Delivering an average presentation is something anyone can do, but what happens when you’re faced with challenging questions? Here’s a guide on how to think quickly and communicate effectively under pressure! Speaking to invigilators at high stake exams (E.g. PSLE / O-Level / DSA interviews) can be extremely nerve-wracking.
Let’s not forget the millions of people worldwide who have a genuine fear of public speaking. Even for those of us who don’t fear it, speaking in front of invigilators or audience always involves handling pressure. When you add in the possibility of a tough audience or unexpected questions from the invigilators, it can feel like the pressure has suddenly skyrocketed.
While having well-prepared content is important in handling this kind of pressure, there’s another level of preparation needed – being able to think on your feet. Below are two exercises that aim to help you not just survive but thrive in high-pressure scenarios.
You can choose one or both exercises based on the type of pressure you anticipate facing. Remember, anyone can give a standard presentation; it’s up to you to set yourself apart to achieve high scores for exams or win a place through a DSA interview!
Fast and Furious: How to Write a Planned Response Quickly
Students are encouraged to practise this challenging exercise. Try generating a spontaneous planned response by picking a topic from a hat and crafting a 2 minute presentation within 10 minutes.
This activity will help students to hone their skills in structuring thoughts, presenting evidence, forming coherent arguments, and captivating the listeners with logical reasoning. It offers a valuable opportunity for individuals to enhance their ability to communicate persuasively and confidently, especially in high-pressure situations.
Through regular practice, students can develop the proficiency needed to articulate their ideas clearly and concisely, making a compelling case for their viewpoints.
When doubts start creeping in as you try to make a point, acknowledge your inner critic’s attempt to protect you and recognize that fear often accompanies moments of significance. Embrace the opportunity to speak up confidently and assertively; remember that you have what it takes to convince the oral exam invigilators.
Engaging in this activity fosters critical thinking skills and strengthens one’s capability to convey complex ideas effectively to others. Ultimately, mastering these abilities not only heightens communication prowess but also boosts overall confidence in oral exams and public speaking scenarios.
One-Minute Impromptus is another engaging activity that pushes students out of their comfort zones. The challenge involves preparing notes on a given topic in just one minute before delivering a one-minute speech. This exercise helps individuals enhance their improvisation skills and ability to think on their feet. It encourages quick thinking and effective communication under pressure.
Students must be nimble in organising their thoughts within the limited time frame provided. This activity fosters creativity as individuals must come up with coherent ideas rapidly. One-Minute Impromptus also helps boost confidence by demonstrating the ability to speak confidently on a topic without much preparation. It is a fun and dynamic way to hone public speaking abilities while embracing uncertainty.
By requiring quick preparations and concise deliveries, One-Minute Impromptus trains individuals to be more adaptable and flexible speakers. This activity is valuable for oral exam preparations, as it simulates actual exam scenarios where individuals may need to present spontaneously without much prior notice. In essence, One-Minute Impromptus is an effective tool for improving impromptu speaking skills in a fast-paced and engaging manner.
Students who practise and refine communication skills will gain a sense of self-assurance when expressing your thoughts and feelings. This newfound confidence enables you to engage effectively in a wide range of scenarios and put you in good stead to score As for oral examinations.
