step by step how to write a speech

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How to write a speech that your audience remembers

Whether in a work meeting or at an investor panel, you might give a speech at some point. And no matter how excited you are about the opportunity, the experience can be nerve-wracking . 

But feeling butterflies doesn’t mean you can’t give a great speech. With the proper preparation and a clear outline, apprehensive public speakers and natural wordsmiths alike can write and present a compelling message. Here’s how to write a good speech you’ll be proud to deliver.

What is good speech writing?

Good speech writing is the art of crafting words and ideas into a compelling, coherent, and memorable message that resonates with the audience. Here are some key elements of great speech writing:

• It begins with clearly understanding the speech's purpose and the audience it seeks to engage. 
• A well-written speech clearly conveys its central message, ensuring that the audience understands and retains the key points. 
• It is structured thoughtfully, with a captivating opening, a well-organized body, and a conclusion that reinforces the main message. 
• Good speech writing embraces the power of engaging content, weaving in stories, examples, and relatable anecdotes to connect with the audience on both intellectual and emotional levels. 

Ultimately, it is the combination of these elements, along with the authenticity and delivery of the speaker , that transforms words on a page into a powerful and impactful spoken narrative.

What makes a good speech?

A great speech includes several key qualities, but three fundamental elements make a speech truly effective:

Clarity and purpose

Remembering the audience, cohesive structure.

While other important factors make a speech a home run, these three elements are essential for writing an effective speech.

The main elements of a good speech

The main elements of a speech typically include:

• Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for your speech and grabs the audience's attention. It should include a hook or attention-grabbing opening, introduce the topic, and provide an overview of what will be covered.
• Opening/captivating statement: This is a strong statement that immediately engages the audience and creates curiosity about the speech topics.
• Thesis statement/central idea: The thesis statement or central idea is a concise statement that summarizes the main point or argument of your speech. It serves as a roadmap for the audience to understand what your speech is about.
• Body: The body of the speech is where you elaborate on your main points or arguments. Each point is typically supported by evidence, examples, statistics, or anecdotes. The body should be organized logically and coherently, with smooth transitions between the main points.
• Supporting evidence: This includes facts, data, research findings, expert opinions, or personal stories that support and strengthen your main points. Well-chosen and credible evidence enhances the persuasive power of your speech.
• Transitions: Transitions are phrases or statements that connect different parts of your speech, guiding the audience from one idea to the next. Effective transitions signal the shifts in topics or ideas and help maintain a smooth flow throughout the speech.
• Counterarguments and rebuttals (if applicable): If your speech involves addressing opposing viewpoints or counterarguments, you should acknowledge and address them. Presenting counterarguments makes your speech more persuasive and demonstrates critical thinking.
• Conclusion: The conclusion is the final part of your speech and should bring your message to a satisfying close. Summarize your main points, restate your thesis statement, and leave the audience with a memorable closing thought or call to action.
• Closing statement: This is the final statement that leaves a lasting impression and reinforces the main message of your speech. It can be a call to action, a thought-provoking question, a powerful quote, or a memorable anecdote.
• Delivery and presentation: How you deliver your speech is also an essential element to consider. Pay attention to your tone, body language, eye contact , voice modulation, and timing. Practice and rehearse your speech, and try using the 7-38-55 rule to ensure confident and effective delivery.

While the order and emphasis of these elements may vary depending on the type of speech and audience, these elements provide a framework for organizing and delivering a successful speech.

How to structure a good speech

You know what message you want to transmit, who you’re delivering it to, and even how you want to say it. But you need to know how to start, develop, and close a speech before writing it. 

Think of a speech like an essay. It should have an introduction, conclusion, and body sections in between. This places ideas in a logical order that the audience can better understand and follow them. Learning how to make a speech with an outline gives your storytelling the scaffolding it needs to get its point across.

Here’s a general speech structure to guide your writing process:

• Explanation 1
• Explanation 2
• Explanation 3

How to write a compelling speech opener

Some research shows that engaged audiences pay attention for only 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Other estimates are even lower, citing that people stop listening intently in fewer than 10 minutes . If you make a good first impression at the beginning of your speech, you have a better chance of interesting your audience through the middle when attention spans fade. 

Implementing the INTRO model can help grab and keep your audience’s attention as soon as you start speaking. This acronym stands for interest, need, timing, roadmap, and objectives, and it represents the key points you should hit in an opening. 

Here’s what to include for each of these points: 

• Interest : Introduce yourself or your topic concisely and speak with confidence . Write a compelling opening statement using relevant data or an anecdote that the audience can relate to.
• Needs : The audience is listening to you because they have something to learn. If you’re pitching a new app idea to a panel of investors, those potential partners want to discover more about your product and what they can earn from it. Read the room and gently remind them of the purpose of your speech. 
• Timing : When appropriate, let your audience know how long you’ll speak. This lets listeners set expectations and keep tabs on their own attention span. If a weary audience member knows you’ll talk for 40 minutes, they can better manage their energy as that time goes on. 
• Routemap : Give a brief overview of the three main points you’ll cover in your speech. If an audience member’s attention starts to drop off and they miss a few sentences, they can more easily get their bearings if they know the general outline of the presentation.
• Objectives : Tell the audience what you hope to achieve, encouraging them to listen to the end for the payout. 

Writing the middle of a speech

The body of your speech is the most information-dense section. Facts, visual aids, PowerPoints — all this information meets an audience with a waning attention span. Sticking to the speech structure gives your message focus and keeps you from going off track, making everything you say as useful as possible.

Limit the middle of your speech to three points, and support them with no more than three explanations. Following this model organizes your thoughts and prevents you from offering more information than the audience can retain. 

Using this section of the speech to make your presentation interactive can add interest and engage your audience. Try including a video or demonstration to break the monotony. A quick poll or survey also keeps the audience on their toes. 

Wrapping the speech up

To you, restating your points at the end can feel repetitive and dull. You’ve practiced countless times and heard it all before. But repetition aids memory and learning , helping your audience retain what you’ve told them. Use your speech’s conclusion to summarize the main points with a few short sentences.

Try to end on a memorable note, like posing a motivational quote or a thoughtful question the audience can contemplate once they leave. In proposal or pitch-style speeches, consider landing on a call to action (CTA) that invites your audience to take the next step.

How to write a good speech

If public speaking gives you the jitters, you’re not alone. Roughly 80% of the population feels nervous before giving a speech, and another 10% percent experiences intense anxiety and sometimes even panic. 

The fear of failure can cause procrastination and can cause you to put off your speechwriting process until the last minute. Finding the right words takes time and preparation, and if you’re already feeling nervous, starting from a blank page might seem even harder.

But putting in the effort despite your stress is worth it. Presenting a speech you worked hard on fosters authenticity and connects you to the subject matter, which can help your audience understand your points better. Human connection is all about honesty and vulnerability, and if you want to connect to the people you’re speaking to, they should see that in you.

1. Identify your objectives and target audience

Before diving into the writing process, find healthy coping strategies to help you stop worrying . Then you can define your speech’s purpose, think about your target audience, and start identifying your objectives. Here are some questions to ask yourself and ground your thinking : 

• What purpose do I want my speech to achieve? 
• What would it mean to me if I achieved the speech’s purpose?
• What audience am I writing for? 
• What do I know about my audience? 
• What values do I want to transmit? 
• If the audience remembers one take-home message, what should it be? 
• What do I want my audience to feel, think, or do after I finish speaking? 
• What parts of my message could be confusing and require further explanation?

2. Know your audience

Understanding your audience is crucial for tailoring your speech effectively. Consider the demographics of your audience, their interests, and their expectations. For instance, if you're addressing a group of healthcare professionals, you'll want to use medical terminology and data that resonate with them. Conversely, if your audience is a group of young students, you'd adjust your content to be more relatable to their experiences and interests. 

3. Choose a clear message

Your message should be the central idea that you want your audience to take away from your speech. Let's say you're giving a speech on climate change. Your clear message might be something like, "Individual actions can make a significant impact on mitigating climate change." Throughout your speech, all your points and examples should support this central message, reinforcing it for your audience.

4. Structure your speech

Organizing your speech properly keeps your audience engaged and helps them follow your ideas. The introduction should grab your audience's attention and introduce the topic. For example, if you're discussing space exploration, you could start with a fascinating fact about a recent space mission. In the body, you'd present your main points logically, such as the history of space exploration, its scientific significance, and future prospects. Finally, in the conclusion, you'd summarize your key points and reiterate the importance of space exploration in advancing human knowledge.

5. Use engaging content for clarity

Engaging content includes stories, anecdotes, statistics, and examples that illustrate your main points. For instance, if you're giving a speech about the importance of reading, you might share a personal story about how a particular book changed your perspective. You could also include statistics on the benefits of reading, such as improved cognitive abilities and empathy.

6. Maintain clarity and simplicity

It's essential to communicate your ideas clearly. Avoid using overly technical jargon or complex language that might confuse your audience. For example, if you're discussing a medical breakthrough with a non-medical audience, explain complex terms in simple, understandable language.

7. Practice and rehearse

Practice is key to delivering a great speech. Rehearse multiple times to refine your delivery, timing, and tone. Consider using a mirror or recording yourself to observe your body language and gestures. For instance, if you're giving a motivational speech, practice your gestures and expressions to convey enthusiasm and confidence.

8. Consider nonverbal communication

Your body language, tone of voice, and gestures should align with your message . If you're delivering a speech on leadership, maintain strong eye contact to convey authority and connection with your audience. A steady pace and varied tone can also enhance your speech's impact.

9. Engage your audience

Engaging your audience keeps them interested and attentive. Encourage interaction by asking thought-provoking questions or sharing relatable anecdotes. If you're giving a speech on teamwork, ask the audience to recall a time when teamwork led to a successful outcome, fostering engagement and connection.

10. Prepare for Q&A

Anticipate potential questions or objections your audience might have and prepare concise, well-informed responses. If you're delivering a speech on a controversial topic, such as healthcare reform, be ready to address common concerns, like the impact on healthcare costs or access to services, during the Q&A session.

By following these steps and incorporating examples that align with your specific speech topic and purpose, you can craft and deliver a compelling and impactful speech that resonates with your audience.

Tools for writing a great speech

There are several helpful tools available for speechwriting, both technological and communication-related. Here are a few examples:

• Word processing software: Tools like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or other word processors provide a user-friendly environment for writing and editing speeches. They offer features like spell-checking, grammar correction, formatting options, and easy revision tracking.
• Presentation software: Software such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides is useful when creating visual aids to accompany your speech. These tools allow you to create engaging slideshows with text, images, charts, and videos to enhance your presentation.
• Speechwriting Templates: Online platforms or software offer pre-designed templates specifically for speechwriting. These templates provide guidance on structuring your speech and may include prompts for different sections like introductions, main points, and conclusions.
• Rhetorical devices and figures of speech: Rhetorical tools such as metaphors, similes, alliteration, and parallelism can add impact and persuasion to your speech. Resources like books, websites, or academic papers detailing various rhetorical devices can help you incorporate them effectively.
• Speechwriting apps: Mobile apps designed specifically for speechwriting can be helpful in organizing your thoughts, creating outlines, and composing a speech. These apps often provide features like voice recording, note-taking, and virtual prompts to keep you on track.
• Grammar and style checkers: Online tools or plugins like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor help improve the clarity and readability of your speech by checking for grammar, spelling, and style errors. They provide suggestions for sentence structure, word choice, and overall tone.
• Thesaurus and dictionary: Online or offline resources such as thesauruses and dictionaries help expand your vocabulary and find alternative words or phrases to express your ideas more effectively. They can also clarify meanings or provide context for unfamiliar terms.
• Online speechwriting communities: Joining online forums or communities focused on speechwriting can be beneficial for getting feedback, sharing ideas, and learning from experienced speechwriters. It's an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and improve your public speaking skills through collaboration.

