Using a story to open a presentation captivates the audience's attention, setting the tone for engagement and creating an emotional connection. Stories stimulate the brain, making information more memorable and relatable. They can illustrate complex ideas in a simple, understandable manner, making the message more accessible. Additionally, stories evoke emotions, fostering empathy and building rapport with the audience. By starting with a story, presenters can immediately draw listeners in, laying a strong foundation for effective communication and retention of key points.