Question and Answer
The question and answer session, whether in business deals, press conferences, or in your history class, plays an important part of a presentation. It demonstrates that you know your topic far beyond what is written on the paper.
Before:
Think of possible questions and answer them.
You know your presentation better than anyone—so you know what might be confusing or what could be contentious. Anticipate those questions and answer them—not so that you will have a memorized script, but that you can alleviate your stress. When speaking on controversial topics before a diverse audience, you can almost be assured that one of the first questions you receive is from someone who disagrees with your view. In preparing for your presentation, be sure to consider differing perspectives on your topic and remember that reasonable people might hold differing views. How you respond to their concerns reflects significantly on your character.
Determine the format and inform the audience.
Do you want questions during the presentation, or after? Both have their benefits and their negatives, but decide beforehand and let the audience know when their time to speak is.
Practice.
Find an audience and have them ask you a variety of questions. Come to the Speaking Center and have the tutors grill you until you feel comfortable. Understand that a question and answer session can be difficult, but with enough preparation, can be just as smooth as the presentation itself.
During:
Keeping a positive attitude.
The question and answer session is for the audience's sake. It helps them comprehend your topic or point of view that much better. Don't view the Q&A as a way for the audience to trick you or intentionally make you sweat. Take it all in stride and remember—it has to end sometime!
Be an active listener.
Look at the person asking the question. Once completed, sum it up for the audience. Direct the answer to the entire audience. This means making eye contact with the audience while answering. When finished, ask the questioner if the answer sufficed.
Be honest.
If you don't know the answer, say so. Admit that the question is outside the scope of your topic—don't make up answers. Remember, while you are the presenter, it is not assumed you know everything there is to know about your topic.
Stay on track.
Keep an eye on the time. Alert the audience when time is almost up, and note that you have time for one or two more questions. End by thanking the audience for coming, and patting yourself on the back for a great job done!
Number 007 in the Speaking Center Handout Series