continue your research, what are your suggestions for future research, what is your advice for people studying a similar phenomenon, common audience questions about your key contribution.

How to react: You probably raised many interesting points in your presentation. But what is the key message that you want to convey to your audience? This is your core argument: an umbrella statement, in simple language, no longer than two sentences.

Carving out your presentation’s core argument is not an easy task, so it is good to prepare this in advance.

How to react: Be prepared to talk about the unique characteristics of your research findings. For instance, outline how your findings diverge from previous studies.

You can also criticise previous studies in your answer. However, do this respectfully. Don’t say “ previous studies are useless because they don’t look at…”. Instead, say “ one aspect that previous studies have not considered is …” or “ one element that has been under-researched so far is … “.

How to react: This question specifically targets your contribution to theorising about your topic or the relationships that you address in your research.

To prepare a good answer, think about several dimensions. Does your research confirm or contradict a specific aspect of a theoretical relationship? Does your research highlight the importance of a specific aspect that should be considered in theories related to your topic? Does your research uniquely combine different theories?

Common audience questions about research relevance

How to react : Most likely, you could have asked hundreds of different questions in your research. Instead, you chose one specific one. Therefore, the person asking this question wants to hear why you think that your specific research focus matters.

Be prepared to provide a clear explanation of why you think your research is relevant to gain new insights on your research topic and to make progress in your scientific field as a whole.

How to react: Academic research increasingly focuses on societal impact: the impact that research can have beyond the confines of universities and beyond abstract, theoretical knowledge.

Therefore, be prepared to highlight how your research can inform or improve certain practices. For instance, think of a social or environmental challenge. How does your research connect to ‘real life? Why does it matter? And how can your research contribute to a turn for the better?

Common audience questions about literature and theory

How to react: Some of the most common audience questions centre around clarifications on specific terms and concepts used in a presentation. While you should already be as clear as possible during your presentation, be prepared to explain your definitions of key terms and concepts more in-depth during the Q&A.

Furthermore, be prepared to embed your understanding or definitions of keywords and concepts within the existing literature. Did you follow a definition of a certain scholar? Or does your understanding of a term differ from the way it is commonly understood in scientific work on the topic?

How to react: Theories can be considered as systems of general principles which explain a specific phenomenon or relationship of interest. Many empirical studies combined contribute to the theorisation of such phenomenon or relationship. A theoretical framework builds the backbone of your research.

Thus, be able to explain your theoretical framework. Which theories built the foundation of your research? What were your hypotheses based on? Which established ideas allowed you to predict your findings?

How to react: Your conceptual framework is embedded in your theoretical framework, but concretely describes the variables (and their relationships) that you address in your study. In a way, a conceptual framework provides a roadmap for your research.

To explain your conceptual framework, you have to be prepared to identify the variables (e.g. the factors, elements or features) that you studied.

Common audience questions about the research process

How to react : In a conference presentation, you will not always have time to explain your data collection process in detail. Many people attending academic conferences, however, are interested in this process.

The question on data collection can be answered skillfully if you can provide information on your data sources and data gathering. You can also share some of the challenges you experienced when collecting data, and how you overcame them.

How to react: Research biases are systematic errors that can occur during your research process. Think of your sample choice, what and how you ask questions during interviews, the type of numerical data you collect, or the way you set up your research design.

You can react to this question by explaining different measures that you employed to reduce biases in your research. However, you can also explain that you are very much aware of how your worldview shapes your research practice, and reflect on what this means for your findings.

Common audience questions about research avenues not taken

How to react: When doing research, you simply cannot incorporate everything and everyone. At some point, you need to make a decision. However, many presenters at academic conferences are asked whether they considered incorporating the work of specific scholars working on similar topics.

There are two options to react. First, you may know the mentioned scholar’s work and can provide a good explanation of why you did or did not include his/her work. Second, you have no idea who that person is. No need to panic! Answer this: “ I am not familiar with this work, but it sounds interesting and I would love to chat after this presentation to learn more about it. “

How to react: Not only are presenters often asked whether they considered specific scholarly work in their research, but also whether they considered a specific method.

When you react to this question, you can be completely honest. Maybe you did not use a specific method because of time or budgetary constraints. Maybe you are not familiar with the named method. Or maybe you simply don’t believe that the suggested method would have generated any valuable findings.

How to react : The person asking this question wants to hear what you learned throughout your research process. Be prepared to answer this question by reflecting on your mistakes and detours along the way.

When reacting to this question, it is important to show a high degree of self-reflection. Additionally, it helps if you don’t take yourself too seriously. For instance, when you share a mistake or unfortunate incident.

Common audience questions about research limitations

How to react: Every research has limitations. And being able to be explicit about your research limitations is a sign of strength, not weakness!

Therefore, be prepared to point out the limitations of your research, showcasing that you are humble and well aware that research is never perfect.

How to react: A lot of audience questions centre around the generalisability of findings. The way you respond to these types of questions may differ depending on whether you conducted quantitative or qualitative research.

For quantitative research, you can more easily refer to numeric criteria that indicate whether you can generalise findings or not. For qualitative research, generalisation may not have been the objective, to begin with. Nonetheless, we can learn from the insights. Be prepared to explain your stance on generalising your findings.

Common audience questions about future research

How to react: A good researcher never runs out of questions, and this question asks you what you will do next. When answering this question, make sure that your research plans are linked to your current research presentation.

For instance, which elements would you like to explore that were not covered in your research yet? Which relationship do you plan to investigate further? What is your next research step, building upon your current findings?

How to react: Individual researchers cannot cover everything about an interesting topic on their own. Therefore, a common audience question focuses on research suggestions for other scholars.

Be prepared to share your suggestions for future research with the audience. These suggestions should find a good balance between being broad and concrete enough to inspire others.

How to react: This is a fun question! It asks you to share your wisdom. Yes, yours! Having conducted your research means you have valuable lessons to share with others embarking on a similar journey.

It can be difficult to come up with good advice on the spot, so make sure to have a few answers up your sleeve. You can, for instance, advise people to start the data collection earlier, to work closely with external partners, or to be open about changes in the research process.

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90 Questions to Ask After a Presentation

Have you ever found yourself mulling over a presentation, wishing you had a treasure trove of questions to uncover the speaker’s insights and wisdom fully?

The right question isn’t just a follow-up; it’s a key that unlocks a deeper connection with the topic. This guide is designed to arm you with a curated collection of inquiries that will enhance your understanding, invite valuable discourse, and help you to apply what you’ve learned.

Let’s dive into the art of the post-presentation conversation and transform every ending slide into an opportunity for continued learning and engagement.

Table of Contents

Clarifying Understanding

• Could you elaborate on the main thesis of your presentation?
• What inspired the topic of your presentation?
• Can you summarize the key points you’d like us to take away?
• Is there an aspect of your presentation you think deserves deeper understanding?
• How does your presentation relate to current trends or issues in the field?
• Were there any counterarguments or challenges to your points that you didn’t mention?
• In what way does your presentation build on or differ from existing research?
• Could you clarify the methodology behind your study or findings?
• How would you explain the significance of your findings to a layman?
• Is there a particular slide or section you can revisit for further clarification?
• Could you give an example that illustrates your point about [specific detail]?
• What were the assumptions underlying your analysis or argument?
• How do definitions used in your presentation compare to industry-standard ones?
• Can you clarify the statistical significance of your data?
• Where might we find more information on this topic if we wish to understand it better?

Digging Deeper into Content

• Can you expand on how your findings compare to similar studies?
• How might emerging technologies impact the relevance of your findings in the future?
• Are there ethical considerations linked to your presentation topic?
• What are the limitations of your research, and how can they be addressed in the future?
• How can your research be applied in other fields or industries?
• In what ways do your findings challenge conventional wisdom?
• Could you walk us through the process of how you collected your data?
• How would different theoretical frameworks affect the interpretation of your results?
• What unanswered questions remain after your presentation?
• How do you expect the discussion on this topic to evolve in the next five years?
• What are the implications of your findings for policy or practice?
• How does cultural context play into the outcomes of your research?
• Can you discuss any relevant case studies that connect to your presentation?
• What follow-up research would you recommend based on your work?
• In your research, what was the most surprising discovery you made?

Gathering Practical Applications

• How can we apply your research findings in our everyday work?
• What steps can organizations take to implement your recommendations?
• Can you suggest tools or resources for applying the insights from your presentation?
• How might your research influence day-to-day decision-making?
• Could you provide a real-world example where your findings have been put into practice?
• What are the short-term and long-term benefits of applying your findings?
• Who stands to benefit most from the practical applications of your research?
• Are there certain industries or sectors where your findings are particularly relevant?
• How will applying your findings change existing systems or processes?
• What are some common obstacles to implementing your research, and how can they be overcome?
• How do you recommend staying up-to-date on applications in your research area?
• Can you suggest partner organizations or groups that are working on applying these concepts?
• What measures can be put in place to evaluate the efficacy of applying your research?
• How do you foresee your findings impacting future innovations?
• What action can individuals take to support the practical application of your research?

Providing Constructive Feedback

• I found [specific point] very compelling; have you considered expanding on this?
• Your presentation makes a strong case for [topic]; how could it be enhanced with additional data?
• I noticed [aspect] during your presentation; could this be a point for further refinement?
• The visual aids were helpful; have you thought about using more interactive elements?
• The section on [specific area] was very informative; how can it be made more accessible for beginners in the field?
• In terms of delivery, would you be open to exploring other formats for your presentation?
• Your research draws important conclusions; how else might you support them?
• The pacing of your presentation was effective; could you use a similar approach to emphasize other key points?
• Given the complexity of your topic, have you considered a follow-up session or workshop?
• What additional resources or readings would you recommend to enhance our understanding of your topic?
• Your narrative was engaging; might there be a way to incorporate more storytelling?
• How might audience participation be facilitated in future presentations to enhance understanding?
• Were there alternative viewpoints you debated including in your presentation?
• How did you decide on the structure of your presentation, and what could be changed to improve it?
• Is there a component of your research that you feel requires more visibility or discussion?

Fostering Engagement and Discussion

• What questions do you have for the audience that might help further the discussion?
• How can the audience keep the conversation going outside of this presentation?
• Are there forums or networks where this topic is actively discussed?
• Could you propose a thought experiment or hypothetical scenario for us to consider?
• How can we encourage more interdisciplinary dialogue on this subject?
• What common misconceptions should we address to clear up understanding?
• In your opinion, what are the most controversial aspects of your topic?
• How can we contribute to the body of research or thought around this subject?
• What role can non-experts play in the discussion of these findings?
• Can you suggest a way to create a community or collective around this area of research?
• How would you like to see this information shared or disseminated?
• What would be an ideal outcome of the discussions that stem from this presentation?
• Are there collaborative projects or initiatives we could start as a result of your findings?
• Would you be interested in hosting a series of discussions to delve deeper into certain aspects?
• How do you suggest we handle differing opinions or debates that arise from your topic?

Exploring Next Steps and Actions

• Based on your research, what should be our immediate action?
• What are the first steps to be taken for those who want to delve deeper into this topic?
• Who should be contacted or involved in further development of this topic?
• Are there upcoming events or conferences where this topic will be featured?
• What can we do as individuals to further the research or findings you presented?
• How can we best track the progress and development in this area?
• What practical steps would you recommend for a follow-up study or project?
• Could you outline potential obstacles we might face in advancing this topic and how to overcome them?
• Are there policy changes or advocacy needed to move this conversation forward?
• How can the general public be engaged in the action steps related to your findings?
• What are the most critical areas for immediate exploration or action?
• Is there a need for collaboration with other disciplines to advance this topic?
• How can educators integrate your findings into their curriculum or teaching?
• What funding opportunities should be looked into to support further research?
• How can we measure the impact of the actions taken as a result of your presentation?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i provide feedback on the presentation style as well as the content.

Yes, but always aim to be constructive and polite. Feedback on presentation style can be as valuable as feedback on content.

What should I do if my question isn’t answered during the Q&A session?

If time runs out, try approaching the presenter afterward or sending a follow-up email with your question.

How can I encourage a discussion rather than just a Q&A session?

Ask open-ended questions that invite the presenter or audience members to share thoughts and perspectives, thus fostering a more interactive dialogue.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it—a comprehensive guide to quenching your intellectual curiosity and contributing valuable insights after a presentation. From uncovering the nuances of presented content to setting the stage for future collaboration, asking these questions ensures that no stone is left unturned.

Remember, the journey of understanding and exploration doesn’t end with the closing slide; it’s merely the beginning. Now, go forth and turn those questions into conversations that matter!

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Tress Academic

#30: Questions from the audience you should be prepared to answer

November 5, 2019 by Tress Academic

You can never know the exact questions that the audience will ask after you have finished a conference presentation. This uncertainty can cause additional stress for you, and put you on edge during your presentation. There are, however, a few questions you can assume that someone from your audience might ask. So why not prepare yourself for these questions just in case? We’ll tell you which type of questions these are, and how you can easily prepare yourself for them. Having answers ready for these standard questions will make the Q&A part so much easier for you and alleviate unnecessary stress on the big day.

When we recently held our course “How to present at international scientific conferences” at a Swiss university, we discussed the Q&A part that comes right after a conference presentation with the participants. They spoke about their experiences at conferences where they presented their research, and everything that made it especially difficult for them. The presentations were always a big cause of stress and anxiety for them – is it for you as well? If so, we have another post from the Smart Academics Blog that will help you to deal with being nervous, see #3: “How to cope with stage fright?” .

If you are not an experienced presenter, it is a pretty big thing to go out and stand in front of a large crowd of colleagues from your field and tell them about your work. What our course participants were most scared of – even more than giving the talk – was the moment after they had delivered their presentation and the session chair opened the floor for questions. This was the moment where the unexpected could happen because they didn’t know what the questions would be. The biggest fear in the moment was to receive questions that they cannot answer or that make them look inexperienced, ignorant or worse! 

We totally understand this fear. Imagine you were well-prepared for a talk and had a good feeling throughout the presentation,  but the questions from the audience could spoil the good impression. Just imagine if you would have no idea how to answer relatively simple questions – this would be a waste of!

Do you have the same fears? We’d love to help you overcome them! There are actually a handful of questions that are very likely to be asked. These are the type of questions that so often come up at conferences, especially when early-career researchers are presenting. You should be prepared for these questions, with an answer in hand, which is not difficult to do! It should be a part of your preparation for the conference talk to think about these questions. You will see, it takes a lot of stress off your shoulders! 

Let us tell you about the most common audience questions at conferences below. If you want to prepare yourself for the next talk, download our free worksheet “Questions I should be ready to answer” . 

Typical audience questions you should have an answer for

1. what’s next … .

Of all the questions that people from the audience could ask you, this is for sure one of the most friendly and helpful ones. This question offers no critique of your work, and it does not ask for clarification of anything you said in your talk. The questioner simply wants to know what your next research steps are. They are interested in your research and express curiosity of how it might go on. 

So, make sure you have an idea about which follow-up steps you want to take with your research. Be prepared to tell the audience a little bit about how you might progress. Think about what you want to say before the question is asked and make a structure of the points you want to say, so you don’t leave out anything important. Use our free worksheet “Questions I should be ready to answer” to help you. 

2. Why should we know more about this?  

If you hear this question right after finishing your talk, you might feel a bit frustrated, or even threatened. Why is the audience asking this at the end? Wasn’t your talk clear enough? Have they not listened to you? It can sound as if the questioner doubts the value or necessity of your work. Or it could feel as if you were not clear enough when describing why you research what you do. 

In fact, this is again a very friendly and helpful question. It has no negative connotation and the questioner has no intention of criticising you or your work. He or she may just want to know more explicitly from you why you did this research and why it is worth doing in such detail. It is a question about the relevance of your work. 

So, what do you do? Tell the audience why you did your research, what you expect as its outcome and give some examples or applications to help them better understand why your work is needed. Use our free worksheet “Questions I should be ready to answer” .  

3. How have you done this …? 

This is a question about your methods or the overall approach you’ve applied. You will probably be surprised to get this question because you’ll think you had explained everything very clearly in your talk. Obviously, this was not the case for the person asking. 

Don’t be scared! You have most likely not failed to talk about your methods, but in presentations, the reporting on the scientific methods that were applied to address a certain question is often the most difficult part for the audience to comprehend. Thus, it is not surprising that questions arise on the matter. 

Properly describing the methods you applied in your research in a conference presentation is challenging. You hardly have the time to go into such detail in order to make the audience fully understand it. In a typical 15-minute presentation slot, which requires time for questions and discussion, so it is really more like a  10-12 minute talk, you have only a few minutes available to explain your approach. 

