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30 Examples: How to Conclude a Presentation (Effective Closing Techniques)

By Status.net Editorial Team on March 4, 2024 ā€” 9 minutes to read

Ending a presentation on a high note is a skill that can set you apart from the rest. It’s the final chance to leave an impact on your audience, ensuring they walk away with the key messages embedded in their minds. This moment is about driving your points home and making sure they resonate. Crafting a memorable closing isn’t just about summarizing key points, though that’s part of it, but also about providing value that sticks with your listeners long after they’ve left the room.

Crafting Your Core Message

To leave a lasting impression, your presentation’s conclusion should clearly reflect your core message. This is your chance to reinforce the takeaways and leave the audience thinking about your presentation long after it ends.

Identifying Key Points

Start by recognizing what you want your audience to remember. Think about the main ideas that shaped your talk. Make a list like this:

  • The problem your presentation addresses.
  • The evidence that supports your argument.
  • The solution you propose or the action you want the audience to take.

These key points become the pillars of your core message.

Contextualizing the Presentation

Provide context by briefly relating back to the content of the whole presentation. For example:

  • Reference a statistic you shared in the opening, and how it ties into the conclusion.
  • Mention a case study that underlines the importance of your message.

Connecting these elements gives your message cohesion and makes your conclusion resonate with the framework of your presentation.

30 Example Phrases: How to Conclude a Presentation

  • 1. “In summary, let’s revisit the key takeaways from today’s presentation.”
  • 2. “Thank you for your attention. Let’s move forward together.”
  • 3. “That brings us to the end. I’m open to any questions you may have.”
  • 4. “I’ll leave you with this final thought to ponder as we conclude.”
  • 5. “Let’s recap the main points before we wrap up.”
  • 6. “I appreciate your engagement. Now, let’s turn these ideas into action.”
  • 7. “We’ve covered a lot today. To conclude, remember these crucial points.”
  • 8. “As we reach the end, I’d like to emphasize our call to action.”
  • 9. “Before we close, let’s quickly review what we’ve learned.”
  • 10. “Thank you for joining me on this journey. I look forward to our next steps.”
  • 11. “In closing, I’d like to thank everyone for their participation.”
  • 12. “Let’s conclude with a reminder of the impact we can make together.”
  • 13. “To wrap up our session, here’s a brief summary of our discussion.”
  • 14. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to present to you. Any final thoughts?”
  • 15. “And that’s a wrap. I welcome any final questions or comments.”
  • 16. “As we conclude, let’s remember the objectives we’ve set today.”
  • 17. “Thank you for your time. Let’s apply these insights to achieve success.”
  • 18. “In conclusion, your feedback is valuable, and I’m here to listen.”
  • 19. “Before we part, let’s take a moment to reflect on our key messages.”
  • 20. “I’ll end with an invitation for all of us to take the next step.”
  • 21. “As we close, let’s commit to the goals we’ve outlined today.”
  • 22. “Thank you for your attention. Let’s keep the conversation going.”
  • 23. “In conclusion, let’s make a difference, starting now.”
  • 24. “I’ll leave you with these final words to consider as we end our time together.”
  • 25. “Before we conclude, remember that change starts with our actions today.”
  • 26. “Thank you for the lively discussion. Let’s continue to build on these ideas.”
  • 27. “As we wrap up, I encourage you to reach out with any further questions.”
  • 28. “In closing, I’d like to express my gratitude for your valuable input.”
  • 29. “Let’s conclude on a high note and take these learnings forward.”
  • 30. “Thank you for your time today. Let’s end with a commitment to progress.”

Summarizing the Main Points

When you reach the end of your presentation, summarizing the main points helps your audience retain the important information you’ve shared. Crafting a memorable summary enables your listeners to walk away with a clear understanding of your message.

Effective Methods of Summarization

To effectively summarize your presentation, you need to distill complex information into concise, digestible pieces. Start by revisiting the overarching theme of your talk and then narrow down to the core messages. Use plain language and imagery to make the enduring ideas stick. Here are some examples of how to do this:

  • Use analogies that relate to common experiences to recap complex concepts.
  • Incorporate visuals or gestures that reinforce your main arguments.

The Rule of Three

The Rule of Three is a classic writing and communication principle. It means presenting ideas in a trio, which is a pattern that’s easy for people to understand and remember. For instance, you might say, “Our plan will save time, cut costs, and improve quality.” This structure has a pleasing rhythm and makes the content more memorable. Some examples include:

  • “This software is fast, user-friendly, and secure.”
  • Pointing out a product’s “durability, affordability, and eco-friendliness.”

Reiterating the Main Points

Finally, you want to circle back to the key takeaways of your presentation. Rephrase your main points without introducing new information. This reinforcement supports your audience’s memory and understanding of the material. You might summarize key takeaways like this:

  • Mention the problem you addressed, the solution you propose, and the benefits of this solution.
  • Highlighting the outcomes of adopting your strategy: higher efficiency, greater satisfaction, and increased revenue.

Creating a Strong Conclusion

The final moments of your presentation are your chance to leave your audience with a powerful lasting impression. A strong conclusion is more than just summarizingā€”it’s your opportunity to invoke thought, inspire action, and make your message memorable.

Incorporating a Call to Action

A call to action is your parting request to your audience. You want to inspire them to take a specific action or think differently as a result of what they’ve heard. To do this effectively:

  • Be clear about what you’re asking.
  • Explain why their action is needed.
  • Make it as simple as possible for them to take the next steps.

Example Phrases:

  • “Start making a difference today by…”
  • “Join us in this effort by…”
  • “Take the leap and commit to…”

Leaving a Lasting Impression

End your presentation with something memorable. This can be a powerful quote, an inspirational statement, or a compelling story that underscores your main points. The goal here is to resonate with your audience on an emotional level so that your message sticks with them long after they leave.

  • “In the words of [Influential Person], ‘…'”
  • “Imagine a world where…”
  • “This is more than just [Topic]; it’s about…”

Enhancing Audience Engagement

To hold your audience’s attention and ensure they leave with a lasting impression of your presentation, fostering interaction is key.

Q&A Sessions

It’s important to integrate a Q&A session because it allows for direct communication between you and your audience. This interactive segment helps clarify any uncertainties and encourages active participation. Plan for this by designating a time slot towards the end of your presentation and invite questions that promote discussion.

  • “I’d love to hear your thoughts; what questions do you have?”
  • “Let’s dive into any questions you might have. Who would like to start?”
  • “Feel free to ask any questions, whether they’re clarifications or deeper inquiries about the topic.”

Encouraging Audience Participation

Getting your audience involved can transform a good presentation into a great one. Use open-ended questions that provoke thought and allow audience members to reflect on how your content relates to them. Additionally, inviting volunteers to participate in a demonstration or share their experiences keeps everyone engaged and adds a personal touch to your talk.

  • “Could someone give me an example of how you’ve encountered this in your work?”
  • “I’d appreciate a volunteer to help demonstrate this concept. Who’s interested?”
  • “How do you see this information impacting your daily tasks? Let’s discuss!”

Delivering a Persuasive Ending

At the end of your presentation, you have the power to leave a lasting impact on your audience. A persuasive ending can drive home your key message and encourage action.

Sales and Persuasion Tactics

When you’re concluding a presentation with the goal of selling a product or idea, employ carefully chosen sales and persuasion tactics. One method is to summarize the key benefits of your offering, reminding your audience why it’s important to act. For example, if youā€™ve just presented a new software tool, recap how it will save time and increase productivity. Another tactic is the ‘call to action’, which should be clear and direct, such as “Start your free trial today to experience the benefits first-hand!” Furthermore, using a touch of urgency, like “Offer expires soon!”, can nudge your audience to act promptly.

Final Impressions and Professionalism

Your closing statement is a chance to solidify your professional image and leave a positive impression. It’s important to display confidence and poise. Consider thanking your audience for their time and offering to answer any questions. Make sure to end on a high note by summarizing your message in a concise and memorable way. If your topic was on renewable energy, you might conclude by saying, “Let’s take a leap towards a greener future by adopting these solutions today.” This reinforces your main points and encourages your listeners to think or act differently when they leave.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some creative strategies for ending a presentation memorably.

To end your presentation in a memorable way, consider incorporating a call to action that engages your audience to take the next step. Another strategy is to finish with a thought-provoking question or a surprising fact that resonates with your listeners.

Can you suggest some powerful quotes suitable for concluding a presentation?

Yes, using a quote can be very effective. For example, Maya Angelou’s “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel,” can reinforce the emotional impact of your presentation.

What is an effective way to write a conclusion that summarizes a presentation?

An effective conclusion should recap the main points succinctly, highlighting what you want your audience to remember. A good way to conclude is by restating your thesis and then briefly summarizing the supporting points you made.

As a student, how can I leave a strong impression with my presentationā€™s closing remarks?

To leave a strong impression, consider sharing a personal anecdote related to your topic that demonstrates passion and conviction. This helps humanize your content and makes the message more relatable to your audience.

How can I appropriately thank my audience at the close of my presentation?

A simple and sincere expression of gratitude is always appropriate. You might say, “Thank you for your attention and engagement today,” to convey appreciation while also acknowledging their participation.

What are some examples of a compelling closing sentence in a presentation?

A compelling closing sentence could be something like, “Together, let’s take the leap towards a greener future,” if you’re presenting on sustainability. This sentence is impactful, calls for united action, and leaves your audience with a clear message.

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10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

  • By Illiya Vjestica
  • - January 23, 2023

10 Powerful Examples of How to End a Presentation

Here are 10 powerful examples of how to end a presentation that does not end with a thank you slide.

How many presentations have you seen that end with “Thank you for listening” or “Any questions?” I bet it’s a lot…

“Thank you for listening.” is the most common example. Unfortunately, when it comes to closing out your slides ending with “thank you” is the norm. We can create a better presentation ending by following these simple examples.

The two most essential slides of your deck are the ending and intro. An excellent presentation ending is critical to helping the audience to the next step or following a specific call to action.

There are many ways you can increase your presentation retention rate . The most critical steps are having a solid call to action at the end of your presentation and a powerful hook that draws your audience in.

What Action do You Want Your Audience to Take?

Before designing your presentation, start with this question – what message or action will you leave your audience with?

Are you looking to persuade, inspire, entertain or inform your audience? You can choose one or multiple words to describe the intent of your presentation.

Think about the action words that best describe your presentation ending – what do you want them to do? Inspire, book, learn, understand, engage, donate, buy, book or schedule. These are a few examples.

If the goal of your presentation is to inspire, why not end with a powerful and inspiring quote ? Let words of wisdom be the spark that ignites an action within your audience.

Here are three ways to end your presentation:

  • Call to Action – getting the audience to take a specific action or next step, for example, booking a call, signing up for an event or donating to your cause.
  • Persuade – persuading your audience to think differently, try something new, undertake a challenge or join your movement or community.
  • Summarise – A summary of the key points and information you want the audience to remember. If you decide to summarise your talk at the end, keep it to no more than three main points.

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

1. Asking your audience to take action or make a pledge.

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

Here were asking the audience to take action by using the wording “take action” in our copy. This call to action is a pledge to donate. A clear message like this can be helpful for charities and non-profits looking to raise funding for their campaign or cause.

2. Encourage your audience to take a specific action, e.g. joining your cause or community

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

Here was are asking the audience to join our community and help solve a problem by becoming part of the solution. It’s a simple call to action. You can pass the touch to your audience and ask them to take the next lead.

3. Highlight the critical points for your audience to remember.

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

Rember, to summarise your presentation into no more than three key points. This is important because the human brain struggles to remember more than three pieces of information simultaneously. We call this the “Rule of Three”.

4. If you are trying to get more leads or sales end with a call to action to book a demo or schedule a call.

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

Can you inspire your audience to sign up for a demo or trial of your product? Structure your talk to lead your prospect through a journey of the results you generate for other clients. At the end of your deck, finish with a specific call to action, such as “Want similar results to X?”

Make sure you design a button, or graphic your prospect can click on when you send them the PDF version of the slides.

5. Challenge your audience to think differently or take action, e.g. what impact could they make?

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

6. Give your audience actions to help share your message.

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

7. Promote your upcoming events or workshops

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

8. Asking your audience to become a volunteer.

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

9. Direct your audience to learn more about your website.

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

10. If you are a book author, encourage your audience to engage with your book.

10 Examples of How to End a Presentation

6 Questions to Generate an Ending for Your Presentation

You’ve told an engaging story, but why end your presentation without leaving your audience a clear message or call to action?

Here are six great questions you can ask yourself to generate an ending for your presentation or keynote talk.

  • What impression would you want to leave your audience with?
  • What is the big idea you want to leave them with?
  • What action should they take next?
  • What key point should you remember 72 hours after your presentation?
  • What do you want them to feel?
  • What is the key takeaway for them to understand?

What to Say After Ending a Presentation?

When you get to the end of a book, you don’t see the author say, “thank you for reading my last chapter.” Of course, there is no harm in thanking the audience after your presentation ends, but don’t make that the last words you speak.

Think of the ending of the presentation as the final chapter of an epic novel. It’s your chance to leave a lasting impression on the audience. Close with an impactful ending and leave them feeling empowered, invigorated and engaged.

  • Leave a lasting impression.
  • Think of it as the last chapter of a book.
  • Conclude with a thought or question.
  • Leave the audience with a specific action or next step.

How to End a Presentation with Style?

There are many great ways you can end your presentation with style. Are you ready to drop the mic?

Ensure your closing slide is punchy, has a clear headline, or uses a thought-provoking image.

Think about colours. You want to capture the audience’s attention before closing the presentation. Make sure the fonts you choose are clear and easy to read.

Do you need to consider adding a link? If you add links to your social media accounts, use icons and buttons to make them easy to see. Add a link to each button or icon. By doing this, if you send the PDF slides to people, they can follow the links to your various accounts.

What Should you Remember?

šŸ’” If you take one thing away from this post, it’s to lose the traditional ending slides. Let’s move on from the “Thank you for your attention.” or “Any questions.” slides.

These don’t help you or the audience. Respect them and think about what they should do next. You may be interested to learn 3 Tactics to Free Your Presentation Style to help you connect to your audience.

Illiya Vjestica

Illiya Vjestica

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How to End a Presentation The Right Way (+ 3 Downloadable Creative PowerPoint Conclusion Slides)

Ausbert Generoso

Ausbert Generoso

How to End a Presentation The Right Way (+ 3 Downloadable Creative PowerPoint Conclusion Slides)

Ever been in a presentation that started strong but fizzled out at the end? Itā€™s a common frustration. The conclusion is where your message either sticks or fades away.

But how often have you left a presentation wondering, ā€œWas that it?ā€ A lackluster ending can undermine the impact of an entire presentation. In the digital age, a strong conclusion isnā€™t just a courtesy; itā€™s your secret weapon to make your message unforgettable.

In this blog, weā€™re diving into the art of crafting a powerful ending, making sure your audience doesnā€™t just understand but gets inspired. Letā€™s explore the key on how to end a presentation in a way that lingers in your audienceā€™s minds.

Table of Contents

Why having a good presentation conclusion matters.

conclusion to a presentation

Understanding why a conclusion is not merely a formality but a critical component is key to elevating your presentation game. Letā€™s delve into the pivotal reasons why a well-crafted conclusion matters:

šŸŽ‰ Lasting Impression

The conclusion is the last note your audience hears, leaving a lasting impression. It shapes their overall perception and ensures they vividly remember your key points.

šŸ”„ Message Reinforcement

Think of the conclusion as the reinforcement stage for your central message. Itā€™s the last opportunity to drive home your main ideas, ensuring they are understood and internalized.

šŸ“ Audience Takeaways

Summarizing key points in the conclusion acts as a guide, ensuring your audience remembers the essential elements of your presentation.

šŸ’¬ Connection and Engagement

A well-crafted conclusion fosters engagement, connecting with your audience on a deeper level through thought-provoking questions, compelling quotes, or visual recaps.

šŸš€ Motivation for Action

If your presentation includes a call to action, the conclusion plants the seeds for motivation, encouraging your audience to become active participants.

šŸŒŸ Professionalism and Polishing

A strong conclusion adds professionalism, showcasing attention to detail and a commitment to delivering a comprehensive and impactful message.

6 Unique Techniques and Components to a Strong Conclusion

As we navigate the art of how to end a presentation, it becomes evident that a powerful and memorable conclusion is not merely the culmination of your wordsā€”itā€™s an experience carefully crafted to resonate with your audience. In this section, we explore key components that transcend the ordinary, turning your conclusion into a compelling finale that lingers in the minds of your listeners.

unique techniques on how to end a presentation

1. Visual Storytelling through Imagery

What it is: Ā In the digital age, visuals carry immense power. Utilize compelling imagery in your conclusion to create a visual story that reinforces your main points. Whether itā€™s a metaphorical image, a powerful photograph, or an infographic summarizing key ideas, visuals can enhance the emotional impact of your conclusion.

How to do it: Ā Select images that align with your presentation theme and evoke the desired emotions. Integrate these visuals into your conclusion, allowing them to speak volumes. Ensure consistency in style and tone with the rest of your presentation, creating a seamless visual narrative that resonates with your audience.

2. Interactive Audience Participation

What it is: Ā Transform your conclusion into an interactive experience by engaging your audience directly. Pose a thought-provoking question or conduct a quick poll related to your presentation theme. This fosters active participation, making your conclusion more memorable and involving your audience on a deeper level.

How to do it: Ā Craft a question that encourages reflection and discussion. Use audience response tools, if available, to collect real-time feedback. Alternatively, encourage a show of hands or open the floor for brief comments. This direct engagement not only reinforces your message but also creates a dynamic and memorable conclusion.

3. Musical Closure for Emotional Impact

What it is: Ā Consider incorporating music into your conclusion to evoke emotions and enhance the overall impact. A carefully selected piece of music can complement your message, creating a powerful and memorable ending that resonates with your audience on a sensory level.

How to do it: Ā Choose a piece of music that aligns with the tone and message of your presentation. Introduce the music at the right moment in your conclusion, allowing it to play during the final thoughts. Ensure that the volume is appropriate and that the music enhances, rather than distracts from, your message.

4. Intentional and Deliberate Silence

What it is: Ā Sometimes, the most impactful way to conclude a presentation is through intentional silence. A brief pause after delivering your final words allows your audience to absorb and reflect on your message. This minimalist approach can create a sense of gravity and emphasis.

How to do it: Ā Plan a deliberate pause after your last sentence or key point. Use this moment to make eye contact with your audience, allowing your message to sink in. The strategic use of silence can be particularly effective when followed by a strong closing statement or visual element.

5. Narrative Bookending

What it is: Ā Create a sense of completeness by bookending your presentation. Reference a story, quote, or anecdote from the introduction, bringing your presentation full circle. This technique provides a satisfying narrative structure and reinforces your core message.

How to do it: Ā Identify a story or element from your introduction that aligns with your conclusion. Reintroduce it with a fresh perspective, revealing its relevance to the journey youā€™ve taken your audience on. This technique not only creates coherence but also leaves a lasting impression.

6. Incorporating Humor for Memorable Impact

What it is: Ā Humor can be a powerful tool in leaving a positive and memorable impression. Consider injecting a well-timed joke, light-hearted anecdote, or amusing visual element into your conclusion. Humor can create a sense of camaraderie and connection with your audience.

How to do it: Ā Choose humor that aligns with your audienceā€™s sensibilities and the overall tone of your presentation. Ensure it enhances, rather than detracts from, your message. A genuine and well-placed moment of humor can humanize your presentation and make your conclusion more relatable.

[Bonus] Creative Ways on How to End a Presentation Like a Pro

1. minimalist conclusion table design.

One of the many ways to (aesthetically) end your PowerPoint presentation is by having a straightforward and neat-looking table to sum up all the important points you want your audience to reflect on. Putting closing information in one slide can get heavy, especially if thereā€™s too much text included ā€“ as to why itā€™s important to go minimal on the visual side whenever you want to present a group of text.

