How to Write a Basic Speech for any Event

Know your topic and structure.

Writing a basic speech means focusing on the structure of your speech and knowing how to link the pieces together in a way that makes the most sense. Even if you have a fear of public speaking, you can successfully present yourself by creating a structure that weaves the pieces of your topic together in a logical manner. In addition, this structure makes it easier to remember your speech, which helps you relax prior to giving it.

Things You'll Need

• Pen
• Paper

Instructions

1. Write down the following information the purpose of the speech, length of time you are given, audience and logistics, such as the room location and setup, podium use, audio and video support and lights.

2. Identify three sub-topics. The three sub-topics should follow a logic order. For example, a fundraising speech for a school foundation might focus on grade school, high school and college. For each sub-topic, make a point and tell a story. For example, grade school, the sub-topic, is a time of tremendous growth -- the point to make. In grade school, many of us remember getting a gold star from favorite teachers -- story. This format helps you to remember your speech, allows your audience to learn something from you and entertains the audience with a story. Use eye contact, vocal variety and body language skills delivering a speech in this format.

3. Determine your opening and closing statements. Sometimes it is easier to write the opening and closing after the body of the speech is complete. The closing is an important part of the speech. The closing brings the audience back to the opening statement and enforces the body of the speech. Think of the closing as the one thing you want to leave the audience thinking or doing.

4. Rewrite your speech several times until it feels right to you.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice, practice, practice. Giving a good speech is like riding a bike.

• Speaking is like reading a book. Books do not contain 'ahs', 'ums', 'you knows'. It is okay to pause between sentences and not say a word. The audience needs the time to digest what you said and process the information.

• Every speaker has a good day and a bad day. Expect both to happen. Know that your audience supports you in both cases.

References

• College of Charleston Department of Communication; Speech Structure; Anne Fox