Remember, while these tools can assist in the speechwriting process, it's essential to use them thoughtfully and adapt them to your specific needs and style. The most important aspect of speechwriting remains the creativity, authenticity, and connection with your audience that you bring to your speech.

5 tips for writing a speech

Behind every great speech is an excellent idea and a speaker who refined it. But a successful speech is about more than the initial words on the page, and there are a few more things you can do to help it land.

Here are five more tips for writing and practicing your speech:

1. Structure first, write second

If you start the writing process before organizing your thoughts, you may have to re-order, cut, and scrap the sentences you worked hard on. Save yourself some time by using a speech structure, like the one above, to order your talking points first. This can also help you identify unclear points or moments that disrupt your flow.

2. Do your homework

Data strengthens your argument with a scientific edge. Research your topic with an eye for attention-grabbing statistics, or look for findings you can use to support each point. If you’re pitching a product or service, pull information from company metrics that demonstrate past or potential successes. 

Audience members will likely have questions, so learn all talking points inside and out. If you tell investors that your product will provide 12% returns, for example, come prepared with projections that support that statement.

3. Sound like yourself

Memorable speakers have distinct voices. Think of Martin Luther King Jr’s urgent, inspiring timbre or Oprah’s empathetic, personal tone . Establish your voice — one that aligns with your personality and values — and stick with it. If you’re a motivational speaker, keep your tone upbeat to inspire your audience . If you’re the CEO of a startup, try sounding assured but approachable. 

4. Practice

As you practice a speech, you become more confident , gain a better handle on the material, and learn the outline so well that unexpected questions are less likely to trip you up. Practice in front of a colleague or friend for honest feedback about what you could change, and speak in front of the mirror to tweak your nonverbal communication and body language .

5. Remember to breathe

When you’re stressed, you breathe more rapidly . It can be challenging to talk normally when you can’t regulate your breath. Before your presentation, try some mindful breathing exercises so that when the day comes, you already have strategies that will calm you down and remain present . This can also help you control your voice and avoid speaking too quickly.

How to ghostwrite a great speech for someone else

Ghostwriting a speech requires a unique set of skills, as you're essentially writing a piece that will be delivered by someone else. Here are some tips on how to effectively ghostwrite a speech:

• Understand the speaker's voice and style : Begin by thoroughly understanding the speaker's personality, speaking style, and preferences. This includes their tone, humor, and any personal anecdotes they may want to include.
• Interview the speaker : Have a detailed conversation with the speaker to gather information about their speech's purpose, target audience, key messages, and any specific points they want to emphasize. Ask for personal stories or examples they may want to include.
• Research thoroughly : Research the topic to ensure you have a strong foundation of knowledge. This helps you craft a well-informed and credible speech.
• Create an outline : Develop a clear outline that includes the introduction, main points, supporting evidence, and a conclusion. Share this outline with the speaker for their input and approval.
• Write in the speaker's voice : While crafting the speech, maintain the speaker's voice and style. Use language and phrasing that feel natural to them. If they have a particular way of expressing ideas, incorporate that into the speech.
• Craft a captivating opening : Begin the speech with a compelling opening that grabs the audience's attention. This could be a relevant quote, an interesting fact, a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking question.
• Organize content logically : Ensure the speech flows logically, with each point building on the previous one. Use transitions to guide the audience from one idea to the next smoothly.
• Incorporate engaging stories and examples : Include anecdotes, stories, and real-life examples that illustrate key points and make the speech relatable and memorable.
• Edit and revise : Edit the speech carefully for clarity, grammar, and coherence. Ensure the speech is the right length and aligns with the speaker's time constraints.
• Seek feedback : Share drafts of the speech with the speaker for their feedback and revisions. They may have specific changes or additions they'd like to make.
• Practice delivery : If possible, work with the speaker on their delivery. Practice the speech together, allowing the speaker to become familiar with the content and your writing style.
• Maintain confidentiality : As a ghostwriter, it's essential to respect the confidentiality and anonymity of the work. Do not disclose that you wrote the speech unless you have the speaker's permission to do so.
• Be flexible : Be open to making changes and revisions as per the speaker's preferences. Your goal is to make them look good and effectively convey their message.
• Meet deadlines : Stick to agreed-upon deadlines for drafts and revisions. Punctuality and reliability are essential in ghostwriting.
• Provide support : Support the speaker during their preparation and rehearsal process. This can include helping with cue cards, speech notes, or any other materials they need.

Remember that successful ghostwriting is about capturing the essence of the speaker while delivering a well-structured and engaging speech. Collaboration, communication, and adaptability are key to achieving this.

Give your best speech yet

Learn how to make a speech that’ll hold an audience’s attention by structuring your thoughts and practicing frequently. Put the effort into writing and preparing your content, and aim to improve your breathing, eye contact , and body language as you practice. The more you work on your speech, the more confident you’ll become.

The energy you invest in writing an effective speech will help your audience remember and connect to every concept. Remember: some life-changing philosophies have come from good speeches, so give your words a chance to resonate with others. You might even change their thinking.

Boost your speech skills

Enhance your public speaking with personalized coaching tailored to your needs

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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• Presentations
• Public Speaking

The Best Source for PowerPoint Templates (With Unlimited Use)

Before we dive into how to make a speech, let's look at a powerful tool that can help you design your presentation.

Envato Elements is a great place to find PowerPoint templates to use with your speech. These presentation templates are professionally designed to impress.

Envato Elements is an excellent value because you get unlimited access to digital elements once you become a subscriber. Envato Elements has more than just presentation templates . You get:

• stock images
• and much more

To become a subscriber, just sign up and pay a low monthly fee.

Sample Public Speaking Scenario

Here's a possible public speaking scenario:

You've just opened a small web design business in your town, and you join the town Chamber of Commerce. As a result, you're invited to give a short, five-minute presentation at the next Chamber of Commerce meeting.

Coming up with a public speaking speech for the scenario described above could be a challenge if you've never written or given a public speech before. Fortunately, there are some speech-writing steps that you can use that'll make speech writing easier.

Let's use this example and walk through the steps for writing a speech.

7 Steps for Writing a Speech

The steps for writing a speech for public speaking are like the steps for writing a presentation in general. But at each stage of the writing process, you need to keep your audience in mind:

1. Research Your Audience

Whenever you do any type of writing you need to consider who you're trying to reach with your writing. Speech writing is no different. The more you know about your target audience, the more effective your writing will be.

In the example above, you know that your audience is going to be the other members of the Chamber of Commerce. They're likely to be small business owners just like you are.

What to Do After You Research Your Audience:

Once you've defined your audience, you can gear your speech towards them. To do this, ask yourself questions like:

• What does this audience need?
• What problem can I solve for them?
• Is there anything else I need to consider about my listeners?

In the example we're using for this tutorial, most small businesses in your town fit one of the following three situations:

• They've got a website that works well.
• They've got a website, but the design is outdated or doesn't work well.
• They don't have a website.

2. Select a Topic

In this example your topic is already given. You've been invited to introduce your business. But you also know that the speech is going to be fairly short--only five minutes long.

While it's always a good idea to keep a speech focused, this is especially important for a short speech.

If I were writing the public speaking speech for the scenario we're working with, I'd narrow the topic down like this:

• Create a list of the strengths of my business.
• Compare the list of business strengths to the problems I observed with the other members' websites in the previous step.
• Focus my presentation on the areas where my business strengths meet weaknesses (needs) of other Chamber of Commerce members.

Let's say that I noticed that quite a few members of the chamber have websites that use outdated fonts, and the sites aren't mobile-friendly. Instead of listing everything my web design business could possibly do, I'd focus my short speech on those areas where I observed a need.

You can use a similar process to narrow the topic down any time you need to write a speech.

Avoid the temptation of trying to cover too much information. Most people are so overwhelmed by the sheer amount of new data they receive each day that they can't keep up with it all. Your listeners are more likely to remember your public speaking speech if it's tightly focused on one or two points.

3. Research Your Topic

In the example we've been going over, you probably don't need to do a lot of research. And you've already narrowed your topic down.

But some public speaking situations may require that that you cover a topic that you're less familiar with. For more detailed speech writing tips on how to study your subject (and other public speaking tips), review the tutorial:

4. Write Your Speech

Once you've completed the steps above, you're ready to write your speech. Here are some basic speech writing tips:

• Begin with an outline . To create a speech your audience will remember, you've got to be organized. An outline is one of the best ways to organize your thoughts.
• Use a conversational tone . Write your speech the way you would normally talk. Work in some small talk or humor, if appropriate.
• Use the speaker notes . Typically, speaker notes aren't seen by the audience. So, this is a good place to put reminders to yourself.
• Be specific . It's better to give examples or statistics to support a point than it is to make a vague statement.
• Use short sentences . It's likely you're not going to give your speech word for word anyway. Shorter sentences are easier to remember.

In this example scenario for the short speech we're preparing for the Chamber of Commerce, your outline could look something like this:

• Introduction . Give your name and the name of your business. (Show title slide of website home page with URL)
• Type of Business . Describe what you do in a sentence or two. (Show slide with bulleted list)
• Give example of a recent web design project . Emphasize areas that you know the other businesses need. (Show slides with examples)
• Conclusion.  Let the audience know that you'd be happy to help with their web design needs. Offer to talk to anyone who's interested after the meeting. (Show closing slide that includes contact information)
• Give out handouts . Many presentation software packages allow you to print out your speech as a handout. For a networking-type presentation like the one in our example, this can be a good idea since it gives your listeners something to take with them that's got your contact information on it.

That simple speech format should be enough for the short speech in our example. If you find it's too short when you practice, you can always add more slides with examples.

If you've been asked to give a short speech, you can change the speech format above to fit your needs. If you're giving a longer speech, be sure to plan for audience breaks and question and answer sessions as you write.

5. Select a Presentation Tool

For most presentations, you'll want to use a professional presentation tool such as PowerPoint, Google Slides, or a similar package. A presentation tool allows you to add visual interest to your public speaking speech. Many of them allow you to add video or audio to further engage your audience.

If you don't already have a presentation tool, these tutorials can help you find the right one for your needs:

Once you've chosen a presentation tool, you're ready to choose a template for your presentation.

6. Select a Template and Finish

A presentation template controls the look and feel of your presentation. A good template design can make the difference between a memorable public speech with eye-catching graphics and a dull, forgettable talk.

You could design your own presentation template from scratch. But, if you've never designed a presentation template before, the result might look less than professional. And it could take a long time to get a good template. Plus, hiring a designer to create an original presentation template can be pricey.

A smart shortcut for most small business owners is to invest in a professional presentation template. They can customize it to fit with their branding and marketing materials. If you choose this option, you'll save time and money. Plus, with a professional presentation template you get a proven result.