For this reason, we advise participants in our courses to always keep the methods part of your presentation short, by reducing it to the main steps and avoiding too much detail. You should give only a rough outline of the steps because it is difficult, tiring, and sometimes also a bit boring for the audience to listen to a specific set-up of a workflow or a project when you have not been part of the project.

Instead, spend time in your talk presenting your problem, your findings, your examples, and your take-home message. This is what the audience needs to understand! But of course, it might then trigger a question about HOW have you done it, which again, you can prepare yourself for. It is really a friendly and helpful question from an interested person. The audience shows that they want to better understand how your work was done. 

In your preparation phase, determine which methods or method steps could be unclear to your audience and what kind of information they would need to have for a quick understanding of a complex issue. Use our f ree worksheet “Questions I should be ready to answer” to help you prepare for this step.  

4. What do you mean by …? 

The fourth most common question that you can expect to receive is probably the easiest one to answer. It is a clarifying question where the questioner has not understood a specific term, a process, or an aspect of your presentation that you referred to. 

Questions like this pose no threat but are necessary for your audience to fully get your talk. Don’t forget, you will also have some listeners in your audience that come from other fields and they might not be familiar with your specialist terminology. We can never know what the exact level of knowledge of our audience is, therefore, you will sometimes be surprised to get questions about aspects you think are common knowledge – they probably are not. 

If you follow our rule to only include what you can explain yourself in your presentation, you will never have a problem with this question. If you fully comprehend what you talk about, you will always be able to address this question professionally. If you try to illustrate your vast knowledge by alluding to processes that you do not fully comprehend, you run the risk of not being able to further explain to them when asked by the audience. Keep your presentation air-tight to what you know you know!

You can prepare yourself with an overview of topics and aspects that probably somebody in the audience who isn’t from your field wouldn’t know and potentially need a clear explanation. Our free worksheet “Questions I should be ready to answer” will help you to prepare for this. 

Naturally, the Q&A part of a conference presentation is the part that you can’t prepare for as precisely as the actual delivery of your presentation. There will always be an element of surprise for you and this is of course also the purpose of this interaction with the audience. They want to experience you off the cuff, where you have to show a bit of spontaneity. They are not coming to see a well-rehearsed play, but a glimpse of the scientists who are conducting this cutting edge work. 

That does not mean everything taking place during the Q&A is random and you have to give yourself over to fate. An audience can feel when you are nervous and they feel for you when you are a less-experienced presenter. Therefore, they sometimes deliberately ask some of the questions above, because they know these are ‘soft-ball’ questions that you can answer. So, make sure you are prepared for them and show your audience that you have done the work and deserve their attention. We wish you best of luck with your next Q&A session! 

Relevant resources:  

• Worksheet “Questions, I should be ready to answer”  
• Presentations course “How to present at international scientific conferences”  
• Smart Academics Blog #03: How to cope with stage fright?  
• Smart Academics Blog #24: New to the PhD? – 5 tips for a great start! 
• Smart Academics Blog #26: First conference presentation? 17 life-saving tips
• Smart Academics Blog #95: Apply these 5 tips to improve any presentation

Relevant courses and services:

• 1-day course: Presenting successfully at virtual conferences
• 3-day course: How to present at international conferences
• 1-to-1 advice: Presentation Check

More information:  

Do you want to present successfully at conferences? If so, please sign up to receive our free guides.  

© 2019 Tress Academic

#ConferencePresentations #ConferenceTalk #QA #QuestionsAndAnswers, #AudienceQuestions

Questions to Ask Presenters

I. introduction.

Asking questions during presentations and panel discussions is crucial to getting the most out of these events. By asking the right questions, you can gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter and the speaker's expertise, challenge assumptions, and make meaningful connections with other attendees. This article is designed to provide you with a comprehensive guide to the types of questions you should be asking presenters and panelists, whether you are attending a virtual event or an in-person panel discussion.

Throughout this article, we will provide you with a list of great questions to ask, suggestions for creating your own questions, and tips for asking good questions that can help you stand out and make a lasting impression. We will cover a variety of topics, including the importance of follow-up questions, leveraging social media and apps, common misconceptions, and creating your own list of questions.

So whether you are attending a keynote speech, panel discussion, webinar , or podcast, this article will help you prepare for and make the most out of your next event. Let's start by exploring how to prepare for the presentation or panel discussion.

II. Preparing for the Presentation or Panel Discussion

Before attending a presentation or panel discussion, it is important to prepare yourself by researching the presenter or panelists and the subject matter. This will help you come up with questions that are relevant and insightful.

To prepare, you should start by researching the speaker or panelists on LinkedIn, their company website, or other social media platforms. Look for any articles, blogs, or videos that they have published, and get a sense of their background and expertise.

Next, consider the subject matter that will be discussed during the presentation or panel discussion. Do some background reading or research to familiarize yourself with the topic and any relevant industry trends or challenges.

Once you have done your research, create a list of questions that you would like to ask the presenter or panelists. Think about what you want to learn from the presentation or discussion, and what insights you hope to gain.

When considering the format of the event, whether it is virtual or in-person , think about how you can leverage social media and other apps to connect with the speakers and moderators. Follow the event hashtag on Twitter or LinkedIn, and engage with other attendees who are discussing the event. Use apps like LinkedIn or conference apps to connect with speakers or other attendees and continue the conversation after the event has ended.

By doing your research and creating a list of questions, you will be better equipped to engage with the presenters or panelists during the event. In the next section, we will explore the types of questions you should be asking presenters.

III. Questions to Ask Presenters

Asking good questions during a presentation can help you get a better understanding of the subject matter and the speaker's expertise. Here are some open-ended questions to consider:

• What inspired you to pursue this field, and how did you get started?
• What do you consider to be the biggest challenge facing your industry today?
• Can you share an example of a successful project you worked on, and what made it successful?
• How do you stay up to date with industry trends and developments?
• What are some common misconceptions about your industry or field?

In addition to asking open-ended questions , it is important to listen closely to the presenter's responses and ask follow-up questions that can help you clarify any points made during the presentation. For example, if the presenter mentions a specific tool or technique, you can ask how it works or how it has been used in real-world applications.

To create your own questions, think about your interests and goals , and how they relate to the subject matter being presented. Consider how the presenter's expertise can help you in your own work or career, and tailor your questions accordingly.

When asking questions during a presentation, it is important to be concise and respectful of the presenter's time. Make sure your questions are relevant to the topic at hand, and avoid asking questions that are too broad or vague. By asking good questions, you can stand out from the audience and make a lasting impression on the presenter.

In the next section, we will explore the types of questions you should be asking panelists during a panel discussion.

IV. Questions to Ask Panelists

Panel discussions offer a unique opportunity to hear from multiple perspectives on a particular topic. Here are some tips on how to prepare for a panel discussion and the types of questions to ask:

A. Preparing for a Panel Discussion

Before attending a panel discussion, research the panelists and the topics they will be discussing. Take notes on their backgrounds and areas of expertise, and consider how their perspectives may differ from your own. This can help you formulate questions that will be relevant and thought-provoking.

B. Questions for a Panel Discussion

Some questions that are relevant for a panel discussion include:

• What are your thoughts on the biggest challenge facing the industry or field today?
• How do you think technology is impacting the industry, and what opportunities and challenges does this present?
• Can you share an example of a successful collaboration or partnership within the industry, and what made it successful?
• How do you see the industry evolving in the next 5-10 years, and what trends do you think will drive this evolution?
• How do you balance competing priorities and demands within the industry, such as innovation versus risk management?

C. Follow-up Questions for a Panel Discussion

Follow-up questions can help you delve deeper into a particular topic or challenge a panelist's position. For example, if a panelist mentions a particular strategy or approach, you can ask how it has been used in practice, and what results have been achieved.

D. Creating Your Own Questions

Creating your own questions for a panel discussion can help you tailor your experience to your own interests and goals. Consider what questions you would like to ask each panelist based on their areas of expertise, and how their responses can help you in your own work or career.

By asking thoughtful and relevant questions during a panel discussion, you can gain valuable insights and perspectives, and demonstrate your engagement and interest in the topic.

V. Conclusion

In summary, asking questions during presentations, webinars , and panel discussions is an essential part of the learning and networking experience. By researching the subject matter, creating a list of questions, and following up with additional questions, you can gain valuable insights, deepen your understanding, and create a lasting impression.

Remember, the quality of your questions can impact the quality of the information and networking opportunities you receive. Asking open-ended and thought-provoking questions can help you stand out and create meaningful connections with the presenters and panelists.

So, start asking the right questions today! Whether you're attending a virtual event or an in-person panel discussion, take advantage of the opportunity to connect with subject matter experts, role models, and decision-makers in your field. With a little preparation and creativity, you can create a lasting impression and take away valuable insights and key takeaways from any event.

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Tips for asking questions in a science presentation

Asking questions in a science presentation is a common practice. Asking questions enables us to fully understand concepts and knowledge that underpins complex ideas. Here are some ideas to get you thinking about asking questions in a science presentation.

Helpful hints:

• Ask one question at a time
• Ask open questions that encourage conversation, rather than closed questions
• Put the question into context, especially if it has been a while since the information was provided
• Give the presenter some time to think about the answer
• For presenters: It’s okay to say, “I don’t know.”

11 Tips: How to Answer Questions After a Presentation

Table of contents.

Imagine this: you’ve just delivered a captivating speech as a presenter, leaving your audience inspired and eager to learn more about the work of a teacher. But now comes the moment of truth – the Q&A session , where you will face tough questions about your presentation, meeting, or speech. How do you, as a teacher, handle those presentation questions in the business room with confidence and finesse? What is your opinion?

Addressing audience questions effectively is crucial for enhancing your post-presentation communication skills and maintaining engagement and connection with your audience. It allows you to contribute your opinion and demonstrate your expertise. By mastering the art of responding to tough questions, you can elevate your overall presentation experience and leave a lasting impression on your listeners. Your contribution will be remembered.

So, whether you’re a seasoned presenter or new to public speaking, these tips will equip you with the strategies and insights needed to navigate tough questions during a business presentation and successfully handle Q&A sessions while making a valuable contribution. Get ready to boost your confidence and engage in meaningful interactions with your audience by asking the right presentation questions!

The Importance of Active Listening

Active listening plays a crucial role in effectively answering questions after a presentation. By engaging in attentive listening, you can fully comprehend the question and respond appropriately. It shows respect and interest when you actively focus on the speaker’s words, enhancing your ability to provide accurate and relevant answers. Moreover, active listening allows you to develop stronger connections with your audience by demonstrating genuine attentiveness.

Engage in Attentive Listening

To answer questions effectively, it is essential to engage in attentive listening. This means giving your undivided attention to the speaker and being fully present in the moment. Avoid distractions and focus solely on what the speaker is saying. By doing so, you can grasp the message they are conveying and understand their perspective better.

Show Respect and Interest

Active listening demonstrates respect and interest towards the person asking the question. When you actively listen, you convey that their words matter to you. Maintain eye contact, nod occasionally to show understanding, and avoid interrupting them while they speak. These actions not only make the speaker feel valued but also help build rapport with them.

Enhance Your Ability to Provide Accurate Answers

By actively listening, you enhance your ability to provide accurate answers to questions posed after your presentation. When fully engaged in attentive listening, you capture key messages within the question that may otherwise be missed if you were distracted or not paying close attention. This allows for a more precise response that directly addresses the points raised.

Active Listening Techniques

There are several techniques that can help improve your active listening skills:

Concise Answers for Maximum Impact

Delivering concise and impactful responses is key. Rambling or providing excessive information can dilute your message and lose the interest of your audience. To ensure maximum impact, it’s important to craft answers that capture the essence of your message while maintaining clarity and brevity. Here are 11 tips to help you deliver concise answers that leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Deliver brief and impactful responses

When answering questions, aim to deliver brief yet impactful responses that get straight to the point. Avoid going off on tangents or providing unnecessary details that may confuse or overwhelm your audience. Instead, focus on addressing the core of the question in a clear and concise manner.

Prioritize clarity and brevity

Clarity is crucial when answering questions after a presentation. Make sure your response is easy to understand by using simple language and avoiding jargon or technical terms whenever possible. Brevity is key in keeping your audience engaged during Q&A sessions. Long-winded answers can cause listeners to lose interest, so strive for succinctness without sacrificing important details.

Practice delivering succinct answers

Crafting concise answers requires practice . Take the time to rehearse potential questions and develop succinct responses that effectively convey your message. By practicing ahead of time, you’ll become more comfortable with delivering brief yet impactful answers during Q&A sessions.

Stay focused on the question

When faced with a question, it’s essential to stay focused on what was asked rather than veering off-topic.

Embracing Audience Engagement

Encouraging audience participation is a key aspect of delivering an impactful presentation. By incorporating open-ended questions or prompts throughout your talk, you can create an interactive environment that captivates attendees and encourages their active involvement. This not only keeps the audience engaged but also allows for a more dynamic and memorable experience.

Fostering an interactive environment where people feel comfortable asking questions after your presentation is crucial. As the presenter, it’s important to make yourself approachable and create a safe space for diverse perspectives. By doing so, you encourage attendees to share their thoughts, ask clarifying questions, and contribute to the discussion.

Embracing opportunities for dialogue with the audience goes beyond simply answering questions at the end of your presentation. It involves actively seeking input and feedback throughout your talk. For example, you can pause periodically to ask if anyone has any thoughts or experiences related to the content you’re discussing. This not only allows for immediate interaction but also creates a sense of connection and rapport between you and the audience.

During Q&A sessions, it’s essential to create an atmosphere that fosters meaningful discussions. Encourage attendees to share their opinions and engage in thoughtful exchanges by acknowledging different viewpoints respectfully. This helps cultivate an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

To further enhance audience engagement, consider incorporating interactive elements into your presentations. For instance, you can use polling tools or live surveys to gather instant feedback from attendees on specific topics or concepts discussed during your talk. This not only encourages active participation but also provides valuable insights that can enrich the overall content of your presentation.

Researching FAQs on Your Topic

To effectively answer questions after a presentation, it’s crucial to do your research beforehand. By anticipating the frequently asked questions ( FAQs ) related to your topic, you can be well-prepared and confident in your responses. Here are 11 tips for researching FAQs on your topic:

1. Identify experts in the field

Start by identifying experts or authorities in your field who have already addressed similar topics or presentations. Look for their articles, blog posts, interviews, or videos where they have discussed common questions related to your subject matter. These experts can provide valuable insights and help you understand the key concerns of your audience.

2. Search for relevant topics online

Utilize search engines and online platforms to find discussions and forums related to your topic. Look for threads or posts where people have asked questions about similar subjects. This will give you an idea of the common queries that arise among individuals interested in your area of expertise.

3. Explore social media platforms

Social media platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn , and Facebook groups can be excellent sources for discovering popular questions and discussions within your industry or niche. Join relevant groups or follow hashtags related to your topic to stay updated with ongoing conversations and gather insights into what people want to know.

4. Reach out via email

Consider reaching out directly to individuals who might have expertise in your subject matter. Send them a polite email explaining that you’re preparing for a presentation and would appreciate any insights they could offer regarding potential FAQs on the topic.

Preparing in Advance

To effectively answer questions after a presentation, it’s crucial to prepare in advance. This preparation will not only boost your confidence but also ensure that you provide thoughtful and well-informed responses. Here are 11 tips to help you get ready:

Practice, Practice, Practice

The key to answering questions with ease is practice. Take the time to rehearse your presentation and anticipate potential inquiries. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to respond confidently and articulately.

Work on Your Knowledge

Take the initiative to enhance your understanding of the topic at hand. The more knowledgeable you are about your subject matter, the easier it will be for you to address any question that comes your way. Research extensively and stay up-to-date with relevant information.

Identify Potential Questions

Consider the different ways people might approach your topic or presentation. Start by brainstorming common questions related to your subject matter. This exercise will help you anticipate what participants might ask during the Q&A session.

Start Strong and Finish Stronger

When answering questions, it’s important to make a strong first impression. Begin by restating or summarizing the question before providing a clear and concise response. And remember, always end on a high note by summarizing your main points or offering additional insights.

Be Prepared for Frontal Attacks

Not all questions will be easy or friendly; some may challenge your ideas or even attempt to undermine them. Prepare yourself mentally for such situations and maintain composure when faced with difficult queries.

