How to Write a Persuasive Speech About What Not to Do

Persuasive speeches are often written to convince an audience not to do something.

Persuasive speeches are designed to convince an audience to share a speaker's opinion. Many persuasive speeches are written to convince an audience to not do a specific thing. When writing any persuasive speech, you must complete research and write it in a way that will capture your audience's attention and cause them to ponder the subject. Speeches are normally limited to only a few minutes of time, so make every word count when attempting to persuade an audience.

Instructions

1. Choose a topic. When writing a persuasive speech that is designed to make an audience refrain from doing something, pick a topic you feel strongly about. If you feel strongly against doing a certain activity, you will more likely convey this message to the audience.

2. Narrow the subject down. If the topic is very broad, focus on one specific aspect of the activity. If it is to persuade the audience not to do drugs, limit your research to one or two types of drugs and the harmful effects they cause. Be sure not to keep the topic too broad because you might not have enough time to include important details.

3. Begin your argument. Introduce your subject and state your opinion. Make your side of the argument very clear and quickly to your audience. Open the speech with an attention grabbing line, such as a statistic or an interesting fact that reinforces your opinion on the subject.

4. Explain the harmful side effects the activity causes, and be specific. Cite examples, statistics and expert testimonies. Reveal your sources from where you obtained your information and briefly describe any accolades your sources may have earned.

5. Present the opposing argument. Briefly state the opposing opinion and the main reasons people might choose to engage in the activity you are against.

6. Thank the audience for their time, and ask the members of the audience to consider and accept your viewpoint on the subject. If you have any pamphlets or brochures supporting your opinion, distribute them to the audience.

References

• How to Write a Speech: How to Write a Persuasive Speech
• Arlington Career Center: Guidelines for Writing a Persuasive Speech