You can find some great-looking presentation templates at  Envato Elements  or  GraphicRiver . To browse through some example templates, look at these articles:

Even a short speech like the one we've been using as an example in this tutorial could benefit from a good tutorial. If you've never used a template before, these PowerPoint tutorials can help:

7. How to Make a Public Speech

Now that you've completed all the steps above, you're ready to give your speech. Before you give your speech publicly, though, there are a few things you should remember:

• Don't read your speech . If you can, memorize your speech. If you can't, it's okay to use note cards or even your outline--but don't read those either. Just refer to them if you get stuck.
• Practice . Practice helps you get more comfortable with your speech. It'll also help you determine how your speech fits into the time slot you've been allotted.
• Do use visual aids . Of course, your presentation template adds a visual element to your public speech. But if other visual aids work with your presentation, they can be helpful as well.
• Dress comfortably, but professionally . The key is to fit in. If you're not sure how others at your meeting will be dressed, contact the organizer and ask.
• Speak and stand naturally . It's normal to be a little nervous but try to act as naturally as you can. Even if you make a mistake, keep going. Your audience probably won't even notice.
• Be enthusiastic . Excitement is contagious. If you're excited about your topic, your audience will likely be excited too.

In the example we're using in this tutorial (and with many public speaking opportunities), it's important not to disappear at the end of the meeting. Stick around and be prepared to interact individually with members of the audience. Have answers to questions anyone might have about your speech. And be sure to bring a stack of business cards to pass out.

5 Quick Tips to Make a Good Speech Great (& More Memorable)

After reading about the basics, here are some more tips on how to write a great speech really stand out:

1. Have a Strong Opening

Start your speech with a strong opening by presenting surprising facts or statistics. You could even start with a funny story or grand idea.

Another way to start your speech is to open with a question to spark your audience’s curiosity. If you engage your audience early in your speech, they're more likely to pay attention throughout your speech.

2. Connect With Your Audience

You want a speech that'll be memorable. One way to make your speech memorable is to connect with your audience. Using metaphors and analogies help your audience to connect and remember. For example, people use one writing tool to put the speech's theme in a 15-20 word short poem or memorable paragraph, then build your speech around it.

3. Have a Clear Structure

When writing your speech, have a clear path and a destination. Otherwise, you could have a disorganized speech. Messy speeches are unprofessional and forgettable. While writing your speech, leave out unnecessary information. Too many unnecessary details can cause people to lose focus.

4. Repeat Important Information

A key to writing memorable speeches is to repeat key phrases, words, and themes. When writing your speech, always bring your points back to your main point or theme. Repetition helps people remember your speech and drives home the topic of your speech.

5. Have a Strong Closing

Since the last thing that your audience listened to what your closing, they'll remember your closing the most. So, if your closing is forgettable, it can make your speech forgettable. So, recap your speech and repeat essential facts that you want the audience to remember in your closing.

Five PowerPoint Presentation Templates (From Envato Elements - For 2022)

If you’re writing a speech for a presentation, save time by using a premium presentation template:

1. Toetiec PowerPoint Presentation

Toetic PowerPoint Presentation has 90 unique slides and 1800 total slides that you can easily add your information onto. There are ten light and dark versions that come with this template. Also included in this template are vector icons, elements, and maps.

2. Suflen Multipurpose Presentation

Suflen Multipurpose Presentation template has a professional design that can work for any presentation topic. This template comes with over 450 total slides. With this template, you've got five color themes to choose from. Also, this template comes with illustrations, graphics, and picture placeholders.

3. Virtually PowerPoint

Virtually PowerPoint template is a modern and minimal style presentation template. This template comes with over 50 slides. You can use this template for any presentation theme.

4. Amarish PowerPoint Template

Amarish PowerPoint Template comes with five color themes that allow you to choose the color you want. This template is another multipurpose template that can work for any purpose. Also, this template comes with over 150 total slides and infographics, illustrations, and graphics.

5. Qubica PowerPoint Template

Qubica PowerPoint Template comes with over 150 total slides and five premade color themes. Easily add images into your presentation template by dragging the image of your choice into the picture placeholder. Everything in this template is entirely editable.

Learn More About How to Write a Great Speech

Here are some other tutorials that provide more information on giving a speech:

Learn More About Making Great Presentations

Download The Complete Guide to Making Great Presentations eBook now for FREE with a subscription to the Tuts+ Business Newsletter. Get your ideas formed into a powerful presentation that'll move your audience!

Make Your Next Speech Your Best Ever!

You've just learned how to write a good public speaking speech. You've been given a sample speech format and plenty of other speech writing tips and resources on how to write a good speech. You've seen some templates that'll really make a PowerPoint stand out.

Now, it's up to you to write the best speech for your needs. Good luck!

Editorial Note: This post has been updated with contributions from Sarah Joy . Sarah is a freelance instructor for Envato Tuts+.

How To Write A Speech That Inspires You Audience: 13 Steps

Learn how to write a speech that will effectively reach your audience .

A good speech is a powerful tool. Effective speeches make people powerful, whether in the hands of a world leader trying to get people to believe their ideology or in the mouth of a teacher trying to inspire students. A well-written speech can lift the hearts of a nation in times of war, inspire people to action when complacency is commonplace, honor someone who has died, and even change a nation’s mind on a particular topic , which, in turn, can change history.

Excellent speech writing is a skill that you must learn. While public speaking may come naturally to some people , the sentence structure and nuances of a powerful speech are something you must learn if you are going to gain the audience’s attention.

So how can you learn how to write a speech? The writing process is a little different than the process you’d use to write a paper or essay, so here is a guide that can help.

Materials Needed

Step 1: define your purpose, step 2: determine your audience, step 3: start your research, step 4: choose the right length, step 5: create an outline, step 6: craft the introduction, step 7: write the body, step 8: use transitions, step 9: conclude your speech, step 10: add some spice, step 11. implement spoken language, step 12: edit your speech, step 13: read it out.

• Research materials
• Audience demographic information

Before you can write a speech , you must know the purpose of your speech . You can deliver many types of speeches, and the purpose will determine which one you are giving. While there may be more than these, here are some common types of speeches:

• Informative speech: An informative speech strives to educate the audience on a topic or message. This is the type of speech a teacher gives when delivering a lecture. “ First World Problems ” by Sarah Kwon is an excellent example of an informative speech.
• Entertaining speech: This speech strives to amuse the audience. These are typically short speeches with funny, personal stories woven in. A wedding guest giving a speech at a wedding may be an example of this type of speech.
• Demonstrative speech: This speech demonstrates how to do something to the audience. A company showing how to use a product is delivering this type of speech.
• Persuasive speech: This speech aims to persuade the audience of your particular opinion. Political speeches are commonly persuasive. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s famous “ I Have a Dream ” speech is an example of a persuasive speech, as it called the government to make changes that protected civil and economic rights.
• Oratorical speech: An oratory is a formal speech at an event like a funeral or graduation. The goal is to express an opinion and inspire the audience, but not necessarily to persuade.
• Motivational speech: These speeches inspire people to take action, such as to improve themselves or to feel better and happier. For example, a coach may deliver this kind of speech to his players during halftime to inspire them to win the game. Steve Jobs’ 2005 Stanford Commencement Address is an excellent example of a motivational speech.
• Eulogy: A Eulogy is a funeral speech. This speech is given to the mourners at someone’s funeral and talks about the excellent character rates of the person who died. “ Eulogy for Rosa Parks ” is a famous example of this type of speech given by Oprah Winfrey in 2015.
• Explanatory speech: This final speech type describes a situation or item. These speeches often have step-by-step instructions on how to do a particular thing.

Your audience members are an essential part of the speech writing process. Consider taking notes about your audience before you start writing your speech . You can even make a fake audience member you are writing toward as you prepare your speech . Even though they do not directly impact what you talk about, they should impact how you talk about it. Therefore, you must write your speech to reach that particular audience .

For example, if you are writing a speech for an audience that does not agree with you, you will need to bring more facts and figures to persuade them of your opinion. On the other hand, if you are writing a speech for an audience already on your side, you must encourage them to hold the line. To get to know your audience , consider factors like:

• Income level
• Pain points
• Questions they might ask

Before you outline or write your speech , you must know some facts about the big idea or speech topic . So perform some research, and take notes. See if you can find any new or surprising information in your research. If it was new and surprising, it also might be to your audience members. You can use this research to make the essential points of your piece.

Finally, know the required length of your speech . Speeches usually have time limits, not word count limits. You will need to know the desired length before you can start writing the speech , or you will end up with a speech that is too long or too short. The length of your speech will vary depending on where you are giving it and who your audience is.

Generally, a 20-minute speech is standard when delivering a speech to adults in a professional or academic setting. However, if you are a student who is preparing a speech for a classroom, you may be limited to three to five minutes. Sometimes speakers will get booked to take on a 60-minute session, but if you talk for 60 minutes, you will lose the attention of some of your audience members.

Remember, some of the most famous speeches in history are very short. President Abraham Lincoln’s “ Gettysburg Address ” was less than 300 words long and took less than two minutes to deliver. President Franklin Roosevelt’s “ Day of Infamy ” speech lasted less than 10 minutes. However, knowing your speech’s length can be challenging after you prepare it. Generally, a double-spaced page of writing will take about 90 seconds to speak. Thus, a 20-minute speech will take about 13 typed, double-spaced pages if you type out your entire speech .

Consider using a words-to-minutes calculator to determine how long your speech likely is. Remember that the average English speaker speaks 140 words a minute. You may get up to 170 words a minute if you speak fast. If your speech is slow, it may be as little as 110 words a minute.

Now you are ready to start writing. Before you write a speech , you must create an outline. Some public speakers will speak from an outline alone, while others will write their speech word-for-word. Both strategies can lead to a successful speech , but both also start with an outline. Your speech’s outline will follow this template:

• Introduction: Introduces your main idea and hooks the reader’s attention.
• Body: Covers two to three main points with transitions.
• Conclusion: Summarizes the speech’s points and drive home your main message.

As you fill in these areas, answer these questions: Who? What? Why? and How? This will ensure you cover all the essential elements your listeners need to hear to understand your topic . Next, make your outline as detailed as you can. Organize your research into points and subpoints. The more detail on your outline, the easier it will be to write the speech and deliver it confidently.

As you prepare your speech , your introduction is where you should spend the most time and think. You only have moments to capture your audience’s attention or see them zone out in front of you. However, if you do it right, you will cause them to turn to you for more information on the topic . In other words, the introduction to a speech may be the most memorable part, so it deserves your attention. Therefore, you must have three main parts:

• Hook: The hook is a rhetorical question, funny story, personal anecdote, or shocking statistic that grabs the listener’s attention and shows them why your speech is worth listening to.
• Thesis: This is your main idea or clear point.
• Road map: You will want to preview your speech outline in the introduction.

Here is an example of a good introduction for a persuasive speech from Jamie Oliver’s TED Talk about children and food:

“Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead from the food that they eat.”

This shocking statistic gets the audience’s attention immediately. In his speech , Oliver details why America’s food choices are so poor, how it affects them, and how we can teach children to do better.

Here is an example of an informative speech about pollution and what can be done about it. This introduction follows the template perfectly.

“I want you to close your eyes for a minute and picture a beautiful oceanfront. The sound of the waves crashing on the sand while seagulls fly overhead. Do you have it? Now I am going to say one word that will destroy that image: Pollution. What changed in your mental picture? Do you now see sea turtles with bottles on their head or piles of debris washing on shore? Marine pollution is a massive problem because plastic does not decompose. Not only does it use up many resources to create, but it rarely gets disposed of properly. We must protect our natural areas, like that beautiful beach. Today I am going to show you how destructive the effects of plastic can be, how it is managing our natural resources, and what steps we can take to improve the situation.”