Adopting a Teaching Mindset

To effectively answer questions after a presentation, it’s essential to adopt a teaching mindset. By approaching the situation as a teacher would, you can employ various techniques to ensure your audience feels supported and engaged. Here are 11 tips to help you navigate this process smoothly:

1. Be Approachable and Open

When someone approaches you with a question, make sure you appear approachable and open to discussion. Maintain an inviting posture, maintain eye contact, and offer a warm smile. This will encourage others to feel comfortable asking their questions.

2. Listen actively

Listening actively is crucial when answering questions after a presentation. Give your complete attention to the person asking the question and avoid interrupting them. Show genuine interest in what they have to say by nodding or using verbal cues like “I see” or “Interesting.”

3. Repeat or Paraphrase the Question

To ensure everyone in the room understands the question being asked, repeat or paraphrase it before answering. This technique not only clarifies any potential confusion but also demonstrates that you value everyone’s understanding.

4. Break Down Complex Concepts

If someone asks about a complex concept discussed during your presentation, break it down into simpler terms that everyone can understand. Use relatable examples or analogies that resonate with your audience’s experiences.

5. Provide Clear Explanations

When answering questions, strive for clarity in your explanations. Avoid using jargon or technical language that might confuse your listeners further. Instead, use plain language and concise sentences to convey your message effectively.

Handling Questions You Don’t Know

Stay calm and confident.

When faced with tough questions that you don’t know the answer to, it’s important to stay calm and maintain your confidence. Remember, nobody expects you to have all the answers. Take a deep breath, keep a composed demeanor, and assure yourself that you can handle this situation.

Acknowledge the Question

The first step in handling a question you don’t know is to acknowledge it. Show respect for the questioner by giving them your full attention and acknowledging their inquiry. This demonstrates that you value their input and are willing to engage in a dialogue.

Repeat or Clarify the Question

To ensure that you fully understand the question being asked, it’s helpful to repeat or clarify it. Paraphrasing the question allows both you and the questioner to be on the same page. It also buys you some time to gather your thoughts before formulating a response.

Be Honest and Transparent

If you don’t know the answer to a question, honesty is always the best policy. Rather than trying to bluff your way through or provide an incorrect response, simply admit that you don’t have all of the information at hand. Being transparent about your limitations shows authenticity and builds trust with your audience.

Offer Alternatives or Suggestions

While you may not have an immediate answer, there are still ways to contribute constructively to the conversation. You can offer alternative perspectives or suggest avenues for further exploration. This shows that even if you don’t have all the answers, you’re still willing to help find solutions or provide guidance.

Mastering Q&A Sessions

Be prepared and confident.

Before diving into a Q&A session after your presentation, it’s crucial to be prepared and confident. Take the time to anticipate potential questions that may arise from your audience. This will allow you to gather the necessary information and facts to provide well-informed answers. Confidence is key when answering questions, as it demonstrates your expertise and credibility.

Active Listening is Key

During the Q&A session, make sure to actively listen to each question being asked. Give your full attention to the person speaking, maintaining eye contact and nodding along to show that you are engaged. By actively listening, you can fully understand the question being asked and respond appropriately.

Repeat or Paraphrase the Question

To ensure clarity and demonstrate understanding, consider repeating or paraphrasing the question before providing an answer. This not only confirms that you have comprehended the question correctly but also allows other attendees who might not have heard it clearly to understand what was asked.

Keep Your Answers Concise

When answering questions during a Q&A session, aim for concise responses. Avoid going off on tangents or providing unnecessary details that could confuse your audience. Stick to the main point of each question and provide a clear, succinct answer.

Provide Examples or Stories

Adding examples or stories can help illustrate your points effectively during a Q&A session. People often relate better to real-life situations or anecdotes rather than abstract concepts. Sharing relevant examples can make your answers more relatable and memorable for your audience.

Listen Carefully: Key to Effective Question Response

To answer questions effectively after a presentation, one of the most crucial skills you need is the ability to listen carefully . Listening attentively allows you to fully understand the key points being raised and respond in a thoughtful and relevant manner.

Pay Attention to Key Points

When someone asks a question, it’s important to pay close attention to their words and identify the key points they are making. By focusing on these key points, you can ensure that your response directly addresses their concerns or inquiries. This demonstrates that you are actively engaged in the conversation and have taken the time to understand their perspective.

Clarify if Necessary

If you’re unsure about any aspect of the question or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to ask for more information. Seeking clarification shows that you value what the person has asked and want to provide them with an accurate and meaningful response. It also helps prevent misunderstandings or misinterpretations that could lead to ineffective answers.

Take Your Time

Don’t rush into answering a question immediately after it has been asked. Instead, take a moment to gather your thoughts and formulate a well-structured response. This allows you to provide a more comprehensive answer rather than giving an impulsive or incomplete reply. Remember, it’s better to take your time and deliver a thoughtful response than rushing through it without providing valuable insights.

Stay Calm and Composed

Maintaining composure during Q&A sessions is essential for effective question response. Even if faced with challenging or unexpected questions, try not to let it fluster you.

Keep It Brief: Concise Answers for Maximum Impact

Be clear and direct.

When answering questions after a presentation, it’s important to keep your responses clear and direct. Avoid rambling or going off on tangents. Stick to the point and provide concise answers that address the question directly. This will help ensure that your audience understands your response and is not left confused or overwhelmed by unnecessary information.

Stay Focused on the Question

It can be tempting to veer off-topic when answering questions, especially if you have a lot of knowledge on the subject. However, it’s crucial to stay focused on the specific question being asked. Don’t try to impress your audience with unrelated information or go into lengthy explanations that are not relevant. Instead, concentrate on providing a succinct answer that directly addresses the question at hand.

Use Simple Language

Avoid using complex jargon or technical terms when answering questions after a presentation. Your goal is to communicate effectively with your audience, so it’s essential to use language that everyone can understand. Break down complicated concepts into simpler terms and explain them in a way that is accessible to all listeners. By using simple language, you can ensure that your message resonates with a broader range of individuals.

Provide Examples or Analogies

To enhance understanding and engagement, consider providing examples or analogies when answering questions. These can help illustrate your points in a relatable manner and make complex ideas more accessible. Analogies allow you to draw comparisons between unfamiliar concepts and familiar situations, enabling your audience to grasp the information more easily.

Realize That Questions Are a Good Thing: Embrace Audience Engagement

Many people feel anxious or overwhelmed. However, it’s important to realize that questions are actually a good thing and should be embraced as an opportunity for audience engagement.

Encourages Active Participation: Get the Crowd Involved

One of the main reasons why questions should be seen as a positive aspect of a presentation is that they encourage active participation from the audience. When someone asks a question, it shows that they were engaged in your presentation and have taken an interest in the topic. By embracing these questions, you can create a more interactive and engaging experience for everyone involved.

• Encourage audience participation by explicitly inviting questions at the end of your presentation.
• Create an open and welcoming environment where attendees feel comfortable asking questions.
• Acknowledge each question with appreciation and respect, regardless of its complexity or relevance.

Demonstrates Interest and Understanding: Validate Your Message

Another benefit of answering questions is that it allows you to demonstrate your expertise and validate the message you conveyed during your presentation. When you provide thoughtful and knowledgeable answers, it reinforces the credibility of your content and enhances your reputation as a knowledgeable speaker.

• Take each question seriously and provide well-thought-out responses.
• Use clear language without jargon or technical terms to ensure understanding.
• Provide examples or anecdotes to illustrate your points further.

Review Other Presentations and Research FAQs on Your Topic

To effectively answer questions after a presentation, it’s important to be well-prepared. One way to do this is by reviewing other presentations and conducting research on frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to your topic. This will help you anticipate the types of questions that may arise and ensure that you have the necessary knowledge to provide informative and confident responses.

Research Other Presentations

Start by reviewing other presentations on similar topics. This will give you insights into the types of questions that were asked in those presentations and how they were answered. Take note of any common themes or recurring inquiries. By understanding what has been asked before, you can better prepare yourself for potential questions during your own presentation.

Explore FAQs on Your Topic

In addition to studying other presentations, take the time to research frequently asked questions about your specific topic. Look for online resources, forums, or industry-related websites where people commonly seek information or clarification regarding your subject matter. By familiarizing yourself with these FAQs, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the concerns and curiosities that audience members might have.

Benefits of Researching Other Presentations and FAQs

Researching other presentations and exploring FAQs provides several benefits when it comes to answering questions after your own presentation:

• Anticipation : By reviewing previous presentations and researching FAQs, you can anticipate potential questions from your audience. This allows you to prepare thoughtful answers in advance rather than being caught off guard during the Q&A session.
• Knowledge Enhancement

Take a Pause Before Responding: Maintain Composure

Stay calm and collect your thoughts.

One of the most important things you can do is to take a pause before responding. It’s natural to feel a rush of emotions when someone asks you a question, especially if it catches you off guard or challenges your ideas. However, maintaining composure is crucial in order to provide a thoughtful and well-considered response.

Why It Matters

Taking a moment to collect your thoughts allows you to respond in a calm and composed manner. When we’re caught off guard or feeling flustered, our initial reaction might not be the best representation of our ideas or expertise. By pausing and taking a breath, we give ourselves the opportunity to gather our thoughts and provide an answer that reflects our knowledge and understanding.

Benefits of Pausing

• Gather your thoughts : Pausing gives you time to process the question and think about how best to respond. It allows you to organize your ideas and formulate a clear and concise answer.
• Demonstrate confidence : Taking a pause shows that you are confident in your abilities and are not afraid to take the time needed to provide an informed response.
• Avoid rushing : Answering too quickly may lead to incomplete or inaccurate information. By pausing, you can ensure that your response is well-thought-out and comprehensive.
• Maintain control : When faced with challenging or confrontational questions, pausing helps you maintain control over your emotions.

Consider Others’ Perspectives: Anticipate Audience Queries

To effectively answer questions after a presentation, it is crucial to consider the perspectives of your audience and anticipate the queries they may have. By putting yourself in their shoes, you can better understand their concerns and provide thoughtful responses. Here are 11 tips to help you navigate this process smoothly:

1. Put yourself in their shoes

Before diving into answering questions, take a moment to empathize with your audience. Think about what they might be curious or confused about based on the content you presented. This will allow you to approach their queries from a place of understanding.

2. Reflect on your presentation

Take some time to reflect on your presentation and identify potential areas that may have sparked questions or confusion among your listeners. By analyzing your own performance, you can anticipate the specific topics or concepts that may require further clarification.

3. Prepare in advance

While it’s impossible to predict every question that will be asked, preparing in advance can give you a solid foundation for addressing common inquiries related to your presentation’s content. Consider creating a list of potential questions and crafting concise yet informative answers.

4. Stay calm and composed

When faced with challenging or unexpected questions, it’s important to remain calm and composed. Take a deep breath before responding, allowing yourself time to gather your thoughts and deliver an articulate answer.

5. Active listening is key

During the Q&A session, actively listen to each question being asked by members of the audience.

Be Honest: Admitting When You Don’t Know the Answer

Now that we’ve discussed anticipating audience queries, let’s move on to another important aspect of answering questions after a presentation – being honest and admitting when you don’t know the answer. While it may seem counterintuitive to show your lack of knowledge, it actually demonstrates confidence and authenticity. Here are some tips on how to handle these situations with grace:

1. Stay calm and composed

When someone asks you a question that you don’t know the answer to, it’s natural to feel a bit flustered or anxious. However, it’s important to stay calm and composed in these moments. Take a deep breath, maintain eye contact with the person asking the question, and respond in a confident manner.

2. Acknowledge their question

Start by acknowledging the person’s question and expressing gratitude for their interest and engagement. This shows that you value their input and encourages open dialogue.

3. Be honest about your knowledge

If you don’t know the answer, simply admit it. Honesty is always the best policy in these situations. Avoid making up an answer or trying to bluff your way through; this can damage your credibility in the long run.

4. Offer alternatives

While you may not have all the answers, you can still be helpful by offering alternatives or suggesting resources where they might find more information. This shows that you genuinely care about providing value to your audience.

Explore Additional Skills: Tailored Presentation Skills Training

To truly excel in answering questions after a presentation, it’s essential to enhance your overall presentation skills. Investing in tailored presentation skills training can significantly boost your confidence and expertise as a presenter. Here are some key benefits and tips to consider when seeking out such training:

Develop Effective Presentation Skills

Tailored presentation skills training provides you with the opportunity to develop and refine your abilities as a presenter. You’ll learn techniques for engaging your audience , delivering information clearly and concisely , and maintaining a confident presence on stage or in virtual settings.

Enhance Communication Skills

One of the primary goals of any presentation is effective communication . With tailored training, you can improve your verbal and non-verbal communication skills, allowing you to convey your message more effectively. This includes mastering body language, vocal tone, eye contact, and gestures that create a positive impact on your audience.

Learn Strategies for Handling Questions

A crucial aspect of tailored presentation skills training is learning how to handle questions from the audience confidently. You’ll gain insights into techniques for active listening, paraphrasing questions for clarity, and providing concise yet comprehensive answers. These strategies will help you navigate challenging or unexpected queries with ease.

Practice Mock Q&A Sessions

In addition to theoretical knowledge, tailored training often includes practical sessions where you can practice answering questions in simulated environments. These mock Q&A sessions provide valuable opportunities to refine your responses and receive feedback from trainers or peers.

Gain Confidence through Feedback

Receiving constructive feedback is an integral part of tailored presentation skills training.

Be Clear About Opinions: Articulating Personal Standpoints

One crucial aspect is being clear about your opinions and articulating your personal standpoints effectively. This not only showcases your confidence but also helps you build credibility with your audience. Here are 11 tips to help you navigate this aspect successfully:

1. Understand the question before responding

Before jumping into an answer, take a moment to fully understand the question being asked. Listen attentively and make sure you comprehend what the person is asking for. This will allow you to provide a relevant and concise response.

2. Reflect on your thoughts

Take a brief moment to gather your thoughts before responding. This will prevent you from blurting out an unorganized or incomplete answer. Reflecting on your thoughts allows you to formulate a well-structured response that effectively conveys your opinion.

3. Use personal experiences as examples

When answering questions, drawing from personal experiences can be incredibly impactful. Sharing anecdotes or stories that relate to the topic at hand not only adds depth and authenticity to your response but also helps engage the audience on a more personal level.

4. Provide supporting evidence or data

To strengthen your opinions, consider providing supporting evidence or data whenever possible. This could include citing relevant studies, statistics, or expert opinions that align with your viewpoint. By backing up your statements with credible sources, you demonstrate that your opinion is well-informed and grounded in facts.

Anticipate Questions in Advance: Proactive Preparation for Q&A Sessions

To ensure you’re well-prepared to answer questions after your presentation, it’s crucial to anticipate potential inquiries in advance. This proactive approach allows you to gather the necessary information and formulate thoughtful responses beforehand, increasing your confidence during the Q&A session. Here are 11 tips to help you anticipate questions and prepare effectively:

Familiarize Yourself with the Topic

Before diving into the details of your presentation, make sure you have a comprehensive understanding of the topic at hand. By immersing yourself in the subject matter, you’ll be better equipped to foresee potential gaps in knowledge or areas that may spark curiosity among your audience.

Put Yourself in Your Audience’s Shoes

Try to think like your audience members and consider what questions they might have based on the information you presented. Consider their perspectives, backgrounds, and prior knowledge on the topic. This empathetic approach will enable you to anticipate a wider range of possible questions.

Review Previous Presentations and Feedback

If this isn’t your first time presenting on this topic, take some time to review any previous presentations and feedback received. Look for recurring questions or areas where clarification was needed. Addressing these points proactively can prevent similar queries from arising again.

Consult with Experts or Peers

Engaging with experts or peers who possess knowledge about your topic can provide valuable insights into potential questions that may arise during the Q&A session. Seek their input and ask them about common misconceptions or areas that tend to generate curiosity among audiences.

More Articles on Public Speaking: Expanding Your Knowledge Base

Congratulations! You’ve now completed a comprehensive journey through the essential sections that will empower you to confidently answer questions after your presentation. By embracing active listening, concise answers, audience engagement, and proactive preparation, you’re well on your way to becoming a master of Q&A sessions. Remember, questions are not something to fear but rather an opportunity to connect with your audience and demonstrate your expertise.

Now that you have learned these valuable tips and strategies, it’s time to put them into practice. Take every opportunity to refine your skills by seeking out additional resources on public speaking and exploring tailored presentation skills training. With each experience, you’ll become more comfortable and adept at handling questions after your presentations. So go ahead, step onto that stage with confidence, knowing that you have the tools to engage your audience and provide impactful answers.

