The Simple Three-Step Deck
How I Approach Presentations
When it comes to creating presentations or decks, I follow a simple framework that has become my go-to approach over the years: Situation, Opportunity, Approach. It's clean, intuitive, and most importantly, it works. This structure has not only streamlined how I communicate ideas but also helped me cut through the clutter to deliver clear, actionable strategies.
In a recent chat with a colleague, I shared an anecdote about how this method came to be my default. Here’s the story—and why I think it resonates so well with clients and teams alike.
1. Situation: Setting the Stage
The first section of the deck always starts with The Situation. What’s the context? Where do we currently stand? This is where I answer foundational questions like:
What problem are we solving?
What data, trends, or feedback have brought us to this point?
By clearly defining the situation, I ensure everyone is aligned before diving into solutions. Sometimes this section can feel like “stating the obvious,” but the truth is, getting clarity on the current state is half the battle.
2. Opportunity: What’s the Upside?
Next comes The Opportunity. This is where I lay out the potential for impact:
What could change if we address the situation?
Why is now the right time to act?
How can solving this issue create value?
This part of the deck is critical for inspiring buy-in. It shifts the focus from “here’s what’s wrong” to “here’s what’s possible.” Framing opportunities in a way that resonates with the audience—whether it’s leadership, a client, or a team—is what makes this section so powerful.
3. Approach: The Path Forward
Finally, the deck closes with The Approach. This is where I outline the plan of action:
What steps will we take to seize the opportunity?
Who’s responsible for what?
What’s the timeline or next steps?
I keep this section concise and actionable. The goal is to give the audience confidence that we’ve thought everything through and are ready to execute. No fluff, just a clear path forward.
Bonus: Additional Considerations
If or when I’m finding myself with a list of nuanced caveats that I want to communicate, I tend to add a fourth section - Additional Considerations - where I organize a bulleted list of all the factors for review.
Bringing these up at the end helps keep section 3 - The Approach - as focused as possible and services a bit as an “FYI” before I open things up for conversation.
Why This Approach Works
This three-step framework works because it mirrors how people naturally process information. You start by grounding them in the present, then inspire them with possibilities, and finally guide them on how to get there. It’s simple, but simplicity is often what makes something stick.
In fact, this structure has become second nature to me over the years. Whether I’m preparing a pitch, responding to a client request, or running a team meeting, I almost always instinctively start with “What’s the situation?” and build from there.
Try It Yourself
So the next time you’re staring at a blank slide deck or trying to organize your thoughts, give this framework a shot:
Situation: Where are we now?
Opportunity: What’s the potential?
Approach: What’s the plan to get there?
Not only will it help you stay focused, but it’ll also make it easier for your audience to follow along—and get on board.
What’s your go-to method for structuring presentations? Let me know—I’d love to hear how you approach it.
About The Author
Seth is the founder and CEO of Kanahoma, a San Diego-based performance marketing agency on a mission to build a better agency for organizations building a better world.
You can learn more about who we are and what we do at www.Kanahoma.com.