Now you are ready to write the body of your speech . Draw from your research and flesh out the points stated in your introduction. As you create your body, use short sentences. People can’t listen as long as they can read, so short and sweet sentences are most effective. Continuing the theme of the marine pollution speech , consider this body paragraph.

“You might be thinking plastic isn’t a big deal. Let’s think for a minute that you’re at the beach drinking bottled water. According to “The Problem with Plastic,” an article by Hannah Elisbury, one out of every six plastic water bottles ends up in recycling. The rest become landfill fodder. Worse, many get dropped in nature. Perhaps you are packing up at the end of your beach trip and forget to grab your bottle. Maybe your kid is buried in the sand. Now it’s adding pollutants to the water. That water becomes part of the drinking water supply. It also becomes part of the fish you eat at your favorite seafood restaurant. Just one bottle has big consequences.”

As you write the body, don’t stress making every word perfect. You will revise it later. The main goal is to get your ideas on paper or screen. This body paragraph is effective for two reasons. First, the audience members likely use water bottles, which resonates with them. Second, she uses a resource and names it, which gives your work authority.

It would be best to use transitions to move from each speech section. This keeps the audience engaged and interested. In addition, the transitions should naturally merge into the next section of the speech without abruptness. To transition between points or ideas, use transition words. Some examples include:

• Coupled with
• Following this
• Additionally
• Comparatively
• Correspondingly
• Identically
• In contrast
• For example

You can also use sequence words, like first, second, third, etc., to give the idea of transition from one thought to the next. Make sure your speech has several transition words to drive it through to completion and to keep the audience engaged.

In his speech “ Their Finest Hour ,” Winston Churchill uses transitions well. Here is an excerpt from his conclusion:

“ But if we fail, then the whole world, including the United States, including all that we have known and cared for, will sink into the abyss of a new Dark Age made more sinister, perhaps more protracted, by the lights of perverted science. Therefore, let us brace ourselves to our duties and bear ourselves that, if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, “This was their finest hour.”

Notice that he uses “therefore,” “so,” and “but.” Each of these transition words effectively moves the speech along.

Your conclusion needs to restate your thesis but differently. It should personalize the speech to the audience , restate your main points and state any key takeaways. Finally, it should leave the audience with a thought to ponder.

Here are some practical ways to end a speech :

• Use a story
• Read a poem
• State an inspirational quote
• Summarize the main points
• Deliver a call to action

Here are some examples of fantastic conclusions:

• Here is an excellent example of a concluding statement for an inspirational graduation speech: “As you graduate, you will face great challenges, but you will also have great opportunities. By embracing all that you have learned here, you will meet them head-on. The best is yet to come!”
• A CEO that is trying to inspire his workforce might conclude a speech like this: “While the past year had challenges and difficulties, I saw you work through them and come out ahead. As we move into the next year, I am confident we will continue to excel. Let’s join hands, and together this can be the best year in company history!”
• In “T he Speech to Go to the Moon, ” President Kennedy concluded this way: “ Many years ago the great British explorer George Mallory, who was to die on Mount Everest, was asked why did he want to climb it. He said, “Because it is there. Well, space is there, and we’re going to climb it, and the moon and the planets are there, and new hopes for knowledge and peace are there. And, therefore, as we set sail we ask God’s blessing on the most hazardous and dangerous and greatest adventure on which man has ever embarked.” Many speechwriters say something like “in conclusion” or “that’s all I have for you today.” This is not necessary. Saying “in conclusion” could cause your audience to stop listening as they anticipate the end of the speech, and stating that you have said all you need to say is just unnecessary.

Now that you have the basic structure, you’re ready to add some spice to your speech . Remember, you aren’t reading a research essay. Instead, you are making an exciting and engaging spoken presentation. Here are some ideas:

• Consider giving your speech some rhythm. For example, change the wording, so it has a pace and cadence.
• Work to remove a passive voice from your sentences where possible. Active speaking is more powerful than passive.
• Use rhetorical questions throughout because they make the listener stop and think for a moment about what you are saying.
• Weave some quotes into your speech. Pulling famous words from other people will make your speech more interesting.
• Where possible, use personal stories. This helps your audience engage with you as the speaker while keeping the speech interesting.

You may not use all of these ideas in your speech , but find some that will work for the type of speech you plan to give. They will make it more exciting and help keep listeners engaged in what you are saying.

Writing a speech is not like writing a paper. While you want to sound educated with proper grammar , you need to write in the way you speak. For many people , this is much different from the way they write. Not only will you use short sentences, but you will also use:

• Familiar vocabulary: This is not the time to start adding scientific terminology to the mix or jargon for your industry that the audience won’t understand. Use familiar vocabulary.
• Transitions: Already discussed, but spoken language uses many transition words. Your speech should, too.
• Personal pronouns: “You” and “I” are acceptable in a speech but not in academic writing.
• Colloquialisms: Colloquialisms are perfectly acceptable in a speech, provided the audience would readily understand them.
• Contractions: We use contractions when we speak, so we also use them in speeches, while some writing platforms and assignments do not allow them.
• Repetition: Repeating words and phrases makes them memorable. This helps emphasize the main ideas and works well in speeches.

Now you are ready to edit your speech . Remember, spoken language is acceptable, but grammar errors may not be ideal. As you edit, pay attention to the length of sentences. Shorten any long ones. Also, watch for those transition words. Add them in if you need to. Remember, a well-written speech takes time. Put in the effort to revise and improve it, and you will be rewarded with an effective speech that is easy to deliver. If you still need help, our guide to grammar and syntax explains more.

Now that you have written your speech , you are ready to read it. Read it out loud at your average speaking speed, and time yourself. This will tell you if you are within your allotted time limit. However, reading it has another benefit. When you read the piece, you can determine if it flows smoothly. You may catch grammar issues or poor transitions that you can change. Look for places where the speech may be hard to speak and adjust those sentences to make them more accessible.

After you update the speech , practice it again. Reading it, revising it, rereading it, and repeating it will help you create a speech that flows well. This process will also help you become familiar with the speech so you can deliver it confidently when your speaking engagement comes.

Looking for inspiration? Read our round-up of argumentative essays !

How to Write a Speech: My Simple 6-Step Formula

Ed Darling 9 min read

What you’ll learn:

• Why great speechwriting requires a structure.
• My exact 6-step speech structure you can steal.
• How to start and end your speech strong.

How to write a speech, the easiest way possible.

How? By following a simple frame-work that’s powerful and versatile.

Whether you have a work presentation, keynote talk, or best man’s speech – by the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to write a speech, and in what order.

I’m Ed, a public speaking coach and co-founder of Project Charisma . I help professionals, leaders and business owners to speak in public, and this is the #1 speech framework that I share with all of my clients.

I ’ll walk you through the process of how to write a speech step-by-step , explaining each section as we go. I’ll also give you some examples of how this would look in different types of speech.

The first step is something 99% of people miss.

PS. Check out our specific speech guides on:

Delivering a Business Pitch

Giving a Best Man Speech

Step 1. Find your speech's "Golden Thread"

The first lesson in how to write a speech is setting a clear objective from the get-go — so that what you write doesn’t end up being vague or convoluted.

Afterall, If you don’t know exactly what your speech is about, neither will your audience.

To avoid this, we’re going to begin by defining our “Golden Thread”. 

This is the key idea, insight or message that you want to get across. Like a thread, it will run throughout your speech, linking each section together in a way that’s clear and coherent.

To help you figure out your Golden Thread, try answering these two questions:

• If you had to summarise your speech into a single sentence, what would that be?
• If your audience could leave remembering only one thing, what would that be?

Golden Thread examples: A work presentation: “Customer referrals can be our our super-power”

A motivational speech: “Don’t let circumstances define you”

For a wedding/event speech: “Enjoy the journey together”

Speech Writing Tip:

Your Golden Thread isn’t something you share with the audience. You don’t start your speech by saying it out loud. Rather, it’s something we define in the preparation phase to clarify your own thoughts and ensure everything that comes next makes sense. 

That said, your Golden Thread may double-up as the perfect speech title, or memorable catch-phrase. In which case it’s fine to use it within your speech as a way to drive-home the overall message. 

Think of MLKs famous “I have a dream” speech . The Golden Thread would be his dream of a future with equality — a core idea which ran throughout the speech. But the exact phrase “I have a dream” was also spoken and repeated for effect.

Ready to feel confident while speaking in public? Join our next 1-Day Public Speaking Masterclass

Step 2. Start with your Hook

Now we get into the nitty-gritty of how to write a speech.

The Hook is the first thing you will actually say to the audience – usually within the first 10-30 seconds of your speech.

Most people start a speech by introducing themselves and their topic:

“Hello everyone, I’m John from accounting, today I’ll be talking about our quarterly figures” . 

It’s predictable, it’s unimaginative, it’s starting with a yawn instead of a bang.

Instead, we’re going to open the speech with a hook that gets people sitting up and listening.

A hook can be anything that captures attention, including a:

• Relevant quote
• Interesting statistic
• Intriguing question
• Funny anecdote
• Powerful statement

Watch how Apollo Robbins opens his TED talk with a question-hook to engage the audience.

Whichever type of hook you use, it needs to be short, punchy and ideally something that builds intrigue in your audience’s mind. Depending on the type of speech, your hook might be humorous, dramatic, serious or thoughtful. 

For an in-depth guide on how to write a speech with a great hook, I highly recommend our article on 9 Killer Speech Openers.

H ook examples:

A work presentation: “What if I told you we could increase revenue by 35%, without any additional ad-spend?”

A motivational speech: “At the age of 30, my life was turned upside down – I was jobless, directionless, and depressed”

For a wedding/event speech: “Love is a fire. But whether it is going to warm your hearth or burn down your house, you can never tell! – so said Joan Crawford” 

Speech Hook Tip:

Don’t rush into things. Hooks work infinitely better when you pause just before speaking, and again just after.

Step 3. The Speech Introduction

We’ve captured attention and have the whole room interested. The next step is to formally introduce ourselves, our speech, and what the audience can expect to hear. 

Depending on the situation, you can use your introduction as an opportunity to build credibility with your audience. If they don’t know you, it’s worth explaining who you are, and why you’re qualified to be speaking on this topic.

The more credibility you build early on, the more engagement you’ll have throughout the speech. So consider mentioning expertise, credentials and relevant background.

In other situations where people already know you, there may be less need for this credibility-building. In which case, keep it short and sweet.

Intro examples:

A work presentation: “Good morning everyone, I’m Jenny from the Marketing department. For the past few months I’ve been tracking our referrals with a keen-eye. Today, I want to show you the numbers, and explain my plan double our referrals in the next 6 months”

A motivational speech: “Ladies and gentlemen, at the age of 40 I’m a speaker, an author and a teacher – but my life could have turned out very differently. Today, I want to share with you my story of overcoming adversity.”

For a wedding/event speech: “Good afternoon everyone, I’m Luke the Best Man. I can’t promise anything quite as poetic as that quote, but I’d like to say a few words for the Bride and Groom”.

Speech Intro Tip:

 In certain situations, your introduction can also be a time to give thanks – to the event organisers, hosts, audience, etc. But always keep this brief, and keep focused on your message.

Step 4. The Speech Body

The body of the speech is where you share your main stories, ideas or points. The risk for many speakers here is that they start meandering. 

One point leads to another, which segues into a story, then a tangents off to something else, and before we know it, everyone’s confused – definitely not how to write a speech.

Remember, clarity is key.