How do I handle difficult or challenging questions from the audience?

When faced with difficult or challenging questions from the audience, it’s important to stay calm and composed. Take a deep breath before responding and listen attentively to fully understand the question. If you don’t know the answer or are unsure, it’s okay to admit it honestly. Offer alternative solutions like promising further research or suggesting resources for additional information.

What if I receive multiple questions at once? How do I manage them effectively?

If multiple questions are thrown at you simultaneously, try not to feel overwhelmed. Take a moment to acknowledge each question individually before addressing them one by one in order of importance or relevance. This approach ensures fairness and allows for clear communication between you and the audience.

How can I anticipate potential questions in advance?

To anticipate potential questions in advance, thoroughly research your topic and familiarize yourself with common concerns or misconceptions related to it. Review other presentations on similar topics and analyze frequently asked questions (FAQs) online or from previous Q&A sessions. By understanding your audience’s perspective and considering their possible queries, you can proactively prepare and provide comprehensive answers.

Is it necessary to have a teaching mindset during Q&A sessions?

Adopting a teaching mindset during Q&A sessions is highly beneficial. It allows you to explain complex concepts in simpler terms, engage the audience through storytelling or examples, and foster a sense of collaboration between you and the questioner. By approaching questions as opportunities for learning and sharing knowledge, you create a more enriching experience for everyone involved.

How can I make my answers concise yet impactful?

To make your answers concise yet impactful, focus on delivering the most essential information without unnecessary fluff.

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How to Handle Research Presentation Q&A Sessions

Answering Research Presentation Questions Effectively

Dealing with questions from audience members can be one of the most difficult aspects of presenting your research. In addition to the pressure of speaking in front of a crowd of your academic peers, presentation questions can often be difficult to answer for a number of reasons: communication difficulties, lack of information, inability to understand the exact question, or even difficulty hearing the speaker. Even if you know your research topic inside and out, these questions can cause a lot of frustration for even the best researchers.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare for the Q&A session and make it a productive part of your presentation. The following guidelines provide a comprehensive approach to answering questions you are likely to encounter during your research presentations and give you some simple advice on how to respond to these difficult questions and awkward situations.

Before Your Research Presentation

Before you even give your presentation, there are some basic strategies you can use to make sure you are not caught off guard by any questions you will be asked.

Create a list of the possible presentation questions you will be asked

Imagine you are a fellow researcher sitting in the audience. Which questions would you ask about your study? Break down your questions as they relate to different sections of your research paper (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Conclusion), and write down as many questions are possible regarding this information.

List questions you CAN answer and those you CANNOT (or do not want to) answer

Among the questions you write down, some you will be happy to answer, some you will be incapable of answering, and still others you may not  want  to answer (at least not in front of an audience). Divide your questions into these categories so you know exactly how you will begin your response to them if they come up.

Practice asking and responding to the questions out loud

Go through each question and ask it in a couple of different ways (as there are several ways to ask the same question). Practice giving your answers using both your own knowledge about the topic you are researching and the sample sentences provided in this guideline. Practice makes perfect!

During the Presentation Q&A Session

Step 1: open the q&a session.

Tell your audience that you are starting the Q&A session.

Presenter : “I will now answer any questions you have about this research. Please speak slowly and clearly.”

Step 2: Clarify the question asked

You should understand a question before you try to respond. Here are some phrases to use to respond to clarify the question in different situations.

Step 3: Respond to the question

Once you understand the question, you can respond to the audience member.

3a. Begin your response with a polite comment —When you respond, it is a good idea to first thank the audience member for the question and/or give them a compliment.

3b.  Give an appropriate answer —Every question is unique and there are many kinds of responses. However, here are some phrases you can use to respond to questions depending on your ability to answer it.

When you cannot or do not want to answer the question:  If you are unable to or would rather not answer a question, you can let the audience members know this using these phrases.

Examples of this kind of response:  Here are some real examples of research-related questions and responses.

When you can answer but need a little time or more details : Sometimes you need to further clarify a question or give yourself some time to respond. Here are some responses to tell the audience what you need.

Examples of this kind of response:  Here are some real examples of research-related questions and responses.

More Q&A Questions by Research Paper Section

In addition to answering general questions about the research, you can also respond to questions about parts of your paper with some general answers to get you started.

Questions about the Methods section

Questions about  findings/results and implications, reviewing and referencing visual aids.

You can also review your presentation notes and use materials such as visual aids to help answer questions.

Presentation Q&A Session Techniques for Success

It is just as important to be prepared in attitude, posture, and voice as it is to practice your Q&A responses. These simple tips will help things go smoother throughout your presentation.

• Stand up straight and tall —this will give you more confidence when speaking publicly.
• Be friendly and warm— smiling and answering politely will make your Q&A session more relaxed.
• Delay your answers and take your time— speak slowly and don’t rush through the questions or answers; make sure you understand each question before trying to answer it.
• Display a slide with your contact information— this will allow you to easily tell audience members where to contact you if they have further questions.

When preparing your presentation, be sure to get professional editing and proofreading services to ensure you get off to a great start with academic language and style enhancement.

Wordvice Resources

How to write a research paper introduction, which verb tenses to use in a research paper, how to write an abstract for a research paper, how to write a research paper title, useful phrases for academic writing, paraphrasing in research papers.

Elisa Granato

Microbial ecology & evolution, phd tips – how to ask a question after a seminar.

“PhD tips” is an ongoing series of blog posts written by postdocs and aimed at graduate students at the University of Oxford (Department of Biology). I wrote this in July 2021.

Hi everyone!

I hope you are all doing well. This week I want to talk about asking questions after scientific seminars. We have probably all been there – someone is done with their presentation, the host is asking for questions, and your mind goes “Should I ask something? But WHAT? I got nothing.”, or “I have this one question … but it’s probably dumb, I’ll just look it up later so that I don’t embarrass myself.”

This is very normal, especially if you’re just starting out in science, but even at later stages it can happen quite regularly, especially when you’re unfamiliar with the speaker’s field of research. On the flip side, asking a (good) question can be a) a great learning experience – you will take away way more from the talk than if you just listened; b) a gift for the speaker – they will remember you fondly, and the audience will too, so it’s a nice way for people in your circle (group/department/field) to get to know you a little better; and c) sometimes a gateway to a collaboration and/or a new friend – if the speaker and you really click and the conversation continues after the presentation.

So, how do you come up with questions, how do you phrase them, and how do you muster up the courage to ask them?

How to come up with questions

• Consider taking notes during the talk. It might help your brain keep track of things, so you can link e.g. their main question from slide 2 to their results on slide 27. This is particularly relevant for keynotes and other long presentations that switch between projects and topics.
• Is this result what I expected or was I surprised (+why)?
• Does this remind me of anything else (another talk/project/topic)?
• Can I think of alternative methods/explanations/interpretations?
• Am I following their logic of reasoning, or is something tripping me up?
• Write this stuff down. These can be “proto-questions” that turn into a full question by the end of the talk.
• Clarification. This is an easy one. You didn’t get something? Ask the speaker to elaborate, or explain again, or clarify a link between two results.
• Technical stuff. Ask about their methods, how exactly does this work, what are the pros and cons of this compared to other methods, etc.
• The Link. Can you think of an area their findings could be relevant for, but they didn’t mention? Does this relate to your own work in some way, can you contribute your own findings? Can their findings be extrapolated to other systems?
• The Alternative. Can you think of different ways of interpreting a graph they showed, or a different way of measuring something, or a different angle of approaching their main question?
• The Future. Can you think of something they could try next? Are you wondering where they’re going with this? Can this be applied in some other field?
• Get inspired by a template. As I said above, a lot of seminar questions follow a rather typical pattern, so I started compiling a list for myself to consult next time I’m struggling to think of a question. It’s worked really well! Here’s a link [LINK] to my current list, I will keep adding to this in the future.
• Take note when someone asks a question you thought was really interesting. Why did you think it was good? Can you learn from the way they asked the question? Can you try to ask a similar or related question at a different seminar?

How to phrase your question

• Make sure your question is short and clear. Writing it down can help.
• Only ask one question at a time, it’s really difficult for speakers to remember >1 question.
• Might seem obvious, but make sure you ask an actual question that would have a “?” at the end if you wrote it down. Don’t use the infamous “This is more of a comment than a question.”
• If you want to add a modifier regarding your knowledge before your question (e.g. “I am not familiar with concept X, …), that’s fine and can help the speaker to put your question into context and provide an answer with appropriate levels of detail. But it’s not strictly necessary, even if you ARE familiar with the subject, it’s ok to not know things or to seek clarification.
• Take into account how senior the speaker is. Consider restricting the really challenging and critical questions to more senior speakers.

How to muster up the courage to ask a question

• Realize that it’s completely normal to be nervous when asking questions, and even very senior people get nervous, especially at big conferences when the whole auditorium is listening. By practising in smaller seminars or group meetings, you can slowly desensitize your brain to the experience.
• If you’re thinking “this question is probably dumb, it’s very basic, I should know this”, you’re extremely likely to have simply picked up on something that a) the speaker hasn’t explained well; or b) not everyone in the audience is familiar with. In both cases, a large part of the audience will have the same question, and you can be their hero! Trust me, everyone loves it when someone asks the question that is on everyone’s mind, but no one dares to ask because it “feels” basic. Set an example!
• Making notes during the talk, or even writing down the whole question and reading it out, can be a great way to get over the first hurdle of “Oh God I don’t know what I want to ask exactly” or “Aaaah I forgot my question!”. I always write down at least a half sentence before asking a question, so that I don’t forget when I’m being called on and the adrenaline hits.

To conclude – conversations about science are integral to being a scientist, and asking a question that sparks a nice discussion feels nothing short of amazing, so it’s worth investing in this skill. I hope you will find some of what I wrote useful, and next time you’re in a seminar maybe try and challenge yourself to ask a question. I am going to finish by saying that, as a 4 th year postdoc at the time of writing this, I still very much struggle with asking questions, but I also know that I am doing way better now than I did as a PhD student, and every time I ask a question I get like 1% better at it, so there’s hope for all of us!

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Guide for Handling Questions after a Presentation

October 19, 2017 - Dom Barnard

The questions at the end of a presentation can be terrifying for many speakers as they can’t be controlled and are hard to prepare for. However, questions form an important part of the presentation for the whole audience as they allow for clarification and consolidation of learning.

The presenter can enhance the usefulness of the question and answer session by treating it as a formal part of the presentation that requires as much careful planning and control as the delivery of the core material.

Identify possible questions and scope in your preparation

The background work that you undertook whilst planning your presentation is the key to handling questions effectively and understanding what  type of audience  you’ll be faced with. If you have defined a focus for your presentation and have explored this thoroughly in your research and planning, you are more likely to be able to confidently respond to questions.

When planning your presentation, you will need to prepare prompts for questions that are open and straightforward, for example saying “That’s the end of my presentation. I’ll be taking questions for the next 10 minutes”.

You might also want to define topics for discussion before taking questions, by stating the areas you’re willing to field questions in. Your preparation will help you identify topics you are not confident with and want to avoid in the questioning.

Set some rules for asking questions

At the start of your presentation, make it clear when you would prefer to deal with questions – as you go along or at the end of the presentation.

Some speakers prefer questions to be raised as they arise during the presentation. The advantage of this approach is that any misunderstandings can be dealt with immediately. However, there is also a danger that the question will disrupt or distract the speaker, or that questions are raised that would have been covered later in the presentation.

If you leave questions until the end, plan to leave plenty of time for questions so that the audience doesn’t feel rushed.

Framework for responding to questions

Answering questions under pressure can make you say things you shouldn’t have – the nerves can force you to give an inappropriate response. In your panic you might have misinterpreted the question or given away company information that was sensitive. Use the following framework to help you respond effectively to your audience.

Practice answering AI-generated questions on your speech or presentation with  VirtualSpeech .

1. Listen to the whole question

You don’t have to answer a question immediately. Pause for a few seconds,  actively listen  to all parts of the question and think about the best way to answer.

Frequently questions can change direction at the last moment, particularly if the questioner is thinking on their feet. This can throw you if you have already started to prepare an answer. Remember that questioners will frequently try to make a point whilst asking their question – it’s therefore important to both hear the content of the question and try to decipher the questioner’s intention.

2. Understand the context

If you are worried that you haven’t understood a question, ask them to clarify what they mean. Check for confirmation by paraphrasing the question back to the questioner – “You want me to list the improvements of X?”.

3. Involve the whole audience

It is important to remember that even though you are taking a question from one member of the audience, you are still responsible for the interest of the other audience members. This is particularly important in large groups as the audience will become bored if the presentation descends into a series of one-to-one discussions.

To involve the rest of the audience, make sure the whole audience has heard and understood the question by repeating it or paraphrasing it to the audience.

4. Respond concisely

When you reply to a question, direct your answer to both the questioner and other members of the audience. Try to keep your responses as focused as possible, leaving space for other questions. To avoid going into too much detail, check back with the questioner to see if you have answered their query – “Does that answer your question in enough detail?”.

We’ll cover different ways to respond in a later section.

5. Allow follow-up questions via email

You can also encourage your audience to ask questions after the event has finished by providing your email address. This shows a high level of respect for your audience and implies that the topic still has much further scope for enquiry.

Two good resources for handling questions

• What’s the art of answering a tricky question?
• Dodging the Question

Practice Answering Questions

Practice answering questions after your presentation using a 4 step process. Learn More

Options for answering the question

There are five possible choices depending on how well you understand and can answer the question. It’s okay to say that you don’t know the answer to something. This can add to your credibility instead of trying to waffle through an answer you don’t really know.

If you have a good answer for the question from the audience, go ahead and answer it in a short and clear message.

Ask a question back the audience member, such as “Can you clarify what you mean by that”. You can also attack the question if it is not related to the issue, factually inaccurate, personal or based on false assumptions. Be careful with this method.

Ask the question back to the audience or pass it to another panel member if possible. If suitable, another technique is to imply the question has been asked already, with you stating you don’t want to cover old ground.

Tell the audience member you will talk to them after the event. This gives you more time to think of a good answer and there is less pressure to give a perfect answer.

Or mention that that point is coming up in a slide.

This involves answering the question but changing the subject. You can also give a partial answer or give a negative answer, saying that something else will happen instead.

Avoid answering questions that fall outside of the remit of your talk: “I’m afraid that really falls outside of my objectives for today’s presentation. Perhaps we can resume discussion of that particular point later?”

Diagram Explained : Once you receive a question, you’ll have a few moments to think about it and reframe it in a way that makes sense to you. This will give you five choices on how to react – you can answer, reflect, deflect, defer or change the scope of the question. Once you’ve answered concisely, you can then follow up to check if the person asking the question is satisfied and then continue with the presentation.

Strategies to use when struggling to answer

Here are some strategies to use when you are struggling to answer the question posed to you. For more information, read this article on  Dodging the Question .

• Acknowledge the question without answering it – “That’s a good question, let’s consider the impact by looking at…”
• The question fails to tackle the important issue.
• The question is based on a false assumption.
• The question is factually inaccurate.
• The question is too personal or objectionable.
• Decline to answer. Refuse to answer on the basis that it is not your area of responsibility or it is sensitive company information – “You will have to ask [name] because I wasn’t involved in that particular project.”
• Partial answer
• Start to answer but change the subject
• Negative answer. You state what won’t happen instead of what will happen
• Answer a similar question
• State or imply the question has already been answered – “We’ve already covered that topic”

Things to avoid

When handling questions and answers, you will still need to be as professional as you have been for the main delivery of your presentation. There are some common dangers to avoid.

Answering the question you wished you’d been asked

A common trick played by politicians, this strategy ignores the precise nature of the question and uses a predetermined answer to the broad topic area. If handled poorly, this technique is very obvious to the audience and frustrating to the questioner.

Giving a lengthy response

This is the process whereby you make a lengthy response, including all the information you’d left out in planning the main presentation. Your unplanned response will be unstructured and rambling, so keep things focused and brief. If you find yourself rambling, ask them to talk to you after.

Passing the blame

Passing the blame to others comes across as weak and evasive. If an idea from the audience is a good one, acknowledge its value. If it isn’t, make a polite rebuttal and move on.

Defensive answers

Occasionally, questions can really put you on the spot, but it is important to remain calm and in control. An aggressive or defensive reply will be seen as weakness on your part and will spoil the effect of an otherwise successful presentation.

