Stage fright is the fear that can block a developer from turning a blog post into a conference talk. It often rests on the mistaken belief that the audience is waiting to expose mistakes. section 16.1 section 16.1.1
Use a small set of practical counters:
- Rehearse a full transcript aloud, measure its length, and keep usable notes nearby. section 16.1.1
- Expect the fear to disappear shortly before speaking; concentrating on the talk leaves fewer mental cycles for worry. section 16.1.1
- Pause for water when stuck or when you need another breath; it appears natural to the audience. section 16.1.1
- Answer difficult questions honestly with “I don’t know” or offer to continue the discussion later. section 16.1.1
The unusable transcript
A printed transcript of seven or eight pages in fine print became unusable and increased anxiety. Rehearsal revealed the problem before the talk, showing why notes must be practical rather than merely complete. section 16.1.1