For this reason, wherever possible you should aim to split the body of your speech into three distinct sections. 

Why three? Because humans tend to process information more effectively when it comes in triads . Making it easier for you to remember, and easier for your audience to follow.

The most obvious example of this is the classic beginning, middle and end structure in storytelling .

You can also use past, present and future as a way to take people on a journey from “where  we used to be, what happens now, and what the vision is going forwards”.

Or even more simple, break things up into:

• Three stories
• Three challenges
• Three case-studies
• Three future goals

Of course, It’s not always possible to structure speeches into three sections. Sometimes there’s just more information that you need to cover – such as with a technical presentation or sales pitch.

In this case, I recommend thinking in terms of chapters, and aiming for a maximum of 5-7. Ensure that each “chapter” or section is clearly introduced and explained, before moving on to the next. The more content you cover, the greater the need for clarity.

Body examples:

A work presentation: “We’ve discovered that referrals happen when we get three things right: building the relationship, delighting the customer, and making the ask – let’s look at each of these stages.

A motivational speech: “I don’t believe our past has to dictate our future, but in order to tell my story, let me take you back to the very beginning.” For a wedding/event speech: “Of all the most embarrassing, undignified, and downright outrageous stories I could think of involving the Groom, I’ve whittled it down to three, which I think sum up why this marriage is destined for a long and happy future. It starts back in high-school…”

Speech Body Tip:

I mention “chapters” because when reading a book, there’s a moment to reflect after each chapter as we turn the page. In the same way, when speaking, make sure to give your audience a moment to process what you’ve just said at the end of each section, before moving on to your next point. 

Ready to speak with confidence ? Explore our training options...

Step 5. the conclusion.

Now it’s time to bring everything together, guiding your audience to the key conclusions you want them to take away.

Depending on your speech, this could be an idea, an insight, a moral, or a message. But whatever it is, now is your time to say it in a clear and compelling way.

Watch David Eagleman use a thought-provoking metaphor and rhetorical question to wrap up his TED talk on senses.

This final conclusion should always link back to your Golden Thread, making sense of everything that’s come before it.

Answer the following questions as prompts (you could even say one of these out-loud to lead into your conclusion)

• What is the message I want to leave you with?
• What have we learned from all this?
• What is the key take-away?

Conclusion examples:

A work presentation: “So what have we learned? When we get each of these steps right, our customers are eager to give us referrals, and those referrals usually result in more happy clients.”

A motivational speech: “My journey has had many ups and downs, but if there’s one lesson I’ve learned – it’s that our circumstances don’t dictate our direction, that we can come back from failure, and find a way to win” For a wedding/event speech: “So what can I say about the Bride and Groom? They’re clearly made for each other and if history is anything to go by, their future will be full of many more stories and adventures.”

Speech Conclusion Tip:

Never use your conclusion to apologise for yourself, explain a whole new idea, or be overly thankful to everyone for watching. Keep it professional, and keep it focused on hammering-home the main idea of the speech.

6. The Call To Action, or Call To Thought

You’ve concluded your message and summarised your main points. At this point, most people think the speech is done.

Not so fast — there’s one final key step we need to take, the Call to Action .

If you’ve followed the steps so far on how to write a speech, your audience should have been listening, learning, and hopefully now feel inspired by your words. 

We’ve built up the potential for some kind of action , and now all that’s left is to direct that energy into a clear “next step” they can take.

Imagine your audience are thinking “what should I do with this information”?

Your CTA is the direct answer to that question.

It should be clear, simple and ideally – something they can act on quickly. For instance, you may request the audience to download an app you’ve discussed, connect with you online, sign up for a service, or come and speak with you afterwards.

Not every speech suits a CTA however, which is where the CTT comes in. 

This is a great variation I picked up from Justin Welsh which stands for “ Call to Thought ”. It’s a more nuanced action – typically asking people to reflect on an idea, consider a specific issue, or think differently about something. 

C TA/CTT examples:

A work presentation (CTA): “As an immediate next step to get us started, I’d like everyone to reach out to your current clients this week, and ask them to refer one new customer. We’ll be tracking the results, and rewarding the winning referral rain-maker!”

A motivational speech (CTC): “So ask yourself, where are you allowing circumstances to hold you back, and how could your life change if you took a new direction?”

For a wedding/event speech (CTA): “With that said, I’d like to raise a toast to the Bride and Groom. Now enjoy the day, and get yourself a drink at the bar!”

Speech CTA/CTT Tip:

Once you’ve stated your CTA/CTT, the only thing left to do is thank people and finish. Don’t be tempted to back-track and start repeating any of your points. It’s time to get off stage!

How to write a speech using this framework.

Without a framework to guide you, it’s easy to get lost in analysis-paralysis, or worse, create a speech which gets everyone ELSE lost. 

Now that you’re armed with this foolproof formula and know exactly how to write a speech, you can approach the situation with confidence . 

• Define your speeches Golden Thread.
• Hook your audience in the first 10-30 seconds.
• Introduce yourself while building credibility.
• Divide your body into three clear sections.
• Conclude your main points and drive-home the message.
• Leave them with an inspiring CTA/CTT.

Even as an inexperienced speaker, by following this formula you’ll come across with the clarity and credibility of a professional.

R emember, public speaking is simply a skillset that requires practice . The more you use this speech framework, watch other speakers in action, and gain practical experience, the more your communication skills will naturally develop. 

I hope learning how to write a speech using this frame-work makes the process of writing your next speech a breeze.

Need any further help with how to write a speech? Feel free to reach out.

Head Coach and co-founder at Project Charisma.

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How to Write a Speech to Engage your Audience

February 19, 2021 - Dom Barnard

In order to write a speech, you need to think about your audience, the required length, and the purpose or topic. This is true whether you are writing a wedding speech, conference presentation, investor pitch, or any other type of speech.

Being a great speech writer can help you get a promotion, motivate people, sell a business idea, persuade others and much more – it’s an essential skill in the modern world. In this article, we cover key tips for writing a speech.

Initial planning – Why? Who? What?

You should invest time strategically considering the speech. This will help you decide on the key message and content about your topic. Here are some points to consider.

• What do I want to achieve?
• When I achieve this, what will that do for me?
• Why am I speaking?
• What is the purpose of this speech?
• Who are the audience and who do they represent?
• Who do I represent?
• What do I know about them? (culture, language, level of expertise)
• How much influence do they have?
• What is the main message and key points?
• What specific action is implied?
• What level of information should I include?
• What is important to them?

Popular speech structure

You need to catch the audience attention early, very early (see section below). Deliver a memorable beginning, a clear middle and structured ending.

Popular speech structure:

• Explanation 1
• Explanation 2
• Explanation 3

Secondary Point (Optional: supports main)

Tertiary Point (Optional: supports secondary and main)

Attention span of your audience

Research shows that attention span is greatest at the beginning of a speech, reduces considerably during the middle of your speech and picks up again towards the end when your audience know you about to finish.

Don’t try to put too many ideas into your speech. Research shows that people remember very little from speeches, so just give them one or two ideas to hang onto.

These two articles explain audience attention span in more detail, and how to write a speech to extend it:

• How many minutes is the audience’s attention span?
• What to do when you’re losing your audience

Speech introduction

Make sure your opening few seconds are memorable as this is when your audience will make up their minds about you. Use a bold sentence to grab their attention, works best with numbers reinforcing your point.

An example sentence might be – “After this speech, I’m confident 50% of you will go out and buy a VR headset.” Follow these tips on how to write a speech intro:

Remember the INTRO model

This is more focused on presentations but sections can be applied broadly to other general speeches.

1. Interest

You: Introduce yourself confidently and clearly Audience: Why should I listen to you?

You: Remind the audience the reasons for this speech Audience: What’s in it for me?

You: State length of speech at beginning, “Over the next 15 minutes” Audience: How long until I can get a coffee?

4. Routemap

You: State the main points, “Today I’m going to cover 4 main points” Audience: Which sections of the speech are important to me?

5. Objectives

You: Clearly state the objective, “By the end of this speech, I would like to…” Audience: So that’s what you want from me today…

Example: Great speech opening

This speech opening is by Jamie Oliver, giving a TED talk on teaching every child about food.

Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead through the food that they eat. My name’s Jamie Oliver. I’m 34 years old. I’m from Essex in England and for the last seven years I’ve worked fairly tirelessly to save lives in my own way. I’m not a doctor; I’m a chef, I don’t have expensive equipment or medicine. I use information, education. I profoundly believe that the power of food has a primal place in our homes that binds us to the best bits of life. We have an awful, awful reality right now. America, you’re at the top of your game. This is one of the most unhealthy countries in the world.

How not to open your speech

Avoid the following opening comments:

• “ Apologies, I’m a little nervous about speaking ” – no need to make the audience aware of this, it will make them focus on how nervous you are instead of what you are saying
• “ I’ve got the graveyard shift ” – you are telling people not to expect much
• “ I’m what stands between you and lunch ” – even if people weren’t thinking it, after this comment, all they are thinking of is when will you finish so they can eat
• “ We are running late, so I’ll do my best to explain… ” – instead of this, state how long your speech will take so that people know when they will be leaving

Middle of the speech

The body of your speech is where the majority of the information is. The audience has been introduced to the subject and reasons for the speech. Now you need to present your arguments and examples, data, illustrations backing up your key message.

How to write a speech body can be difficult, the best way to build this section is to write down three points you are trying to convey in your speech, your main, secondary and tertiary points. Then write down three descriptions clarifying each of these points. The descriptions should be simple, memorable and meaningful.

The middle of your speech is where the audience start losing attention. Keep this in mind and ensure your message is clear. Use images, jokes and rhetoric questions to keep the audience engaged.

Don’t overwhelm your audience with many points. It is much more valuable to make a small number of points well, than to have too many points which aren’t made satisfactorily.

Obama and his speeches

Obama’s speeches are well prepared with a focus on powerful words “A change is brought about because ordinary people do extraordinary things“. His speeches use simple language and quotes from famous speeches his listeners can relate to.

For additional trademark Obama techniques, check out  How Barack Obama prepares his speeches.

How to end a speech

Similar to the opening, your closing statements should be impactful, re-stating the key message of your speech. We advise learning your ending few lines word for word. The ending is an opportunity to:

• Leave the audience with a lasting impression of your speech
• Summarise the main points
• Provide further ideas and discussion points for the audience to take away with them
• Thank the audience for taking the time to listen

Methods to end your speech

Quotation Close  – use a famous quote to get the audience’s attention and create a link to your speech.

Bookend Close  – refer back to an opening statement and repeat it or add a few extra words to elaborate on it.

Open Question  – ask the audience a provocative question or a call to action to perform some task on the back of your speech.

For additional tips on how to write a speech, in particular how to close your speech, read:

• 5 great ways to end a speech
• 10 ways to end your speech with a bang
• Presentations: language expert – signposting

Ideas for ending a speech

• Key message
• Refer to opening impact statement
• Objectives met
• Call to action
• End on an Up

Step-by-step process for writing a speech

Here’s how to write your speech from concept to completion.

• Outline your speech’s structure. What are the main ideas for each section?
• Write out the main ideas in your outline. Don’t worry about making it perfect – just write as much of it down as you can
• Edit and polish what you’ve written until you have a good first draft of your speech
• Now you need to practice and  memorize your speech . The more you practice, the more you’ll figure out which sections need changing. You’ll also get an idea of length and if you need to extend / shorten it.
• Update your speech, practice some more, and revise your speech until it has a great flow and you feel comfortable with it.