Handling difficult questions

It is important not to start responding to a difficult question before you have thought about the answer. Repeating the question and asking for clarification will help create some space for your thoughts.

Sometimes you will need to think about a question for a moment before responding. You may be able to buy a little bit of thinking time to help focus your response. Useful strategies include searching for an appropriate visual aid to help focus your response or simply pausing for a moment or two to think. For even more time, suggest that you’ll come back to the topic later (but don’t forget to do this).

7 myths when answering tough questions during presentations

Sometimes questions are too difficult to answer. Don’t worry about admitting that you don’t know something or haven’t considered an alternative approach. An enthusiastic “That’s an interesting idea, I’d not thought of that” is much more positive than a mumbled “I don’t know ”. Remember that a presentation is a two-way process and it is important to show that you are learning from your audience as well.

Finally, you can come across a questioner who disagrees strongly with your argument. Although this can feel very awkward, remember that you are still responsible for the whole audience and that you cannot allocate all of your question time to one individual.

If you feel that you have answered the initial question, announce that you will move on and suggest that you might continue discussion after the presentation. If the questioner persists, assert your position calmly by saying “I’m afraid I need to move on”.

You can read more on this topic here:  Responding to questions effectively (PDF)

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• Effective Presentation Skills Tutorial
• Handling Questions and Answers

At the end of your presentation, if it is appropriate for the type of presentation, solicit questions from the audience.

Responding to Audience Questions

When someone is asking a question, make eye contact with that person, listen positively, and acknowledge by saying "thank you for that question," or say "that is an excellent question" or "that is an important question".

If the audience is in a large room and cannot hear each other's questions, repeat the question loudly for everyone to hear, before answering it.

If you know the answer to the question, respond appropriately and briefly so you can take more questions and not spend too much time on one question.

Effective Response to Question

This video clip is an example of a presenter effectively responding to an audience member's question .

Ineffective Response to Question

This video clip is an example of a presenter ineffectively responding to an audience member's question .

If the question is not relevant to the presentation, say something like, "I am really sorry that question is outside the scope of this presentation, but I will be happy to stay after the presentation and discuss it with you."

Effective Response to Off-topic Question

This video clip is an example of a presenter effectively responding to an off-topic question or one in which he or she does not know the answer .

Inappropriate Response to Off-topic Question

This video clip is an example of a presenter inappropriately responding to an off-topic question or one in which he or she does not know the answer .

If time is running out for answering all of the questions, say, "I am sorry. I am running out of time, but I will take one last question, and then I will be available at the end to answer any remaining questions."

If you do not know the answer to a question say, "That is an interesting question, and I will have to get back to you later on that" or ask the audience "Can someone help me with this?" or be gracious and acknowledge you do not know the answer at that time.

If an audience member criticizes or attacks what you had covered in your presentation, do not attack back, but separate the valid criticism from the personal attack, and respond to the criticism appropriately.

Some things not to do during the question and answer period:

• Shuffling papers or technology and not making eye contact with the questioner
• Belittling the questioner
• Calling those who want to ask questions by their physical characteristics
• Not taking questions in the sequence they are asked, but focusing on certain people or a side of the room

Asking Good Questions

If you are in the audience, know also how to ask good questions to indicate that you are following the presentation.

You can ask some general questions about any topic, and you may be genuinely curious about some things presented.

• What were the most challenging aspects, or what surprised you the most, in conducting this project?
• Why did you choose this particular methodology or argument instead of another one?
• How did you collect the data? Were there any problems in collecting data? What was the sample size?
• How did you validate your work? Did you validate with a real problem or situation?
• What are some of the limitations of your work?
• What recommendations do you have for further exploration in this project?

Learning to ask good questions at the end of a presentation demonstrates your active participation.

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Don’t Dread the Q&A After Your Presentation

You can manage a fear of public speaking by thoroughly rehearsing your presentation. But what about the part of the talk that is less in your control: the question-and-answer period? Don’t worry, there are several things you can do to prepare. First, change your mindset, and develop an appreciation for the conversation. Follow-up questions mean […]

You can manage a fear of public speaking by thoroughly rehearsing your presentation. But what about the part of the talk that is less in your control: the question-and-answer period? Don’t worry, there are several things you can do to prepare. First, change your mindset, and develop an appreciation for the conversation. Follow-up questions mean that people want to engage with what you have to say. Think about the types of things that audience members might ask. Put yourself in their shoes: How will your message impact their job? Practice responding with appreciation, such as “Thank you for raising that.” If you’re asked a contentious question, start your answer by focusing on where you and the audience member agree. This makes the person feel seen and connected to you. If you’re asked a question out of left field, respond with curiosity. Ask follow-up questions that help you understand what they’re getting at and where they’re coming from. If you’re still scratching your head, you can go back to expressing appreciation. A response like “I’m not sure about that, but thank you. I’ll look into it and get back to you,” will always work.

Source: This tip is adapted from “How to Nail the Q&A After Your Presentation,” by Caroline Webb

Partner Center

350 Top Q&A Questions to Expect for Any Presentations (Save Them Now!)

Zhun Yee Chew

Preparing the slide content is nothing compared to dealing with daunting questions during the Q&A session of a presentation. Sometimes, if we are not lucky, we will face a tough crowd with even tougher questions that may leave us feeling challenged on the spot. And none of us likes the awkward moment of not being able to provide a satisfactory response to the audience.

Answering Q&A questions is a skill that everyone can master with the right resources and the right amount of preparation. You’ve searched, and we have them for you.

In this article, you will find more than 300 Q&A questions that are most commonly asked in a wide range of presentation occasions. Save them so you can be ready for even the most unexpected questions in your upcoming presentations!

What Are Q&A Questions?

Q&A questions, short for “Questions and Answers”, are inquiries posed by an audience or participants to the speaker or presenter during the Q&A session of a presentation . This Q&A segment typically follows a presentation, a talk or a lecture, providing the opportunities for the audience to seek clarification, ask additional information, or understand the speaker’s perspectives.

The whole point of Q&A sessions is to make the presentation more interactive and foster engagement . It’s a chance for the audience to pick the speaker’s brain and get a better understanding of the subject. 

What Are the Different Types of Presentations?

Business Presentations:

• Sales pitches
• Quarterly or annual reports
• Performance reviews
• Project proposals/updates
• All-hands presentations

Academic  Presentations:

• Lesson presentations
• Conference/research presentations
• Classroom quiz games

Training Sessions:

• Employee training
• Onboarding sessions
• Skills development workshops

Public Speaking:

• Motivational speeches
• Commencement addresses

Informative Presentations:

• How-to presentations
• Demonstrations
• Informational sessions

Social Events:

• Celebration speeches
• Team-building activities
• PowerPoint nights
• Presentation games

Technology Presentations:

• Software launches
• Product launches

Crisis Management:

• Crisis communication
• Emergency response briefings
• Contingency plans

Virtual Presentations:

• Online conferences

Different presentations involve different audience types, and the nature of questions posed can vary significantly based on presentation formats and occasions. However, the core of a successful and engaging presentation remains constant – ensuring  interactivity in a presentation  and transforming it into a two-way street through Q&A questions and adding interactive elements or using interactive tools in your presentations.

Academic Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for lecture presentations.

• Can you provide more examples for the concept/theory you just explained?
• Are there any common misconceptions about this topic that we should be aware of?
• What are the main differences between this and [related topic]?
• Can you explain the steps involved in [specific process] in more detail?
• What are the current research trends or developments in this field?
• How does this concept connect to what we learned in the previous lesson?
• Are there any alternative approaches to solve the problems here?
• Can you recommend additional resources or readings?
• Can you provide some tips for studying this material effectively?
• Are there any real-world examples where this concept has been successfully applied?
• What are the most common mistakes students make when working on assignments for this topic?
• Can you explain the significance of this concept in the context of future careers?
• What are the ethical considerations associated with the topics we are discussing?
• Are there any current debates or controversies related to this topic?
• How does this topic connect with interdisciplinary subjects or other courses?
• Can you share examples of how this concept might be used in different industries or professions?
• Can you summarize the key takeaways of today’s presentation?
• Can you discuss any historical or cultural context that influences this topic?
• How might this information be relevant to current events or societal issues?

Q&A Questions for Academic Conference Presentations 

• How did you decide on the research question or topic for your study?
• How did you select your sample or participants, and how representative is it of the broader population?
• Can you explain the methodology you used in your research and why you chose that approach?
• What are the main findings or key results of your study?
• How do your findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge in your field?
• Can you discuss any limitations or challenges you encountered during your research?
• What implications do your findings have for practitioners in the field?
• Can you elaborate on the theoretical framework that guided your study?
• What ethical considerations did you address in your research, and how were they managed?
• How did you validate the reliability and validity of your research instruments or methods?
• How did you address potential biases or confounding variables in your research?
• How do your findings compare to previous research on the same or similar topics?
• Can you discuss any unexpected or surprising results that you discovered during your study?
• How did you handle data analysis, and what statistical methods were employed in your study?
• What alternative explanations or interpretations of your data did you consider?
• How does your research contribute to addressing specific gaps in current knowledge?
• How did you control for potential confounding variables in your research design?
• What recommendations do you have for policymakers based on your research findings?
• How does your study relate to other recent or ongoing research in the same area?
• Are your findings generalizable to different populations or settings?
• How did you ensure the rigor of your data analysis and interpretation?
• What role did collaboration play in your research, and how did you handle disagreements within the research team?
• Can you share any unexpected challenges you faced during the research process?
• How might your findings be applied in a practical context, such as in industry or education?
• How did you establish the validity of your conclusions in light of potential bias or subjectivity?
• What potential areas for future research did your study uncover?
• Can you discuss the relevance of your research to current global or societal issues?
• How did you handle any limitations in available resources or funding for your research?
• What key takeaway message or lesson would you like the audience to remember from your presentation?

Q&A Questions for Student Presentations

• Can you elaborate on the research process you used to gather information for your presentation?
• Can you discuss the process of selecting and organizing the visual elements in your presentation, such as charts or graphs?
• How did you decide on the topic or key elements to include in your presentation?
• What challenges did you encounter while preparing for your presentation, and how did you overcome them?
• What did you learn about the topic that surprised you during your research?
• Can you explain the significance of your topic or its relevance to the course content?
• Can you discuss any alternative perspectives or counter-arguments related to your topic that you considered?
• What sources did you consult to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented?
• Can you explain the connection between your topic and current events or real-world applications?
• Can you share any specific examples or case studies that support the points you made in your presentation?
• Can you elaborate on any implications or applications of your findings beyond the scope of your presentation?
• Can you discuss any ethical considerations related to your topic that you addressed in your presentation?
• How might your presentation contribute to the understanding of the broader course themes or objectives?
• What aspects of the presentation are you most proud of, and what would you do differently next time?

Q&A Questions for Project-Based Lessons

• What is the main goal or objective of this project, and how will our work contribute to it?
• Can you provide more details about the criteria for success in this project?
• How will our progress be assessed, and what are the key milestones or deadlines?
• Can you clarify the roles and responsibilities of each team member in the project?
• Are there specific resources or materials that we should use or reference for this project?
• Can you provide examples of successful projects from previous classes or students?
• Are there specific presentation or communication requirements for showcasing our project?
• What opportunities for feedback and revision will be available throughout the project timeline?

Business Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for sales pitches.

• What makes your product or service different from competitors in the market?
• Can you provide some specific examples of companies or clients who have successfully used your product/service?
• How does your product/service address specific pain points or challenges that customers commonly face?
• Can you share some success stories or case studies related to your product/service?
• How does your product/service integrate with existing tools or systems our company uses?
• What kind of support or training is provided to customers after they purchase your product/service?
• Can you explain the implementation process and how quickly we can expect to see results?
• Are there any customization options available to tailor the product/service to our specific needs?
• What kind of ongoing maintenance or updates does your product/service require?
• How do you ensure the security and privacy of our data when using your product/service?
• Are there any limitations or restrictions we should be aware of when using your product/service?
• How often do you release updates or new features to your product/service?
• Can you explain the scalability of your solution and how it can grow with our business?
• What is your company’s roadmap for future developments or enhancements to the product/service?
• What is the typical return on investment (ROI) that your customers experience after implementing your product/service?
• How do you handle issues or challenges that may arise post-purchase?

Q&A Questions for Work Presentations

• How does your proposal align with our company’s overall goals or strategic objectives?
• What potential challenges do you foresee in implementing this plan, and how do you plan to address them?
• Can you explain the specific roles and responsibilities of each team member involved in this project?
• What kind of timeline are you envisioning for the different phases of this project?
• Have you considered alternative approaches to achieve the same goals, and if so, what are they?
• What resources, budget, and manpower will be required to execute this plan successfully?
• How do you plan to measure the success or effectiveness of this project?
• Are there any potential risks associated with your proposal, and what mitigation strategies do you have in place?
• Can you provide examples of similar projects that have been successful in the past, either within our company or in other organizations?
• How will you keep stakeholders informed and engaged throughout the project lifecycle?
• What kind of collaboration and communication tools do you plan to use to keep the team connected?
• Are there any dependencies or external factors that could impact the timeline or success of this project?
• Can you explain how this project aligns with current industry trends or best practices?
• What are the potential roadblocks or obstacles you anticipate, and how do you plan to overcome them?

Q&A Questions for Performance Review Presentations 

• Can you highlight specific projects or tasks where you feel you excelled?
• How have you demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to take initiative?
• Have there been any instances of conflict or difficult situations, and how did you handle them?
• What accomplishments are you most proud of since our last performance review?
• Where do you think you could have performed better, and what challenges did you face?
• How well do you think your current responsibilities align with your career goals?
• What new skills or responsibilities would you like to take on in the next year?
• How have you found the feedback and communication within the team or organization?
• How well do you feel you have contributed to team projects and collaborations?
• Are there ways we can enhance teamwork and collaboration within the team?
• Is there anything we can do to support you better in your role?
• What additional resources or training do you think would benefit you in your role?
• What motivates you in your work, and how can we ensure your continued motivation?
• What steps can we take to help you achieve your long-term career goals?

Q&A Questions for Annual/Quarterly Report Presentations

• How did specific projects or initiatives contribute to the overall success or challenges outlined in the report?
• What challenges or obstacles did the team face during the reporting period, and how were they addressed?
• Are there any unexpected or significant changes in the industry landscape that may affect future performance?
• What steps were taken to mitigate risks and uncertainties identified in the previous reports?
• Can you discuss the budgetary implications of the results presented in the report?
• How did the team adapt to changes in customer preferences or demands during this reporting period?
• How do the results align with the long-term strategic objectives of the organization?
• Can you discuss any feedback or concerns received from clients, customers, or stakeholders mentioned in the report?
• How did internal collaborations or cross-functional teamwork contribute to the outcomes presented?
• What initiatives or projects are planned for the upcoming quarter or year in response to the findings in the report?
• Can you elaborate on the return on investment (ROI) for specific marketing or promotional activities mentioned in the report?
• How do the current results compare to benchmarks or industry standards for similar organizations?
• Can you discuss any changes or improvements in operational processes that were implemented during the reporting period?
• Can you provide insights into any potential areas for improvement or focus in the coming reporting period based on the data presented?

Q&A Questions for All-Hands Presentations

• What are the key priorities and goals for the team in the upcoming quarter/year?
• Can you provide more details about the recent changes in team structure or leadership?
• How will recent industry trends or developments impact our team’s strategies moving forward?
• Can you discuss the reasoning behind recent policy changes or updates within the team?
• How will the team address challenges identified in recent performance reports or feedback?
• Can you provide insights into the budget allocation and resource planning for the team?
• How will the team adapt to changes in technology or tools that may affect our workflow?
• What professional development opportunities will be available to team members in the coming months?
• Can you share updates on recent achievements or milestones reached by the team?
• Can you discuss the team’s approach to fostering diversity and inclusion within the workplace?
• What strategies will be implemented to maintain team morale and motivation?
• Can you elaborate on the team’s strategy for managing workloads and preventing burnout?
• How will the team address any challenges related to communication?
• What steps will be taken to recognize and celebrate individual and team achievements in the future?

Public Speaking Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for motivational presentations.

