Here's a list of things to keep in mind when you're giving a presentation off your laptop and a projector.

1. Turn off power saving features.

You're going to be talking a lot, hopefully. This means that the computer will be become idle, for as long as 10 minutes at times. It really sucks if your laptop's display dims and the room is left with a blank projector screen after 1 minute of talking. It's not that we need 15 minutes to read the slide, it's just that having the projector screen turn blank catches the eye and breaks focus. You also suck more if you keep touching the touchpad to bring the display back up. If it dies, leave it be until the next slide.

2. Make sure your battery is up for the task

I hope I don't have to stress this, but you should never-ever run out of battery after 5 minutes of your 20 minutes presentation. Still, if you do, at least have your charger at the ready. Or at least with you. Otherwise, you're using your audience's attention to ask around for a charger, rather than telling them something useful.

3. Clean up your desktop

Because nobody cares to see all your application shortcuts and nobody cares to see your family photo wallpaper. Your dog might be acceptable, but do make sure your desktop is appropriate for your audience. You get bonus points if you're running a pirated copy of Windows and the GWA notice comes up.

I don't know about you, but these three really tick me off. Especially if I see them all in one conference.

Got your own favorite?

Image source.