How can one effectively manage anxiety before a presentation?

Effective management of anxiety before a presentation is crucial, and thorough preparation along with practice is a well-established strategy for achieving this. When an individual prepares thoroughly for a presentation, they become more familiar with their material, which increases confidence and reduces nervousness. This familiarity helps the presenter to anticipate potential questions or challenges, allowing for a more controlled and smooth delivery.

Moreover, practicing in front of a mirror or with an audience can enhance one's presentation skills, such as body language and voice modulation, thereby making the speaker feel more competent. This preparation process helps build resilience against anxiety triggers, enabling the presenter to focus on delivering their message rather than worrying about possible mistakes.

This approach contrasts sharply with the other options listed, such as ignoring issues or focusing on worst-case scenarios, which can exacerbate anxiety rather than alleviate it. Engaging only with friends for practice can limit exposure to different audience dynamics and feedback, which could be detrimental for developing the necessary skills for a broader audience.