• How did your background or experiences shape your perspective on the topic you discussed?
• How can individuals or communities apply the ideas you shared in their own lives or work?
• What impact do you hope your work will have on the future of [your topic]?
• How has your perspective on [your topic] evolved throughout your journey, and what lessons have you learned?
• How do you suggest we, as individuals, can contribute to or support the goals you outlined in your presentation?
• What advice do you have for someone who wants to get involved in or pursue a similar field or project?
• What are the common misconceptions or misunderstandings about [your topic] that you’d like to address?
• How can the audience stay informed or engaged with ongoing developments in your field or topic?
• Can you share personal experiences where you overcame significant obstacles and found motivation in [an area]?
• What advice do you have for dealing with [a personal issue]?
• How do you handle setbacks and failures in [an area]?
• What daily habits or routines do you recommend for sustaining long-term motivation?
• How can individuals at various career stages benefit from the insights you shared?
• Can you share examples of successful individuals who have been a source of inspiration for you?

Informative Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for youtube or online webinar presentations.

• How can I access the recording of this webinar for future reference?
• Can you recommend any additional resources for further learning on this topic?
• How does this information apply to different industries or professions?
• How do you suggest we adapt these concepts to our specific organizational context?
• How can we stay updated on new developments or research in this field?
• Can you suggest strategies for overcoming resistance to change when implementing these ideas?
• What role does ongoing professional development play in mastering the skills you discussed?
• How can individuals without a background in this field apply the principles you discussed?
• Can you explain the potential challenges or common mistakes people might encounter when trying this on their own?
• How do you foresee the future trends or developments affecting the subject of this webinar?
• Can you recommend specific tools or software that would enhance our implementation of these strategies?
• What are some key indicators of success when implementing the strategies you discussed?
• Can you discuss any industry standards or benchmarks related to the topics covered in this webinar?
• What would be the first step you recommend for someone looking to implement these ideas in their organization?

Q&A Questions for Demonstration Presentations

• Can you clarify the purpose or goal of the demonstration?
• What specific steps are involved in the process you just demonstrated?
• Are there alternative methods or tools that can be used for this demonstration?
• How long does it typically take to master this skill or process demonstrated?
• Are there any safety precautions that should be considered?
• Can you provide tips for troubleshooting or overcoming obstacles in the demonstrated activity?
• How does this demonstration apply to real-world scenarios or practical situations?
• Are there variations or advanced techniques related to this demonstration that you didn’t cover?
• Can you share examples of successful applications or projects that used the demonstrated technique?
• How does this demonstration align with current trends or innovations in the field?
• What feedback or suggestions do you have for individuals attempting the demonstrated task for the first time?
• Can you discuss any modifications or adaptations that may be necessary for different skill levels or abilities?

Training Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for training workshops.

• Can you provide more examples or practice exercises to reinforce the concepts you just covered?
• Are there any additional resources or recommended readings for further learning on this topic?
• Can you explain the specific steps or strategies for applying what we’ve learned in a real-world context?
• How often is this training updated to reflect changes in industry standards or best practices?
• How can we track our progress and measure the effectiveness of this training?
• Are there opportunities for practical application or hands-on exercises to reinforce the learning?
• Can you discuss any potential challenges or common difficulties participants might encounter during the training?
• Can you provide insights into how this training aligns with current trends or innovations in the industry?
• How will successful completion of this training impact our professional development or career advancement?
• What kind of ongoing support or resources will be available to participants after completing the training?
• Can you explain the relevance of each module or section of the training to our specific roles or responsibilities?
• Can you discuss any case studies or success stories related to individuals who have completed this training?
• Can you outline the specific skills or competencies participants are expected to gain by the end of the training?

Creative Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for brainstorming presentations.

• How did you arrive at the ideas presented during the brainstorming session?
• Can you provide more context on the criteria used to evaluate and prioritize the proposed ideas?
• Are there specific goals or objectives that the brainstormed ideas aim to achieve?
• How do the ideas generated align with the overall vision or mission of the team or organization?
• Can you discuss any potential challenges or constraints that may impact the implementation of these ideas?
• What steps will be taken to further develop and refine the selected ideas from the brainstorming session?
• How will the team decide which ideas to prioritize or move forward with?
• What role do you see each team member playing in the implementation or development of these ideas?
• What steps will be taken to test or prototype the most promising ideas before full implementation?
• Are there any potential synergies or connections between the different ideas presented?
• Can you discuss the anticipated impact or outcomes of implementing these ideas on the team’s objectives?

Q&A Questions for Creative Work Showcase Presentations

• What inspired your creative concept or idea?
• Can you discuss your creative process and how you generated or developed your ideas?
• How did you overcome creative blocks or challenges during the project?
• Can you share any unexpected twists or turns that occurred during the creative process?
• What influenced your choice of colors, themes, or visual elements in your presentation?
• Can you discuss any alternative concepts or ideas that you considered before finalizing your creative work?
• How did you decide on the overall tone or mood of your creative piece?
• Can you discuss any specific techniques or tools you used to bring your creative vision to life?
• How do you balance originality with meeting the expectations or objectives of the project?
• Can you elaborate on the symbolism or deeper meaning behind certain elements in your creative work?
• How did you ensure your creative work aligns with the intended message or purpose of the project?
• Can you share any unexpected challenges you encountered while executing your creative ideas?
• What advice do you have for others looking to enhance their creativity or embark on similar projects?
• Can you discuss any future plans or developments related to your creative work?

Q&A Questions for Portfolio Presentations

• How did you curate or select the pieces included in your portfolio?
• Can you discuss the overarching themes or concepts that tie your portfolio together?
• What criteria did you use to determine which projects or works to include in your portfolio?
• Can you provide insights into your creative process for one of the featured projects?
• How do you believe your portfolio reflects your growth or evolution as a professional or artist?
• Can you discuss any challenges you encountered while working on specific projects in your portfolio?
• What inspired the overall design and layout of your portfolio presentation?
• Can you share any feedback or critiques you received during the creation of your portfolio?
• How do you handle showcasing both personal and professional work in your portfolio?
• How do you stay updated on current trends or techniques in your industry, and how does this influence your portfolio?
• Can you elaborate on any technologies or tools you used to create or present your portfolio?
• How do you handle showcasing a diverse range of skills or talents in your portfolio?
• How do you balance consistency with variety in the presentation of your portfolio pieces?
• Can you provide insights into the decision-making process behind the visual and aesthetic choices in your portfolio?

Subject-Based Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for history presentations.

• Why is it important for us to study this particular historical period or event?
• Can you provide more context on the social and cultural aspects of the time you discussed?
• Are there any alternative perspectives or interpretations of the historical event you presented?
• How did political or economic factors contribute to the events you covered in your presentation?
• Can you discuss the impact of this historical period on contemporary society or global affairs?
• How do historians generally view or interpret the significance of the events you discussed?
• Can you elaborate on any controversies related to the historical topic you presented?
• Can you discuss any parallels or connections between the historical events you covered and current events?
• Can you elaborate on any lesser-known or overlooked aspects of the historical topic?
• What were the main causes and consequences of the events discussed in this lesson?
• How did global events or other regions influence the events in this specific historical context?
• Can you share more details about the key figures or individuals involved in the historical events?
• Can you discuss any social movements or cultural shifts that occurred during this time?
• Were there any controversies or debates among historians regarding the interpretation of these events?
• What primary sources or historical documents can we explore to gain a deeper understanding of this time?
• What lessons or insights can we draw from the mistakes or successes of the past?

Q&A Questions for Geography Presentations

• Can you explain the significance of the geographical features discussed in this lesson?
• What are the cultural or societal aspects that make this geographic area unique?
• Can you discuss the environmental challenges or changes occurring in the region you shared?
• Are there any connections between the geography of a region and its cultural practices or traditions?
• How has human activity impacted the natural landscapes and ecosystems in the region?
• Can you provide insights into the economic factors shaping the geography of the area?
• How do political boundaries or geopolitical factors influence the geography of the region?
• Can you discuss any current or historical conflicts related to the geography you presented?
• Can you share examples of how globalization has impacted the geography you discussed?
• How does the geography of the area influence migration patterns and population distribution?
• Can you discuss any challenges or opportunities related to urbanization in the region?
• Can you provide examples of how transportation infrastructure shapes the geography of the region?
• How do the geographical features discussed impact the local economy and lifestyle?
• Can you discuss the role of sustainable development in shaping the geography of the region?
• How does the geography of a region impact the availability and distribution of resources?

Q&A Questions for Science Presentations

• How does this scientific theory or principle apply to real-world situations?
• Can you provide examples of experiments or demonstrations that illustrate the principles being taught?
• How do current advancements or research in technology influence our understanding of this science?
• Can you provide examples of how this scientific concept has been applied in various industries?
• Can you share insights into any ongoing or future research related to the subject of the lecture?
• Can you elaborate on any potential interdisciplinary connections between this science and other fields?
• How do you see the future developments or advancements shaping the field of science you discussed?
• Can you discuss any recent advancements or breakthroughs in the field related to your presentation?
• What experiments or studies have been conducted to support the information presented in your topic?
• Are there any unanswered questions or areas of uncertainty in the scientific understanding of this topic?
• Can you discuss the importance of peer review in the scientific process?

Q&A Questions for Social Science Presentations

• Can you provide some background information on the topic?
• Can you explain the significance of any statistical analyses or data presented in this studies?
• How might cultural or societal factors influence the interpretation of the findings?
• Are there any primary sources or case studies used in the lesson to illustrate these social science concepts?
• What are the alternative opinions or perspectives that one should consider for this topic?
• How can we critically evaluate bias in the research?
• What are the roles of globalization or international perspectives in this topic?
• Why is [a perspective/opinion] the case?
• What are the potential objections for [a perspective/opinion]?
• How does the topic of this lesson relate to broader social issues or current events?
• Are there any conflicting theories or perspectives within the field related to this lesson’s content?
• Can you explain the practical implications of the theories or concepts covered in this lesson?
• How do the concepts covered in this lesson contribute to a deeper understanding of human behavior or society?
• What are some potential criticisms or limitations of the theories presented in this lesson?

Q&A Questions for Art and Design Presentations

• How do different artistic techniques contribute to the overall aesthetic of the piece?
• Can you explain the cultural or historical influences behind the art or design style being taught?
• How can personal experiences or emotions be expressed through art and design?
• Can you provide examples of famous artists or designers who are known for this particular style or technique?
• How does the use of color, shape, and composition impact the visual impact of the artwork or design?
• Are there any contemporary or modern trends in art and design that relate to the topic of this lesson?
• How does the art or design being taught relate to broader movements or styles in the art world?
• How can art and design contribute to social or cultural change?

Fun Presentation Q&A Questions

Q&a questions for powerpoint night  presentations.

• Do you remember the time when we [shared a memorable adventure or experience]?
• What’s your favorite memory from our past travels together?
• If we were to plan a group vacation, what destination would you suggest for our bucket list?
• What’s one place you’ve always wanted to visit that we haven’t explored together yet?
• What’s the most spontaneous or unplanned adventure we’ve had?
• What’s our favorite inside joke?
• If we were to create a time capsule representing our friendship, what would you include in it?
• What’s the craziest or most unexpected thing we’ve ever done together?
• What’s your go-to travel snack or comfort food?
• What’s a shared goal or dream destination you’d like to achieve with the group?
• Can you recall the first time we met, and what was your initial impression of me?
• What’s a skill or talent of mine that surprised you when you first discovered it?
• If our group had a theme song, what do you think it should be and why?
• If we were characters in a movie, how would you describe our dynamic or roles?
• What’s a shared goal or aspiration that you think our group could work towards together?
• What’s your favorite thing about our friendship that you cherish the most?
• If we had a group motto or slogan, what do you think it should be?

Q&A Questions for PowerPoint Games

• What are the rules of the game?
• How long is the expected duration of the game?
• Are there any specific materials or equipment needed to play the game?
• Can you explain the objective or goal of the game?
• Are there any hidden surprises in the game that players might not immediately notice?
• Any secret tips for success in the game?
• Are there any special prizes or incentives for winners of tonight’s games?
• How is the game scored, and what determines the winner?
• What happens if there’s a tie in the game?
• Are there any variations or optional rules we should be aware of?
• Can you explain the order of play and how turns are determined?
• Are there penalties or consequences for certain actions during the game?
• Can participants form teams, or is the game strictly individual play?
• Are there any restrictions on player movement or interaction during the game?
• Can you provide examples of common strategies or tactics used in the game?
• How is cheating or rule violations handled in the game?
• Can you recommend any strategies for newcomers or first-time players?

Feedback Q&A Questions

• What specific aspects of the presentation do you think were most effective?
• Can you provide suggestions for improving the clarity of certain points in the presentation?
• How well do you think the presenter engaged with the audience during the presentation?
• Were there any areas where you felt the presentation could have been more engaging or interactive?
• Can you offer insights into the pacing of the presentation and whether it was appropriate?
• What are your thoughts on the visual elements, such as slides or graphics, used in the presentation?
• Were there any technical issues or challenges that affected your experience during the presentation?
• Can you provide feedback on the overall organization and structure of the presentation?
• Were there any moments in the presentation that you found particularly memorable or impactful?
• Did the presenter effectively convey the key messages or takeaways of the presentation?
• How well did the presenter connect with the audience’s level of understanding or familiarity with the topic?
• Can you discuss any specific examples or anecdotes that resonated with you during the presentation?
• Were there any instances where the presenter could have provided more context or background information?
• What are your thoughts on the presenter’s use of language, tone, and overall communication style?
• Can you suggest ways in which the presenter could improve audience engagement or participation?
• Were there any aspects of the presentation that you found confusing or difficult to follow?
• Can you share your overall impression of the presentation and whether it met your expectations?
• What recommendations do you have for the presenter to enhance the overall impact and effectiveness of future presentations?

Closing Thoughts

With more than 300 Q&A questions to help you with your preparation, you can save so much time thinking and anticipating the questions your audience may ask during the Q&A session of your presentation. Now, you can focus on what matters most – acing your presentation! 

BONUS: Lazy to create PowerPoint presentations from scratch? Try these  11 top-rated AI PowerPoint generators (they’re free!), as well as these  4 ways to use ChatGPT to create PowerPoint presentations . 

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8 tips for encouraging questions in your presentation

by Olivia Mitchell | 8 comments

Most of us would like people in the audience to ask questions. A lively Q&A session is stimulating and engaging for the audience. But sometimes you ask for questions, and you’re just met with blank gazes back from your audience. It’s a let-down and your presentation ends on a sour note.

Questions from the audience are like young fragile seedlings – they need nurturing. Consider when you’re in the audience – what stages do you have to mentally go through in order to ask a question? It might go something like this:

So as the presenter, you need to nurture your audience’s questions through these four stages. Here are 8 tips to help make them through:

1. Pitch your presentation at the right level for your audience

The first stage of questions is birth – they have to be born in your audience’s mind. If your presentation is too simple for the level of knowledge in your audience – it’s all material they’ve covered before – they won’t have any questions. Conversly, if it’s too complicated for them, they’ll turn off rather than risk asking a question which might make them look stupid.

2. Don’t cover every aspect of your topic in the presentation

If you cover everything there is to know on the topic – you won’t leave room for questions. So don’t be exhaustive in your coverage.

3. Let your audience know you would like questions and when to ask them

Near the beginning of your presentation let your audience know that you welcome questions. Then let them know when to ask them. There are a number of options:

Take questions throughout your presentation

Tell people they can interrupt you throughout the presentation to ask questions as they come to mind. This has several benefits:

• people won’t have to remember their question till later
• if they’re uncertain about something they can get that clarified at the time
• questions on a particular issue are dealt with at the same time that you’re discussing that issue.

The downside to this strategy is that it can take you off track if people ask irrelevant questions or questions that you’re going to cover later in the presentation. If you find it tricky to get back into the flow of your presentation after an interruption it may not be the best strategy for you. Finally, it can throw the timing of your presentation if people ask a lot of questions on a particular issue. This strategy is best used in longer presentations and training courses where timing is less critical.

Take questions at defined points of your presentation

Tell people you will have an opportunity for questions after you’ve finished each part of your presentation. This option is a useful halfway point between having questions throughout and leaving them till the end of the presentation. You can also decide how long to take questions for during each break in your presentation, and so control the timing better.

4. Let them ask a question as soon as they have one

If you’re serious about ensuring that people get their questions answered, invite people to interrupt you and ask their question. It’s the only way to ensure this. That’s when the question is burning for them. The longer you make people wait, the less likely they are to remember it. Once you’ve moved onto a new topic, their question will seem less relevant. Joey Asher from Talking Points blog says:

Questions aren’t to be feared. They’re to be embraced.  There’s no better way to connect with an audience than to allow them free rein to ask as many questions as they want.

5. Invite people to write down their questions as they think of them

If you don’t want to take questions throughout, you can help people remember their questions by suggesting that they write them down.

