How to Write a Speech

How to write a speech

Introduction

For a lot of people, the prospect of standing in front of a group and speaking is actually more terrifying than dying. That’s a pretty serious phobia to overcome! However, at some point in your life, whether at school or in the workplace, it is likely that you will be called upon to give a speech. If you are one of the many who dread such a task, fear not. The following steps will help you feel confident in the writing process that is integral to giving a good speech no matter what the situation may be.

1) Audience. First, determine who your audience is and customize your writing accordingly. High school students hearing about a great literary figure or a historical event will have a somewhat different vocabulary and level of knowledge than would a graduate class in literary analysis. Avoid terms or jargon the first group is unlikely to understand, and don’t dumb it down for those who are in the know.

2) Purpose and message. Two things must be settled in your own mind before you are ready to write your speech. First, what is the purpose of your talk? That is, why have you been asked to speak in the first place? If you are an expert in women’s literature, for example, you should emphasize your particular background and knowledge, mentioning that what you have to offer is something the audience probably would not be able to hear from anyone else. Secondly, what do you most want audiences to come away with after hearing you? You must decide what your main message will be and continually return to that primary point as you compose your speech. Doing so will help both you and your audience stay focused. As Winston Churchill said:

“If you have an important point to make, don’t try to be subtle or clever. Use a pile driver. Hit the point once. Then come back and hit it again. Then hit it a third time with a tremendous whack.”

3) Brainstorming. It may take you some time to figure out just what the purpose and main...