PowerPoint conclusion slide table

Hereā€™s how you can easily do it:

  • Insert a table. Depending on the number of points you want to reinforce, feel free to customize the number of rows & columns you might need. Then, proceed to fill the table with your content.
  • Clear the fill for the first column of the table by selecting the entire column. Then, go to the Table Design tab on your PowerPoint ribbon, click on the Shading drop down, and select No Fill.
  • Color the rest of the columns as preferred. Ideally, the heading column must be in a darker shade compared to the cells below.
  • Insert circles at the top left of each heading column. Each circle should be colored the same as the heading. Then, put a weighted outline and make it white, or the same color as the background.
  • Finally, put icons on top each circle that represent the columns. You may find free stock PowerPoint icons by going to Insert, then Icons.

2. Animated Closing Text

Ever considered closing a presentation with what seems to be a blank slide which will then be slowly filled with text in a rather captivating animation? Well, thatā€™s sounds specific, yes! But, itā€™s time for you take this hack as your next go-to in ending your presentations!

Hereā€™s how simple it is to do it:

  • Go to Pixabay , and set your search for only videos. In this example, I searched for the keyword, ā€˜yellow inkā€™.
  • Insert the downloaded video onto a blank PowerPoint slide. Then, go to the Playback tab on the PowerPoint ribbon. Set the video to start automatically, and tick the box for ā€˜Loop until stoppedā€™. Then, cover it whole with a shape.
  • Place your closing text on top of the shape. It could be a quote, an excerpt, or just a message that you want to end your PowerPoint presentation with.
  • Select the shape, hold Shift, and select the text next. Then, go to Merge Shapes, and select Subtract.
  • Color the shape white with no outline. And, youā€™re done!

3. Animated 3D Models

What quicker way is there than using PowerPointā€™s built-in 3D models? And did you know they have an entire collection of animated 3D models to save you time in setting up countless animations? Use it as part of your presentation conclusion and keep your audienceā€™ eyes hooked onto the screens.

Hereā€™s how you can do it:

  • Design a closing slide. In this example, Iā€™m using a simple ā€œThank Youā€ slide.
  • Go to Insert, then click on the 3D Models dropdown, and select Stock 3D Models. Here, you can browse thru the ā€˜All Animated Modelsā€™ pack and find the right model for you
  • Once your chosen model has been inserted, go to the Animations tab.
  • In this example, Iā€™m setting a Swing animation. Then, set the model to start with previous.
  • For a final touch, go to Animation Pane. From the side panel, click on the Effect Options dropdown and tick the check box for Auto-reverse. Another would be the Timing dropdown, then select Until End of Slide down the Repeat dropdown.

Get a hold of these 3 bonus conclusion slides for free!

Expert Tips on How to End a Presentation With Impact

šŸ”Ā  Clarity and Conciseness

Tip: Ā Keep your conclusion clear and concise. Avoid introducing new information, and instead, focus on summarizing key points and reinforcing your main message. A concise conclusion ensures that your audience retains the essential takeaways without feeling overwhelmed.

ā©Ā  Maintain a Strong Pace

Tip: Ā Control the pacing of your conclusion. Maintain a steady rhythm to sustain audience engagement. Avoid rushing through key points or lingering too long on any single aspect. A well-paced conclusion keeps your audience focused and attentive until the very end.

šŸš€Ā  Emphasize Key Takeaways

Tip: Ā Clearly highlight the most critical takeaways from your presentation. Reinforce these key points in your conclusion to emphasize their significance. This ensures that your audience leaves with a firm grasp of the essential messages you aimed to convey.

šŸ”„Ā  Align with Your Introduction

Tip: Ā Create a sense of cohesion by aligning your conclusion with elements introduced in the beginning. Reference a story, quote, or theme from your introduction, providing a satisfying narrative arc. This connection enhances the overall impact and resonance of your presentation.

šŸŽ­Ā  Practice, but Embrace Flexibility

Tip: Ā Practice your conclusion to ensure a confident delivery. However, be prepared to adapt based on audience reactions or unexpected changes. Embrace flexibility to address any unforeseen circumstances while maintaining the overall integrity of your conclusion.

šŸ“¢Ā  End with a Strong Call to Action (if applicable)

Tip: Ā If your presentation includes a call to action, conclude with a compelling and actionable statement. Clearly communicate what you want your audience to do next and why. A strong call to action motivates your audience to take the desired steps.

šŸ™Ā  Express Gratitude and Closure

Tip: Ā Express gratitude to your audience for their time and attention. Provide a sense of closure by summarizing the journey youā€™ve taken together. A gracious and thoughtful conclusion leaves a positive final impression.

Final Thoughts

In wrapping up your presentation, the conclusion serves as the final touch, leaving a strong and lasting impression. Think of it as the last puzzle piece that completes the picture. Ensure your conclusion goes beyond a simple summary, using visuals and engagement to make it memorable. Express gratitude sincerely as you bring your talk to an end, acknowledging the shared experience and setting the stage for what follows.

In these closing moments, aim for more than just a conclusion; create a connection that lingers in the minds of your audience.

About Ausbert Generoso

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How to Close Your Presentation in English Powerfully [+ FREE Presentation Checklist]

May 9, 2018 | Business Professional English , Free Resource , Public Speaking & Presentations

What to Include in the Conclusion of Your Presentation in English

This lesson has been updated from its original posting in 2016.

Youā€™re giving your presentation in English. You have just two minutes left. And itā€™s time for the conclusionĀ ā€¦

Did you know most people only remember the first and last things you tell them? It’s true.

If you are giving a presentation in English, then you definitely want people to remember what you say at the end. And this means your closing must be powerful!

Youā€™ve worked hard on your presentation. You searched for information online. You couldnā€™t sleep at night. You felt nervous about making mistakes. You spent hours preparing. You reviewed the grammar and vocabulary. You worried about someone asking a question. You practiced and practiced and practiced.

And now itā€™s the last two minutes. This is the last opportunity for your audience to hear your key points.Ā It is the last chance you have to help your audience remember your comments.

A closing in a presentation should be short and clear. It should summarize your key points. And, most importantly, it should be powerful.

In todayā€™s lesson, youā€™re going to learn about 3 ways to make your closing more powerful. Plus youā€™ll learn useful key expressions you can use in your presentation.

3 steps to a powerful closing in your presentation.

Lesson by Annemarie

3 Strategies to Close Your Presentation Powerfully

Use these 3 strategies in your conclusion to:

  • recapture your audience’s attention
  • get your audience to focus and remember your key points
  • help your audience connect with you and your topic
  • end your presentation powerfully

One: Include a Call to Action (CTA)

Is there something you want your audience to do or think after your presentation. Do you want them to take action? Tell your audience exactly what you want them to do with a Call to Action.

Here’s my example:

“ After you finish today’s lesson, please take 2 minutes to Ā leave a comment about your experience with presentations. You can share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments section at the bottom of this lesson – it’s the perfect place to join a discussion on this topic.”

A couple useful expressions to help you introduce your CTA is:

  • To close, Iā€™d like to ask you to do this one thingā€¦
  • And finally, before you leave the conference today, please take two minutes toā€¦

Two: End with a Powerful/Inspirational Quote

Is there one thing you really want your audience to remember? Or is there a specific feeling you want your audience to have after your presentation?

Using a powerful quote can help you do that.Ā You could introduce a great quote or interesting statistic with:

  • Iā€™d like to finish with this powerful/interesting/wonderful/inspiring/ quote from ā€¦
  • And finally, letā€™s finish up todayā€™s discussion with this surprising/useful/shocking/hopeful statistic ā€¦

Here are some example quotes that might help people be prepared to take action or to think differently. But remember! Always match the quote or statistic to your topic:

“In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” Ā – Martin Luther King, Jr. “Sometimes we stare so long at a door that is closing that we see too late the one that is open.” Ā – Alexander Graham Bell

Three: Add a Surprising Fact or Statistic

Is there something youā€™d love for your audience to think about after your presentation? Is there a statistic or fact that will help someone remember your key points?

A surprising fact can also help re-engage your audience, it will snap their attention back to you.

For example:

Did you know that the human brainā€™s capacity is limitless – thatā€™s great new right? BUT ā€¦ did you also know that a person is likely to remember only 25% of a presentation after 24 hours?

Uh oh. That is why itā€™s SO important to have a powerful ending! Remember: the key is to find a statistic or fact that connects directly to your topic.

Useful Language to Close Your Presentation

Summarize Your Key Points & Close Your Presentation

  • That brings us to the end of the presentation. Iā€™d like to summarize by saying ā€¦
  • That concludes my presentation. However, Iā€™d like to quickly summarize the main points or takeaways.
  • And on that final note, that concludes my presentation.
  • To quickly recap, Iā€™d like you to remember these key points ā€¦
  • To summarize ā€¦
  • In conclusion ā€¦
  • Iā€™d like to bring this presentation to a close with ā€¦
  • Iā€™d like to close this talk with ā€¦
  • So, this concludes the focus of discussion today. To end, Iā€™d like to highlight ā€¦
  • This concludes [name/title of the section] so letā€™s move on to the final comments.

Thank Your Audience

  • I sincerely appreciate your attention today/this evening/this morning.
  • And that brings us to the end. Iā€™d like to thank you for your time and attention today.
  • Thank you so much for your interest and attention.
  • At this time, Iā€™d like to have my colleague speak so Iā€™ll finish up by saying thank you for your attention.
  • I can see that our time is just about up so to finish Iā€™d like to say thank you.
  • I sincerely appreciate that Iā€™ve had this opportunity to present to you.
  • If there is one thing I would like you to remember from todayā€™s presentation itā€™s ā€¦

Take Questions

  • If anyone has any questions, Iā€™d be happy to open up the discussion.
  • If anyone has any questions, please feel free to ask now and Iā€™ll do my best to answer.
  • Would anyone like to ask any questions?
  • I would now be interested to hear from you with your thoughts or questions.
  • Now letā€™s move on to some Q&A. (Q&A = Questions and Answers)

Provide Next Steps or Contact Information

  • If you would like more information, here is a list of useful resources/websites.
  • If anyone who like more information or has questions, please feel free to contact me at: [include contact info]
  • Here is a list for further reading on this topic. (Include the list of books or websites.)

Get the completeĀ Presentations in English Series:

Part 1: How to Prepare for Your Presentation in English

Part 2:Ā  How to Start with a Great Introduction in Your Presentation

Part 3:Ā  How to Organize Your Presentation in English

Part 4:Ā How to End Your Presentation Powerfully

After you’ve watched the video and reviewed the lesson, I’d love to hear from you!

Tell me about the best presentation you ever heard. Who gave the presentation? And why do you remember it? Share what you remember in the comments section below.

And for the bonus question!! Have you given a presentation in English? What tips or advice would you like to share with others? You can add your advice in the comments section.

Thank you so much for joining me!

~ Annemarie

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great video series. thank you so much. you mentioned that you had a downloadable checklist in the final video. where could I find this thanks?

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Hello, I have a 5 minute oral presentation of a fictional book, w/the main focus on the leadership traits of the characters. I enjoyed the book, and suspect others might, so to that end, is it OK to NOT share the ending? Thank you

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Great website. I found a typo in on the presentation closings page “Useful Langauge to Close Your Presentation”.

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Dear Annemarie, thank you so much for sharing. 

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Dear Annemarie, thank you so much for sharing. I learned so much from your 4 videos and I will work on improving my presentation skills. Love your spirit of excellence. For me as a presenter, its important i am passionate about the topic i share and audience will be able to apply some of the learnings in their life. Thank you Annemarie. I love your voice too. Stay blessed.

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You are absolutely wonderful and your website is extremely useful and also quit impressive i habe my english A-levels in December i copied this text i sinisterly appreciate that i have had this opportunity to present to you and i also add something * it was a honor for me so thank you ā˜ŗļø

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hey Annemarie could you help me in ending my presentation on mental health. it is a school presentation for MUN

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How to end a presentation in english: methods and examples.

  • By Matthew Jones

conclusion to a presentation

Naturally, the way you end a presentation will depend on the setting and subject matter. Are you pitching an idea to your boss? Are you participating in a group presentation at school? Or are you presenting a business idea to potential investors? No matter the context, youā€™ll want to have a stellar ending that satisfies your audience and reinforces your goals.

So, do you want to learn how to end a presentation with style? Wondering how to end an informative speech? Or do you want to know how to conclude a Powerpoint presentation with impact? Weā€™re here to help you learn how to end a presentation and make a great impression!

How to End a Presentation: 3 Effective Methods

Every presentation needs a great beginning, middle, and end. In this guide, we will focus on crafting the perfect conclusion. However, if youā€™d like to make sure that your presentation sounds good from start to finish, you should also check out our guide on starting a presentation in English .

Though there are many ways to end a presentation, the most effective strategies focus on making a lasting impression on your audience and reinforcing your goals. So, letā€™s take a look at three effective ways to end a presentation:

1. Summarize the Key Takeaways

Most presenters either make an argument (i.e. they want to convince their audience to adopt their view) or present new or interesting information (i.e. they want to educate their audience). In either case, the presentation will likely consist of important facts and figures. The conclusion gives you the opportunity to reiterate the most important information to your audience.

This doesnā€™t mean that you should simply restate everything from your presentation a second time. Instead, you should identify the most important parts of your presentation and briefly summarize them.

This is similar to what you might find in the last paragraph of an academic essay. For example, if youā€™re presenting a business proposal to potential investors, you might conclude with a summary of your business and the reasons why your audience should invest in your idea.

2. End with a CTA (Call-To-Action)

Ending with a Call-To-Action is one of the best ways to increase audience engagement (participation) with your presentation. A CTA is simply a request or invitation to perform a specific action. This technique is frequently used in sales or marketing presentations, though it can be used in many different situations.

For example, letā€™s say that youā€™re giving an informational presentation about the importance of hygiene in the workplace. Since your goal is to educate your audience, you may think that thereā€™s no place for a CTA.

On the contrary, informational presentations are perfect for CTAā€™s. Rather than simply ending your presentation, you can direct your audience to seek out more information on the subject from authorities. In this case, you might encourage listeners to learn more from an authoritative medical organization, like the World Health Organization (WHO).

3. Use a Relevant Quote

It may sound cliche, but using quotes in your closing speech is both memorable and effective. However, not just any quote will do. You should always make sure that your quote is relevant to the topic. If youā€™re making an argument, you might want to include a quote that either directly or indirectly reinforces your main point.

Letā€™s say that youā€™re conducting a presentation about your companyā€™s mission statement. You might present the information with a Powerpoint presentation, in which case your last slide could include an inspirational quote. The quote can either refer to the mission statement or somehow reinforce the ideas covered in the presentation.

Formatting Your Conclusion

While these 3 strategies should give you some inspiration, they wonā€™t help you format your conclusion. You might know that you want to end your presentation with a Call-To-Action, but how should you ā€œstartā€ your conclusion? How long should you make your conclusion? Finally, what are some good phrases to use for ending a presentation?<br>

Examples of a Good Conclusion

In conclusion, I believe that we can increase our annual revenue this year. We can do this with a combination of increased efficiency in our production process and a more dynamic approach to lead generation. If we implement these changes, I estimate that annual revenue will increase by as much as 15%.

The example above shows a good conclusion for a business presentation. However, some people believe that the term in conclusion is overused. Hereā€™s how to end a presentation using transition words similar to in conclusion .

Transition words help your audience know that your presentation is ending. Try starting your conclusion with one of these phrases:

  • To summarize

However, transition words arenā€™t always necessary. Here are a few good ways to end a presentation using a different approach.

  • Summarize Key Takeaways : There are two things that Iā€™d like you to remember from todayā€™s presentation. First, we are a company that consults startups for a fraction of the cost of other consultation services. And second, we have a perfect record of successfully growing startups in a wide variety of industries. If anything was unclear, Iā€™d be happy to open the floor to questions.
  • Make a Call-To-Action : I am very passionate about climate change. The future of the planet rests on our shoulders and we are quickly running out of time to take action. That said, I do believe that we can effect real change for future generations. I challenge you to take up the fight for our children and our childrenā€™s children.
  • Use a Relevant Quote: Iā€™d like to end my presentation with one of my favorite quotes: ā€œAsk not what your country can do for you ā€” ask what you can do for your country.ā€

As you can see, your conclusion does not need to be very long. In fact, a conclusion should be short and to the point. This way, you can effectively end your presentation without rambling or adding extraneous (irrelevant) information.

How to End a Presentation in English with Common Phrases

Finally, there are a few generic phrases that people frequently use to wrap up presentations. While we encourage you to think about how to end a presentation using a unique final statement, thereā€™s nothing wrong with using these common closing phrases:

  • Thank you for your time.
  • I appreciate the opportunity to speak with you today.
  • Iā€™ll now answer any questions you have about (topic).
  • If you need any further information, feel free to contact me at (contact information).

We hope this guide helps you better understand how to end a presentation ! If youā€™d like to find out more about how to end a presentation in English effectively, visit Magoosh Speaking today!

Matthew Jones

Matthew Jones

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How to End Your Presentation with a Bang

conclusion to a presentation

So you’ve spent days (maybe weeks) putting together a killer presentation. Now, you stand up with confidence, present every bullet point with poise, and then you get all the way to the end… and the presentation just fizzles.

It’s like a marathon runner who trains for months (maybe years), then just a half mile before the finish line, starts to cramps and can’t finish the race.

The last thing that you tell your audience will most likely be what they remember. So, you want to end your presentation with a bang!

In this post, we will cover three things that you should absolutely avoid when you close your presentation. In addition, we will also cover 6 killer ways to end on a positive note.

By the way, for more details about how to organize a good speech, see the following. 7 Foolproof Ways to Start a Presentation . | How to Design a Presentation Quickly .

Eliminate these “Show Stoppers” from Your Presentation Conclusion

Avoid these Presentation Ending Showstoppers

Avoid Ending Your Presentation with a Question & Answer Period.

One of the things that drives me up the wall is ending a fantastic presentation with a Q & A session that has a high propensity to just flop.

It reminds me of some sage advice from my jr high school football coach. He was an old-school running game type of coach. He’d say,

“In football, when you pass the ball, only three things can happen and two of them are bad.”

I kind of feel the same way about Question & Answer periods. There are only three ways that Q & A sessions can end, and two of them are bad .

Yes, If your audience asks you great questions, you can end your presentation on a high note. However, if your audience asks you odd questions or uninteresting questions, you can end on a low note. Even worse than getting crappy questions, though is getting no questions. Now, the ending will just seem odd.

When I present, I encourage people to ask questions DURING my presentation . That way, I can use a more dynamic way to end my presentation with a bang.

Don’t End by Thanking the Audience for Their Time.

When you stand up to speak, you should have the attitude that your audience is there to hear from you because you have important information that they need. When you thank your audience for their time, you are conceding that their time is more important than your time.

Also Avoid an Abrupt Ending with No Conclusion.

This happened to me early in my career. The first time that I really bombed a speech, I made two really big mistakes. The first was that I sped through the information so quickly that I finished in less than half of the allotted time. Then, I just ran out of things to say, so I sat down. The people in the audience were confused. I had more time and the ending was so abrupt, that they weren’t sure if I was finished.

So, spend time preparing your conclusion. Practice it a few times, and you will end on a high note.

Bonus Tip: Warn Your Audience Ahead of Time that Your Speech is Coming to a Close.

Our brains are wired to look for structure in things. Thatā€™s why people get frustrated with cliffhangers in movies. Only in movies, thereā€™s a sequel. In speeches and presentations, the end is the end.

Give a hint that you are nearing a close a couple of slides or paragraphs before you actually do. Saying something like, ā€œSo let’s review what weā€™ve discussed so farā€, ā€œAs I wrap up this presentationā€ or ā€œIn conclusionā€.

Signaling the close prepares your audience for the ending. Ironically, it also makes the ending more memorable.