6. Validate every question

It takes courage to ask a question. It’s public speaking – just not from the front of the room. People are held back by wondering if their question is stupid or did they miss something and you already answered it. So you need to do your bit to make it a safe environment for people to ask questions. Do that by responding warmly to all questions that are asked – even if the question is stupid or you had already covered it. I don’t recommend saying “Good question”. It’s become a cliche which is often used when the presenter can’t immediately think of the answer.

7. Have people discuss in pairs any questions they may have

If your audience seems a little shy, give them an opportunity to discuss their questions with one other person before they ask them in front of the whole of the audience. Here’s how do do this:

“I’m going to ask for questions in a moment. Please turn to the person next to you and discuss together any questions you have. Then I’ll answer those questions.”

This has several benefits:

• It gives people the opportunity to try out their question in front of one person before risking humiliation in front of the whole audience.
• Any questions that are answered by material you’ve already covered can be answered by their partner.
• It gives people the opportunity to rehearse and fine-tune their question so that it will be shorter and clearer when they ask you.

8. Answer questions clearly and succinctly

If you answer every question with a long-winded and incoherent ramble, people are going to be reluctant to ask you another one. They’ll conclude they’re unlikely to get a useful answer from you. Nor do they want to subject the rest of the audience to another ramble.

More resources on other blogs

Five ways to make presentations Q&A friendly from Joey Asher at Talking Points. He also recommends validating every question:

Smiling at the questioner is like rewarding a dog for sitting on command.  Once rewarded, the chances are the audience will ask more.

John Windsor has a useful post Making the most of a Q&A session . He stresses anticipating the questions that might be asked. And also advises that you recap and conclude your presentation after the Q&A session. That provides a stronger ending to your presentation than just lettting questions peter out.

Andrew Dlugan discusses Leading the perfect Q&A . This covers all elements of the Q&A session from both the audience’s point of view and the presenters.

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Hi again Olivia – just seen this following someone else’s link. It’s something I blogged about myself a while ago – and in retrospect I probably over-stated my case: http://www.curved-vision.co.uk/presentation-skills-blog/2008/03/29/questions-or-not/

To me, it’s important to differentiate between two types of question. Firstly, you’ve got questions of fact (“Did you say 200%?”) which seem to me to be necessary at any point because otherwise people won’t be able to make much of anything you say after that.

Secondly though, there are questions of “application” for lack of a better term. Things like “So in my position, would it make sense to….?”. I love these questions as it shows the audience has bitten what I’ve said and is running with it. My instinct is that these questions should only surface at the end (in fact if the presentation is well structured this is probably the only place it CAN surface!).

And, for the “during the presentation so askers don’t forget”, I’ve also seen Twitter used effectively – either as a displayed backchannel – so that the whole audience can see, or just visible to those who have the necessary hardware. Quite often, small questions can be answered by someone else in the audience (like whispering to the person next to you – only there are lots of people next to you!), or the presenter/room host can skim them at the end & answer the key ones.

Hi Emma Yes, that’s a great use of the backchannel. Thank you for adding it to this post. Olivia

You actually make it seem really easy with your presentation however I to find this topic to be actually one thing which I believe I might never understand. It seems too complex and very wide for me. I am taking a look forward to your next publish, I will attempt to get the dangle of it!

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Right here is the right website for anybody who wishes to find out about this topic. You understand a whole lot its almost hard to argue with you (not that I actually would want to…HaHa). You definitely put a new spin on a topic that has been written about for years. Wonderful stuff, just wonderful!

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Preparation of a scientific presentation

Vorbereitung eines wissenschaftlichen Vortrags

• AGA-Komitee-Hefte
• Open access
• Published: 28 May 2024

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• Daniel Günther 1 , 2 &

AGA Research Committee

This article provides a guide to creating a scientific presentation. It outlines the tasks a presenter has to perform before creating a presentation, gives tips for preparing a successful presentation, and provides techniques the presenter can use when giving the presentation. When preparing a presentation, the speaker must consider the aim of the presentation and the audience. Therefore, this article provides tips regarding layout, speaking time, language, citation style, structure, and how to increase the audience’s attention. Through a clear structure, visual support, and interaction with the audience, the presenter can convince the audience and successfully convey his scientific message. Finally, a checklist is provided to help researchers with finalizing their presentations.

Zusammenfassung

Der vorliegende Beitrag bietet eine Anleitung zum Erstellen einer wissenschaftlichen Präsentation. Wichtige Punkte werden darin beschrieben, die vor der Erstellung einer Präsentation beachtet werden sollten, und Tipps für eine erfolgreichen Präsentation gegeben sowie Techniken genannt, die während der Präsentation auf der Bühne verwenden werden können. Entscheidend ist eine gründliche Planung unter Berücksichtigung der Präsentationsziele und der Zielgruppenzusammensetzung. Daher wird auf Layout, Redezeit, Sprache, Zitierstil und Strukturierung eingegangen, und es werden Techniken beschrieben, um die Aufmerksamkeit des Publikums während einer Präsentation zu steigern. Durch eine klare Struktur, visuelle Unterstützung und Interaktion mit dem Publikum kann der Vortragende das Publikum überzeugen und seine wissenschaftliche Botschaft erfolgreich vermitteln. Abschließend wird eine Checkliste bereitgestellt, die Forschern bei der Fertigstellung ihrer Präsentationen helfen soll.

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Introduction

The purpose of this article is to provide a guide to creating a scientific presentation. This guide offers both universally applicable content that should be adhered to as well as opportunities to reflect the presenterʼs style. These points can be considered as suggestions and may be adapted to the speaker’s own style, because two of the most important factors for a successful presentation are authenticity and individuality.

Before creating the presentation

Before even beginning to start work on the first slide or create the first sentence, you should first ask yourself the following questions:

Who assigned the presentation to me, and what do they want to achieve with it?

Who is the target audience? Are they fellow professionals, experts in the field, or a broad audience? Understanding the audience is crucial to adapting the content and language level of the presentation.

How many people will be listening?

What is the appropriate presentation style? Interactive or more unidirectional?

What should be achieved with the presentation? Should new research findings be presented, should an overview of the literature on a specific topic be provided, or should a particular surgical technique or approach be demonstrated?

Predecessors and successors

Familiarize yourself with the event’s program; no listener likes to hear the same introduction multiple times. Although deliberate repetition can be used to reinforce important points, you should try to align your presentation with those of other speakers.

In-person or online?

It makes a difference whether the audience is sitting in person in front of you or watching from a screen in their own environment. When the presentation is virtual, direct feedback through facial expressions is not available, and techniques that increase engagement may be more challenging to apply or not tested for success. Especially in online presentations, the integration of poll questions at various points in the presentation can be useful to keep the audience active and attentive.

Presenter mode

Presenter mode can be helpful for accessing notes during the presentation. If you plan to use this, it is important to inquire in advance whether the event’s media department supports this mode or not. However, reading a pre-written script in presenter mode usually appears rehearsed and takes away from the presentation’s individuality and spontaneity.

Creating the presentation

Speaking time.

In most cases, the speaking time is clearly specified. A good presentation is one in which you stay within the allocated speaking time and do not deviate significantly from it. Achieving this precision requires some experience but can be planned to some extent. A good rule of thumb is to allow an average of about 30 s per slide. This means that a presentation intended to fill 10 min should contain approximately 20 slides. Practicing the presentation beforehand can help you get a feeling for the right timing.

Even if there is no exact time limit, it is important to consider what a reasonable duration is for the audience. The oft-cited claim that the attention span of learners is 15 min and rapidly declines thereafter has not been scientifically proven. Our attention is based on automatic, unconscious processes. Every 125 to 250 milliseconds, our attention oscillates from highly focused to unfocused and back [ 1 ]. Therefore, it helps to engage the audience’s attention through various methods, which will be described later in the article.

A consistent layout for the slides should be chosen. It is important to familiarize yourself with the event’s guidelines. Some organizers may require a 4:3 slide format, while others nowadays prefer a widescreen 16:9 format.

Just as it is when creating a manuscript, it is also important to provide proper citations in a presentation. This can be done directly beneath an image or quoted portion of text, or at the bottom of the slide. An adequate format includes the first author, journal, and publication year (e.g., Günther et al. AGA-Themenheft 2023).

Uniform language

The presentation should be conducted in the language of the conference or event. Mixing, for example, English and German slides, appears unprofessional and should be avoided.

One topic per slide

A well-organized and focused presentation only covers one topic per slide. The slide should contain only what is essential for the audience to understand the topic. If you are confident in the content of your presentation and your speaking ability, it may be enough to have a single image or diagram on a slide and explain its content. If you are not so confident, it may be helpful to write down important keywords on the slide. However, listing full sentences should be avoided. Figure  1 a, b show corresponding examples.

Positive example of slide design with a single image and important keywords ( a ), and a negative example of slide design with consecutive full sentences without visual appeal ( b )

Structuring

Before you start your presentation, a brief thankyou note to the chairs/moderators and the audience is good practice. Any conflicts of interest should be communicated openly and clearly directly after the title slide.

Subsequently, a clear and logical structure is the key to a successful presentation. A typical structure includes the following sections:

Introduction : The introduction introduces the topic and explains the significance of the research. Ideally, it arouses the audience’s curiosity and helps individuals understand the relevance of the work.

Research question or hypothesis : The main question and/or hypothesis that the research aims to address should be formulated. This helps the audience understand the context of the presentation.

Methods : Briefly describe the research methods and techniques applied. This allows the audience to better assess the results.

Results : Research findings should be presented clearly and comprehensibly. Diagrams, tables, or graphics can be used to visualize the data.

Discussion : Interpret the results and answer the research question or hypothesis. Discuss possible implications and impacts of the research.

Conclusion/conclusions : These should be based on the research findings and re-emphasize the significance of the work.

If you want to present diagrams or graphics, it is important to label them correctly. This includes labeling the axes with their respective units (e.g., age of patients in years), indicating standard deviations, significance levels (e.g., p  < 0.05), and the number of objects examined (e.g., N  = 100).

Attention techniques

To increase the audience’s attention during a presentation, various techniques and strategies can be employed:

Arouse interest : Start with a brief anecdote that piques the audience’s interest and establishes a personal connection.

Use visual aids : Well-designed visual elements such as images, charts, graphics, or videos can support statements and help present information attractively. While support from visual elements is important, it should not be overdone. Use legible fonts and colors. Diagrams and graphics should be simple and precise for easy audience comprehension.

Vary media and formats : Presentation media and formats can be changed to maintain audience attention. For example, videos or small live demonstrations can be integrated.

Interact with the audience : Asking the audience questions, conducting brief surveys, or requesting feedback increases interaction, encourages active participation, and keeps attention high. Directly addressing an audience member can be effective if you are confident that it won’t embarrass them. Asking a friendly expert in the audience for their opinion on the topic can be an option and can increase interaction.

Incorporate changes in speed : Varying speaking speed and volume can highlight specific points and control audience attention.

Use irony or humor : Appropriately used humor can relax the audience and keep them attentive. However, humor should be suitable and culturally sensitive. This is especially important in international presentations to avoid an unintended effect.

Storytelling techniques : The presentation should be structured with a clear narrative to help the audience follow.

Emphasize the utility and relevance : The presentation’s importance to the audience should be highlighted. Explain the practical or clinical applicability of the research or ideas.

Use rhetorical questions : Rhetorical questions can make the audience contemplate the topic.

Movement and gestures : Space and gestures can be used to underscore statements and make the presentation more dynamic. Excessive movement that could distract from the content should be avoided.

Energy and enthusiasm : Enthusiastic presenters with passion and energy for the topic can engage the audience more effectively.

Concise and clear language : Clear and easily understandable language should be used to convey the presentation’s content clearly.

Closing slide

A closing slide can express gratitude to the research team or provide a preview of an upcoming event. If you choose not to do this, you can use this slide to thank the audience and indicate your availability for questions.

Questions/discussion

You should be prepared to answer questions from the audience adequately. Openness to discussions and willingness to take questions are crucial parts of a good presentation. As mentioned in the “Speaking time” section, practicing the presentation in advance can help. Conducting this practice in front of a test audience, such as during lab meetings or doctoral/research colloquia, can help you improve the presentation based on the audience’s feedback or gain a good sense of the questions that may arise in the audience. Even seemingly simple questions should be answered in a friendly manner, as not everyone in the audience is as familiar with the topic as the presenter.

Practice presentation

Good preparation is essential. A practice presentation in front of an appropriate audience helps identify potential weaknesses and build self-confidence for the actual presentation. A confident and composed demeanor during the presentation is important, and arrogance should be avoided. Pay attention to clear pronunciation and appropriate body language. A calm demeanor conveys to the audience that you are knowledgeable on the topic.

A well-prepared scientific presentation is the key to effectively communicating research findings. Through a clear structure, visual support, and interaction with the audience, you can convince the audience and successfully convey your scientific message.

Checklist before concluding the presentation

Do I know my audience, the organizers, and my predecessors and successors, and am I familiar with the event’s program?

Am I staying within the allotted speaking time?

Is the layout in line with the guidelines, are all sources correctly cited, and is a consistent language used?

Are the slides well-structured and focused?

Is the structure maintained, and does a clear narrative run through the presentation?

Are all graphics and diagrams correctly labeled?

Am I prepared to answer questions from the audience, and do I feel confident in my presentation role?

Fiebelkorn IC, Pinsk MA, Kastner S (2018) A Dynamic Interplay within the Frontoparietal Network Underlies Rhythmic Spatial Attention. Neuron 99(4):842–853

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Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery, and Sports Medicine, Cologne Merheim Medical Center, Ostmerheimer Str. 200, 51109, Cologne, Germany

Daniel Günther

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For this article no studies with human participants or animals were performed by any of the authors. All studies mentioned were in accordance with the ethical standards indicated in each case.

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Günther, D., AGA Research Committee. Preparation of a scientific presentation. Arthroskopie (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00142-024-00683-w

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Published : 28 May 2024

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21 insightful questions to ask when moderating your next panel discussion (plus some great tips on creating your own)

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“I come up with dozens of questions for the panel ahead of time… I literally write 30-50 questions down in advance, knowing that I may only get to 5 of them, but when I do they will be phrased exactly how I want them, and the panel will be kept on track.”  -Tom Webster, writer, speaker, and panel moderator.

As a panel moderator, asking insightful and interesting questions is one of your biggest responsibilities.

Don’t make up your mind about the topic.

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Your questions can spark a great discussion that will leave the audience both informed and entertained. So, make sure you know what you want to ask before you get on stage.

Here are some questions that will help get you started.

21 Questions to ask when moderating your next panel discussion

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Here are 21 questions you could ask almost any panel to get it started or to keep it going if you run out of your own questions.

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• In your publication [book/article/etc] you stated that [view point]. How did you come to that? [Follow up question to another panelist]: Do you have a different perspective?  
• What made you decide to tackle this subject? How did you get into the [industry/field], and why do you stay?  
• What are some of the ways people from your [industry/field] are making a difference in the world?  
• What has helped you get to where you are [influential/effective/in the forefront] and what advice would you have for others who want to set off in a similar direction?  
• What are common misconceptions people have? How can we combat these misconceptions and communicate more effectively?  
• Do you remember a specific experience of where you wished that [you/your organization/your industry] had done something differently? If you were to do it over, what would you change?  
• A follow-up to the previous question: By way of comparison, do you remember something you’ve done or something you wish everyone was doing, and why?  
• What’s the question you are most tired of hearing on this subject, and what would you like to say about it so you never have to answer it again?  
• What question would you like to hear [specific panelist] answer?  
• What is one piece of practical advice you would give to someone starting out?  
• What is the best resource for people who want to dive in deeper?  
• Is there anything we’re leaving out here that needs to be addressed?

Create your own questions

When creating your own questions, you need to start with going back to the purpose of your panel. Why are you here, and why should your audience care?

Each question should come back to this and constantly be pushing your panelists towards creating value and insights for your audience.

What kind of questions should you ask?

What will the audience be interested in learning about?

Will this question draw upon the panelist's experiences in a useful way?

Is this question open-ended, or will you get a simple “yes” or “no” answer?

Will the question start a deeper conversation? Does it have the potential to spark a debate?

Is this question something you can’t easily find the answer to on the internet?

Why is this particular panelist on the panel? What unique perspective can they add? How can you draw that out?

Question Checklist

After you’ve created your list of questions, go back through and check to make sure it passes the checklist below.

5-Point checklist - Is the question:

Clearly tied to the topic being discussed.

Reflective of the panelists’ perspectives, experiences, or interests.

