Every good presentation has common elements that make some speakers more effective than others. In evaluating a presenter's efforts, look for a well-paced, well-organized talk that's easy to follow. However, the best-written speech won't make any impact if the speaker seems ill-prepared, unenthusiastic, or disengaged from his audience. These factors also play a part in your final assessment of a speaker's abilities.
If you can understand the speaker and if he/she is loud enough (but not too loud).
If the speaker’s pace is comfortable, not too fast or too slow, and if the speaker takes time to allow for questions or repeat complex or confusing concepts.
If the speaker seems relaxed and comfortable, and if he/she avoids most meaningless filler words such as uh or um.
If the speaker avoids simply reading his or her paper and makes eye contact.
If the speaker is aware of the audience’s responses or reactions.
If the visual aids help you understand the speaker’s message.
If the visual aids are well designed and free of distracting or confusing elements.
If the speaker directs your attention to key points or visuals.
If the thesis is clearly expressed.
If the thesis makes sense.
If there is only one apparent thesis or purpose.
If all of the main ideas go together.
If the speaker avoids using jargon.
If the speaker defines key terms and unfamiliar words.
If the speaker addresses the audience using an appropriate and effective tone.
If the speaker clearly and smoothly links ideas and sections of the presentation.
If the transitional words and phrases are used correctly. For example, sometimes speakers overuse or misuse certain conjunctive adverbs (therefore, however, furthermore) to sound more formal.
If the speaker’s support for his or her thesis makes sense.
If examples and evidence are appropriate and credible, and they mean what the speaker says they mean.
If the examples and evidence support the speaker’s claim(s).
If the speaker avoids logical fallacies.
If the speaker seems credible and convincing.
If you agree with the speaker and if the presentation made you change your opinion, and why or why not.
If the speaker adequately explains and defends his or her position.