Classic speech transcripts

One of the best ways for learning how to write a speech is reading other well written ones. Here are a list of famous speeches to read and learn from:

• Bill Gates TED Talk Transcript from 2015: Warns of Pandemics, Epidemics
• Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg Commencement Speech at Harvard 2014
• Ronald Reagan Memorial Day Speech Transcript 1984
• I Have Been to the Mountaintop Speech Transcript – Martin Luther King Jr.

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Grow » thrive, 7 steps to writing a great speech.

These seven steps will help you write a memorable and effective speech.

If you’re preparing for a presentation, the work really begins when you sit down to write your speech. A great speech will engage the audience and can lead to greater personal and professional success. Here are seven steps to writing an effective speech.

Know what your core message is

When preparing to write a speech, you want to start by thinking about the core message you want to share. Your core message should be a topic you’re knowledgeable and passionate about and one that’s relevant to your audience.

The topic should be delivered in a way that’s easy to understand and concise. Ideally, your audience should be able to explain what the speech was about in just one or two sentences.

Think about your audience

Next, you want to learn as much as possible about your audience because this will inform how you deliver the speech. The language you use and the examples you share will depend on the audience you’re speaking to.

As you learn more about your audience, you want to consider the circumstances that brought them together. Are they gathering for a business conference, or is it for a charity event? How big will the audience be, and how knowledgeable are they about the subject you’re speaking on?

[Read more: How to Give a Great Presentation ]

Do your research

The amount of research you complete will depend on how familiar you are with your topic. But even if it’s a topic you know inside and out, it’s a good idea to do at least some research. This will help you gather new information and come up with unique and fresh ideas.

The amount of research you complete will depend on how familiar you are with your topic. But even if it’s a topic you know inside and out, it’s a good idea to do at least some research.

Come up with an outline

Now it’s time to organize your information and ideas into a detailed outline. Organizing your information will make it easier once it’s time to sit down and write the speech. Your outline should include three main parts:

• Introduction : The introduction sets the stage for the information you’ll be sharing. It’s a good idea to start with a story that will catch your audience’s attention. From there, you can outline what you’ll be sharing and the conclusion you’ll reach.
• Body : The body of your speech is where you’ll highlight the overarching points you’re trying to make. But be careful not to throw too much information at your audience — two to three main points are enough.
• Conclusion : During the conclusion, you’ll summarize your core message and what the audience should take away from the speech. Look for ways to end your speech on a strong note, so the audience understands why this topic matters and how they can take action.

Write a draft

Once you have an outline, you can begin drafting your speech. Don’t try to make your speech perfect during the drafting stage — just try to get your ideas on paper. You can come back to revise and improve your speech later.

Choose a presentation tool

If you’re speaking in a professional setting, you’ll likely want to compliment your speech with a presentation tool like PowerPoint. Using a slide deck is a great way to add a visual element to your speech that will further engage the audience. Using a template can make it easier to develop a well-designed slide deck.

[Read more: 6 Business Presentation Tools for Small Businesses ]

Practice and revise

Great speeches take time to write, so you should plan to practice and revise your speech as needed. You can practice your speech in front of a friend or family member, ask for their feedback, and then adjust your speech accordingly.

As you’re revising, focus on using conversational language and short sentences. Look for any areas that are too general or vague, and try to come up with specific examples that will back up your core message.

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How to Write a Speech in Just a Few Simple Steps

In fact, once you understand the concepts below, you can use our Online Speech Writer to organize and print your presentation. A little warning, though, the process is very simple if you follow every step . If you skip a step, you can get bogged down, and the process can take a lot of time. However, if you follow the steps, you can write an effective speech in just a few minutes (versus hours or days)!

This post is the second in a series designed to help people create a perfect speech from scratch. Last week, I gave you a few ways to start a speech . Next week, I will show you how to end a speech . We will also cover a few unique types of presentations in future posts such as writing a eulogy . We will cover a few other types of speeches that are common such as a wedding speech , a persuasive speech , and a graduation speech.

A Few Concepts You Need to Know Before Writing a Speech.

Remember that if you want to hold your audience’s attention, less is more . Short is better than long. No one ever said, “That meeting was so good, I wish everyone would have spoken longer.” So, a few concepts (bullet points) covered really well is much better than a bunch of stuff covered in a cursory way. Another great tip is that writing a presentation word-for-word and then trying to memorize your entire speech is hard. To make this writing process easier, people will often use note cards and try to practice in front of the mirror. This often will just make you more nervous. Instead, create a presentation outline and use literary devices to add “meat to the content.” For instance, examples and stories are fantastic reinforcement for your points or concepts. You can also use analogies, quotes, and visual aids to prove your points.

When you do practice, practice in front of an audience. Live audiences will let you practice making eye contact and make sure you are using proper body language when you present. A run-through in front of real people will also help you fit your speech into the proper time limit.

For additional details, see Create a Persuasive Speech Outline .

How to Write a Good Speech in Just a Few Simple Steps

Step #1: narrow down your topic first, and your speech writing will be faster and easier..

So, the first thing you want to do is narrow down your topic. An easy way to do this is to use the five W’s from journalism: Who, What, When, Where, Why?

An Example of Using the Who, What, When, Where, Why Technique.

For instance, let’s say that I am giving a work presentation about our company financials last quarter. The who is the company. The when is last quarter. If I narrow down the where, I might want to focus on just the Midwest Region. So, now I have to ask, “What exactly happened with our company offices in the Midwest Region last quarter?”

Well. sales increased more in that region than anywhere else. The final question is, “Why?” Why was this region different from the other regions? They hired a new regional sales manager. She and her team focused on repeat business from past customers. After finding answers to each of these questions, I can create a much more narrow and focused title. Financials from Last Quarter Becomes… A Focus on Generating Repeat Business from Past Customers in the Midwest Region Generated a Sharp Increase in Revenue Last Quarter. If you have trouble narrowing down the focus of your topic, make sure to focus on the WHY? Why would your audience care about the topic that you are presenting? Why should they pay attention to you? If you can add the answers to these questions into your title, your presentation will be more narrow and interesting to your audience.

Step #2: Create a Speech Outline Out of Your Main Ideas.

Keep listing these important points until you have five to ten of them. Then, rank them from the most important idea to the least important. The process here is to brainstorm possible concepts or different points to cover, and then sort them from most important to least important.

By the way, you won’t be able to effectively cover ALL of the points that you brainstormed. You will only want to cover three, four, or five of these items. That is why you want to sort them by importance. If you can only cover a few points, why not cover the most important?

The number of items that you cover will be determined by the required length of time that you have to speak. A good rule of thumb is to cover one item or bullet for every seven to 10 minutes that you have to speak. However, you definitely want to limit your bullets to just five per sitting. For a short speech (less than 20 minutes,) three points is a good number. If you have 45 to 50 minutes, you probably want to cover five bullet points.

Pro Tip! Go through the same process of determining the “Why?” for each of your bullet points. This will make your entire presentation something that the audience will want to pay attention to. Just read each of your bullets and ask, “Why does my audience need to know this?” Whatever the answer is, add that why to the statement that you made in the bullet point.

Now that you have your topic and your three to five bullet points, you have a great presentation outline. You can also use this outline as your slide or visual aid.

Step #3: Insert “Impact Ideas” to Add Content to Your Presentation.

Instead, use what we call a Presentation Impact Idea to better explain each bullet point. Pretend that your audience members are a jury. The bullet points are the statements that you are trying to prove. And the “Impact Ideas” are the pieces of evidence that prove that each statement is true. Below are some of my favorite items, but anything that answers the question, “How can I prove this bullet point to my audience?” will do.

• Add a Personal Story or Example : Relay a quick story that occurred to actual people. These stories are solid proof that what you are saying is true because it happened before. The funny thing about stories is that most presenters avoid stories like the plague. But professional speakers use almost nothing but great stories to make their points. (That is why most speakers are boring and most professional speakers are interesting.) Going back to the jury analogy, a story about a personal experience is like an eye-witness testifying in court.
• Quotes : A simple quote from an expert that you can remember will add a lot of credibility to your speech. By inserting a quote, you are borrowing credibility from another expert. To continue with the jury analogy, this is like bringing in an expert witness.
• Analogy : After you have used a quote from an expert or a story to verify that your bullet point is true, adding an analogy can add flavor to your presentation and make your points memorable. If you recall from literature class, an analogy is a comparison. You can use these to compare a point that you are trying to explain to something that the audience can better relate to. (Like comparing a presentation to a jury trial.) For additional information, visit the post about how to insert analogies into presentations .

You may also like How to Design and Deliver a Memorable Speech .

If You Really Want to Learn to Write an Amazing Speech, Register for a Class

Obviously, this is a very abbreviated version of our turn-key process to help people design speeches. If you want a complete guide to designing and delivering presentations or need help preparing your final draft, you have a couple of options. You can purchase access to our Online Public Speaking Course for a do-it-yourself type of process. Or you can register for a seat in our in-person public speaking training sessions if you want access to a personal presentation coach. Remember that the Online Course is also included in the tuition for our presentation classes, so if you attend a class, you get lifetime access to the online course.

For additional help, make sure to visit our 101 presentation tips blog post.

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Writing a persuasive speech

By:  Susan Dugdale   | Last modified: 04-24-2023

Getting started with a 7 point action plan

To help you through the process of writing a persuasive speech from beginning to end, here's a 7 step checklist.

To get the most from it move through it sequentially - point by point.  You'll find links to topic suggestion pages, explanations about how to structure your speech and the importance of audience analysis with examples and more.

In my experience, a successful persuasive speech can't be flicked out in five minutes! There may be brilliantly competent speakers who can do it if they know their subject, and their audience inside out. However the rest of us, me included, have to put the time in to achieve what we want to. ☺

Quick links to get around this page easily

Checklist for writing a persuasive speech

1. Selecting a persuasive speech topic

If you've already got a speech topic move on to setting a goal . For those who don't, read on.

A major part of the challenge of writing a persuasive speech can be choosing what to speak about.

If you're preparing the speech as part of a class exercise or for a public speaking club like Toastmasters you have seemingly unlimited choice. And that can be bewildering! The possibilities are vast. How do you narrow them down?

The answer is to choose something that you genuinely care about, fits the occasion AND that you know your audience will be interested in.

Speech topic suggestions to explore

• 100  Persuasive speech ideas
• 50  Good persuasive speech topics
• 105  Fun persuasive speech topics
• 309  'Easy' persuasive speech topics
• 310 Persuasive speech topics for college
• 108 Feminist persuasive speech topics

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2. Setting a goal

The goal of writing a persuasive speech is to change or move the audience toward accepting your position on the topic.  An essential part of that is knowing exactly what it is you want to achieve.

There are degrees of change. Do you want a little, or a lot?

Most wanted response or MWR

What you decide is called your  most wanted response  or MWR.

A realistic MWR is reached through analysis of your audience in relation to your topic.

Example: My topic is "obesity in children".

Audience - who are they.

I am speaking to mothers whose children all attend the same kindergarten.

The staff are concerned about the number of children who are over weight for their age.

The children mostly come from homes where both parents work.

Current food habits as reported by kindergarten staff

Food is bought already made up for a variety of reasons including time saving, convenience, and a lack of knowledge about how to prepare it any other way.

'Treat' food (sweets, cake etc.) is also used to pacify and/or to reinforce good behavior.