Addressing the issues, challenges or interests of the audience.

An important topic to discuss right now.

Going to ignite a conversation (controversial/different perspectives or experiences).

Where do you start? Opening questions

The first question will set the tone for the panel and is crucial to sparking immediate intrigue.

Avoid over-generalities and try to make it interesting.

The first person to speak will also influence the tone of the panel, so consider who you want to start with and why.  

If you start with the quietest person on the panel, will this get them talking right away and keep them engaged in the conversation?

If you start with the person with the most experience, will they be able to give a well-rounded background to the topic right away?

What about the person who originally proposed the idea for the panel? Will they be the most likely to set the tone you are looking for?

Should you ask everyone the same opening question to get their initial perspectives at the beginning?

3 Types of opening questions

- Easy warm-up

Start with a broad, simple question so the panelists can get comfortable.

Some examples include asking for a state-of-play, some background on the topic, or how they got involved.

Don’t spend too long here, though. Quickly segue into more controversial topics, or you could risk boring your audience.

- Fire-starter

Skip the niceties, and start with a bang.

Establish perspective by breaking out a provocative question.

Some examples: ask each panelist to offer a strong opinion on the topic, or to describe the greatest challenge we (or the industry) face moving forward.

- Audience-reader

Sometimes, it is not possible to find out the knowledge level of your audience before the panel, so starting with a question that will help you, and the panelists, determine this at the beginning can be very helpful.

Find out the level of their knowledge by asking for a show of hands.

For example: “How many people have been in the industry for less than a year?”, “Over a year?”,  “Over 5 years?”, or “Who thinks they could probably run this panel?” (asked with light humor); or “How many people agree with [a certain perspective on the topic]?” “How many disagree?”

Now, get out there and ask some great questions!

You have a special role as a moderator to a panel. Your task is to make it as insightful, interesting, and informative as possible.

You might also like:

What can panel moderators learn from Charlie Rose, Larry King and Oprah Winfrey?

It ain't over ‘till it's over: How to expertly end a panel discussion

6 Ideas for Moderating Engaging Panel Discussions

Panel moderating experts: what are some questions you always fall back on? Please share your experience, and we may include your advice in a future article. Contact us.

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50 Questions to Ask Guest Speakers During a Virtual Event

Written by Molly Hocutt

Increase attendance with these virtual event email templates.

Whether hosting or just attending, a virtual event is a fantastic opportunity to engage with an expert and learn about their experience and insight. For a host, it’s also a great chance to promote your own skills as a speaker and presenter.

To get the most from your guest and event – and to place yourself in the best possible light – you need to carry out careful research and develop a body of thoughtful questions.

So what questions to ask your guest speaker for an entertaining, enlightening discussion? What topics should you avoid? And what other tips or tricks will help ensure a successful virtual event?

To find out this and more, read on.

6 Email Templates for Successful Virtual Events

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What makes a good question to ask a guest speaker at a virtual event?

The better you know your guest, the better you’ll craft original, relevant questions that will give real value to your viewing audience – and we discuss more on the value of good guest research below.

But even with limited knowledge of your guest’s background or expertise, you can still get your guest talking at length with open questions that consider their struggles, skills, and hopes.

Many of our most meaningful concerns are in fact universal issues, so use your own experiences to help you formulate thoughtful questions, and wherever possible put yourself in your guest’s shoes to consider what obstacles they’ve faced – you may find that you’ve come up against similar challenges yourself.

During your webinar and as your discussion progresses, listen carefully and respond naturally to what they’ve said. Of course, remaining natural and spontaneous isn’t always easy when you have an audience, but with a prepared list of questions, you’ll have lots of good ideas to draw from.

Discover your guest speaker’s passions and challenges

A wealth of fantastic questions is vital to having a successful conversation with your guest speaker during your marketing event , but even more important is the background preparation that will allow you to best tap into their concerns, passions, and challenges.

So wherever possible, read what your guest has written, listen to what they’ve said, and study what they’ve accomplished. Their LinkedIn profile will be a great place to start to find links to published work and interviews – or you can simply send them a friendly email and ask them to point you in the right direction.

With a strong understanding of your guest’s professional journey, you’ll be in a good position to guide the conversation through the most interesting and relevant areas of discussion.

Before that, though, get off to a positive start with some friendly icebreakers.

12 icebreaker questions to get a guest speaker talking

You’ll want your guest speaker relaxed and forthcoming, which is why a good icebreaker question can be so important to set the tone of your webinar presentation .

One good way to put your guest at ease is to find some common ground. This could be a light chat about where you’re from or where you’ve lived, it could be a story about your family, or it might be a shared interest or hobby.

Getting your guest talking about something lighthearted and personal can be a great springboard for further conversation, but the real value here is in getting everyone – so you, your guest speaker, and the audience – settled in and engaged.

So be expressive when showing your interest, and responsive to what your guest says – remember, no matter how many people are viewing, you are your guest's most important audience member.

Note: these questions will give you some great ideas, but you’ll want to adapt many of them for the specifics of your guest’s experience, which we discuss further below.

• Who are your role models?
• When was the last time you were surprised or shocked?
• Tell us something no one in our audience knows about you.
• What song or album did you listen to most last year?
• What superstitions do you have?
• What movie have you seen the most times?
• What three superpowers would you choose to have?
• Who would you invite to your fantasy dinner party?
• Who’s someone in your profession you really admire?
• What qualities do you most admire in others?
• If you could go anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?
• What period in time would you love to have experienced first-hand?

20 deep-dive questions to get value from your guest speaker

Once you’ve got the ball rolling with a few icebreakers or areas of common ground, you can start probing more deeply into your guest’s experience.

If you can, find a surprising or curious fact about their work or past – maybe an early success or hurdle – and see if you can home in on this to glean something substantial and unique from your conversation.

On their career and industry

• What are the biggest decisions you’ve made over the last year?
• How has your role changed in the last 12 months?
• How do you see the industry evolving over the next five years?
• What’s your secret to dealing with disappointment?
• What’s the most important thing for you to concentrate on in the months ahead?
• What are the biggest misconceptions about your work?
• What would you say makes you different from others in your field?
• What makes your job exciting?
• What are the biggest opportunities in the industry out there at the moment?
• What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in the last year?

On leadership

• Can anyone be a leader?
• What does great leadership look like?
• What challenges do leaders face when working together?
• What’s the single most important quality a leader can have?
• What would make you a better leader?
• How do you resolve conflict within a team?
• How do you bring about change?
• How can you get a team to come up with unique solutions?
• How do you develop a strong culture within a team?
• What mistakes did you make then that you wouldn’t make now?

10 follow-up questions to dig deeper

The best follow-up questions help the conversation flow naturally while bringing further insight for the audience. But a great way to get even more value out of your discussion is to involve the audience – and one way you can do this is with question upvotes .

On Livestorm you can invite audience members to add their own questions to the Questions Tab and ask your guest whichever ones get the most votes.

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• What early setbacks later gave you an advantage?
• How did you use your experience to influence your decision-making?
• What other factors made a difference to your choices?
• What strategies have had the biggest impact on your success?
• How well have you maintained a positive work-life balance throughout it all?
• Would you make the same decisions again?
• What’s the one thing you’ve learned from your experience?
• What could have made a difference to how things worked out?
• How much has luck played a part?
• How much do your emotions play a role in your choices?

8 fun questions to end your virtual event

A few fun questions can come in useful to break things up or to end your talk on a fun, lighthearted note. You could also use multimedia – such as a short video, gif, or image – to provoke a response or laugh.

• What three things would go in your room 101?
• Which fictional character would you most like to meet?
• Which app would you most miss on a desert island?
• Why do you love what you do?
• What’s the strangest question someone’s asked you in an interview?
• What one piece of advice would you have given yourself 10 years ago?
• What’s your perfect evening after a busy week?
• What would your motto be?

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How to modify questions for your guest speaker?

Now you’ve got a strong body of questions to work with, you can use your interview research to really get the most out of them. Let’s look at some examples of how you can adapt questions to a specific guest.

For our example adapted questions, we’ll imagine your guest speaker is Jenny Stewart, a CEO from the world of EdTech, who’s founded and grown a website providing online lesson resources for teachers.

What to avoid when questioning your guest speaker for a virtual event?

There are no concrete rules on what not to do or ask during a virtual event, though it’s usually best to avoid religion and politics, and tread carefully when it comes to potentially personal or sensitive subjects.

To be sure you’re on safe ground, you could ask your guest before the event starts if there are any areas of discussion they’d rather avoid.

During the event, don’t feel you have to urgently fill any pauses with your own thoughts or further questions – give your speaker the chance to think and reflect before giving you a response.

Also, don’t forget the success of any virtual event depends on engaging your audience, so while your speaker can do a great job of that themselves, encourage audience participation wherever possible.

We’ve already mentioned using question upvotes to involve event viewers and that multimedia shares are a great way to encourage video engagement – you can also use polls to get the audience in on a discussion to see how much they agree or disagree with your guest on a subject.

Also, ask your audience to use reaction emojis throughout a real-time conversation. By being careful about sensitive subject matter, and looking for opportunities to engage your audience throughout the event, you’ll keep the webinar topics relevant and enjoyable.

Engage your guest and audience

Your goal with a guest speaker should be a relevant, engaging, and unique conversation. So the importance of careful guest research and interview preparation can’t be overstated.

Where possible, delve into their professional history and see if you have any shared experiences you could touch on – you might uncover a surprising fact or opinion that’s the starting point for your entire discussion.

Then, once your guest begins to open up and dive into their experience, be an attentive listener, unafraid to challenge them on their ideas if it’s appropriate to do so.

With thorough research, great questions, and audience participation by way of reaction emojis, polls, and question upvotes, you can be sure of a successful, engaging virtual event.

Frequently asked questions about guest speakers for virtual events

What questions should i ask a guest speaker.

Ask your guest speaker open questions about their career choices, the hurdles they overcame, and their plans for the future. You can also ask fun questions as icebreakers or to break up the conversation. Always listen carefully to your guest speaker, and ask follow-up questions that delve deeper into subjects they’ve raised.

What are good questions to ask a successful person?

Most successful people have had to work hard and negotiate struggles or failure, so ask them questions about those challenges, what key moments made a difference to their fortunes, and what advice they’d give to their younger selves.

How do I find a guest speaker for my virtual event?

Build a network of contacts through work, forums, and social media – especially LinkedIn, where many professionals are also looking to grow their contacts and find partnership marketing opportunities.

When you identify a subject you’d like to discuss, search out specialists within those networks, and consider podcast hosts, influencers, and friends of friends. The best guests are experienced speakers, so also work out your budget and schedules before making contact with a potential guest.

Drive attendance

We share tips to write emails for every step of your event to drive attendance.

About the author

Molly Hocutt - Content Manager

Molly joined Livestorm in 2019 as a Content Manager and manages written content production. Her work focuses on lead generation and organic website traffic.

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Questions after your presentation signal success

Many presenters are relieved when there are no questions at the end of their presentation. but no questions is rarely a good sign..

I have been asking the executives, managers and business students I work with to identify the top three concerns they have when called upon to deliver a work presentation. Everyone has their own personal torments, but one common concern is “questions.” Many are nervous about being asked questions before, during or after their presentation.

Why questions can be troublesome

Different people have different reasons for being concerned about questions, but they tend to fall into one of three main groups.

1. Interruptions: Questions before or during the presentation can disrupt the presenter’s momentum and train of thought. This is often a companion to another top concern: forgetting what you need or want to say. The concern is that if you take a question, you may have trouble recovering: picking up where you left off in your prepared remarks, and getting back on track.

2. Loss of control: Some are afraid that questions may be signs that the audience is growing restive. Questions may be perceived meddlesome or even as hostile acts designed to undermine the speaker’s authority or to hijack the presentation.

3.  Lack of preparation: At the most basic level, the concern is that they will be asked a question to which they do not know the answer or struggle to remember and articulate the answer. Their concern is that not having a ready answer makes the presenter appear unprepared, incompetent or even ignorant.

Questions are not a sign of failure

Questions can be taken as a sign of failure. You failed to cover everything you needed to cover in the presentation. You have not been clear enough in your delivery. Many presenters are relieved when there are no questions at the end of their presentation. No questions? Great. Success!

Why questions are good

But questions are not only good, they are essential. The successful presenter wants to be asked questions. Responding to off-topic, nuisance or ill-informed questions will be addressed in another post, but good and even difficult on-topic questions are what you want as a presenter.

• Questions mean that at least some members of your audience are paying attention. They are engaged and can help draw other members of the audience in.
• A presentation is a shared experience between the presenter and members of the audience. The audience is not only present, they have a role to play. They bring a collective product, market or institutional knowledge to the presentation that effectively tests the value and strength of the presenter’s message. They want to be recognized as participants in this experience and the best way to be recognized is to ask questions.
• Audience members are also interested in what the other members of the audience are thinking and how they are reacting to the presentation. They appreciate good questions from other members of the audience.
• Questions represent instant feedback. Questions from the audience give the presenter a better sense of where the interests of the audience lie. Because you have to make decisions about what will fit into the time allotted for the presentation and how much information your audience can absorb, you will by definition be leaving things out. Any question will in effect just be giving you a helpful prompt re: something you need to cover.
• Finally, transforming the thinking of your audience is the objective of a successful presentation and it begins by planting or exciting questions in the minds of the audience. Questions from the audience indicate that you have been an effective catalyst for change.

How to respond to questions

The most important thing is to acknowledge a question and to thank the audience for the question. You can say: “That is a great question.” Or, “That is a really interesting question.” Or, “That is a really tough question.” Or anything to that effect.

Take a quick look around the audience once the question has been asked. If everyone is heads up and leaning in, you know this is a question that is of interest to everyone. If heads are down or attentions are turning elsewhere, you know that this question is esoteric. Tailor your answer accordingly.

You always have three seconds of silence to work with. So take a couple of seconds to think before responding. If you know the answer, keep your answer short. Just answer the question and offer to discuss it further with anyone who is interested after you finish the presentation. Try to always leave the audience wanting more.

There is no shame in not having the answer to every question that any member of the audience could possibly ask. Don’t speculate as to what the answer might be. If you don’t know the answer, you basically have two options. Either tell them you do not have that information at hand but you know where to get it and will provide it to them after the presentation, or tell them that you are very interested in that question or information, you will definitely look into it, and if the answer turns out to be useful your analysis and work you will incorporate it immediately. And again, thank them for the question.

The successful presentation is one that ends in discussion

There are two legendary performances in the theatre that ended in general riot. The first was the premiere of Victor Hugo’s romantic drama Hernani that challenged the French classical tradition. The second was the premiere of Stravinsky’s ballet The Rite of Spring . Both evoked strong emotional responses from establishment audiences who felt they were having a new, strange and wholly unacceptable art form imposed upon them. In the business presentation, even when presenting ideas that will be disruptive, we prefer to foment constructive discussion that centers on how best for all in attendance to proceed in acting upon the information they have just received. We do that by transforming the audience’s thinking. That means inviting questions from the audience.

So the successful presenter closes with, “Thank you for your attention. I hope you have questions.”

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Home > Conferences and Events > Research Week > 2024 > Oral Presentations > 54

Oral Presentations

Generative Parables: AI as an Artform

Presenter Information

Matthew Schultz , Liberty University Follow

Oral - Creative and Artistic

Description

There used to be only two things an individual could count on for sure: death and taxes; but there seems to be a third in our modern era and that is technology advancing at a rapid rate. With these advancements come new tools, methods, and of course questions. The recent introduction of artificial intelligence to the public has been no exception. Whether it is ChatGPT writing blog posts or MidJourney creating images of unreal places, AI has begun to seep into many aspects of our lives. One field that this phenomenon has started to deeply impact is the world of art. Many artists will ask whether this introduction is good or bad, but few have asked the question of whether AI can truly be considered art. Can images or assets made with artificial intelligence be defined as art? Or are they merely remixed versions of other artists work in which they were trained in? I sought to answer this question through two methods, experience and comparison. I first created my own artwork using various AI models to understand the tools themselves. I then researched similar advancements and how they were received by the community. Finally, I asked the question of what is the definition of art and whether AI art could safely fit within the boundaries. In my findings I found that AI is merely another tool in the artists toolbelt and that just like each advancement from the past, the community would adapt and change accordingly. But most interestingly, I learned that art is all about the process. The tools used to create matter less than the artist using them in the process. I believe this changes our perception of art as a whole and should encourage us to view every aspect of our lives as art.

Since May 20, 2024

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