Preparing for a talk, video, or presentation doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, it can be quite simple—as long as you follow a clear, methodical approach. Here’s a step-by-step process I’ve found to be both efficient and effective.

1. Start with the Big Picture

Before you write anything, think about the overall structure of what you want to say. What are the main points you want to cover? Jot them down. You can even talk them out loud to yourself to see how they flow naturally. The goal here is to build a clear outline that guides everything else.

A good rule of thumb is to keep it to two or three major sections. This makes it easier for your audience to follow and remember your message. Once you have the big picture, break each section down into smaller, supporting points.

2. Write It Down

With your structure in place, go ahead and write a rough draft. Don’t worry about perfect grammar or wording at this stage—just get your thoughts on paper.

3. Use AI to Polish

Once you’ve got your draft, use an AI tool to help fine-tune your wording. It can help you find more precise language, smoother transitions, or a more polished tone. Think of it as a writing assistant—not to replace your voice, but to sharpen it.

4. Practice in Your Own Words

Now that you have a clean draft, practice explaining it in your own words. Try speaking it out loud, as if you’re presenting it to a friend or an audience. Then revise your notes to reflect your natural speaking style.

5. Rehearse, Record, and Improve

Next, record yourself doing a full run-through. Watch the playback and note what works and what doesn’t—tone, pace, clarity, confidence. Then practice again, making small improvements each time. After a few rounds, you’ll feel much more prepared and natural.

Be obsessed with these two steps and experience the FLOW!

Extra Tips for a Great Presentation

• Start preparing a few days in advance, so ideas can settle and evolve.
• Think ahead about what might be confusing to your audience, and find simple ways to explain those parts.
• Consider adding a bit of light humor, a quick quiz, or something interactive to keep things engaging.
• Most importantly, never need to memorize and recite —people connect with authenticity.

If you follow this process, the result can’t be bad!