How to Give a Speech

Public speaking does not come easily to everyone. However, there often comes a time whether as a student or in a professional setting, where it cannot be avoided. It doesn’t always have to be hard to give a speech. There are some tips that can help prepare you, and make the process easier.

Instructions

1. Be well informed on the topic you will be speaking about before you attempt to address an audience. Depending on the nature of the speech this may require some reading and studying.

2. Write an outline. This will help you stay on track in making sure your speech flows smoothly. If you are nervous, it can be easy to lose your train of thought. An outline should help you to have your speech well organized, so that even if you stumble, you can resume quickly.

3. Use note cards or a PowerPoint presentation if possible. While you don’t want to spend the entire time looking down at note cards, these can be helpful if you aren’t good at improvising based on your outline. A well designed PowerPoint contains the text of what you’re speaking about, and will be visually appealing to the audience as well.

4. Practice makes perfect! You shouldn’t just read your speech, but you should also practice saying it out loud. Have friends or family listen and critique you, and also record yourself if possible so that you can critique yourself.

5. Try to relax. Remember, most people get nervous before going in front of an audience. If you are well organized and have practiced, chances are your speech will flow smoothly. If you happen to make a mistake, just keep going. More than likely, the only one who will know it is you.