Final answer:
The textbook advises against answering off-topic questions during a presentation. Maintaining relevance, being friendly, and keeping answers concise are recommended strategies. Admitting when you do not know an answer can also add to credibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
The option among the easy tips offered by the textbook regarding answering audience questions except is 'answer the question even if not on topic'. A good rule of thumb when responding to audience questions during a presentation or in a public forum is to focus on questions that are relevant to the topic at hand. It's important to be friendly and professional, recognizing that not knowing an answer is acceptable—admitting this can add to your credibility. Moreover, interacting with the audience should involve answering their questions, not lengthy speeches or monologues.
If you find the audience's questions are taking you off track, it's perfectly reasonable to steer the conversation back to the main subject. The most effective responses are those that add value to the discussion by keeping aligned with the overarching topic. Friendly questions should indeed be responded to amicably, and although speeches have their place, in a question-and-answer session, concise and focused responses are key to maintaining engagement and providing clarity to the audience.