Often, presenters feel the need to be “encumbered” by notes and pieces of paper on which is contained an outline of the presentation. It’s easy to see when over dependence upon notes exists, because presenters keep on referring back and back to their notes. In fact, the presenter can become so dependent upon notes that “spoken” speech is really “read” speech.

It’s easy to understand that people need the security of notes, but often they know a great deal more about the subject then even they understand. What needs to be said is already in the head and doesn’t need reams of paper to bring it out.

The speaker who presents without using copious volumes of notes builds confidence with his or her audience. They understand that the speaker is fully conversant with the subject been canvassed.

While notes may be necessary, they should be minimised. And they can and should be!