I've done several conference presentations now, some smaller ones like the APWG and others larger like the AEA. I never use a script. It doesn't suit my style as it encourages me to read too fast and then it gets faster and faster and horrible to listen to. Plus, as others have mentioned, script readers often look down and mumble. They don't engage with the audience.

I prefer to use notes, either bullet points of small chunks of text broken up that I then talk around. This makes sure that I mention key things, but keeps my reading speed to a proper level and also that I look up and make eye contact with the audience.

I would say definitely practice and time it. Do this several times as nerves on the day itself will probably make you go a little faster anyway. So allow for that. And don't over-run because some conferences will cut you off if you try to so you risk losing the opportunity to make certain points.

Stephanie Vann