Understanding Presentations In Business

Graphs and charts are essential tools in business presentations. They help visually represent data which makes complex information easier to understand. Knowing how to describe and interpret graphs is an important skill in business communication. In this First Business English article we introduce key vocabulary, useful phrases, and an example paragraph discussing graphs and charts in a business context. Use this article to help you get started understanding presentations in English. 

1. Key Vocabulary for Graphs and Charts

• Trend – The general direction in which data moves.

• Fluctuation – A rise and fall in numbers over time.

• Increase – A rise in numbers.

• Decrease – A fall in numbers.

• Peak – The highest point on a graph.

• Decline – A gradual reduction.

• Stable – No significant change.

• Growth – Expansion or improvement.

• Drop – A sudden fall.

• Forecast – A prediction of future data trends.

2. Types of Graphs and Charts

• Line Graph – Shows trends over time.

• Bar Chart – Compares different categories.

• Pie Chart – Displays proportions in percentages.

• Table – Organizes data in rows and columns.

• Histogram – Represents frequency distribution.

3. Common Phrases for Describing Graphs and Charts

Describing Trends

• “Sales increased steadily over the last quarter.”

• “The number of customers has declined slightly since January.”

• “There was a sharp rise in revenue last month.”

• “Profits remained stable throughout the year.”

• “We saw a significant drop in demand in Q2.”

Comparing Data

• “This year’s sales are higher than last year’s.”

• “The blue segment represents 30% of total revenue.”

• “Our competitor’s growth is slightly lower than ours.”

• “Compared to 2022, the company’s expenses have decreased.”

Making Predictions

• “We expect sales to increase in the next quarter.”

• “The forecast suggests a decline in market share.”

• “Trends indicate steady growth in the coming months.”

4. Example Paragraph Using Business Phrases

During the quarterly meeting, the sales manager presented a bar chart comparing revenue from different regions. He explained, “Sales in Europe increased significantly in the first half of the year, while North American sales remained stable. However, there was a sharp decline in the Asian market.” The line graph showed that demand fluctuated over the past six months but reached a peak in July. The finance director then analyzed a pie chart, stating, “The largest portion of our profits, 40%, comes from online sales.” Finally, the CEO concluded, “If this trend continues, we expect a moderate increase in total revenue by the next quarter.”

5. Final Thoughts

Graphs and charts provide a clear way to analyze business performance. Understanding how to describe trends, compare data, and make predictions is essential for effective communication in meetings and presentations. Practicing these skills will help you explain business data more confidently and accurately. To learn more and to practice your English language skills simply book a lesson with us at First Business English.

Good Luck. Keep learning with First Business English. Best Business English Online.

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