Using an English or French presentation to a French talk?

I would put the presentation into French, for two basic reasons:

  • just to make sure that when you glance at the screen any word triggers a train of thought in French

  • the audience also has the French ppt to look at matching what they hear from you.

I understand that the thesis is in English, but they won't necessarily open that until after depending on the questions - which they have probably already prepared...

Also, anytime I have to listen to one language and read a second (and I have a DUT to go with my BEng Hons) I always change to comparing the errors in expression / translation and loose the real message.

So, go with French ppt & language and BEST OF LUCK - you will be fine.

Autrement dit : Bonne chance Chef !!


What would be suitable in this situation would be to do what your advisor and jury members have told you to do.

If everyone in your committee speaks French, I see little point in having the presentation written in English and speaking in French. You have two months to translate your slides, compared to the work necessary to get the PhD it's trivial...

If however some people in your jury do not speak French, then it's appropriate to write in English on the slides and speak in French (I have done so myself), but ask your advisor first.