Fussy or picky eating is allowed principally because the effort and time required to change already established patterns is difficult to find.

The problem is compounded by lack of exercise.

Most Wanted Response (MWR) options

In setting the goal (MWR) for the speech I need to decide what approach will achieve the best results.

Do I want to influence the mothers to open their minds to the idea that allowing a child to establish habitual unhealthy eating patterns is detrimental to their children's growth and development?

Or do I want them to stop using treat and pre-prepared foods immediately and only offer home cooked healthy options instead?

The first approach is softly-softly. The second is direct or hard hitting.

3. Audience analysis

Who is your audience.

How you persuade, and your MWR (goal) is most effectively established when you understand who you are talking to.

In relation to the topic you're going to speak about are they:

• Hostile - actively don't want to hear what you have to say for many reasons which may include prejudice, fear, ignorance, inertia, cultural difference, differing values/beliefs ...
• Neutral - no decided opinion or beliefs and therefore no investment toward maintaining the current state or moving toward a new one. This is the middle ground.
• Motivated - actively seeking to change. These people are already aware of the 'problem' and are looking for solutions. They want to hear what you have to tell them and are likely to be ready to be convinced of the rightness of your solution.

What else do you need to know?

Aside from their anticipated baseline attitude, (hostile, neutral, motivated), toward your speech topic, what else would be useful to know about your audience?

Find out their:

• General Age
• Shared fears, concerns or problems
• Cultural background(s)
• Shared interests, beliefs, values, goals, hopes, desires
• What obstacles there are to adopting the change you desire

The more you can find out, the more you can tailor writing a persuasive speech (including tone and language choice), and your MWR to fit.

For instance, going back to the obesity in children example above, we could decide,  given what we've found out about the audience, the hard-hitting approach would generate too many obstacles to overcome.

Therefore we will be writing a persuasive speech with a non-threatening MWR that has mothers accepting a pamphlet on children's healthy snack choices to take home.

4. Keep it local

Where possible draw your examples from local material. The reason is we are more likely to care or respond when we actively know who or what is involved firsthand. We identify, and the more we identify, the more invested we are in finding a solution. The situation becomes real to us and we care.

5. Evidence and empathy

An essential part of putting together a good persuasive speech is finding credible evidence to support your argument.

Seek out reputable, reliable, quotable sources to back the points you make. Without them your speech will fail its purpose.

Persuasion is a synthesis of emotional as well as intellectual appeal.

Emotional content will be dismissed unless it is properly backed. Conversely purely intellectual content will be dismissed if it lacks empathy or feeling. You need both - in equal measure.

6. Balance and obstacles

Seek out and address the opposition's arguments, or obstacles in the path of adopting your course of action, fairly and respectfully. Find the elements you share. Openly acknowledge and be clear about them. This builds credibility and trust and as a result your points of departure are more likely to be listened to.

7. Choosing a structural pattern

Once you've decided your topic and its angle, done your audience analysis, fixed what you want to achieve (MWR), researched for evidence, and addressed the obstacles, you're finally ready to begin writing.

What pattern or model will you use?

There is more than one.

Have a look at each of the four below to see which best suits your topic, speech purpose and audience.

1) Monroe's Motivated Sequence

This is a tried and tested model developed in the 1930's by Allan H Monroe. Monroe's Motivated Sequence follows the normal mind-flow or thought sequence someone goes through when someone else is persuading them to do something.

It's a pattern used over and over again by the professional persuaders:  marketers, advertisers, politicians ...

Monroe's Motivated Sequence in action

You can find out more about the five steps involved in writing a persuasive speech using  Monroe's Motivated Sequence  here. There's an explanation with examples of each step, and a printable blank outline template to download.

There's also an  example persuasive speech  to read that uses the method.

2) Problem/Solution

This is a two step pattern. The first part outlines/explains the problem and the second provides the solution which includes meeting the obstacles and giving evidence.

3) Comparison

In this pattern the method is to compare an item/object/idea/action against another similar item/object/idea/action and establish why the item/object/idea/action you are supporting is superior.

Example: Why a SBI website is better than a Wordpress site if you want to build an online business

• Reason One Wordpress primarily is a blogging platform and blogging is not a business model
• Reason Two Wordpress does not supply fully integrated step-by-step instructions to build a sustainable e-business
• Reason Three Wordpress does not provide its users with constant and fully tested upgrades/updating

With each comparison point compelling, relevant evidence is provided and obstacles are met.

(If you're curious check out the SBI v Wordpress comparison. There are many more than three reasons why SBI is the preferred online business platform! Wordpress or SBI? And these days you can actually have both through SBI.)

4) Using the negative to persuade

In this model the reasons why you are against the opposition of your chosen topic are highlighted.

Example: The topic is Teenage Binge Drinking and the angle is to persuade parents to take more control

• Leads to anti-social behavior - for example, mindless vandalism, drunk-driving, and unprotected sex 
• Impacts on growing brains - an overview of current research
• Has implications for developing addictions - alcoholism, nicotine ...

Each negative reason is backed with evidence. One piles on top the other creating an urgency to solve the problem. Your positive solution coming at the end of the speech clinches the argument.

More speech resources

For more about the processes involved in writing a successful speech check these pages:

• Using storytelling effectively

For more about delivering your persuasive speech persuasively please don't overlook these pages. They are gold! Writing is a only part of the process. How you deliver completes it.

• How to rehearse
• Using vocal variety
• Return to the top of the page  

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How To Write A Speech To Persuade People

Speech writing is not an easy job and even professionals sometimes don’t know how to write a speech. You might be thinking about how to write a graduation speech after your Ph.D. defense or how to write a speech about yourself, maybe even how to write a valedictorian speech, or you have a different topic in mind.

Speeches are meant to be spoken but it is better to get yourself prepared for the speech. The reason is that speeches create an impact, for example, you are a politician and you want to address your nation before upcoming elections. It is better that you prepare a speech before addressing them so that you don’t forget any important point, or might accidentally say something which you didn’t mean. To write it, you need to know how to write a persuasive speech or master political speech writing. In this article, you will learn tips and tricks on how to write a speech.

How To Write A Speech?

The first step for “how to write a good speech” is to make a list. The list will contain all the important elements that you need to mention in your speech. It is a great tool to use so that you don’t forget the points while writing your speech. Now you must be wondering how to write a speech outline or how to write an outline for a speech.

How To Write A Speech Outline? Preparation Basics

Writing a speech outline is easy. All you need to do is to grab a paper and think about what you want to talk about. You need to make points before you start writing a speech. The outline doesn’t end with an introduction, main points, and conclusion. You need to mention other things such as examples, evidence, etc.

TIP: You should always remember that you can refine your outline later. It is better to add all the information that seems legitimate which can make your speech stronger.

Furthermore, you need to brainstorm some juicy facts as well. These facts can boost your speech. In other words, outlining is rough work for your speech.

Carrying Out Research

Once you’ve noted all the important points, facts, and evidence, now you should move to the next step which is researching. You might have a strong command of the subject for which you will write a speech but it is still better if you research out things. Through research, you will find facts, evidence, and examples as well.

You can gather the research materials from books, research papers, and even if you search on the Internet, you will find plenty of materials and proofreading services that will help you to construct an amazing speech.

Writing Process

Let’s just say that you will be giving a speech at a wedding or on a funeral of your loved one, and you don’t know a spoken word. Don’t worry, you just need to follow these points. In the case of a funeral or wedding, people are way busy with their things and if your speech isn’t well-constructed then people will either yawn, weep (because of the funeral), or just laugh out. You need to grab the audience’s attention.

The opening line is the most important part of the speech. It will tell either your speech sounds amazing or it is just another boring speech. Now you don’t need to search for “how to write a wedding speech” or “how to write a funeral speech”.

• Crafting the Introduction

Now you have started your speech, you should first focus on the introduction. The introduction of your speech neither is too long or too short. Just give a small introduction to your topic and get forward to your main reasons. Remember! The introduction is just like an appetizer, if the listeners didn’t like your introduction then most probably, they will stop listening to you.

Let’s take an example that you are writing a speech on Alzheimer’s research. You should focus on telling your audience how common is Alzheimer’s disease and how it can affect people. You can come up with a combination of an anecdote and statistics as well.

TIP: Make sure that your introduction should be less than 1 paragraph. This will make sure that you don’t spend much time on the background.

• The Meat of the Speech

Now the main part has begun which is the main meal of the speech. Remember that outline of speech? Here it will help you a lot to remember all the points. Moreover, you need to connect your background with your topic. It is very important because if your topic might not seem as relevant to your audience then they are most likely to leave.

Ensure that all points are clear and offer evidence, statistics, facts, and additional information. They should be in a logical order because reshuffling sometimes might confuse the audience.

• Bring up new topics and conclude the material that you have already covered

You might have noticed in your outline that some points are pretty much lengthy and not too important. Those points will consume a lot of time. Remember rule no.1 of speech! Don’t waste your and your audience’s time! What you can do is provide a brief 1 to 2 sentences overview and then summarize the material in a few sentences after you are done explaining it.

In case it is important, try to find an alternative way to make it short. When you are giving brief information, make sure that the audience understands it otherwise it will be a waste of your energy.

• Transitions are the key to success

The transition will make it your readers or listeners easy to understand your speech. It will create a path where all the points will be connected. You might not notice a transition in a speech but without transition, the speech will seem choppy and awkward.

• End with a smile

Once you think that all points have been delivered now it’s time to end it. By the end, if you wrote an amazing speech then your audience will be excited by your speech and ready to act. You should encourage them to research your topic more and also participate in your act of solution.

Amazing Points to Make Your Speech More Engaging

Following are some speech writing tips.

KISS means Keep It Short and Simple. Instead of using long sentences, break your sentences into small sentences. It is better at reading a hundred sentences rather than a huge sentence. Long sentences can be, sometimes, confusing.

• Noun Over Pronoun

You can use pronouns a few times because it helps in avoiding repeating. However, multiple uses of pronouns can change the track of what you are talking about. Instead, you can use a noun whenever possible.

• Repeat Word Or Phrase Few Times

Repetition is a very powerful tool in speech writing format. It can make your speech engaging as well as can make a distraction.

• Use Of Appropriate Tone

Don’t forget that you are talking to the whole world. Your tone will show how much serious or upbeat, humorous or urgent. Your word choice will be the tone of your speech.

Either you want to know how to write a motivational speech or how to write a commencement speech, now you know all the important points which will help you to construct an amazing speech. All you need to do is practice it a lot. Keep all the speech writing tips in your mind while practicing.

Do you know you can earn from writing speeches as well? You can provide speech writing services as a full-time worker or freelancer! There are many speeches writing jobs available, all you need to do is grab the golden bird and start earning.

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How to Start a Speech That Captivates Your Audience

• The Speaker Lab
• June 25, 2024

Table of Contents

Starting a speech can be nerve-wracking. In a matter of seconds, you have to grab your audience’s attention and set the tone for what’s to come. So how do you kick things off with impact? Whether you’re addressing CEOs, entrepreneurs, or students, nailing the opening is crucial. In this article, we’re diving into practical tips on how to start a speech that captivates your listeners right from the get-go.

You might think it’s all about having an amazing hook or dazzling them with stats. While those help, there’s more at play here—like understanding your audience’s needs and aligning your message accordingly. That’s why we’re going to explore various techniques—from sharing personal anecdotes to asking thought-provoking questions—to make sure you hit it out of the park every time you step up to speak.