Secrets to a Powerful Presentation Ending – 6 Ways to End Your Presentation with a Bang

Not that we have covered what NOT to do, let’s focus on a few, turnkey ways to end your presentation with a bang.

(1) End Your Presentation with a Brief Summary You Key Points.

End Your Presentation with a Brief Summary You Key Points

This technique works really well because it allows you to repeat your key points a few times. This repetition helps your audience remember the content better.

An Example of Using a Summary to End Your Presentation with a Bang!

A couple of months ago, I had a class member that used this technique really well. She worked for a local TV station that was trying to attract new viewers. Here is the presentation outline that she created:

We Can Increase the Number of Young Viewers by Focusing More on Our Social Media Platforms Teens get most news from social media. Increase coverage w/ teens increases interest in station. Making social media selective will make us stand out against competition.

[Introduction] “My topic today is about how we can increase the number of young viewers by focusing more on social media. The things that we are going to cover are, how teens get most of their news from social media, that if we increase our coverage with teens there will also be a corresponding increase in interest in our TV station, and how making our social media selective will allow us to stand out from the competition.”

After the introduction, the speaker would then cover the “meat” of the presentation by going through each point with specific examples and evidence about how each of those points is true.

At the conclusion, the speaker could just recap by saying, “So in conclusion, since teens get most of their news via social media, if we increase our coverage with teens, we will also increase interest in our station, and if we make our social media selective we will stand out from the crowd, I believe that we can increase the number of young viewers by focusing more on social media.”

The summary technique is a very easy way to conclude your speech, and it will also increase the retention of your audience.

For additional examples, see How to Write a Speech in Just a few Steps .

(2) End with an Example, Story, or Anecdote.

End with a Story or Anecdote

I spoke for another 45 minutes, and then I finished the presentation by describing the success story of one of my class members. He had implemented the very content that I had just delivered to that breakout session group. However, he was delivering a very data-intense presentation for the Center for Disease Control. (So his content was even more boring than the type of content the audience had to deliver.) The story showed the group how a speaker can take even boring, data-filled material and deliver it well.

Those contrasting stories — the one at the start of my presentation, and the one at the end, work really well together. They bookend the entire presentation.

An Easy Way to Find a Funny Anecdote to End Your Presentation.

Sometimes a good anecdote or funny story can be a good way to end on a positive as well. A good place to get funny anecdotes is from Reader’s Digest . (RD has a great book published that has just funny work-related stories. You can purchase it here: Laughter the Best Medicine @ Work: America’s Funniest Jokes, Quotes, and Cartoons )

This is kind of an embarrassing incident, but it shows that if you get a little creative, any type of story can be a great ending.

I was training an instructor years ago, and I had her just pick a random funny anecdote from Reader’s Digest. I told her that, no matter what the story was about, I’d find some way to insert the funny story into our class. Here is the story that she picked…

A woman went to her boss saying that she was going to go home early because she was feeling sick. The boss, having just gotten over a cold said that he hoped it wasn’t something that he had given to her. A coworker overhearing the conversation said, ‘I hope not. She has morning sickness.'”

(Obviously, this instructor-in-training also had a sense of humor, as well.) I thought about it a while, and I just ended the session with, “So, in summary, one of the most important parts of the presentation design process is knowing your audience. In fact, that reminds me of a story…” I then just added the anecdote word-for-word, and I got a big laugh.

I created a whole series of posts on storytelling starting with Storytelling in Public Speaking .

(3) Finish Your Speech by Telling the End of an Earlier Story.

Tell the End of an Earlier Story

Then, I finished the presentation by telling how, just a year later, after a little outside training, I had to stand in front of over 400 people to give an acceptance speech for an award. This time, I was calm, and I used my humor to win over the audience, and I killed it. By continuing the story and providing a positive result at the end, it makes for a pretty nice presentation ending.

So start with a story where you had a challenge and end with a success story about how you overcame that challenge.

(4) End Your Presentation with an Open-Ended Question.

Ask an Open Ended Question

Thatā€™s why people are drawn to thought-provoking questions. So a great way to end your speech is with a well-designed, thought-provoking question.

When I teach a class, I use this technique before almost every break. For instance, if I teach an hour-long session, it will be easy for the audience to forget a lot of the content if it isn’t reinforced right away. So, by asking a thought-provoking question about the content, it stimulates the content in the minds of the audience.

When you ask questions, though, avoid easy questions where the answer is an obvious ā€œyesā€ or “no.” Instead, ask open-ended questions. The easiest way to do this is to ask for the audience members’ opinions.

For instance, if my title is “Starting with a 3-Point Outline Will Help You Save Time When You Design Presentations,” I could end the speech with a question like, “Based on what we’ve talked about today, how can you see starting with a three-point outline helping you save time?”

Any answers that the audience provides will help me prove my point. The more the better.

(5) Give the Audience a Call-to-Action at the End of Your Speech.

End Your Speech with a Call to Action

Just as an FYI, here, though, if you ask them to do a single thing, they are more likely to do it. If you ask them to do a second thing, they are more likely to do neither. Sp, to prevent that and to inspire your audience, challenge them to do one specific thing from your speech.

If your presentation is about why your company should invest in advertising, make your call to action very specific. “So, my suggestion is that we increase our advertising budget by 10% and use that budget for additional re-targeting ads.”

The thing to keep in mind here is that the more calls to action that you have, the less likely they will do anything. So, make your call to action just a single item. And make the item easy to implement.

(6) The Echo Close Is an Inspirational Way to End Your Speech with a Bang.

The Echo Close for a Presentation

A wise man once said, ā€œThe mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.ā€ So, when you present, kindle the fire of knowledge. Kindle the fire of enthusiasm. Kindle the fire of humor. Kindle the fire of empathy. And you will kindle the fire of learning from your audience.

Another example might be.

So, in conclusion, brevity in public speaking is pretty important. In fact, George Orwell once said, ā€œIf it is possible to cut a word out of your speech, always cut it out.ā€ So, when you create a presentation, cut the fluff. Cut the repetitive bullets. Cut the platitudes. And when you do, you will cut the confusion from your audience.

It is an easy technique if you prepare the ending and practice it a few times.

So that concludes the six ways that you can end your presentation with a bang. However… There is…

ā€œOne More Thingā€

Steve Jobs was famous for concluding his keynotes with ā€œOne more thingā€¦ā€ then following it up with a surprising fact, feature, or innovation.

Why is this effective? Because it leaves people talking.

One More Thing

Regardless of how you choose to end your presentation, spend a little time on the ending. Make it flawless, and you will leave your audience wanting more! If you do, you will end your presentation with a bang!

Choose the Best Presentation Ending for Your Presentation Purpose

With all of the great choices, how do we know which presentation ending to use? Luckily, we have created a free handout to help you pick the best presentation ending. Although many of the tips above will work in many different types of speeches, the handout will help you identify which ending will accomplish specific purposes for your specific presentation.

For instance, if your goal is to help your audience retain the content, then summarizing your key points is a great choice. If your purpose is to inspire the audience, you might try the Call to Action or Echo technique instead. Just complete the form below for instant access!

Download the Free “How to End Your Presentation” Handout!

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How to End a Presentation? [Top 8 Strategies with Examples]

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Guru - May 9, 2023 - Leave your thoughts. 9 min read

animaker deck , presentation , presentation ideas , Presentation Software , presentation tips

How you end a presentation is just as crucial as its opening. It can make or break the impression that you leave on your audience.

A strong conclusion can reinforce your key message and ensure that your audience remembers it even after the presentation is over.

A well-concluded presentation can leave your audience impressed, energized, and motivated to take action.

So now, are you wondering whatā€™s the best way to conclude your presentation? Donā€™t worry! You have come to the right place!

To help you make a powerful ending to your presentation, we have compiled a list of 8 different strategies in this blog post.

Each of these strategies is designed to help you create a memorable and impactful conclusion to your presentation.

By choosing the most appropriate one for your presentation, you can ensure that your audience remembers your key message and feels motivated to take action.

Letā€™s jump right in,

1. Emphasize the core message 2. Mirror your opening statement 3. Pose an open-ended question 4. End with a Call to action 5. Thank the audience 6. End with a powerful quote 7. Acknowledge your contributors 8. Ask for feedback

1. Emphasize the core message:

One of the most important aspects of any presentation is ensuring your audience understands your core message.

Reiterating your main points and summarizing your message at the end of your presentation can reinforce this and leave a lasting impression.

It helps to ensure that your audience understands the purpose of your presentation and has a clear takeaway from the information you have provided.

In this video, the speaker restates her topic to conclude her speech firmly and gives a pause, resulting in tremendous applause from the audience.

Similarly, by restating your core message, you can also create a sense of cohesion and give your presentation a firm closure.

This can be particularly important if you want to motivate your audience to take action or influence their behavior in some way.

However, it's important not to repeat EVERYTHING you have said. Instead, focus on the most crucial elements and highlight them in a concise and clear manner.

2. Mirror your opening statement:

A great way to end your presentation is by mirroring your opening statement in your conclusion.

Highlighting your presentation's key message at the end and emphasizing the central idea you aimed to communicate will help your audience to retain it in their memory.

During the conclusion of the presentation, the speaker effectively utilized the technique of mirroring the opening example she had presented - ordering a pizza on the phone by herself.

The speaker demonstrated the remarkable transformation she had undergone in terms of personal growth and confidence, which strongly reinforced her message to the audience.

By mirroring her opening example, she created a sense of familiarity and connection with her audience while simultaneously driving home the key message of her presentation.

This technique allowed the audience to understand better and relate to the speaker's personal journey and the message she was conveying.

Similarly, you can also use this strategy to conclude your presentation. This can be particularly effective if you are trying to reinforce a specific theme or idea throughout your presentation.

3. Pose an open-ended question:

One of the best ways to conclude your presentation is to elicit a response from your audience using an open-ended question that can effectively engage them and make your presentation more memorable.

Look at how the speaker concludes her speech with an open-ended question in this video.

Similarly, you can also raise open-ended questions to help your audience look from a different perspective and encourage them to investigate more thoroughly on the information presented.

Most importantly, ensuring that your question is relevant to your presentation and doesn't detract from your overall message is essential when eliciting a response.

So make sure that you kindle your audiencesā€™ thoughts and ideas with the open-ended question at the end. This helps create a good long-lasting impression of your presentation.

4. End with a Call to action:

One of the best ways to end your presentation is by concluding with a call to action slide.

Incorporating a call to action into your presentation can be a powerful way to encourage your audience to take the next step.

Whether it's signing up for a program, making a purchase, or supporting a cause, a clear call to action is essential to achieving your desired outcome.

Similarly, according to your type of presentation, you can include a relevant call to action.

For example, this might involve providing specific instructions or offering an incentive for taking action, such as a discount or free trial.

It's essential that you understand their pain points and make your call to action compelling. Ensure that your core message and the needs of your audience are aligned so that they are motivated enough to act.

5. Thank the audience:

At the end of your presentation, it's essential to recognize that your audience has taken time out of their busy schedules to attend and listen to your message.

Thanking your audience for their time and attention can create a positive impression and make them feel appreciated.

It's essential to make your gratitude genuine and sincere rather than a superficial gesture. For example, consider expressing your gratitude with a personal anecdote or acknowledging specific individuals in the audience.

This simple act of gratitude can also create a sense of personal connection and signal to your audience that the presentation has reached its conclusion, paving the way for future interactions with them.

6. End with a powerful quote:

One effective strategy to end your presentation on a high note is by leaving the audience with a powerful quote.

However, it's crucial to choose a quote that is not only impactful but also unique and relevant to your topic.

Using a commonly known quote may come across as unoriginal and irrelevant, losing the attention and interest of your audience in most cases.

In this presentation, Steve Jobs concludes his speech with an inspiring and powerful message, ā€œStay Hungry! Stay Foolishā€. Thereby emphasizing that you should never stop learning, pursue more goals, and never stop being satisfied.

Similarly, in your conclusion, consider using a relevant quote to make an impact.

7. Acknowledge your contributors:

Another best way to conclude your presentation is by showing gratitude to your contributors.

For example, if you deliver a business presentation on behalf of a team or a department, it's essential to recognize the collective effort that went into creating the presentation.

The concluding moments of your speech are the perfect opportunity to acknowledge your team members' hard work and dedication.

You can express gratitude to your team as a whole, thanking them for their contribution to the presentation.

However, if you want to ensure that the individual efforts of team members are recognized, highlighting specific contributions may be a better approach.

Some examples include:

"Join me in giving a round of applause to my incredible team, who played a significant role in arranging this pitch deck."

"Finally, I would like to mention that my tech team experts provided me with insight into the technical nuances, and without their contribution, this presentation would not have been as informative as it is now."

"As I conclude, I want to express my gratitude to Mark and Serene from the Marketing team, whose assistance in gathering the data and designing the slides was invaluable."

By acknowledging individual team members, you are demonstrating your appreciation for their work and giving them the recognition they deserve.

This will not only make them feel valued but also motivate them to continue contributing to the success of future presentations.

So be sure to end your presentation with the required acknowledgment for all the contributions.

8. Ask for feedback:

You can conclude your presentation seamlessly by thanking the audience and asking for feedback from them.

Encouraging feedback from your audience can greatly benefit your future presentations. It allows you to understand how your message was received and how you can improve for the next time.

So, how can you gather feedback effectively?

Firstly, ask attendees to share their thoughts on your presentation after you finish speaking. This can be done by initiating a Q&A session or by approaching individuals directly.

Another option is to set up a QR code near the exit and ask people to scan and jot down their thoughts on the online form as they leave. This allows attendees to provide their feedback in a confidential and hassle-free manner.

Also, consider having a suggestion box for handwritten feedback notes or creating an anonymous online survey that links to your presentation slides. This method is beneficial if you want to gather feedback from a large audience or if you prefer to have quantitative data.

By actively seeking feedback, you show your audience that you value their input and are committed to improving your presentation skills.

However, this strategy does not apply to all the general presentations. So use this way of concluding your presentation where it makes more sense to you and the audience.

In summary, an impactful conclusion is vital to wrap up your presentation successfully.

Each of these strategies serves a unique purpose, and by combining them, you can create a conclusion that is both engaging and impactful.

By incorporating the 8 critical strategies mentioned in this guide, you can leave a lasting impression on your audience, ensuring that your message stays with them even after the presentation has ended.

Now that you have learned the pro strategies of how to end a presentation, take a look at this guide on ā€œHow to start a presentationā€ as well and nail your presentation from start to end!

If you are still uncertain about how to make a presentation from the ground up, we suggest checking out Animaker Deck - the world's first avatar-driven presentation software.

With over 40 distinct and creatively designed templates at your disposal, we are confident you will find it worth trying!

We hope this article was helpful. Do let us know your thoughts on which strategy worked best for you, and also suggest your own ways of ending a presentation.

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Speech Conclusion: 12 Ways to End a Presentation the Best Way

how to end a speech

If youā€™ve learned anything about speech writing, youā€™ll know that thereā€™s a recommended formula to use in designing the best presentation.

Essentially, your talk should have a short opening where you engage your audience , a middle part where you coherently cover the details of your speech topic and an ending that neatly sums everything up .

Remember, people have come to hear you talk when there are definitely other ways that they could be spending their time.

Theyā€™re looking to be entertained, or moved in some way. They want to leave the room better informed, educated and possibly curious to study more about your subject.

Therefore, you owe it to your listeners to put together the best presentation that you can ā€“ that includes a dynamite finish that theyā€™ll reflect on afterwards.

Letā€™s take a closer look at how to approach the task. Weā€™ll begin by discussing what not to do .

How NOT to End Your Speech: What Not to Do

Sure, when your talk is coming to an end you might be feeling relieved to have gotten through what you have to say without any obvious missteps.

Itā€™s understandable if youā€™re ready to quickly exit stage left, and take your seat again with the audience members. After all, youā€™ve earned that privilege ā€“ right?

This is a natural temptation and another good reason why you really must take the time to write a proper wrap up.

Having said that, when it comes to crafting an effective ending, itā€™s not quite as simple as it sounds. Hereā€™s what not to do.

end a speech

Ā Regurgitating remarks

Weā€™ve already mentioned that the ending is the place where you sum up the main message of your speech in some fashion.

However, you donā€™t want to repeat so much of your talk that your audienceā€™s eyes start to glaze over.

Going on too long about what youā€™ve already said is a definite no-no. People may just think that youā€™re doubting their intelligence!

Taking a tangent

As well, you mustnā€™t go off on a tangent and introduce some new thoughts that are unrelated to what youā€™ve just spent some time telling listeners.

This will only confuse people.

Furthermore, the participants may second guess what your topic really was all about, and whether theyā€™ve heard you properly.

Stopping abruptly

Take care not to finish abruptly. People need to know by what you say that youā€™re getting ready to wind things up.

It should not come as a shock that itā€™s already time for them to applaud.

Trailing offĀ 

You also shouldnā€™t stop with a whimper, so to speak.

You voice has to remain clear and strong right up until youā€™ve delivered your last statement. Keep the volume up and donā€™t mumble!

Offer an apology

Seriously! Donā€™t do this!

It could be that you believe your speech wasnā€™t up to your own standards. Maybe you got off track a little, or missed making a minor point that youā€™d intended.

Whatever it is, your listeners in all likelihood didnā€™t notice. Even if they did, theyā€™ve already moved on and forgiven you.

Therefore, you certainly donā€™t want to draw their attention to anything that you felt wasnā€™t up to par.

how to conclude a speech

12 Best Ways to End a Speech to be Remembered

Be mindful that your final comments are probably going to be the most memorable part of your talk.

As people file out of the auditorium or meeting room, what you said last will be ringing in their ears. In addition, they may be sharing their reaction to your words with others in attendance.

Therefore, you want to leave them with a good impression.

Now that you can appreciate the importance of finishing off your presentation well āˆ’ and some of the pitfalls to avoid ā€“ youā€™re ready to learn about a number of great ideas for speech endings.

Following are the different ways you can go.

1. Paraphrase the main points

Take a minute to recap the main points of your presentation.

Tell people again what you just told them, but be sure to do it in a very succinct way.

While you shouldnā€™t just say verbatim what youā€™ve relayed already, itā€™s quite acceptable to repeat a phrase or sentence from your opening as a way to reinforce your main point. Whatever you choose, keep it short.

One approach to paraphrasing is to package the information in three points.

It has been shown that patterns of three can have some staying power in the minds of listeners. Here are a few examples that illustrate this:

ā€œ...government of the people, by the people, for the people.ā€ ā€“ Abraham Lincoln

ā€œI came. I saw. I conquered.ā€ ā€“ Julius Caesar

Basically, paraphrasing reinforces the main message of your talk so that those participating are much more likely to bring it to mind later on.

2. Give them a take-away

This approach is somewhat similar to the above idea. It involves giving people the single most important message that you want them to leave with.

Since youā€™re asking them to focus on only one thought, theyā€™re more apt to commit it to memory.

Plus, boiling the information youā€™ve just delivered down to a central idea can be very impactful.

lightbulb-method

Listeners will take to heart that thereā€™s one single take-away they should really pay attention to. Theyā€™re more likely to recall the main point you made, and even relay it in conversation with colleagues, friends and family.

One very effective method of doing this is to tell your audience upfront that you want them to recall something. For instance, you could preface your point with one of these phrases:

ā€œWhen you leave here today, I want you to remember . . .ā€

ā€œIf you take anything away from my presentation today, it should be that . . .ā€

And say your point.

3. Call them to action

This is a very popular way to end a speech and, no wonder, when you think of how it can affect those listening.

Essentially, youā€™re going to ask people to do something as a result of absorbing your talk.

Maybe theyā€™ve been swept away by the inspiration youā€™ve demonstrated in telling them a moving story of overcoming adversity. Perhaps theyā€™re intrigued by the new ideas youā€™ve presented to manage personal stress.

