Like a knot in your handkerchief

Writing cue cards is not that different from consecutive note-taking. They contain bullet points, symbols, and abbreviationsm which - just like a single snapshot from your camera - can trigger entire chains of memories in the brain. Like tying a knot in your handkerchief.

The important thing is not to write out the entire script word for word, but to focus on the essentials — the things I really don’t want to forget.

Ideally, of course, I prefer to speak freely as a moderator. But I usually jot down the key points on numbered cue cards or on my iPad (just in case!). Before each moderation assignment, I prepare bullet points, names, titles, and the programme item I want to transition to, the next break, or an icebreaker with the audience.

That, combined with thorough preparation and a clear structure, is all I need to guide an event smoothly, respond spontaneously to what’s happening, and make last-minute adjustments. Admittedly, it does require a bit of trust in your notes. But I’d much rather give the people around me my full attention than reading from a script. And I have a feeling the audience appreciates that, too…