The Picture Perception and Description Test (PPDT) is conducted on day-1 as the second test of the Stage-I screening series. It includes story writing, narration, and group discussion. While story writing is important, narration holds equal significance, along with group discussion. Many individuals express fear of delivering a speech or speaking in public, yet the ability to do so is highly valued in today’s world.
If you break out in a cold sweat or feel nervous butterflies at the thought of speaking in front of others or during interviews, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that 75 percent of adults experience fear of public speaking. However, reconsidering how we view stress may actually enhance our physical and mental performance. While it may be tempting to succumb to our fears, facing them head-on can lead to greater achievements in life and a stronger sense of pride. Some people can conquer these fears with minimal effort, while others require more work and may benefit from tips or tools for managing mental pressures.
Tips to Speak Fluently & Confidently in PPDT Narration
- Acknowledge nervousness: Even seasoned speakers experience nerves. Embrace your jitters and channel them into energy to enhance your delivery. Remember, PPDT narration is only a brief 1-minute task that you can easily manage.
- Prepare: Utilize your time after the picture perception test wisely by practicing narrating the story to yourself beforehand. This boosts your self-assurance and improves your performance.
- Breathe: Take three slow, deep breaths through your nose in the thirty seconds before you start speaking. As you exhale, silently repeat to yourself, “Relax.”
- Remember: Familiarize yourself with what you want to say and why you want to say it. Ensure your narration aligns with the story you wrote. Avoid straying off-topic.
- Rehearse: If time permits before the narration and group discussion, practice speaking out loud at least 5-6 times. Avoid memorizing your story verbatim. Instead, talk through it naturally, as if explaining it to a friend.
- Connect with your audience: Build rapport with your audience by engaging with fellow candidates before your narration. Maintain eye contact and address each person individually as you speak. When your audience supports you, narrating becomes easier.
- Focus on your audience: Instead of being preoccupied with your own performance, concentrate on your audience’s reception. Pay attention to whether they understand and connect with your narration.
- Simplify: Focus on communicating the story effectively rather than trying to include too much detail. Keep your narration concise and straightforward. Prioritize quality over quantity and use simple language to deliver a compelling story.
- Visualize success: Practice relaxation techniques before your SSB. Close your eyes, breathe slowly, and imagine yourself speaking confidently during the engagement.
- Act confident: Even if you feel nervous, maintain a confident demeanor. Smile, stand tall, and project confidence, as others cannot discern your inner feelings.
- Practice: Practice extensively, including narrating in front of a mirror at home. Pay attention to details like posture, body language, and gestures.
