How to Write a Speech to Persuade
The job of writing a persuasive speech starts with forming a well-thought-out opinion; after that, it's a matter of coming up with reasons why the listeners should agree with you. Before starting the actual writing, you can get some valuable insight into your topic by chatting with people about your topic. These informal conversations will give you some ideas to help support your opinion and also let you hear conflicting views.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Research your topic, focusing on facts and information that support your opinion. For example, if you are going to express the viewpoint that computer time for children should be limited, read through articles on the topic, taking notes only on statistics and facts that support the idea that kids computer time should be restricted. Carefully record each source so that you will be able to cite these in your speech if you decide to so.
-
2
Create an introduction that will engage and prepare your audience. Let the audience know exactly what issue you will address, along with a clear statement of your opinion on the issue; for example, "Kids need to have strictly enforced time restrictions for using the computer." Touch briefly on the reasons for your opinion; you will elaborate on these in your speech. Avoid giving any reason you will not be developing later. Come up with an engaging opening in the form of some kind of anecdote, statistic or fact. Note: Some speechwriters like to create the introduction last to draw on material drawn from the speech.
-
-
3
Decide on the three main arguments you will use in making your case. For each of these write a clear statement; for example, "Kids who use the computer excessively have been shown to have sleep difficulties." Explain your argument, how it relates to your opinion, and back it up with facts. For example, you might say something like the following: "At a recent pediatric conference held by the American Pediatric Organization, 68% of pediatricians reported seeing sleep problems in patients spending over four hours a day at the computer." If your facts come from print media sources, use the name of the magazine or newspaper. Follow this step for each of your three arguments.
-
4
Add transitions where they are needed. Transitions are a kind of road map for the listener. When you say, "The first reason I hold this opinion ... ," the listener knows you have begun to build your case. Similarly, when you say "another reason" or "in addition to the problem of ... ," the listener knows you are moving on. Usually speechwriters save their most powerful argument for last; however, for some speeches it might be more effective to start in with a strong argument to pull the listener forcefully into your corner from the start.
-
5
Write a conclusion that accomplishes several goals. For one, the listener needs to realize that you are ending the speech; it's not necessary, but perfectly acceptable, to actually say, "In conclusion ... ." Restate your opinion and briefly restate the reasons for your viewpoint. Sometimes a short anecdote at the end can help wrap up the speech.
-
1
