lightning-talk

Structure a 5-minute talk with a 30-second hook, 30 seconds of context, 3 minutes of core content covering one idea with one proof point, a 30-second takeaway, and a 30-second CTA. Write the one-sentence takeaway first, then build everything around it.

A 5-minute lightning talk should have a maximum of 10 slides, and a 10-minute talk a maximum of 15. Use full-bleed images with 2-3 words, one stat per slide in massive font, and avoid bullet lists entirely.

Live demos are only safe in lightning talks if they run under 60 seconds with zero setup time. Demos requiring setup are fatal in a 5-minute format, so prefer a recorded clip or a single screenshot with a strong story.

Common mistakes include compressing a 45-minute talk into 5 minutes, starting with self-introduction, using too many slides, skipping rehearsal, running over time, and ending with an apology about uncovered material. Short talks require more rehearsal, not less.

The lightning format does not fit topics requiring multiple ideas, deep technical walkthroughs, or interactive Q&A. If your content cannot be summarized in one sentence or needs more than 15 minutes, choose a standard-length presentation format instead.