presentationthat

Presentationthat is a coined term used in discussions of instructional design and rhetoric to describe a particular pattern of presenting information. It combines the idea of a presentation with a focus on propositions stated as that-clauses, emphasizing explicit logical connections between ideas. In practice, a presentationthat centers a main thesis and organizes content around a sequence of propositions introduced by that, followed by justification, evidence, and examples.

Origin and usage: The term emerged in early 21st-century analyses of communication practices, particularly in educational and professional contexts where clarity of argument is valued. It is used to describe methods aimed at making reasoning transparent for the audience, and is frequently referenced in training materials and theoretical discussions about how to structure talks, lectures, and reports.

Typical characteristics: Concise statements, explicit links between claims and supporting material, and a generally linear flow from one proposition to the next. Visual design often mirrors the structure, with slides or sections devoted to each that-claim and its evidence. The approach favors a thesis-first or claim-driven format over broad exploratory narration.

Applications: Education, corporate briefings, and scientific communication are common domains for applying presentationthat. It is used to improve audience comprehension, facilitate critical evaluation, and support structured note-taking or follow-up discussion.

Criticism and considerations: Critics warn that the pattern can feel rigid or formulaic if overapplied, potentially limiting storytelling or engagement. When used flexibly and with attention to audience needs, it can enhance clarity without sacrificing narrative interest.

See also: rhetoric, argumentation theory, data storytelling, slide design.