At the end of your speech, the time is ripe to call them to an action of some sort. Here are some examples, using slightly different approaches:

table-topics-tips

ā€œThe next time you look at the stars in the night sky, I urge you to think about how incredibly vast is our universe.ā€

ā€œWhen you see another television commercial about hunger, are you going to change the channel, or are you going to call the number on the screen and make a donation?ā€

Demanding something of your audience will cause them to reflect on your presentation and especially so when they next find themselves in the situation youā€™ve described.

Regardless of whether or not they decide to follow through on what youā€™ve asked, theyā€™ll be thinking of what you said.

4. Repeat the title

Hereā€™s a simple idea that you might have seen used.

Granted, weā€™ve already explained why you shouldnā€™t regurgitate your speech in your closing remarks.

However, just repeating the title of your speech can be a great way to sum up and refocus the audience on what your presentation was about.

Of course, this calls for creating an excellent title that will stand on its own as a representation of your talk.

Moreover, your title could be in the form of a provocative question, or employ an alliteration to make it really interesting and memorable.

5. Position with power

End your speech with a powerful bang by making a bold statement that links back to your talk.

Employ strong words or unique turns of phrase. This can be accomplished by writing out your closing statement and searching for synonyms for certain words that will convey more emotion, or spark increased interest.

Emphasize what you have to say with a confident posture that matches.

confident-speaking-off-the-cuff

Another approach to show your power is to make a grand physical gesture. If, for example, your closing statement is ā€œWhat I want the whole world to know is . . .ā€ you could spread your arms wide in a circle to suggest that youā€™re reaching out across the globe.

Listeners will remember your words for the strength and enthusiasm behind them.

6. Use your body language

If youā€™ve done any public speaking, youā€™ll already appreciate the importance of experimenting with body language . The right posture and gestures can convey so much!

Itā€™s just as critical to display impactful body language at the end of your speech since this is the last thing people will see.

What you do physically on stage should help your audience recall you for the right reasons.

Certainly, you can take a little bow and then walk confidently away from the podium. However, wouldnā€™t it make people recall you and what you told them better if you did something different?

Maybe you want to shimmy off stage with a dance move, skip or give a few low sweeping bows while blowing kisses to the audience? Use your imagination and find something that fits with your speech topic .

In the following video, Vikram did a somersault to conclude his speech and the audience went wild! (starts at 6:42)

7. Use a prop or visual

If youā€™ve brought a prop on stage and referred to it earlier in your speech, bring the attention of your participants back to it as you make your closing remarks.

Perhaps youā€™ve rolled a little suitcase behind you when you first walked to the podium as a visual about the personal baggage that we all carry. Well, grab the handle and give the case a little twirl to bring the audienceā€™s eyes back to it.

Have you arrived on stage wearing a funny wig? Youā€™ve probably set it aside so as not to distract from your words, but pop it back on your head at the end of your speech to help people make a connection to your entire message.

At the start of the following speech recording, the 2014 World Champion of Public Speaking Dananjaya Hettiarachchi pulled out the petals of a flower and threw them into a trash can. At the end of his speech, he pulled out a whole flower from the trash can to make a point.Ā 

It was a 'wow' moment.

There are other options for leaving people with a visual that theyā€™ll remember. Here are a few:

  • Display a photograph ā€“ Try an eye-catching picture on a screen behind you that represents your talk. It could be an image of an endangered species or a clean shoreline if your topic was about the environment, for example.
  • Unveil a hidden prop ā€“ Removing a cover from a prop that participants havenā€™t seen can indelibly lodge it in their mindā€™s eye (i.e., a scale model of building youā€™ve spoken about).
  • Project a cartoon ā€“ Finish your speech with a funny cartoon or short video. This is entertainment that people really enjoy.
  • Throw something Ā  ā€“ You could toss out a few small gifts into the audience, shower the first few rows of people with confetti or do something else entirely.

Donā€™t forget, your prop or visual aid should relate back to your topic. If youā€™re talking about a wedding , then a confetti shower could be an unforgettable finish!

8. Surprise them

There are so many amazing ways to do this. The sky might just be the limit!

Your listeners will perk up at the mention of something unexpected and take the time to reflect on how it connects to your topic.

A club member once gave a speech about online Zoom meetings, and I suggested to her to wear a formal attire for her top, and home clothes for her bottom, so that at the end of her speech, she could stand up to reveal that juxtaposition and walk away.

That would be a surprise humorous ending.

Here are a couple of other methods to consider:

  • Reveal an identity Ā  ā€“ If your speech relates somehow to your own experience, keeping this information until the end can have people tuning in. On the other hand, there could be someone in the room that you want to introduce as having had a role in your story.
  • State a fact Ā  ā€“ End your talk with a startling piece of data thatā€™s unfamiliar to your listeners.
  • Give a timeline Ā  āˆ’ A variation on offering a fact that can have added oomph is to tell people something that has happened in the world during the time theyā€™ve been listening to you ā€“ such as the number of births.

As always, have your surprise flow from the subject of your presentation.

9. Envision the future

Give your audience your take on the future. This will ignite a sense of curiosity, especially if they start to contemplate what it might mean for them personally.

Envisioning the future could be as simple as explaining what, in your mind, comes next or what you suggest needs to happen. Prepare a few words about what action needs to be taken to make a positive change, for instance.

Alternatively, you could forecast a future time when everyone will, or wonā€™t, be doing something. Imagining the end of all wars around the world is one example.

Make your future image compelling with lots of detail. Draw on as many senses as you can to help participants to see, smell and hear your dream for the near or longer term.

Youā€™ll have people quickly trying to connect the dots and the meaning of your speech.

10. Share a story

Polishing off your presentation with a short anecdote is another impactful method.

tall-tales-fantasy-story

It should be a brief story that relates back to your speech. Tell people a tale that illustrates the point of your talk, and ensure that itā€™s both captivating and relatable.

You might want to give the ending to an anecdote that you spoke about earlier in your presentation, or a piece that just wraps everything up nicely.

When you think about, people will often quickly become engrossed in a story . It makes what you have to say more digestible, and more readily recalled.

11. Show your scholarly side

Construct a noteworthy closing by harnessing the strength of a few novel ideas. The following tips can, for sure, increase the memorability of your speech:

  • Connect a quote āˆ’ Ending with an inspirational quote, especially if itā€™s one the audience is familiar with, is a solid option. You can have a bit of fun with it, but be sure that itā€™s something that those listening can relate to, and not miss any cultural relevance.
  • Rhyme your word sĀ  ā€“ You could try your hand at writing a few lines of original poetry, or find something else that fits the bill.
  • Try a metaphor ā€“ A metaphor can breathe more life into your final message. Albert Einstein used a metaphor when he said ā€œAll religions, arts and sciences are branches of the same tree.ā€

Any of these ideas will leave your listeners with something catchy, or special, to remember your presentation.

12. Thank them

Hereā€™s another suggestion for a speech ending.

Say a few words of thanks.

You might express your appreciation directly to those in attendance that have been, hopefully, hanging on your every word. Thank them for showing up and giving you their time.

Additionally, you can talk briefly about your appreciation for others who may have invited you to speak or supported your presentation in some way.

This shows people very clearly that youā€™ve finished speaking.

However, if you had a strong conclusion, I wouldn't suggest this as it would weaken the impact of your conclusion and Call to Action.

How to Choose the Best Ending

Some of the ideas offered might lend themselves more to particular speech purposes. For instance, if your talk is intended to inspire itā€™s quite appropriate to finish off with a call to action.

And, you might feel more comfortable with certain options and gravitate towards them more readily.

Maybe youā€™ve already tired one or two of these methods?

Whatever the case, consider how your listeners are likely to respond to these examples, and decide on the ones that will work well with your speech.

Final Thoughts on Concluding a Speech

Once youā€™ve selected how youā€™re going to end your talk, prepare your lines .

Thereā€™s actually one school of thought that it makes sense to write your ending first and then build your speech from there. So, thatā€™s something you might want to give a shot to.

Ideally, youā€™ll become practiced enough at public speaking , over time, that youā€™ll be able to memorize what you have to say. While it doesnā€™t have to be exactly what you wrote when you drafted your talk , it should be close enough.

In the meantime, your closing remarks are one of the two sections in your speech (the other is your opening) where you absolutely should memorize your lines .

This will help you ace your delivery, especially if youā€™re trying out a new way to end a speech thatā€™s a little outside your comfort zone.

Happy experimenting!

Presentation Xcellence

How to End a Presentation: 10 Powerful Closers and Strategies

conclusion to a presentation

You want to persuade your audiences with your business presentation and leave a lasting impression on them. It is important to effectively communicate your overall message. It’s not just about wrapping up presentations; it’s about reinforcing the key takeaways and ensuring that your presentation slides resonate long after you’ve left the stage. Transition words are crucial for persuasion. The way presenters end their presentations, especially the last slide, can greatly impact the overall effectiveness and persuasion of their message.

So, how do presenters end presentations in a way that truly sticks with the audience? The answer is to engage the speakers and provide a memorable conclusion. From using compelling stories and quotes to incorporating interactive elements and calls to action , we’ll cover various techniques that will elevate your presentations’ closing moments. These techniques will have a powerful effect on your audience, making your presentation slides more engaging and impactful.

Get ready to transform your presentations from good to unforgettable as we dive into these practical examples of how presenters can end a speech like a pro. These tips will help you create impactful slides and engage your audience , making you one of the most captivating speakers in the room. Let’s get started!

Reinforce Main Points with Impactful Phrases

To truly leave a lasting impression on your audience, it’s crucial for speakers and presenters to reinforce their main points with impactful phrases. Here’s a tip: incorporate powerful speech to captivate your listeners. By using memorable quotes, employing strong language, and crafting concise and impactful statement s, speakers can drive home their key messages and make them stick in the minds of their listeners. This is important for the success of their speech, as well as for the work of presenters.

Use Memorable Quotes to Emphasize Important Ideas

Quotes have a way of capturing the essence of a speaker’s speech in a succinct and powerful manner, reflecting their work and the thoughts that occupy their mind. Incorporating relevant quotes into your speech can help emphasize important ideas and leave a lasting impact on your audience. As a speaker, it is important to carefully select quotes that align with the message you want to convey. By including quotes from experts in your field of work, you can add credibility to your speech and strengthen your arguments. Additionally, using quotes can make your speech more engaging and memorable for your audience. However, it is crucial to be cautious of phishing attempts when sourcing quotes online. Always verify the authenticity of the source before including it in your speech to ensure accurate and reliable information. Look for quotes from renowned individuals or experts in the field that align with the message you want to convey during your speech. This will make you a credible speaker and help prevent phishing attempts.

For example, if you’re giving a speech about leadership, you might include a quote from Steve Jobs: “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” This speech not only reinforces the importance of innovation but also adds credibility to your message by referencing someone widely respected for their leadership skills.

Employ Strong Language to Drive Home Key Messages

The power of speech lies in the words we choose. These words have the ability to evoke emotions, create vivid imagery, and leave a lasting impression. To end your speech on a high note, employ strong language that resonates with your audience. Use action verbs, descriptive adjectives, powerful adverbs, and speech to add impact to your statements.

Instead of saying “Our speech product is good,” opt for “Our speech product is exceptional” or “Our speech product exceeds expectations.” The use of stronger terms elevates the perceived value of what you’re presenting and leaves a stronger impression on your listeners.

Examples of Effective Presentation Conclusions

Utilizing storytelling techniques for a memorable ending.

In order to leave a lasting impression on your audience and end your speech on a high note, it’s important to utilize storytelling techniques that engage and captivate your listeners. By incorporating a compelling narrative arc, creating relatable characters and situations, and ensuring that your story aligns with the main theme of your speech, you can create an ending that resonates with your audience.

Engage the audience through a compelling narrative arc

One effective way to end a presentation is by crafting a compelling narrative arc that takes your audience on a journey. This storytelling technique helps to maintain their attention and keep them engaged until the very end. Start by introducing a problem or challenge at the beginning of your presentation, then build up tension as you present various solutions or ideas. Finally, provide a resolution or conclusion that ties everything together.

For example, if you’re giving a presentation about overcoming obstacles in business, you could start by sharing a personal anecdote about facing adversity. As you progress through your presentation, share different strategies for overcoming challenges based on real-life examples or case studies. Finally, conclude with an inspiring story about how you successfully overcame a major obstacle in your own career.

Create relatable characters and situations in your story

To make your story more impactful and memorable, it’s important to create relatable characters and situations that resonate with your audience. By using vivid descriptions and evocative language, you can paint a picture in their minds that captures their attention and makes them emotionally invested in the outcome of the story.

Engaging the Audience and Eliciting a Response

To truly end your presentation on a high note , it’s crucial to engage your audience and elicit a response from them. Here are some effective strategies to captivate their attention and leave a lasting impression.

Ask thought-provoking questions to stimulate audience participation

One powerful way to engage your audience is by asking thought-provoking questions that encourage them to think critically and actively participate in the discussion. By posing questions related to the main theme or key points of your presentation, you can prompt audience members to reflect on their own experiences or perspectives. This not only grabs their attention but also creates an interactive atmosphere where everyone feels involved.

Conduct interactive activities or polls during the conclusion

Another engaging technique is to incorporate interactive activities or polls into your presentation’s conclusion. These activities can be as simple as asking the audience to raise their hands in response to specific questions or using digital polling tools for real-time feedback. By involving your audience directly, you make them an active part of the presentation rather than passive observers. This not only keeps their attention focused but also provides valuable insights that can enhance the overall impact of your message.

Encourage audience members to share their own experiences or insights

Creating space for audience members to share their own experiences or insights is an excellent way to foster engagement and generate meaningful discussions. During the conclusion of your presentation, invite individuals from the audience to contribute by sharing relevant anecdotes, examples, or thoughts related to the topic at hand. This not only adds variety and depth but also taps into the collective wisdom of those present in the room.

Call to Action: Encouraging Further Engagement

After delivering a compelling presentation, it’s crucial to clearly state what action you want your audience to take next. By providing specific instructions on how they can follow up or get involved, you can maximize the impact of your presentation and ensure that your message resonates with your audience. Here are some effective strategies for creating a strong call to action (CTA) that encourages further engagement:

Clearly State the Next Step

Make sure you explicitly communicate the next step you want your audience to take. Whether it’s signing up for a newsletter, scheduling a meeting, or making a purchase, be direct and concise in conveying the desired action. For example, say something like “Sign up now for our monthly newsletter” or “Contact our sales team to schedule a demo.” By being clear about the desired outcome, you make it easier for your audience to understand what they need to do.

Provide Additional Resources and Opportunities

In addition to stating the next step, offer additional resources and opportunities for further engagement. This could include providing links to relevant articles or websites where they can learn more about the topic discussed in the presentation. You can also invite them to join online communities or social media groups where they can connect with like-minded individuals and continue the conversation. By offering these resources and opportunities, you demonstrate your commitment to providing value beyond the presentation itself.

Offer Incentives or Rewards

If applicable, consider offering incentives or rewards for taking action.

Final Tips for Ending Your Presentation

Keep it concise and avoid introducing new information at this stage.

When wrapping up your presentation, it’s crucial to keep your closing remarks concise. Remember, you don’t want to overload your audience with new information or overwhelm them with lengthy explanations. Instead, focus on summarizing the key points you’ve covered throughout your presentation.

By avoiding the introduction of new information, you allow your audience to reflect on what they’ve learned without adding unnecessary confusion or distractions. Stick to the main takeaways and ensure that your conclusion aligns seamlessly with the content you’ve already presented.

Practice your conclusion multiple times for smooth delivery

Just like any other part of your presentation, practicing your conclusion is essential for a smooth and impactful delivery. Take the time to rehearse not only the body of your presentation but also how you will conclude it. This will help you become more comfortable with the flow and structure of your closing remarks.

Repetition is key here; by practicing multiple times, you’ll build confidence in delivering a cohesive and well-rounded ending. Pay attention to pacing, tone of voice, and body language during these practice sessions. The more familiar you become with the conclusion, the more natural and engaging it will feel when presenting in front of an audience.

Consider using visual aids such as slides or props to enhance impact

Visual aids can be powerful tools when concluding your presentation. They add a layer of visual appeal that reinforces key messages and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Reinforce Your Main Points

To end your presentation on a strong note, it’s crucial to reinforce your main points. This ensures that your audience leaves with a clear understanding of the key ideas you’ve discussed. Here are some effective strategies to help you reinforce your main points:

Summarize key ideas in a clear and concise manner

In your conclusion, provide a brief summary of the main points you’ve covered throughout your presentation. Keep it concise and straightforward, highlighting the most important aspects of your talk. By summarizing your key ideas, you help solidify them in the minds of your audience.

Use visual cues like bullet points or diagrams to aid understanding

Visual cues can be powerful tools for reinforcing your main points. Consider using bullet points or diagrams to visually represent the key concepts you’ve discussed. This not only aids comprehension but also adds visual interest to your conclusion. Visuals can leave a lasting impact on your audience and make it easier for them to remember the core message of your presentation.

Repeat important phrases or concepts throughout your conclusion

Repetition is an effective technique for reinforcing information and making it stick in people’s minds. Throughout your conclusion, strategically repeat important phrases or concepts from earlier in your presentation. By doing so, you emphasize their significance and ensure they are firmly ingrained in the minds of your listeners.

For example:

  • If one of the main points of your presentation was “The importance of teamwork,” reiterate this phrase when summarizing at the end.
  • If you highlighted specific benefits associated with implementing new technology, remind the audience about those benefits during the conclusion.

Defining the Specific Purpose of Your Presentation

To end a presentation effectively , it is crucial to clearly define the specific purpose of your talk from the beginning. By doing so, you can ensure that your conclusion aligns seamlessly with the objectives you set out to achieve. Here are some key points to consider when defining the purpose of your presentation:

Clearly state what you aim to achieve with your presentation

Before diving into the content of your presentation, take a moment to clearly articulate what you hope to accomplish by the end. Are you trying to persuade your audience to take a specific action? Do you want to inform them about a particular topic or issue? Or perhaps your goal is simply to entertain and engage them. Whatever it may be, make sure that this purpose is evident throughout your entire presentation.

Focus on a specific goal or objective throughout your talk

To keep your audience engaged and focused, it is essential to have a clear and specific goal in mind for your presentation. This will help guide both the structure and content of your talk, ensuring that every element contributes towards achieving that objective. For example, if your goal is to convince investors to fund a project, all aspects of your presentation should be tailored towards showcasing its potential profitability and feasibility.

Align your conclusion with the purpose you defined earlier

As you approach the conclusion of your presentation, make sure that it ties back neatly to the purpose you defined earlier. This will provide a sense of closure for both you as the presenter and for your audience.

The Pitfall of Ending with a Q&A Session

Avoid ending abruptly after a q&a session without a proper conclusion.

One common pitfall is to conclude the session abruptly after the Q&A session. While engaging in a Q&A session can be valuable for addressing audience questions and concerns, it is crucial not to overlook the importance of providing a proper conclusion. Failing to do so can leave your audience feeling unsatisfied or confused about the key takeaways from your presentation.

To avoid this pitfall, make sure you allocate sufficient time for both the Q&A session and the conclusion. It’s essential to strike a balance between allowing ample time for questions while still reserving enough time to wrap up your presentation effectively. By doing so, you ensure that your audience receives closure and leaves with a clear understanding of the main points you wanted to convey.

Keep track of time to ensure you have enough for both Q&A and conclusion

Keeping track of time is crucial when planning your presentation. It’s easy to get carried away during the Q&A session and inadvertently eat into the time allocated for your conclusion. To prevent this from happening, set clear boundaries for yourself regarding how much time you will devote to answering questions.

One effective strategy is to establish specific time limits for each question or allocate an overall timeframe for the entire Q&A session. This way, you can manage expectations and ensure that you have enough time left at the end of the session to deliver a well-rounded conclusion.

Examples of Effective Conclusions

Using storytelling techniques.

