Never train one remembered format
The presentation may last five, eight, ten, or fifteen minutes. Preparation may be immediate, one hour, several days, or based on pre-released versions. Questions may be integrated or separate. Visual support may be forbidden, optional, or required.
Train a structure that can expand or contract.
Time-to-word planning
Do not write a speech to an assumed universal speaking speed. Measure your own clear, pressured rate from three recordings.
Typical planning ranges:
| Style | Approximate rate | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Deliberate executive briefing | 105-125 words/minute | Dense recommendations, second language, sensitive topic |
| Normal formal presentation | 120-145 words/minute | Most candidates |
| Fast but still controlled | 145-160 words/minute | Only after repeated recording confirms clarity |
Plan at 90-95% of the allowed time. A seven-minute limit should produce a rehearsed version around 6:30 to 6:40. Real delivery adds pauses, transitions, and recovery time.
Time plan
Use four sections:
- •Opening: mandate, bottom line, route.
- •Evidence: decisive findings and tensions.
- •Decision: options, recommendation, reasons, safeguards.
- •Close: decision requested and result expected.
| Limit | Opening | Evidence | Decision | Close |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 minutes | 0:30 | 1:30 | 2:30 | 0:30 |
| 8 minutes | 0:40 | 2:20 | 4:20 | 0:40 |
| 10 minutes | 0:50 | 3:00 | 5:20 | 0:50 |
| 15 minutes | 1:00 | 4:30 | 8:15 | 1:15 |
These are defaults. The assignment controls the balance. An "overview" task needs more evidence. A "recommendation and implementation" task needs more decision time.
Prepare three lengths
Prepare three versions from one structure:
- •Headline version - 30 seconds: answer, two reasons, next step.
- •Core version - target presentation length: all mandatory tasks.
- •Deep version - Q&A reserve: evidence, rejected options, calculations, risks, and contingencies.
This prevents two common failures: trying to say everything in the presentation and having nothing left when assessors probe.