Ending a presentation the right way – these examples help

For many, starting a presentation is easier than ending it convincingly. Often the last few minutes count to leave a lasting impression. Here are possible examples of how you can end your presentation properly.

Examples to end a presentation properly

Many know the problem: the last minutes of the presentation are approaching and concentration and energy are slowly fading. A short and concise conclusion seems tempting, but it is anything but helpful in leaving a good impression on the audience. The end of the presentation in particular should be well planned to round off the topic well and leave a positive impression on the audience. Here are some examples of how you can end your presentation:

Pick up from the beginning

• Design the structure of your presentation so that it picks up the introduction at the end.

• This creates a well-rounded rhetorical circle that connects the different themes of the presentation.

• This makes it easier for the audience to understand the context of your presentation.

• Example: Start your presentation with a question that you want to answer step by step during the presentation. At the end, go back to this question as a conclusion and answer it.

State the most important information at the end

• The last information addressed in a presentation tends to stay longer in the memory of the audience.

• Save the most important and interesting information for the end, so that the audience’s interest is retained at the end of the presentation.

• If the tension is released at the beginning, the presentation loses its momentum towards the end.

Repeat the most important things

• Information that is repeated more often stays longer in the minds of the audience.

• At the end, repeat all the important points that have been an essential part of the presentation.

• Example: “To recap the main points…”, “As I have already mentioned… “

Announce the end of the presentation

• Set different station points for the audience throughout your presentation: The audience should always know which point is being discussed.

• A well-structured presentation helps the audience to make connections and links.

• Announce the end of the presentation to increase the audience’s attention again at the end.

• Example: “In conclusion, I would like to…”, “As my last points, I would like to…”, “Before I finish, I would like to… “

Avoid this exit

You’d better avoid using the following phrases:

• “So, that’s it.” This suggests that you have not adequately prepared for the end of your presentation.

• “Thank you for your attention.” A standard phrase that doesn’t exactly set you apart.

• “I hope I was able to make the subject a little more understandable to you.” By doing this, you are downplaying the aplomb of your presentation.