Crafting a compelling narrative is one of the most effective strategies to end a presentation. By incorporating storytelling techniques, you can captivate your audience’s attention and leave a lasting impression. Here are some ways to use storytelling effectively:

Craft a Compelling Narrative

Storytelling is a powerful tool. By weaving together a story that resonates with your audience, you can create an emotional connection and make your message memorable. Start by identifying the key message or takeaway you want to convey and build your story around it.

For example, let’s say you’re giving a presentation on the importance of teamwork in achieving business goals. You could begin by sharing an anecdote about a time when your team faced a significant challenge and how they overcame it through collaboration and support. This personal experience will engage your audience and demonstrate the power of teamwork.

Incorporate Vivid Descriptions and Sensory Details

To make your storytelling more engaging, incorporate vivid descriptions and sensory details into your presentation. Paint a picture with words, allowing your audience to visualize the scene and feel immersed in the story. Use descriptive language that appeals to their senses – sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell.

For instance, if you’re presenting about an adventure travel experience, describe the breathtaking view from the mountaintop or the exhilarating rush of adrenaline as you zip-lined through lush forests. By using sensory details, you can transport your audience into the moment and create an emotional connection.

Defining the General Purpose of Your Presentation

To deliver an impactful presentation, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of its general purpose. This ensures that you stay focused and effectively communicate your message to the audience. Let’s explore some key steps in defining the general purpose of your presentation.

Identify the Overall Objective or Intention Behind Your Presentation

Before diving into the content creation process, take a moment to reflect on why you’re giving this presentation. Ask yourself what you hope to achieve and what outcome you desire from your audience. Are you aiming to inform, persuade, entertain, or inspire ? Identifying the overall objective will provide a solid foundation for structuring your presentation.

For example, if you’re presenting a sales pitch for a new product, your objective might be to persuade potential clients to make a purchase. On the other hand, if you’re delivering a training session, your goal could be to educate participants on specific skills or knowledge.

Determine What You Want Your Audience to Gain from Listening to You

Consider what value you want your audience to derive from attending your presentation. Think about their needs, interests, and expectations. Do they need information that will help them make informed decisions? Are they seeking inspiration or motivation? Understanding their perspective will enable you to tailor your content accordingly.

For instance, if you’re speaking at a conference about sustainable living practices, your audience may expect practical tips they can implement in their daily lives. By addressing their concerns and providing actionable advice, you can ensure that they leave with tangible takeaways.

Asking Rhetorical and Open-ended Questions

To truly engage your audience and leave a lasting impression, it’s essential to incorporate thought-provoking questions into your presentation. By posing rhetorical and open-ended questions, you can stimulate curiosity, encourage reflection, and foster active participation from your listeners.

Pose Thought-Provoking Questions

One effective way to captivate your audience is by asking thought-provoking questions that challenge their assumptions and provoke deeper thinking. These types of questions are designed to make people pause, reflect, and consider different perspectives. For example:

  • “Have you ever wondered what our world would be like if we embraced failure as a stepping stone to success?”
  • “Can you imagine the possibilities if we let go of fear and embraced change instead?”

Such questions not only grab attention but also create a sense of intrigue. They invite the audience to explore new ideas and contemplate alternative viewpoints.

Engage the Audience

In addition to rhetorical questions, incorporating open-ended questions into your presentation can significantly enhance engagement with your audience. Open-ended questions require more than a simple yes or no response; they invite individuals to share their thoughts, experiences, or opinions on a given topic. By doing so, you tap into their knowledge base and make them feel valued as active participants in the discussion.

For instance:

  • “What strategies have you found effective in overcoming challenges?”
  • “How do you envision applying these concepts in your own lives?”

By inviting the audience to share their perspectives and insights, you create an inclusive environment where everyone feels involved.

Avoiding Overloading Your Final Slide

The last slide of your presentation is crucial in leaving a lasting impression on your audience. To ensure that you end your presentation effectively, it’s important to avoid overloading your final slide with excessive content. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Keep the Content Concise and Focused

When creating your final slide, it’s essential to keep the content concise and focused. Instead of cramming too much information onto one slide, aim for simplicity and clarity. Remember, less is more ! By keeping the content minimal, you can effectively convey your main message without overwhelming your audience.

Limit Text and Use Visuals

One effective way to prevent overload on your final slide is by limiting the amount of text you include. Instead of writing lengthy paragraphs or bullet points, consider using visuals such as images, charts, or graphs to convey your message visually. Visuals not only make the information more digestible but also add an element of interest and engagement for your audience.

Create Bullet Points for Clarity

If you need to include some text on your final slide, opt for bullet points instead of lengthy sentences or paragraphs. Bullet points help break down complex information into bite-sized pieces that are easier for your audience to absorb and remember. By using bullet points strategically, you can highlight key takeaways or action points that you want your audience to remember after the presentation.

Highlight Only the Most Important Information

Your final slide should serve as a summary or conclusion of the main points discussed throughout your presentation.

Providing Contact Information to the Audience

One crucial aspect is providing contact information to the audience. This allows them to reach out if they have further questions or inquiries. Here are some effective ways to include your contact details and ensure that your audience can easily connect with you:

Include contact details on slides

One simple way to provide your contact information is by including it directly on your slides. You can add your email address or social media handles on one of the final slides of your presentation. This ensures that attendees have access to this information even after the presentation ends.

  • Convenient for the audience as they can easily note down or capture the contact details.
  • Provides a direct and immediate connection between you and the audience.
  • Some attendees may not be able to capture the information in time.
  • Contact details may not be visible or legible for all participants, especially in larger presentations.

Offer business cards or handouts

Another effective method is offering business cards or handouts with your contact information at the end of the presentation. This tangible item serves as a physical reminder for attendees to get in touch with you later.

  • Provides a professional touch and leaves a lasting impression.
  • Ensures that attendees have all necessary contact details readily available.
  • Not everyone may retain or keep track of physical items like business cards.
  • Additional cost and effort involved in printing business cards or preparing handouts.

Directly invite audience members

During your closing remarks, make sure to directly invite audience members to reach out if they have any further questions or inquiries.

Asking for Feedback from the Audience

Asking for feedback from your audience is a crucial step in ending your presentation on a high note. Not only does it show that you value their opinions, but it also provides an opportunity for you to improve as a speaker. Here are some effective ways to encourage audience members to provide feedback:

Offer Various Channels for Feedback

Make it easy for your audience to provide feedback by offering multiple channels for them to do so. This could include online surveys, comment cards, or even a dedicated email address where they can send their thoughts and comments. By providing different options, you cater to the preferences of different individuals and increase the likelihood of receiving valuable feedback.

Express Gratitude and Value Their Input

When asking for feedback, express genuine gratitude towards your audience members for taking the time to share their thoughts. Let them know that their input is highly valued and will be used constructively to improve future presentations. This not only shows respect towards your listeners but also encourages them to provide honest and detailed feedback.

Emphasize the Importance of Feedback

During your closing remarks, emphasize the importance of feedback in shaping future presentations. Explain how valuable insights from experts like them help you understand what worked well and what areas need improvement. By highlighting this significance, you create a sense of purpose around providing feedback and motivate individuals to share their thoughts.

Provide Clear Instructions

To make it easier for your audience members to provide feedback, provide clear instructions on how they can do so.

Closing Your Presentation with Style and Elegance

End with a memorable quote or impactful statement that resonates with the audience..

As you approach the end of your presentation, it’s important to leave a lasting impression on your audience. One effective way to do this is by closing with a memorable quote or impactful statement that resonates with them. This can be a powerful tool to reinforce your key message and inspire your listeners.

Consider using a quote from a well-known figure in your industry or from someone who has made a significant impact in the world. Choose something that aligns with the theme of your presentation and encapsulates the main takeaways you want your audience to remember. By ending on such a note, you create an emotional connection and leave your listeners feeling motivated and inspired.

Use body language and tone of voice to convey confidence and enthusiasm.

Non-verbal communication plays a crucial role in how your message is received. As you reach the closing moments of your presentation, make sure to use confident body language and an enthusiastic tone of voice. These elements will help convey your passion for the topic and engage your audience until the very end.

Stand tall, maintain an open posture, and use hand gestures purposefully to emphasize key points. A relaxed yet energetic delivery will captivate your listeners and keep their attention focused on what you have to say. Remember, enthusiasm is contagious ā€“ if you show genuine excitement about what you’re presenting, chances are your audience will feel it too.

Maintain eye contact with the audience during your final moments.

Expressing gratitude to the audience.

After delivering a captivating presentation, it’s crucial to end on a positive note by expressing your gratitude to the audience. Taking a moment to thank everyone sincerely for their time and attention can leave a lasting impression and show your appreciation for their presence. Let’s explore some effective ways to express gratitude and wrap up your presentation in style.

Thanking the Audience Sincerely

One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to end your presentation is by offering a heartfelt thank you to the audience. Show genuine appreciation for their presence throughout your talk, emphasizing that their time and attention are valuable. By expressing sincere gratitude, you create a sense of connection with the audience and leave them feeling appreciated.

Acknowledging Specific Contributors

If there were specific individuals or groups who played a significant role in supporting your presentation, take a moment to acknowledge them. This could be someone who provided valuable insights, helped with research, or offered guidance along the way. By recognizing their contributions publicly, you not only show gratitude but also strengthen professional relationships.

Showing Appreciation for Engagement

Throughout your presentation, there may have been moments when members of the audience engaged with you through questions, comments, or active participation. It’s essential to recognize and appreciate this engagement as it demonstrates their interest and investment in the topic. Take a moment to express gratitude for their involvement and highlight how it enriched the overall experience.

Reflecting on Meaningful Moments

As you conclude your presentation, consider reflecting on any memorable or meaningful moments that occurred during your talk.

Presenting a Call to Action for Audience Engagement

Congratulations! You’ve now learned various strategies and techniques for ending your presentation on a high note. By reinforcing your main points with impactful phrases, utilizing storytelling techniques, and engaging the audience, you can leave a lasting impression. But don’t stop there! It’s time to take it one step further and present a call to action that encourages further engagement from your audience.

Think of your call to action as the grand finale of your presentation. It’s the moment where you inspire your audience to take action based on what they’ve learned from you. Whether it’s signing up for a newsletter, visiting your website, or implementing the ideas you’ve shared, make sure your call to action is clear, compelling, and easy to follow through on. Remember, the goal is not just to end your presentation but also to motivate your audience into taking the next steps towards achieving their goals.

How important is it to have a strong conclusion in a presentation?

A strong conclusion is crucial in leaving a lasting impact on your audience. It helps summarize key points, reinforce main ideas , and provide closure . A well-crafted conclusion also creates a memorable experience that can influence how people perceive and remember your presentation.

Should I include contact information in my presentation’s conclusion?

Including contact information in your conclusion is highly recommended as it allows interested individuals to reach out to you for further engagement or inquiries. Make sure to provide relevant details such as email addresses, social media handles, or website URLs so that attendees can easily connect with you after the presentation.

What are some effective ways of engaging the audience during the conclusion?

To engage the audience during the conclusion of your presentation, consider using interactive elements such as rhetorical questions or open-ended prompts that encourage participation. You can also share personal anecdotes or stories that resonate with them emotionally and make them feel connected to your message.

How can I avoid overloading my final slide with information?

To prevent overwhelming your audience with information on the final slide, keep it simple and concise. Focus on key takeaways or a visually compelling image that reinforces your main points. Remember, the goal is to leave a lasting impression, not bombard them with excessive details.

Is it appropriate to express gratitude to the audience at the end of a presentation?

Expressing gratitude to your audience is not only appropriate but also highly encouraged. It shows respect and appreciation for their time and attention.

How to conclude a presentation | end your presentation on a good note

Lasting impression, reinforces key points, motivates action; ending shapes overall perception, leaving positive impact.

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Sanskar Tiwari

How to conclude a presentation

Table of content:.

  • 5 Ways to Close Your Presentation With Style
  • Few tools to Help You Create a captivating Presentation
  • How to Start a Presentation like a Pro
  • Some of the top Presentation Mistakes to Avoid

5 Ways to Close Your Presentation With Style šŸ‘Œ

  • Incorporate a Compelling Call-to-Action (CTA): When concluding your presentation, the importance of a strong call-to-action cannot be overstated. As a business owner, your ultimate goal is to inspire your audience to take specific actions. Don't leave this to chance; instead, use powerful and definitive language to direct your audience. Phrases like "Begin the journey" or "Join the fight" cut through ambiguity, clearly conveying what you want your audience to do. By providing a decisive call-to-action, you not only guide your audience but also increase the likelihood of them acting upon your message.
  • Avoid Concluding with a Q&A Session: Concluding a presentation with a Q&A session might seem like a traditional approach, but it often results in a less memorable ending. Since you can't control the questions you'll receive, consider integrating questions throughout your presentation. This approach ensures that the questions asked are directly relevant to the information being shared, maintaining the flow and engagement. If a structured Q&A at the end is necessary, allocate time afterward to reinforce key takeaways and leave your audience with a strong, lasting impression.
  • Conclude with a Compelling Story: Just as a compelling story can captivate your audience at the beginning, closing with one can creatively encapsulate the information you've presented. However, it's essential to choose a story that resonates emotionally and effectively summarizes your message. Avoid the temptation to conclude with a case study, as these are more suitable for the middle of your presentation. A well-crafted story at the end can leave a lasting imprint on your audience, making your message memorable over the long term.
  • Reinforce Main Points: As your presentation draws to a close, take the opportunity to reinforce your main points. Offering a concise summary using a simple formulaā€”tell them what you're going to tell them, tell them, then tell them what you told themā€”provides a structured and comprehensive overview. Take the time to not only list key points but also demonstrate how each point connects to others. This approach enhances clarity, ensuring your audience leaves with a strong understanding of the core messages you aimed to convey.
  • Express Gratitude and Acknowledge Contributions: Signaling the conclusion of your presentation requires finesse, and expressing gratitude to your audience is a powerful way to achieve this. Include a dedicated thank-you slide to convey appreciation for their time and attention. Additionally, take a moment to acknowledge any individuals or companies that played a role in preparing your presentation. This act of recognition not only demonstrates professionalism but also reinforces a sense of collaboration and shared success.

T oolsšŸ”Ø to Help You Craft a captivating Presentation

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  • Versatile design tool suitable for various graphic design projects, including presentations.
  • User-friendly interface, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced designers.
  • Extensive library of templates, graphics, and customization options for a visually appealing presentation.
  • Limited advanced design features compared to specialized design tools.
  • Collaborative features may be restricted in the free version.
  • Canva offers a free version with basic features.
  • Canva Pro subscription, starting at $9.95 per month, provides additional features and collaboration options.
  • Drag-and-drop interface.
  • Template library for quick design.
  • Collaboration tools for team projects.

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  • Non-linear approach offers a dynamic and engaging way to present information.
  • Unique design style sets presentations apart from traditional slide decks.
  • Suitable for those seeking a creative and visually impactful presentation.
  • Learning curve for users unfamiliar with non-linear presentation styles.
  • Free version has limited features.
  • Prezi offers a free version with basic features.
  • Prezi Plus subscription, starting at $7 per month, provides more storage and advanced features.
  • Prezi Business subscription, starting at $19 per month, is designed for teams and includes collaboration features.
  • Non-linear presentation style.
  • Zooming and panning effects for a dynamic presentation.

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  • AI-driven design aids in creating polished layouts quickly.
  • User-friendly with templates and content blocks for ease of use.
  • Ideal for those prioritizing time efficiency in the presentation creation process.
  • Limited customization options compared to more advanced design tools.
  • Free version has limitations.
  • Slidebean offers a free version with basic features.
  • Slidebean Premium subscription, starting at $9 per month, provides additional features, including privacy settings.
  • AI assistance for layout design.
  • Time-saving templates and content blocks.

Google Slides:

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  • Simplistic and accessible, allowing presentations to be created from any device.
  • Compatibility with widely used presentation software like Microsoft PowerPoint and Keynote.
  • Collaboration in real-time with team members.
  • Limited offline functionality.
  • Less advanced features compared to standalone design tools.
  • Google Slides is free to use with a Google account.
  • Cloud-based collaboration.
  • Seamless integration with Google Drive.

Microsoft PowerPoint:

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  • Feature-rich with a wide range of design options and templates.
  • Integration with other Microsoft Office applications for seamless workflow.
  • Robust collaboration features for team projects.
  • Requires a Microsoft Office subscription for full access to advanced features.
  • Learning curve for users new to the software.
  • Part of the Microsoft Office suite, available through subscription plans starting at $69.99 per year.
  • Extensive template library.
  • Advanced design and animation options.

Start your Presentation like a Pro šŸ˜Ž

  • Make a Bold Assertion:
  • Craft a compelling, confident statement that demands attention.
  • Emphasize the value and expertise you bring to the audience.
  • Provide the Unexpected:
  • Break the mold by defying expectations in your opening.
  • Incorporate humor or surprise elements to captivate your audience.
  • Pique Curiosity:
  • Pose thought-provoking questions that stir curiosity.
  • Harness the brain's affinity for curiosity to enhance engagement.
  • Employ the "confession" technique used by many successful Ted Talk presenters.
  • Pose Thoughtful Questions:
  • Present questions that prompt deep reflection and engagement.
  • Craft inquiries that require more than a simple yes or no response, encouraging active participation.
  • Tell a Compelling Story:
  • Initiate your presentation with a gripping narrative.
  • Utilize the universal appeal of storytelling to instantly engage and connect with your audience.

Presentation Mistakes to Avoid šŸ¤«

Video preview

Importance of ending presentation on a positive note

The Importance of Clarity in Communication: Tips for Clearer Messages

Conclusion:

Frequently asked questions:, blogs you might like:.

  • How to convert PPT to PDF online: https://www.magicslides.app/blog/How-to-convert-PPT-to-PDF-online
  • How To Duplicate A Power Point: https://www.magicslides.app/blog/how-to-duplicate-a-power-point
  • How To Create PPT With Just A Topic Name: https://www.magicslides.app/blog/How-to-create-PPT-with-just-a-topic-name
  • How To Make Presentations Interactive: Top 10 Tips: https://www.magicslides.app/blog/How-to-Make-Presentations-Interactive-Top-10-tips

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How to End a Presentation (+ Useful Phrases)

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Table of Contents

Most people are aware of the power of first impressions.

However, our appearance and the first words we utter are only one part of the impact we have on others.

Arguably, the final words we exchange during an interaction can have an even more lasting effect . And that applies to public speaking, too.

Obviously, the way you introduce yourself and the topic youā€™ll be discussing is important.

However, the end of a presentation should also be recognized as a crucial part of the experience .

With that in mind, this article will walk you through some:

  • Things you should consider before drafting your conclusion,
  • Tips for ending a presentation memorably,
  • Mistakes you should avoid, and
  • Phrases you can use to wrap up your speech.

But, before we discuss how to end a presentation, letā€™s establish why having an impactful conclusion is so essential.

How to end a presentation - cover

Why is it important to have an impactful ending for your presentation?

In our article about starting a presentation , we explained how the steps of the motivated sequence framework correspond to the structure of the average presentation or speech.

As we have established, the introduction of a presentation mirrors the first step of that model. That means that one of its main goals is to get the listenersā€™ attention .

The central part of the speech, or the body , corresponds to the second, third, and fourth steps of the motivated sequence framework. In other words, it has to:

  • Introduce the audienceā€™s need (or identify a problem the listeners are having),
  • Offer a way to satisfy (or resolve) that need, and
  • Help the listeners visualize the successful implementation of the speakerā€™s solution.

Having checked off these points, we arrive at the conclusion , i.e., the subject of this article.

That stage of a presentation corresponds to the final step of the motivated sequence model ā€” which consists of the call to action .

So, the conclusion of a presentation allows the speaker to drive their point home and nudge the audience toward performing a specific action.

However, thatā€™s not the only purpose of a conclusion.

According to the authors of Business Communication: Process & Product , the final section of a presentation should achieve 3 goals . It should:

  • Summarize the main themes of the presentation,
  • Leave the audience with a specific and noteworthy takeaway (i.e. propose a specific course of action), and
  • Include a statement that allows the speaker to leave the podium (or pass the mic) gracefully.

