How to Outline Topics for a Speech

Presentation preparation should include an outline.

In order for an oral presentation to be a success, it requires thorough preparation. Indeed, part of the preparation process involves putting a basic outline in place. You must provide a thesis statement, based on your main topic. You must have a theory that you wish to prove. This will provide the basis for all your subtopics, subpoints, and anecdotes that comprise your speech. The conclusion will be a tying together of all the main points of your speech, and provide solutions for the problem the thesis statement posed.

Instructions

1. Title your speech. Name your talk based on your thesis statement. Think about why you are giving the speech in the first place. Place this item at the top of your outline.

2. Write your introduction. Include an item that will grab your audience's attention such as a startling statistic, personal story or joke. Provide a section in your outline for your thesis thought, or main idea. Bullet your points so when you practice, you will be less likely to read verbatim; losing your place could lead to embarrassment and confusion.

3. Construct the body of your speech by developing at least three supporting points to prove your thesis. This could be in the form of stories, statistics or other facts.

4. Break these points down further into subtopics. Include at least three items under each subtopic. Keep these focused on your theme.

5. Write your conclusion. The conclusion should take the audience beyond the topic of the speech. If the speech poses a problem, present what award-winning public speaker Andrew Dlugan refers to as a "call to action." Keep this part brief.

Tips & Warnings

• Including stories (anecdotes) in your speech, as Dlugan points out, can help, depending on the nature thereof. For instance, stories are quite effective in sermons or motivational speeches. They help your audience relate better to you or to the topic you are addressing. They provide real-life examples, make your speech come alive, and relate to real life. Place such anecdotes just prior to your points, so that your audience understands their relevance. Indicate what stories you plan to tell in your outline. Make them brief, interesting and current.

• Make use of the numerous Internet resources. For example, the University of Tennessee Toastmasters website goes into much detail about speech organizing. The Write Out Loud website also contains links to sample speech outlines, and websites providing tips on how to rehearse.

References

• Speech Topics Help, Advice, and Ideas: Topical Speech Outline Sample
• Andrew Dlugan: Speech Preparation #3: Don't Skip the Speech Outline
• Write Out Loud: Sample Speech Outline
• University of Tennessee Toastmasters: Speech #2: Organize Your Speech