Above all, the ending of a presentation should be memorable , akin to the punchline of a joke.

Having said that, letā€™s talk about some factors you should consider as youā€™re writing the conclusion of your speech.

Things to consider before crafting the conclusion of your presentation

If youā€™re trying to figure out how to end a presentation, knowing the goals of a conclusion should help.

However, those objectives are only one part of the puzzle. To get the others, you should also consider:

  • Your audienceā€™s demographic breakdown,
  • The general purpose of your presentation ,
  • The specific purpose of your presentation , and
  • Your thesis statement .

With that in mind, letā€™s see how each of these factors can help you develop an impactful conclusion for your presentation.

Factor #1: The demographic breakdown of the audience

As we have noted in our article about starting presentations, understanding the demographic breakdown of oneā€™s audience is a crucial part of drafting a speech .

After all, the audience affects all of the choices we make ā€” from the way we present ourselves to the vocabulary and the supporting materials we use during our presentations.

In our quest to learn more about the effect an audience can have on a presentation, we spoke to Persuasion Strategist Juliet Huck .

Having spent a significant portion of her professional career preparing people to take the witness stand, Huck knows a thing or two about adjusting oneā€™s messaging to fit the preferences of oneā€™s audience. She says:

Juliet Huck

ā€œ[The] ending [of] every presentation should be different and always based on the background of your audience. This should not be a blanket statement.  It also depends on if you are educating your audience or persuading them to make a decision in your favor.  You must do the homework on your audience prior to giving a presentation and end by leading them to your desired conclusion by giving them a conclusion they can relate to.ā€

But, if youā€™re not entirely sure how to take your audience into account when drafting your conclusion, consider the following questions:

  • How will your audience connect to the topic youā€™re discussing?
  • How can you relate the information youā€™re sharing to the listenersā€™ needs?
  • What would make your audience think back on your presentation in positive terms?
  • What would be the most effective way to get your point across to this specific audience?

Knowing whether your audience is friendly, neutral, uninterested, or hostile will also help you adjust your approach.

If nothing else, itā€™ll tell you whether you should stick to the facts or feel free to deliver a more casual or rousing speech.

Examples of different audience breakdowns

In our article about starting a presentation, we demonstrated our tips through 3 fictional speakers. So, letā€™s use the same presenters to illustrate this point.

  • Nick Mulder is talking about the dangers of phishing. He introduced himself as the head of the security department. So, we can assume that heā€™s speaking to an audience of fellow employees, perhaps even through video conferencing software. Therefore, he was addressing an internal problem the company was having in front of a fairly receptive audience.
  • Joan Miller is talking about how artificial intelligence is changing the future of the marketing industry. In her introduction, she mentioned having over four decades of experience in marketing. Consequently, we can infer that sheā€™s speaking to an audience of marketing specialists who were previously unaware of her credentials.
  • Milo Green is talking about employee retention. In his introduction, he indicated that the audience may know him as the founder of Green & Co. So, heā€™s probably famous enough to be recognized by at least a portion of his audience. Between that and the subject of his presentation, we can assume that heā€™s talking to the upper management of other companies.

From our examples, we can see how the identity of the speaker and their level of familiarity with the listeners might affect the way they prepare their presentations .

Factor #2: The general purpose of your presentation

Understanding the general purpose of a speech brings you one step closer to knowing how to end a presentation.

According to the authors of Communicating at Work , most presentations can be sorted into one of 3 categories based on that factor. In that regard, your presentation could be:

  • Informative , aiming to expand the listenersā€™ knowledge and/or help them acquire a specific skill,
  • Persuasive , with the goal of changing the listenersā€™ opinions or encouraging them to behave a certain way, or
  • Entertaining , which is good for getting the audience to relax and look forward to upcoming speakers or events.

The general purpose of your presentation will naturally affect your conclusion because it will change what you choose to emphasize.

šŸ’” Pumble Pro Tip

The basic goal of your presentation could correspond with the type of presentation youā€™re giving. To learn more about presentation types and styles, check out this article:

  • Presentation types and styles explained

Examples of defining the general purpose of a presentation 

Letā€™s see how our imaginary presenters would define the general purpose of their presentations.

  • The general purpose of our phishing expertā€™s presentation is informative . The speakerā€™s primary goal is to teach his coworkers how to recognize and defend themselves against phishing attempts.
  • Our marketing expertā€™s presentation is persuasive . She wants to change her listenersā€™ minds and make them more open to using AI in their marketing campaigns.
  • The last speakerā€™s presentation about employee retention is also persuasive . After all, the speaker is attempting to show his listeners how they can increase the employee retention rate at their own companies. However, depending on the circumstances surrounding the speech, it could also take on some entertaining qualities.

Factor #3: The specific purpose of your presentation

The specific purpose of a presentation is essentially the outcome youā€™re looking to achieve with your speech. Defining this goal will require you to know the answers to the following questions :

  • Who do you want to influence?
  • What do you want them to think or do?
  • How, when, and where do you want them to do it?

Ideally, the specific goal you come up with should be realistic and highly specific .

To that end, the authors of Communicating at Work recommend setting measurable goals . So, for example, instead of thinking: ā€œ I want to get approval for my project. ā€,

ā€œI want my manager to let me set aside one day per week to work on this project. I also want them to let me ask one or two other people to help me with it.ā€

Having this kind of goal in mind will help you figure out how to wrap up your presentation.

Examples of defining the specific purpose of a presentation

So, how would our 3 speakers specify the desired outcomes of their presentations in measurable terms? Letā€™s see:

ā€œI want the people in my company to understand the dangers of phishing attacks. They should learn the exact steps they need to take when they see a suspicious email in their inbox.ā€
ā€œI want these marketing experts to be more knowledgeable about the way artificial intelligence works right now and understand how they can incorporate that software into their professional practice.ā€
ā€œI want managers and HR professionals to know how they can make their companies a better place to work so they can keep their employee retention rate high.ā€

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Factor #4: Your thesis statement

Ultimately, defining the general and specific goals of your presentation is a great way to keep yourself on track when crafting your speech.

However, the audience doesnā€™t need to know those goals.

Instead, they can hear your thesis statement ā€” a summary of your overall message .

You can treat this statement as the throughline of your presentation. It will appear at least once in the introduction, followed by a few repetitions throughout the body of the presentation.

Finally, youā€™ll also want to include that same idea in your conclusion at least once.

In addition to keeping you, as the speaker, grounded, that repetition also keeps your audience from wondering what your presentation is about .

Examples of defining the thesis statement of a presentation

So, what would a thesis statement look like in practice? Letā€™s hear it from our fictional presenters:

ā€œIdentifying and reporting phishing emails will save the companyā€™s information and money in the long term.ā€
ā€œRight now, artificial intelligence isnā€™t as advanced as people think it is. However, we can still use it for marketing purposes as long as we make sure the process doesnā€™t begin and end with AI.ā€
ā€œImproving your employee retention rate makes employees more engaged with their work and saves the company time and money that would otherwise go to training new personnel.ā€

How to end a presentation with a bang: 10 tips + examples

Now that we know why having an impactful conclusion is so crucial, itā€™s time to find the right way to achieve your goals.

To that end, we have highlighted 10 tips that might help you wrap up your presentation .

  • Reiterate the key points and your core message.
  • Mirror your opening statement.
  • Elicit a response.
  • Engage the audience.
  • Call to action.
  • Hand out materials.
  • Acknowledge your contributors.
  • Provide contact information.
  • Thank the audience.
  • Ask for feedback.

Of course, many of these methods weā€™ll discuss can be combined. However, your choices may be limited depending on the factors we have previously mentioned.

Tip #1: Reiterate the key points and your core message

Making sure the audience remembers your main points is one of the most important objectives your conclusion should accomplish.

With that in mind, you should dedicate some time at the end of your speech to reinforcing what you were trying to say throughout your presentation.

Take it from Mark Beal , Assistant Professor of Professional Practice, Communication, at Rutgers University:

Mark Beal

ā€œEvery presentation should deliver and consistently reinforce three key message points. Most audience members will not recall more than three messages. Some may only recall one or two. With that [in mind], an engaging and effective presentation should conclude with the three messages the presenter wants the audience to take away.ā€

In essence, youā€™ll want to summarize your presentation by reiterating up to 3 key points and then repeating your thesis statement.

You could even translate this tip to your presentation slides. As Juliet Huck says:

ā€œYour last slide should always draw your audience to your desired conclusion. [It] should be your billboard message , as we remember 70% of what we see and 20% of what we hear.ā€

We can see what that might look like through the example of our imaginary presentation on the dangers of phishing, below.

The final slide of a presentation about phishing

Tip #2: Mirror your opening statement

According to the authors of Communicating at Work , splitting a narrative between the introduction and the conclusion of your presentation is a good way to keep your audienceā€™s attention.

Assistant Professor of Rhetorical Communication at the State University of New York, Dr. Lee M. Pierce , agrees:

Dr. Lee M. Pierce

ā€œPsychological closure is looping back to the beginning to give the audience a sense of a closed circle. Don’t add new information in the conclusion, just tie the presentation up with a bow. [For example,] I always customize my closings based on the opening of the speech. During a TEDx Talk on BeyoncĆ©ā€™s ā€˜Formation,ā€™ I began by walking out to the introduction to the song, and then I ended by walking off to the end of the song.ā€

The above quote demonstrates that this tip can be useful no matter which method you used to start your presentation .

You can use it to put a new spin on a statistic you shared in the introduction, give a story you told a different ending, or finish the punchline of a joke you started with.

Overall, coming back to the theme you introduced at the beginning of your speech should make your presentation seem more complete and intentional .

Phrases you can use to reflect the introduction of your presentation in the conclusion

With all that being said, letā€™s see how our imaginary speakers would mirror the opening lines of their presentations in their conclusion.

Having started with a phishing statistic, our first speaker might say:

ā€œGoing back to the number we started with, remember that the Anti-Phishing Working Group has recorded 1,270,883 individual phishing attacks in the third quarter of 2022 ā€” and that number is always on the rise. Luckily, you now have all the information you need to avoid becoming a part of that statistic.ā€

Our second speaker would have announced her plans to survey her listeners at the beginning of her presentation. In her conclusion, she might say:

ā€œAt the beginning of my presentation, I asked you to answer a quick survey on whether youā€™d be willing to work with AI. If you look back at your phones, youā€™ll see a different link in the #general channel on Pumble . Letā€™s see if this talk has managed to sway some opinions!ā€

conclusion to a presentation

Lastly, our final speaker might refer back to a humorous statement he made about chaining oneā€™s employees to their desks to ensure that employee retention rates stay high.

ā€œOnce you start making your company a better place to work, your employees will happily perform their daily tasks ā€” without being glued to their desks.ā€

Tip #3: Elicit a response

Making an audience experience strong emotions is always a good thing, but especially as the presentation comes to a close.

Putting the listeners in a contemplative mood or, even better, a cheerful one, means that theyā€™ll be more likely to remember you and the points you made after your presentation ends.

On top of that, concluding your presentation in this manner would allow you to step off the stage gracefully, which is one of the main goals your conclusion should accomplish.

Now, depending on the type of presentation youā€™re delivering and, indeed, your style of presenting, you could elicit a response by:

  • Ending with a short but powerful statement ,
  • Asking a thought-provoking rhetorical question ,
  • Relying on an impactful statistic or a quote , or even
  • Inserting a funny picture or a meme on your final presentation slide.

Any one of these methods could help you solidify yourself and your message in the minds of the audience.

Phrases you can use to elicit a response from the audience

So, how would our 3 presenters try to get a response from their audiences? Well, they might use the following statements.

ā€œUltimately, the best defense against phishing attacks is human intelligence. You, alone, can ensure that your information remains secure by implementing the checklist Iā€™ve shared today.ā€
ā€œSo, let me ask you again. Would you be willing to incorporate AI into your marketing campaign?ā€
ā€œHey, if the conditions youā€™re offering to your employees are good enough ā€” thereā€™s no need to keep them glued to their desks.ā€

conclusion to a presentation

Tip #4: Engage the audience

As weā€™ll discuss later on, having a Q&A session at the end of your presentation doesnā€™t always pan out the way you want it to.

Even so, getting your audience ā€” or at least a few select listeners ā€” to verbally respond to you can go a long way toward making you seem like a more engaging speaker.

Still, you canā€™t implement this tip without a strategy. You want to lead your audience to a certain type of response .

Professional speaker, career change consultant, and host of the Career RelaunchĀ® podcast, Joseph Liu , had this to say:

Joseph Liu

ā€œI often invite attendees to share what action they’re going to take amongst the potential ones I’ve covered throughout the presentation or to at least commit to taking some sort of action.ā€

Speaker, author, and editorial producer at CNN, Nadia Bilchik , agrees:

Nadia Bilchik

ā€œIf time allows, I always ask participants to share their biggest takeaway.ā€

The quote above also highlights the importance of being aware of the time as you are concluding a presentation ā€” which is another thing weā€™ll talk about later.

For now, weā€™ll just boil this tip down to the following statement: if possible, try to make people verbalize or at least think about the knowledge theyā€™re taking away from your speech .

Phrases you can use to engage the audience

Going back to our imaginary speakers, letā€™s see how this tip might work in practice.

ā€œAs we approach my conclusion, Iā€™d like for us to reflect on everything weā€™ve learned here today. So, let me turn the spotlight on you all. Does anyone remember how to recognize a phishing email without opening it?ā€
ā€œNow, Iā€™m sure everyone here has some idea of how they might incorporate AI into their next marketing campaign. Is anyone willing to share their strategy?ā€
ā€œAlright! Pop quiz time ā€” donā€™t worry, I wonā€™t grade you. Can you all shout out the main 3 ways to increase employee retention? Number 1?ā€

Tip #5: Call to action

Once you have finished reiterating your core message and making sure you have your audienceā€™s attention, you need to be able to direct the listeners to the next step.

As Michelle Gladieux , author of Communicate with Courage and President of Gladieux Consulting, an employee coaching provider, would put it:

Michelle Gladieux

ā€œWhat can the audience DO with the information you’ve shared? Suggest a positive, fruitful next step or, even better, suggest several, and let your presentation participants choose among options that have panned out well for others.ā€

In her workshops, Gladieux says:

ā€œWe ask participants to document at least one goal for behavior change that is specific, measurable, and time-based, and take a bonus step of inviting them to name one person they’ll tell about their goal for added accountability.ā€

According to the authors of Communicating at Work , there are 2 ways to deliver a call to action at the end of your presentation. Namely, you can either phrase it as:

  • An appeal or a question (e.g. ā€œIf any of this sounds interesting, you can learn more by signing up for our newsletter through the link on the screen behind me.ā€ ), or
  • A challenge or a demand (e.g. ā€œNow, you can keep doing what youā€™re doing and getting lackluster results. Or, you can sign up for our newsletter to receive tips that will help you upgrade your strategy.ā€ ).

As always, your choice will depend on the factors we have listed at the top of this article.

Phrases you can use to call the audience to action

Letā€™s see what our fictional speakersā€™ calls to action might look like.

ā€œRemember, even if you happen to open a phishing email, youā€™ll be able to deal with it easily by forwarding it to this email address. Thatā€™s the main thing you need to remember from this talk.ā€
ā€œI bet many of you could come up with even more creative ways to incorporate AI into your marketing campaigns. So, how about this: if you fill out the form Iā€™m about to send you, Iā€™ll check in with you in about three months. Those of you who succeed in using AI in a meaningful way will get a chance to share your insights on this very stage next year!ā€
ā€œI have a challenge for those of you who are ready to meet me at my level. I want you to sign a pledge, promising to boost your employee retention rate by 10% in the next year. We had a similar experiment at one of my talks a couple of years back, and even I was surprised by the results.ā€

If you decide to accompany this part of your speech with a call to action slide, keep Juliet Huckā€™s advice in mind:

ā€œA call to action slide is not always persuasive. Persuasion is not a call to action ā€” it is a directed action. To ā€˜callā€™ means someone can say no, but to ā€˜persuadeā€™ [is to] direct your audience to your desired conclusion based on a number of steps.ā€

In effect, that means that your call to action should be the final step of your persuasion strategy.

You should start building to that desired outcome well before you get to the end of your presentation.

Tip #6: Hand out materials

The ending of a presentation is the perfect time to give the audience a keepsake of your speech .

But, keep in mind that a memento doesnā€™t have to be a physical item. As Michelle Gladieux would say:

ā€œI like to direct my audiences to free downloadable resources on our website for those who want to continue their personal and professional growth as leaders and communicators.ā€

So, sharing resources through email or a business messaging app would work just as well.

Of course, you donā€™t have to hold off until the conclusion of your presentation to give your audience something to remember you by. Gladieux also shared a method she used in her workshops: 

ā€œ[Most of our] participants have our high-quality original workbooks in hand during the presentation and available later as a tangible resource. Folks add notes, take short assessments, and work on case studies when we teach using workbooks. If we use presentation slides, we keep the content as engaging visually as possible and short on words.ā€

If your budget allows you to do something similar, that might be a good way to make the audience remember you.

Phrases you can use before handing out materials

In the scenarios we have conjured up, the speakers might introduce their additional materials like so.

ā€œIf youā€™re interested in learning more about phishing and how you can defend yourself from future attacks, youā€™ll find more information by following the link on the screen.ā€
ā€œNow, at this point, I see that my associates have already started delivering some additional materials and miscellaneous goodies to you. I hope youā€™ll use them to workshop further ideas for using AI in your marketing strategies.ā€
ā€œIā€™ll go ahead and forward these presentation slides as well as some additional resources for improving employee retention to you all.ā€

The third speaker uses the team communication app, Pumble, to share additional resources

If youā€™re looking for a convenient way to deliver additional resources to the attendees of your speech, Pumble is a great option. This article offers some practical tips for using business messaging software for educational purposes ā€” including online conferences:

  • Using Pumble for teaching and learning  

Tip #7: Acknowledge contributors

If youā€™re delivering a business presentation as a representative of a team or a department, you can also use the final moments of your speech to acknowledge everyone who worked on the presentation with you.

On the one hand, you could simply thank your team in general terms and leave it at that.

Alternatively, you could highlight the individual contributions of specific team members if you want to make sure their effort doesnā€™t go unnoticed.

Phrases you can use to acknowledge your contributors

Hereā€™s how our fictitious presenters might acknowledge the people who helped them create their presentations:

ā€œBefore I sign off, Iā€™d like to take a moment to thank Jill and Vanessa from the security team, who helped me compile the data and create the slides you just saw.ā€
ā€œFinally, Iā€™d like to acknowledge that this presentation wouldnā€™t be half as informative without the experts who helped me understand the technical side of AI.ā€
ā€œNow, letā€™s all give it up for my wonderful team, who helped me organize this lecture.ā€

Improve communication and collaboration for increased team efficiency with Pumble.

Tip #8: Provide contact information

Business presentations often double as networking opportunities , both for presenters and for audience members.

With that in mind, you might want to put your contact information on one of your closing slides.

For one, doing so would show the audience how they can get in touch with you after your presentation ends. After all, they may have additional questions or even interesting business opportunities for you.

On top of that, putting your contact information on the last slide is also a good way to remind the audience of your name and credentials .

For that reason, our second imaginary speaker might have ā€œJoan Miller ā€” Chief Marketing Officer at Happy Mediaā€ on her final slide.

Phrases you can use to provide contact information

So, how would our presenters encourage their audience to keep in touch? Well, they might say: 

ā€œIā€™m always happy to answer any of your security or phishing-related questions on Pumble. Youā€™ll find me by clicking the plus sign next to the direct messages section and searching my name, Nick Mulder.ā€
ā€œIf you all have any follow-up questions for me or one of the AI experts Iā€™ve spoken to, youā€™ll find all of our contact information on this slide.ā€
ā€œIf you want to stay up to date on Green & Coā€™s latest news, follow us on LinkedIn.ā€

The first speaker asked his coworkers to contact him through direct messages on the business communication app, PumbleĀ 

Tip #9: Thank the audience

Many presenters find a way to incorporate a ā€œ thank you ā€ slide at the end of their presentations.

If you want to express your appreciation to your audience members , you could do the same thing.

However, as weā€™ll soon discuss, many of the experts weā€™ve spoken to would advise against having pointless visuals at the end of your presentation.

After all, you want to leave the audience with something memorable to take away from your speech.

Still, if you want to thank the audience, you could always make that final slide serve multiple functions .

For example, a ā€œthank youā€ slide can also contain the speakerā€™s contact information, as well as additional resources.

conclusion to a presentation

This example ā€œthank youā€ slide above features a QR code (you can create one using a QR code generator ) leading to more resources ā€” it prompts the audience to find the speaker on various social media platforms.

Tip #10: Ask for feedback

Lastly, some speakers might benefit from knowing what the audience thinks about their delivery and other aspects of their presentation.

Thatā€™s why some of the experts weā€™ve spoken to suggest that conducting a brief survey of the audience could be a good activity to end a presentation with.

Rutgers University professor, Mark Beal, says that:

ā€œOffering audience members the opportunity to take a concise survey at the conclusion of a presentation will result in valuable insights that will inform how to consistently evolve and improve a presentation. […] We use the last few minutes of seminars to allow participants to answer a few questions about what was most useful in our content and delivery, and what, in that individual’s opinion, could improve.ā€

Michelle Gladieux is also an advocate for audience surveys, saying:

ā€œI’ve delivered thousands of training workshops and keynotes and never miss an opportunity to ask for feedback formally (in writing), informally (in conversation), or both. As you might guess, I advise every presenter reading this to do the same.ā€

You could encourage this type of feedback by:

  • Asking attendees to share their thoughts on your presentation after you step off the stage,
  • Setting up a notebook near the door and asking people to jot down their thoughts as they exit,
  • Having a suggestion box for hand-written feedback notes, or
  • Creating an anonymous survey online and linking to it on your presentation slides.

Most presenters nowadays tend to rely on technology to compile audience feedback, but the method you use will depend on the circumstances surrounding your presentation.

If youā€™ve never had to ask for feedback before, you might find this article interesting:

  • How to ask your manager for feedback  

The worst ways to end a presentation

Having gone through the best practices for concluding a presentation memorably, we also wanted to know what are some of the mistakes speakers should avoid as they reach the end of their speech.

The experts we have spoken to have identified 5 of the worst ways to end a presentation :

  • Overloading your final slide.
  • Settling for a lackluster closer.
  • Ending with a Q&A session.
  • Not having time for any questions at all.
  • Going over your time.

So, letā€™s see what makes these mistakes so bad.

Mistake #1: Overloading your final slide

Overloading your presentation slides isnā€™t a mistake you can make only at the end of your presentation.

Professional speakers know that slides are only there to accompany your speech ā€” they shouldnā€™t be the main event.

As Nadia Bilchik says:

Nadia Bilchik

ā€œSlides are only there to support your message. Towards the end of the presentation, I may even stop the slideshow entirely and just have a black screen. At the very end of the presentation, my suggestion is to have a slide up with the next steps or a call to action.ā€

Dr. Lee M. Pierce also tends to use blank slides:

Dr. Lee M. Pierce

ā€œI always end and begin with blank slides. As a speaker, you’re trying to build connection and rapport between you and the audience, not between the audience and your slide deck.ā€

Therefore, putting too much information onto a single slide can make the speaker seem unprepared, in addition to overwhelming the audience.

When in doubt, remember Kawasakiā€™s 10/20/30 rule :

  • No more than 10 slides per presentation,
  • Keep your presentations under 20 minutes, and
  • The text on your slides should never be smaller than 30-point font. 

Mistake #2: Settling for a lackluster closer

If your goal is to become a proficient speaker, youā€™ll have to stop using uninspired closers like:

  • ā€œWell, I guess thatā€™s it.ā€
  • ā€œThatā€™s pretty much all I had to say.ā€
  • ā€œThatā€™s about it from me. Can we get some applause?ā€

The audience will respond if you say something deserving of a response.

Instead of using these bland lines, remember Juliet Huckā€™s advice:

ā€œNever end your presentation without closing the loop of your beginning theme and being specific when asking for your desire conclusion.ā€

As we have established, itā€™s best to conclude your speech by bringing back your thesis statement and key points.

Finishing with weak visuals is similarly offensive ā€” and here weā€™re not just talking about presentation slides.

Remember, body language is an important component of our communication .

Fidgeting as your presentation comes to a close or slumping your posture as soon as youā€™re finished speaking wonā€™t do.

As Michelle Gladieux would say:

ā€œNever end a presentation seeming happy to be done, even if you are! Be certain you’re happy to be the presenter before you begin, or find someone else to do it.ā€

In other words, try not to show signs of anxiety during your presentation .

Maintain a confident demeanor for as long as you remain on stage or as long as youā€™re on camera, in the case of virtual meetings .

Mistake #3: Ending with a Q&A session

One of the experts we have spoken to, Nadia Bilchik, was particularly adamant about not ending presentations with Q&A sessions.

ā€œNever ever end a presentation on a question-and-answer session. I have seen numerous presenters end by asking ā€˜Any questions?ā€™ Too often there are no questions, and the presenter is left looking deflated and muttering ā€˜Thank you.ā€™ [If there are] no questions, you can always say ā€˜A question Iā€™m often asked isā€¦ā€™ or ā€˜Something I would like to reiterate isā€¦ā€™ Never end your presentation without your audience being clear about what they are expected to do with the information you have just shared.ā€

Adding that you can:

ā€œAsk for questions, comments, and concerns, and only then end with a quick wrap-up. The goal is to end with your audience being clear on their next steps.ā€

Even if the listeners do have questions, thereā€™s a good reason not to have a Q&A session at the very end of your presentation.

Namely, thereā€™s always a chance that someone will ask a question that completely derails the conversation.

If you have the Q&A portion right before your conclusion, youā€™ll have time to reiterate your core message and proceed with a memorable closing statement .

For reference, you can ask for questions by saying:

ā€œBefore I close out this lecture, do you guys have any questions for me?ā€

Then, if there are no questions, you can still proceed to your conclusion without losing face. 

A Q&A session is one of the best ways to make your presentations more interactive ā€” but itā€™s not the only way to go about it. To learn more, check out this article:

  • 18 Ways to make presentations more interactive and engaging

Mistake #4: Not having time for any questions at all

Ending with a Q&A session could be a problem ā€” but, perhaps, not as big of a problem as not taking questions at all.

As Mark Beal would say:

ā€œNot giving the audience the opportunity to participate in the presentation via a question and answer session is another ineffective way to end a presentation. Audiences want to have a voice in a presentation. They will be more engaged with the presentation content and recall it more effectively if given the opportunity to participate in the presentation and interact with the presenter.ā€

Dr. Lee M. Pierce adds:

ā€œIt’s always good to leave at least 15 minutes for questions. Leaving 5 minutes is annoying and pointless. Also, be prepared that the audience may not have questions or not feel comfortable just jumping in, so have some of your own questions ready to offer them. You can say something like, ā€˜Just to put it out there, if I were going to ask me a question, I’d askā€¦ā€™ ā€

Now, both Nadia Bilchik and Lee M. Pierce have mentioned phrases you can use if no one comes forth with a question.

Youā€™ll notice that the sentences they have come up with will require you to consider the questions you may be asked ahead of time .

In addition to helping you create a better presentation, doing this will also allow you to answer any questions effortlessly.

Mistake #5: Going over your time

Last but not least, many of the professional speakers we have interviewed have stressed the importance of ending oneā€™s presentation on time.

Michelle Gladieux said it best:

ā€œThe best way to end a presentation is ON TIME. Respect others’ time commitments by not running over. You can always hang around for a while to speak with people who have more to say or more to ask.ā€

Dr. Lee M. Pierce agrees:

ā€œThe worst thing you can do is run over time. If you were given 45 minutes for a presentation plus 15 minutes for Q & A, you should end at 45 minutes ā€” better if you end at 35 or 40.ā€

Then again, according to Guy Kawasakiā€™s 10/20/30 rule, even going over the 20-minute mark could risk boring and alienating oneā€™s audience.

Useful phrases for ending a presentation

In the course of our research, weā€™ve found many practical phrases one might use to wrap up a presentation.

We even had experts send in their suggestions. For example, Nadia Bilchik says:

ā€œI always end with a very quick summary of the content, a definitive call to action, and a reiteration of the benefits to the audience. This is a superb model, and I have shared it with thousands of individuals who have found it immensely valuable. Use this as your framework: What I have looked at todayā€¦ What I am asking you to doā€¦ The benefits areā€¦ā€

Other phrases you might use at the end of your presentation include:

ā€œTo recap, weā€™ve discussedā€¦ā€

ā€œThroughout this presentation, we talked aboutā€¦ā€

ā€œIn other words,…ā€

ā€œTo wrap up/conclude,…ā€

ā€œIn short, Iā€™d like to highlightā€¦ā€

ā€œTo put it simply,…ā€

ā€œIn conclusionā€¦ā€

ā€œIn summary, the goal of my presentationā€¦ā€

ā€œIf thereā€™s one thing you take away from my presentationā€¦ā€

ā€œIn bringing my presentation to a close, I wanted toā€¦ā€

If youā€™d like to incorporate a call to action, you might say:

ā€œIā€™m counting on you toā€¦ā€

ā€œAfter this presentation, Iā€™d like to ask you toā€¦ā€

ā€œPlease take a minute toā€¦ā€

ā€œNext time you (see a suspicious email), remember to (forward it to this email address).ā€

To end with a quote, you could say:

ā€œLet me leave you with this quoteā€¦ā€

ā€œThat reminds me of the old sayingā€¦ā€

Lastly, more useful phrases include:

ā€œFeel free to reach out if you have any questions.ā€

ā€œFor more information, head to the link on the screen.ā€

ā€œThank you for your time/attention.ā€

ā€œI hope you found this presentation informative/useful/insightful.ā€

Remember: the last words you say should make it abundantly clear that your presentation has ended.

What should your final slide look like?

If you donā€™t want to leave your final slide blank as some of the experts we have talked to would recommend, there are other ways to fill that space.

Joseph Liu told us:

ā€œI tend to make it very clear the presentation is coming to an end by having a slide that says, ā€˜Closing Thoughtsā€™ or something to that effect. I recommend ending with a recap of your content, reconnecting with the initial hook you used at the start, and finally, some sort of call to action.ā€

Mark Beal has a similar formula for his closing slides, saying:

ā€œThe final slides of my presentation include: A slide featuring three key messages/takeaways, A question and answer slide to engage the audience at the conclusion in the same manner a presenter wants to engage an audience at the start of a presentation, and A final slide including the presenter’s contact information and a website address where they can learn more information. This slide can include a QR code that the audience can screenshot and access the presenter’s website or another digital destination.ā€

Between these two suggestions and the many examples we have included throughout our guide, you ought to have a clear picture of what your final slide might look like.

End your presentations with a bang on Pumble

Knowing how to end a presentation effectively is a skill like any other ā€” youā€™re bound to get better through practice and repetition.

To get the most out of your presentations, make sure to give them on Pumble.

Pumble ā€” a team communication and collaboration app ā€” allows you to have the most interactive, efficient presentations thanks to:

  • The video conferencing feature that allows you to share your knowledge with a large group of people,
  • The screen sharing feature that allows you share your presentation,
  • The in-call message feature, to ensure your audience can participate (and send questions for the FAQ partition of the presentation, for example), and
  • The blur background feature, that ensures your audienceā€™s attention is always on you and you alone.

Secure, real-time communication for professionals.

OlgaMilicevic

Olga Milicevic is a communication researcher and author dedicated to making your professional life a bit easier. She believes that everyone should have the tools necessary to respond to their coworkersā€™ requests and communicate their own professional needs clearly and kindly.

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How to end a presentation effectively

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How to end a presentation effectively

In this blog, we explore the importance of a strong conclusion in presentations. A lackluster ending leaves the audience uninspired, while ending on a high note fires them up for action. We discuss strategies, additional… ... read more In this blog, we explore the importance of a strong conclusion in presentations. A lackluster ending leaves the audience uninspired, while ending on a high note fires them up for action. We discuss strategies, additional tips, and common mistakes to avoid. close

The end is an inevitable part of any good thing, and that includes your presentation. Leaving a final impression with a strong conclusion cannot be an afterthought; it is the spark needed to set your goals in motion. An anticlimactic conclusion leaves your audience uninspired at best, if not outright indifferent. Ending on a high note will fire them up, encouraging them to remain engaged and inspired to take action.

Why is it important to have a good conclusion?

Striving for an effective conclusion is a reliable way to ensure you fulfill the presentationā€™s purpose. To really recognize a presentationā€™s success , one must note its efficiency in yielding the desired outcomes from the audience. A powerful and inspiring ending contributes to enhancing a brand or business and has a positive impact within the presenterā€™s context. Whether the aim was to secure funding, showcase important data, or gain support for an initiative, a strong conclusion is a necessary component to confirm that the message is delivered and received effectively.

Effective strategies to conclude your presentation

A powerful conclusion leaves your audience feeling energized long after you wrap up your presentation. This is why itā€™s important to use effective tactics to create an impactful finale. How you decide to conclude your presentation impacts how your message will resonate with your listeners. Consider the following strategies to leave a lasting impression:

Bring back your main idea

Repetition is the key to retention. In the world of presentations, there is no surer way to make your message stick than to repeat it. Although you may feel like this approach is redundant, recapping the main points after each section emphasizes the message and improves audience learning. By consistently repeating the core concepts throughout your presentation, you let them become ingrained in the audienceā€™s mind. And revisiting the same ideas several times allows for a renewed understanding, and the space to notice details and patterns. So you can conclude your presentation by reinforcing and ensuring that your main message is remembered by reiterating it one last time.Ā 

Include a call to action

If the main purpose of your presentation is to inspire action, you need to move the audience towards it. You cannot assume that the audience will simply know what the next steps are without any guidance. Sum up your presentation by leaving them with an instructive call to action that lets them know what to do next.

Close the loop

The ā€œloop techniqueā€ is when a speaker concludes their speech by referring back to the beginning of the presentation. This technique offers a sense of closure that is satisfying and concrete. You would use your allotted time to build audience anticipation and keep them engaged until the end, where you finally come full circle to the beginning of the presentation. This is a common structure for talks, and for good reason; it reminds the audience of your main idea and why they were there in the first place.Ā 

End with an inspirational quote or surprising statistic

Occasionally, there will be times when you do not have the right words to express how you feel, so donā€™t hesitate to use someone elseā€™s. You can use the final slide of your presentation to share a quote that appropriately sums up your message and leaves the audience with a strong impression.

3 Additional tips for a memorable conclusion

Tell a story.

Although this is a common technique for opening a presentation, it also makes for a meaningful conclusion. People are social creatures that long for connection, and stories are an emotional tether that creates empathy, which allows the audience to sympathize with your message. If you have been weaving your story with a narrative all throughout, the conclusion is the time to wrap it all up with a purposeful ending.

Use the rule of threes

Using the rule of threes is a super simple and effective way to communicate your main ideas. The idea is that the audience can remember concepts better when they are shared in a pattern of three. This could look like dividing your main idea into three sections or offering the audience the takeaway in a list of three action points, areas for improvement, or any other prompt you want to elicit.

Ask a rhetorical question

For a memorable conclusion, consider leaving your audience with a thought-provoking question for them to chew on. By posing a rhetorical question, you encourage the audience to contemplate and reflect on their answers long after you finish presenting. This leaves your presentation lingering in their minds, but it can also be a conversation starter for them later on.Ā 

Common mistakes to avoid when ending a presentation

There are a few missteps that you should steer clear of when planning your conclusion. A presentation is meant to persuade, and these mistakes can leave your audience apathetic or uninterested in the next steps.Ā 

Failing to announce your conclusion

You want to avoid an abrupt ending to your presentation that confuses the audience by announcing that you are nearing the end before wrapping up. Once you let the audience know that the conclusion is near, it makes them pay attention. You can simply say, ā€œAs I conclude my presentation,ā€ for a clear signal before moving into your closing remarks.

Failing to tie up loose ends

In the world of creative writing, Chekov’s Gun refers to the principle by which writers are encouraged to resolve any element they introduce in the story. Similarly, in presentations, this is called the ā€œtie-back principle.ā€ Any time an interesting element is introduced in the beginning, whether a fact, a quote, or a photo, it should eventually be addressed again in the conclusion. It provides a satisfying conclusion and ensures you tie all loose ends together.Ā 

Not offering a summary

With several factors contributing to disordered attention spans, it is crucial to consistently remind the audience of your key ideas. As you conclude your presentation, you can reiterate your points by posing a thoughtful question and using the space to answer it as a way to recap the ideas you covered. As you restate your message, you ensure your audience retains the most important takeaways.Ā 

Concluding with a Q&A

A common mistake made by presenters is concluding with a Q&A session. Of course, audience interaction is encouraged, but it is best to dedicate time for questions during the presentation and not to end on it. Your final words are what are most likely to stay with your audience, so rather than leaving the audience to have the last word, dedicate the final moments to delivering a strong, comprehensive summary and a powerful closing statement.

Not providing a call to action

The main goal of a presentation is to persuade. And while your content may be informative and engaging, you still need to guide your audience toward the direct response you want to receive from them. If your presentation aims to get budget approval, ask for it at the end. Or if your presentation requests support or funding, then tailor your call to action to address this need.

With effective communication strategies, you can end your presentation on a high note and leave your audience with a lasting impression in their hearts and minds. A powerful and well-crafted conclusion not only affirms your message but also contributes to the overall advancement of your desired outcomes. To learn more about presentation tricks and techniques, visit Prezlabā€™s blog page for insightful and informative articles on all things related to presentation and presentation design.

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Toomey Business English

Learn the Phrases to Conclude your Presentation

How you end your presentation is as important as how you start your presentation Yet, many presenters finish simply because their time limit is up or they have nothing more to say. It doesnā€™t have to be this way.

Many audience members only begin paying attention to a presentation once they hear the words ā€œIn conclusionā€¦ā€ or ā€œFinallyā€¦ā€ The conclusion is where things crystallise and where you summarise your main points. It is an excellent opportunity to leave a lasting impression. Itā€™s how your audience will remember you, so it shouldnā€™t be taken for granted.

In this Business English lesson, you will learn the Phrases on the topic of ‘Concluding a Presentation.’ Watch the lesson and then read the article for definitions and examples.

Don’t forget to like and follow us on YouTube and   LinkedIn .

Example Phrases to help Conclude your Presentationā€¦

Indicating the end of your presentation.

ā€œThat completes my presentation/talk.ā€ ā€œIā€™m now nearing the end of my presentation/talk.ā€ ā€Thatā€™s everything I wanted to say aboutā€¦ā€ ā€Well, this brings me to the end of my presentation/talk.ā€

Summarising Points

ā€œLet me just look at the key points again.ā€ ā€To conclude/In conclusion, Iā€™d like toā€¦ā€ ā€Iā€™ll briefly summarise the main issues.ā€ ā€To sum up (then), weā€¦.ā€

Making Recommendations

ā€œItā€™s recommended thatā€¦ā€ ā€Weā€™d suggestā€¦ā€ ā€Itā€™s my opinion that we shouldā€¦ā€ ā€Based on these findings, Iā€™m recommending thatā€¦ā€

Closing your Presentation

ā€œThank you for your attention/time.ā€ ā€Before I end, let me just sayā€¦ā€ ā€Thank you for listening.ā€

Inviting Questions

ā€œDo you have any questions?ā€ ā€Now we have time for a few questions.ā€ ā€If you have any questions, please do ask.ā€ ā€And now, Iā€™ll be happy to answer any questions you might have.ā€

LESSON END.

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conclusion to a presentation

A top-notch presentation possesses the power to drive action. From winning stakeholders over and conveying a powerful message to securing funding ā€” your secret weapon lies within the realm of creating an effective presentation .  

Being an excellent presenter isn’t confined to the boardroom. Whether you’re delivering a presentation at work, pursuing an academic career, involved in a non-profit organization or even a student, nailing the presentation game is a game-changer.

In this article, Iā€™ll cover the top qualities of compelling presentations and walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to give a good presentation. Here’s a little tip to kick things off: for a headstart, check out Venngage’s collection of free presentation templates . They are fully customizable, and the best part is you don’t need professional design skills to make them shine!

These valuable presentation tips cater to individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, encompassing business professionals, sales and marketing teams, educators, trainers, students, researchers, non-profit organizations, public speakers and presenters. 

No matter your field or role, these tips for presenting will equip you with the skills to deliver effective presentations that leave a lasting impression on any audience.

Click to jump ahead:

What are the 10 qualities of a good presentation?

Step-by-step guide on how to prepare an effective presentation, 9 effective techniques to deliver a memorable presentation, faqs on making a good presentation, how to create a presentation with venngage in 5 steps.

When it comes to giving an engaging presentation that leaves a lasting impression, it’s not just about the content ā€” it’s also about how you deliver it. Wondering what makes a good presentation? Well, the best presentations I’ve seen consistently exhibit these 10 qualities:

1. Clear structure

No one likes to get lost in a maze of information. Organize your thoughts into a logical flow, complete with an introduction, main points and a solid conclusion. A structured presentation helps your audience follow along effortlessly, leaving them with a sense of satisfaction at the end.

Regardless of your presentation style , a quality presentation starts with a clear roadmap. Browse through Venngage’s template library and select a presentation template that aligns with your content and presentation goals. Hereā€™s a good presentation example template with a logical layout that includes sections for the introduction, main points, supporting information and a conclusion: 

conclusion to a presentation

2. Engaging opening

Hook your audience right from the start with an attention-grabbing statement, a fascinating question or maybe even a captivating anecdote. Set the stage for a killer presentation!

The opening moments of your presentation hold immense power ā€“ check out these 15 ways to start a presentation to set the stage and captivate your audience.

3. Relevant content

Make sure your content aligns with their interests and needs. Your audience is there for a reason, and that’s to get valuable insights. Avoid fluff and get straight to the point, your audience will be genuinely excited.

4. Effective visual aids

Picture this: a slide with walls of text and tiny charts, yawn! Visual aids should be just thatā€”aiding your presentation. Opt for clear and visually appealing slides, engaging images and informative charts that add value and help reinforce your message.

With Venngage, visualizing data takes no effort at all. You can import data from CSV or Google Sheets seamlessly and create stunning charts, graphs and icon stories effortlessly to showcase your data in a captivating and impactful way.

conclusion to a presentation

5. Clear and concise communication

Keep your language simple, and avoid jargon or complicated terms. Communicate your ideas clearly, so your audience can easily grasp and retain the information being conveyed. This can prevent confusion and enhance the overall effectiveness of the message. 

6. Engaging delivery

Spice up your presentation with a sprinkle of enthusiasm! Maintain eye contact, use expressive gestures and vary your tone of voice to keep your audience glued to the edge of their seats. A touch of charisma goes a long way!

7. Interaction and audience engagement

Turn your presentation into an interactive experience ā€” encourage questions, foster discussions and maybe even throw in a fun activity. Engaged audiences are more likely to remember and embrace your message.

Transform your slides into an interactive presentation with Venngageā€™s dynamic features like pop-ups, clickable icons and animated elements. Engage your audience with interactive content that lets them explore and interact with your presentation for a truly immersive experience.

conclusion to a presentation

8. Effective storytelling

Who doesn’t love a good story? Weaving relevant anecdotes, case studies or even a personal story into your presentation can captivate your audience and create a lasting impact. Stories build connections and make your message memorable.

A great presentation background is also essential as it sets the tone, creates visual interest and reinforces your message. Enhance the overall aesthetics of your presentation with these 15 presentation background examples and captivate your audience’s attention.

9. Well-timed pacing

Pace your presentation thoughtfully with well-designed presentation slides, neither rushing through nor dragging it out. Respect your audience’s time and ensure you cover all the essential points without losing their interest.

10. Strong conclusion

Last impressions linger! Summarize your main points and leave your audience with a clear takeaway. End your presentation with a bang , a call to action or an inspiring thought that resonates long after the conclusion.

In-person presentations aside, acing a virtual presentation is of paramount importance in today’s digital world. Check out this guide to learn how you can adapt your in-person presentations into virtual presentations . 

Peloton Pitch Deck - Conclusion

Preparing an effective presentation starts with laying a strong foundation that goes beyond just creating slides and notes. One of the quickest and best ways to make a presentation would be with the help of a good presentation software . 

Otherwise, let me walk you to how to prepare for a presentation step by step and unlock the secrets of crafting a professional presentation that sets you apart.

1. Understand the audience and their needs

Before you dive into preparing your masterpiece, take a moment to get to know your target audience. Tailor your presentation to meet their needs and expectations , and you’ll have them hooked from the start!

2. Conduct thorough research on the topic

Time to hit the books (or the internet)! Don’t skimp on the research with your presentation materials ā€” dive deep into the subject matter and gather valuable insights . The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel in delivering your presentation.

3. Organize the content with a clear structure

No one wants to stumble through a chaotic mess of information. Outline your presentation with a clear and logical flow. Start with a captivating introduction, follow up with main points that build on each other and wrap it up with a powerful conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

Delivering an effective business presentation hinges on captivating your audience, and Venngage’s professionally designed business presentation templates are tailor-made for this purpose. With thoughtfully structured layouts, these templates enhance your message’s clarity and coherence, ensuring a memorable and engaging experience for your audience members.

Donā€™t want to build your presentation layout from scratch? pick from these 5 foolproof presentation layout ideas that wonā€™t go wrong. 

conclusion to a presentation

4. Develop visually appealing and supportive visual aids

Spice up your presentation with eye-catching visuals! Create slides that complement your message, not overshadow it. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, but that doesn’t mean you need to overload your slides with text.

Well-chosen designs create a cohesive and professional look, capturing your audience’s attention and enhancing the overall effectiveness of your message. Hereā€™s a list of carefully curated PowerPoint presentation templates and great background graphics that will significantly influence the visual appeal and engagement of your presentation.

5. Practice, practice and practice

Practice makes perfect ā€” rehearse your presentation and arrive early to your presentation to help overcome stage fright. Familiarity with your material will boost your presentation skills and help you handle curveballs with ease.

6. Seek feedback and make necessary adjustments

Don’t be afraid to ask for help and seek feedback from friends and colleagues. Constructive criticism can help you identify blind spots and fine-tune your presentation to perfection.

With Venngage’s real-time collaboration feature , receiving feedback and editing your presentation is a seamless process. Group members can access and work on the presentation simultaneously and edit content side by side in real-time. Changes will be reflected immediately to the entire team, promoting seamless teamwork.

Venngage Real Time Collaboration

7. Prepare for potential technical or logistical issues

Prepare for the unexpected by checking your equipment, internet connection and any other potential hiccups. If you’re worried that you’ll miss out on any important points, you could always have note cards prepared. Remember to remain focused and rehearse potential answers to anticipated questions.

8. Fine-tune and polish your presentation

As the big day approaches, give your presentation one last shine. Review your talking points, practice how to present a presentation and make any final tweaks. Deep breaths ā€” you’re on the brink of delivering a successful presentation!

In competitive environments, persuasive presentations set individuals and organizations apart. To brush up on your presentation skills, read these guides on how to make a persuasive presentation and tips to presenting effectively . 

conclusion to a presentation

Whether you’re an experienced presenter or a novice, the right techniques will let your presentation skills soar to new heights!

From public speaking hacks to interactive elements and storytelling prowess, these 9 effective presentation techniques will empower you to leave a lasting impression on your audience and make your presentations unforgettable.

1. Confidence and positive body language

Positive body language instantly captivates your audience, making them believe in your message as much as you do. Strengthen your stage presence and own that stage like it’s your second home! Stand tall, shoulders back and exude confidence. 

2. Eye contact with the audience

Break down that invisible barrier and connect with your audience through their eyes. Maintaining eye contact when giving a presentation builds trust and shows that you’re present and engaged with them.

3. Effective use of hand gestures and movement

A little movement goes a long way! Emphasize key points with purposeful gestures and don’t be afraid to walk around the stage. Your energy will be contagious!

4. Utilize storytelling techniques

Weave the magic of storytelling into your presentation. Share relatable anecdotes, inspiring success stories or even personal experiences that tug at the heartstrings of your audience. Adjust your pitch, pace and volume to match the emotions and intensity of the story. Varying your speaking voice adds depth and enhances your stage presence.

conclusion to a presentation

5. Incorporate multimedia elements

Spice up your presentation with a dash of visual pizzazz! Use slides, images and video clips to add depth and clarity to your message. Just remember, less is moreā€”don’t overwhelm them with information overload. 

Turn your presentations into an interactive party! Involve your audience with questions, polls or group activities. When they actively participate, they become invested in your presentation’s success. Bring your design to life with animated elements. Venngage allows you to apply animations to icons, images and text to create dynamic and engaging visual content.

6. Utilize humor strategically

Laughter is the best medicineā€”and a fantastic presentation enhancer! A well-placed joke or lighthearted moment can break the ice and create a warm atmosphere , making your audience more receptive to your message.

7. Practice active listening and respond to feedback

Be attentive to your audience’s reactions and feedback. If they have questions or concerns, address them with genuine interest and respect. Your responsiveness builds rapport and shows that you genuinely care about their experience.

conclusion to a presentation

8. Apply the 10-20-30 rule

Apply the 10-20-30 presentation rule and keep it short, sweet and impactful! Stick to ten slides, deliver your presentation within 20 minutes and use a 30-point font to ensure clarity and focus. Less is more, and your audience will thank you for it!

9. Implement the 5-5-5 rule

Simplicity is key. Limit each slide to five bullet points, with only five words per bullet point and allow each slide to remain visible for about five seconds. This rule keeps your presentation concise and prevents information overload.

Simple presentations are more engaging because they are easier to follow. Summarize your presentations and keep them simple with Venngageā€™s gallery of simple presentation templates and ensure that your message is delivered effectively across your audience.

conclusion to a presentation

1. How to start a presentation?

To kick off your presentation effectively, begin with an attention-grabbing statement or a powerful quote. Introduce yourself, establish credibility and clearly state the purpose and relevance of your presentation.

2. How to end a presentation?

For a strong conclusion, summarize your talking points and key takeaways. End with a compelling call to action or a thought-provoking question and remember to thank your audience and invite any final questions or interactions.

3. How to make a presentation interactive?

To make your presentation interactive, encourage questions and discussion throughout your talk. Utilize multimedia elements like videos or images and consider including polls, quizzes or group activities to actively involve your audience.

In need of inspiration for your next presentation? Iā€™ve got your back! Pick from these 120+ presentation ideas, topics and examples to get started. 

Creating a stunning presentation with Venngage is a breeze with our user-friendly drag-and-drop editor and professionally designed templates for all your communication needs. 

Here’s how to make a presentation in just 5 simple steps with the help of Venngage:

Step 1: Sign up for Venngage for free using your email, Gmail or Facebook account or simply log in to access your account. 

Step 2: Pick a design from our selection of free presentation templates (they’re all created by our expert in-house designers).

Step 3: Make the template your own by customizing it to fit your content and branding. With Venngage’s intuitive drag-and-drop editor, you can easily modify text, change colors and adjust the layout to create a unique and eye-catching design.

Step 4: Elevate your presentation by incorporating captivating visuals. You can upload your images or choose from Venngage’s vast library of high-quality photos, icons and illustrations. 

Step 5: Upgrade to a premium or business account to export your presentation in PDF and print it for in-person presentations or share it digitally for free!

By following these five simple steps, you’ll have a professionally designed and visually engaging presentation ready in no time. With Venngage’s user-friendly platform, your presentation is sure to make a lasting impression. So, let your creativity flow and get ready to shine in your next presentation!

IMAGES

  1. PowerPoint Conclusion Slide Example Template & Google Slides

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  2. Conclusion Examples: Strong Endings for Any Paper

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  3. Conclusion Images For PowerPoint

    conclusion to a presentation

  4. Stunning Conclusion PowerPoint Templates and Google Slides

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  5. Conclusion Slides PowerPoint Template

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  6. 1030+ Free Editable Conclusion Slides for PowerPoint

    conclusion to a presentation

VIDEO

  1. 1999 Ericsson Masters

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  3. 20161122-1030 Session 1 Reminders & Homework Review

  4. Conclusion

  5. 20161108-1030 Session 1 Reminders & Homework Review

  6. The Conclusion Section: 6 Mistakes That Will Cost You Marks (+ Examples)

COMMENTS

  1. 30 Examples: How to Conclude a Presentation (Effective Closing Techniques)

    30 Example Phrases: How to Conclude a Presentation. 1. "In summary, let's revisit the key takeaways from today's presentation.". 2. "Thank you for your attention. Let's move forward together.". 3. "That brings us to the end. I'm open to any questions you may have.".

  2. How to Conclude a Presentation: Tips and Examples

    Here are some tips for using a story to conclude a presentation: Make sure the story is brief. Choose a story that relates to the main points of the presentation. Stories about a customer experience or successful case study are effective. Make sure the story is relatable and encourages empathy from your audience. 7.

  3. 6 Ways to Close Your Presentation With Style (& Tools to Use)

    But how you end it can make all the difference in your presentation's overall impact. Here are some ways to ensure you end powerfully: Way #1: Include a Strong Call-to-Action (CTA) Way #2: Don't End With a Q&A. Way #3: End With a Memorable Quote. Way #4: Close With a Story. Way #5: Drive Your Main Points Home.

  4. 10 Powerful Examples of How to End a Presentation

    Give your audience actions to help share your message. 7. Promote your upcoming events or workshops. 8. Asking your audience to become a volunteer. 9. Direct your audience to learn more about your website. 10. If you are a book author, encourage your audience to engage with your book.

  5. How To End A Presentation & Leave A Lasting Impression

    The conclusion of a presentation should typically be around 5-10% of the total presentation time, keeping it concise and impactful. Should you say thank you at the end of a presentation? Yes, saying thank you at the end of a PowerPoint presentation is a courteous way to show appreciation for the audience's time and attention.

  6. The Full Guide To Ending Your Presentation With Impact

    3. Don't forget your call to action. Your presentation won't be complete without a call to action. Of course, your entire presentation is basically a prelude to your call to action. This means the meat of your slides should be persuasive enough to get people to follow you by the time you end your presentation.

  7. How to End a Presentation The Right Way (+ 3 Downloadable Creative

    A well-crafted conclusion fosters engagement, connecting with your audience on a deeper level through thought-provoking questions, compelling quotes, or visual recaps. šŸš€ Motivation for Action . If your presentation includes a call to action, the conclusion plants the seeds for motivation, encouraging your audience to become active participants.

  8. What to Include in the Conclusion of Your Presentation in English

    3 Strategies to Close Your Presentation Powerfully. Use these 3 strategies in your conclusion to: recapture your audience's attention. get your audience to focus and remember your key points. help your audience connect with you and your topic. end your presentation powerfully. One: Include a Call to Action (CTA)

  9. How to End a Presentation in English: Methods and Examples

    Though there are many ways to end a presentation, the most effective strategies focus on making a lasting impression on your audience and reinforcing your goals. So, let's take a look at three effective ways to end a presentation: 1. Summarize the Key Takeaways. Most presenters either make an argument (i.e. they want to convince their ...

  10. Tips and Tricks to End Your Presentation with a Bang

    So, in conclusion, brevity in public speaking is pretty important. In fact, George Orwell once said, "If it is possible to cut a word out of your speech, always cut it out.". So, when you create a presentation, cut the fluff. Cut the repetitive bullets. Cut the platitudes.

  11. How to End a Presentation: 5 Ways to End a Presentation

    How to End a Presentation: 5 Ways to End a Presentation. While all aspects of a business presentation are important, the end of the presentation can determine whether you leave a lasting impression on your audience. Learn public speaking tips and some key takeaways for how to end your presentation. While all aspects of a business presentation ...

  12. How to End a Presentation: Most Effective Methods

    Some things you can say include: [1] "In conclusionā€¦". "In summaryā€¦". "As I conclude my presentation, let me ask you a question.". "This brings me to the end of my presentation today.". "In respect of time, allow me to wrap up my last comments.". Provide a quick and concise summary of the presentation's key points.

  13. How to End a Presentation? [Top 8 Strategies with Examples]

    This helps create a good long-lasting impression of your presentation. 4. End with a Call to action: One of the best ways to end your presentation is by concluding with a call to action slide. Incorporating a call to action into your presentation can be a powerful way to encourage your audience to take the next step.

  14. Speech Conclusion: 12 Ways to End a Presentation the Best Way

    Draw on as many senses as you can to help participants to see, smell and hear your dream for the near or longer term. You'll have people quickly trying to connect the dots and the meaning of your speech. 10. Share a story. Polishing off your presentation with a short anecdote is another impactful method.

  15. How to End a Presentation: 10 Powerful Closers and Strategies

    Align your conclusion with the purpose you defined earlier. As you approach the conclusion of your presentation, make sure that it ties back neatly to the purpose you defined earlier. This will provide a sense of closure for both you as the presenter and for your audience. The Pitfall of Ending with a Q&A Session

  16. How to conclude a presentation

    Importance of ending presentation on a positive note. 01 Leaving a Lasting Impression: Ending your presentation on a high note ensures that your audience remembers your key points, contributing to a lasting impression that lingers beyond the session. A strong conclusion cements your message in their minds.

  17. 7 Powerful Ways To End a Presentation

    5. End Your Speech Using the Rule of Three. A communication technique called the Rule of Three is a powerful way to end your speech. Using this technique to end your presentation will make your key message stick. An example of the Rule of Three is this Winston Churchill quote, "This is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end.

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    So, the conclusion of a presentation allows the speaker to drive their point home and nudge the audience toward performing a specific action. However, that's not the only purpose of a conclusion. According to the authors of Business Communication: Process & Product , the final section of a presentation should achieve 3 goals .

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    Your entire presentation will surely leave a lasting impression on your audience. Give thanks and acknowledgment. Thanking the audience is another great way to end a presentation. You can also acknowledge your whole team, who helped you complete the presentation. In this way, your audience remembers your sincerity.

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  21. How To End A Presentation Effectively

    Include a call to action. If the main purpose of your presentation is to inspire action, you need to move the audience towards it. You cannot assume that the audience will simply know what the next steps are without any guidance. Sum up your presentation by leaving them with an instructive call to action that lets them know what to do next.

  22. Learn the Phrases to Conclude your Presentation

    The conclusion is where things crystallise and where you summarise your main points. It is an excellent opportunity to leave a lasting impression. It's how your audience will remember you, so it shouldn't be taken for granted. In this Business English lesson, you will learn the Phrases on the topic of 'Concluding a Presentation.'.

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    Apply the 10-20-30 rule. Apply the 10-20-30 presentation rule and keep it short, sweet and impactful! Stick to ten slides, deliver your presentation within 20 minutes and use a 30-point font to ensure clarity and focus. Less is more, and your audience will thank you for it! 9. Implement the 5-5-5 rule. Simplicity is key.

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    When in doubt, adhere to the principle of simplicity, and aim for a clean and uncluttered layout with plenty of white space around text and images. Think phrases and bullets, not sentences. As an ...

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    Conclusion. Our case highlights the significance of clinical suspicion in patients presenting with severe headaches, dizziness, and focal neurological symptoms. With diligent physical examination, appropriate imaging, and early anticoagulation of the CVST could reduce morbidity and prevent life-threatening complications.