1. Understand Your Audience and Purpose

When preparing a speech, it’s crucial to identify your target audience. Consider factors such as age, background, interests, and expectations. Understanding your audience helps you tailor your message and connect with them effectively.

In addition to identifying your audience, you’ll also need to clearly define the purpose of your speech. Are you aiming to inform, persuade, inspire, or entertain? Having a clear purpose guides your content and helps you stay focused throughout your speech.

Identifying Your Target Audience

To identify your target audience, ask yourself questions like:

• Who will be attending your speech?
• What are their demographics (age, gender, profession, etc.)?
• What are their interests and expectations?
• What is their level of knowledge on the topic?

Answering these questions will give you a better understanding of your audience, allowing you to craft a message that resonates with them.

Determining the Purpose of Your Speech

Your speech’s purpose should be clear from the outset. Are you trying to:

• Inform your audience about a specific topic?
• Persuade them to take a particular action or adopt a certain viewpoint?
• Inspire them with a motivational message ?
• Entertain them with humor or storytelling?

Knowing your purpose helps you select relevant content and structure your speech effectively.

Tailoring Your Message to Your Audience

Once you understand your audience and purpose, tailor your message accordingly. Use language, examples, and anecdotes that resonate with your audience. Consider their knowledge level and adapt your content to ensure clarity and engagement.

For example, if you’re speaking to a group of experts in your field, you can use industry jargon and dive deeper into technical aspects. However, if your audience is more general, it’s essential to break down complex concepts and use relatable examples.

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2. Craft a Strong Opening

Your opening sets the tone for your entire speech. Accordingly, aim to create a memorable first impression that captures your audience’s attention and makes them eager to hear more. Use strong body language, maintain eye contact, and speak with confidence to establish a positive connection with your listeners.

Types of Attention-grabbing Openers

There are various types of attention-grabbing openers you can use to start your speech. For instance, you could

• Ask a thought-provoking question
• Share a surprising fact or statistic
• Tell a relevant story or anecdote
• Use a powerful quote
• Present a bold statement or challenge

Whether you go with a question or a statistic, ensure your opener that aligns with your topic and engages your audience from the start.

Creating a Memorable First Impression

As any speaker knows, your first few seconds on stage are critical. In order to create a memorable first impression,

• Dress appropriately for your audience and the event
• Walk confidently to the stage or podium
• Smile and make eye contact with your audience
• Use a strong, clear voice
• Begin with a pause to gather your thoughts and command attention

Remember, your nonverbal communication is just as important as your words in creating a positive first impression.

Engaging Your Audience from the Start

Engaging your audience from the very beginning may sound easier said than done, but it is possible! Use techniques like addressing the audience directly, asking for a show of hands, or encouraging them to imagine a scenario. By involving your audience early on, you create an interactive atmosphere and keep them invested in your message.

For example, you could start with a question like, “Have you ever faced a challenge that seemed insurmountable at first?” This prompts your audience to reflect on their own experiences and establishes a personal connection with your topic.

Remember, a strong opening is your opportunity to capture your audience’s attention and set the stage for a powerful and engaging speech. By understanding your audience, crafting a memorable first impression, and using attention-grabbing techniques, you’ll be well on your way to delivering a speech that resonates with your listeners.

3. Use a Relevant Anecdote or Story

When you’re up on stage, ready to deliver your speech, you want to capture your audience’s attention right from the start. One of the most effective ways to do that is by sharing a relevant anecdote or story. Of course, when you start your speech with a story, it can’t just be about anything. Rather, ensure that your opening anecdote is relevant, concise, and ties in with your main message.

Choosing a Relevant Story

The key to using an anecdote effectively is to choose one that’s relevant to your topic and resonates with your audience. It could be a personal experience, a client success story, or even a hypothetical scenario that illustrates your point.

For instance, if you’re speaking about persistence, lean on personal stories. Describe a time when you encountered an obstacle, but found a way around it through hard work and perseverance. This type of story not only engages your audience but also boosts your speaker credibility , demonstrating that you actually have experience overcoming obstacles, not just talking about them.

Keeping Your Anecdote Concise

While stories can be powerful, it’s important to keep them concise. Remember, your anecdote should serve as an introduction to your main message, but if the story goes on for too long it will overshadow your main message instead. Aim to capture the essence of your story in just a few sentences, focusing on the key details that support your point.

If you ramble on too long, you also risk losing your audience’s attention. Think of your anecdote as a teaser that leaves your audience wanting more. Keep it short, sweet, and to the point.

Tying Your Story to Your Main Message

Once you’ve shared your anecdote, it’s crucial to tie it back to your main message. Explain how the story relates to your topic and what lessons or insights your audience can take away from it.

Let’s go back to our perseverance example. After sharing your personal story, you might say something like, “Just like in my own journey, each of us will face challenges on the path to success. But if we stay focused on our goals and refuse to give up, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way.”

By connecting your anecdote to your core message, you reinforce your point and make it more memorable for your audience.

4. Ask a Thought-Provoking Question

Another great way to kick off your speech is by asking a thought-provoking question. When you pose a question to your audience, you invite them to engage with your topic on a deeper level. Not only does it get their wheels turning, but it also encourages them to think critically about the subject at hand.

Crafting an Effective Question

To make your question effective, it should be open-ended and encourage reflection. Avoid yes-or-no questions, and instead, ask something that prompts your audience to consider different perspectives or challenge their assumptions.

For instance, if you’re speaking about the importance of work-life balance, you might ask, “What would your life look like if you prioritized your well-being as much as your career?” This question invites your audience to imagine a different reality and consider the benefits of making a change.

Encouraging Audience Participation

Asking a question is also a great way to encourage audience participation. You can ask your audience to raise their hands, share their thoughts with a neighbor, or even invite a few brave volunteers to share their responses out loud.

When you involve your audience in your speech, you create a more dynamic and engaging experience. It helps break the ice and establishes a sense of connection between you and your listeners.

Using Rhetorical Questions Strategically

In addition to asking questions that invite a response, you can also use rhetorical questions strategically throughout your speech. These are questions that don’t necessarily require an answer, but serve to emphasize a point or encourage further reflection.

For example, you might say something like, “Can we really afford to ignore this problem any longer?” This question isn’t meant to be answered directly, but rather to underscore the urgency of the issue and encourage your audience to consider the consequences of inaction.

By peppering your speech with thought-provoking questions, you keep your audience engaged and encourage them to think more deeply about your message.

Whether you choose to start with an anecdote or a question, the key is to select an opening that resonates with your audience and sets the stage for the rest of your speech. So take some time to brainstorm different options and see what feels most authentic and impactful to you. With a little creativity and practice, you’ll be able to craft an opening that truly captivates your audience from the very first moment.

5. State a Surprising Fact or Statistic

When you’re crafting your speech, one of the most powerful ways to grab your audience’s attention right from the start is by sharing a surprising fact or statistic. However, it can’t just be any old statistic. It needs to be something that’s truly shocking, attention-grabbing, and most importantly, credible.

So where do you find these golden nuggets of information? It all starts with research. While it’s tempting just to Google a few keywords, push yourself to take this step seriously. Dig deep and find reputable sources like academic journals, government databases, or well-respected organizations in your field. These are the places where you’ll uncover the most impactful and trustworthy facts and statistics.

Selecting Impactful Facts or Statistics

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to sift through all that information and select the facts or statistics that will really make your audience sit up and take notice. Look for data points that challenge common assumptions or reveal something unexpected about your topic.

For example, let’s say you’re giving a speech about the importance of employee engagement. You could start with a statistic like this: “According to a Gallup study , only 23% of employees worldwide are actively engaged in their jobs.” That’s a pretty startling number, and it immediately sets the stage for why your topic matters.

Contextualizing Your Chosen Fact or Statistic

Of course, you can’t just drop a shocking statistic and move on. Once you’ve shared the statistic, you need to provide context and explain why it matters. In the employee engagement example, you might follow up by saying something like, “Think about that for a moment. 77% of the global workforce is either not engaged or actively disengaged. That means they’re just going through the motions, or worse, they’re actively undermining their company’s success. As leaders, we have a responsibility to change that.”

By providing context and explaining the implications of your chosen fact or statistic, you help your audience understand its significance and connect it to your broader message. That’s what makes it such a powerful tool for grabbing attention and setting the stage for a memorable speech.

6. Use a Powerful Quote

Another way to start your speech with a bang is by using a powerful quote. A well-chosen quote can add credibility to your message, inspire your audience, and set the tone for the rest of your presentation. But just like with facts and statistics, not just any quote will do.

Finding Relevant and Impactful Quotes

The key to using quotes effectively is to find ones that are both relevant to your topic and impactful in their own right. Look for quotes from respected figures in your industry, thought leaders, or even historical figures whose words have stood the test of time.

For instance, if you’re giving a speech about leadership, you might start with a quote like this one from John Maxwell: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” That quote perfectly encapsulates what leadership is all about, and it comes from someone who is widely recognized as an authority on the subject.

Attributing Quotes Correctly

Of course, whenever you use a quote in your speech, it’s important to attribute it correctly. That means mentioning the person’s name and their credentials or background, if relevant. This not only gives credit where it’s due but also adds weight and credibility to the quote itself.

So in the John Maxwell example, you might say something like, “As leadership expert and bestselling author John Maxwell once said, ‘A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.'”

Explaining the Significance of Your Chosen Quote

Finally, just like with facts and statistics, you need to explain why your chosen quote matters and how it relates to your overall message. Don’t just drop the quote and move on—take a moment to unpack its meaning and significance.

For the John Maxwell quote, you might follow up by saying, “Think about that for a moment. True leadership isn’t just about having a vision or giving orders. It’s about walking the walk and leading by example. It’s about inspiring and guiding others to follow your lead. And that’s exactly what I want to talk to you about today.”

By choosing a relevant and impactful quote, attributing it correctly, and explaining its significance, you can use the power of other people’s words to elevate your own message and connect with your audience on a deeper level. So don’t be afraid to let someone else’s wisdom shine—it just might be the perfect way to start your next speech.

7. Employ Humor or Wit

When it comes to giving a speech, humor is one surefire way to engage your audience and keep them entertained. But before you start cracking jokes, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Understanding Your Audience’s Sense of Humor

For one thing, you need to understand your audience’s sense of humor. What might have your college buddies laughing might not land so well with a room full of corporate executives. It’s all about knowing your crowd and tailoring your humor accordingly. So whether you’re a seasoned speaker or new to the speaking game, always do your homework on who you’ll be speaking to.

Keeping Humor Appropriate and Tasteful

Another key aspect is keeping your humor appropriate and tasteful. You want to avoid anything that could be seen as offensive or insensitive. Stick to lighthearted jokes that avoid making anyone feel uncomfortable. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.

Balancing Humor with Your Main Message

Finally, it’s important to strike a balance between humor and your main message. While a well-placed joke can do wonders for keeping your audience engaged, you don’t want it to overshadow the purpose of your speech. Use humor as a tool to enhance your points, not as a crutch to lean on.

One great example of this is Sir Ken Robinson’s famous TED Talk . In his presentation, Robinson masterfully weaves in humorous anecdotes and witty observations throughout his talk, but never loses sight of his central theme about creativity in education. It’s a perfect balance of entertainment and substance.

The bottom line? When used effectively, humor can be a powerful way to connect with your audience and make your message stick. Just remember to keep it appropriate, know your audience, and use it to complement—not overshadow—your main points.

8. Pose a Problem or Challenge

Another way to grab your audience’s attention right from the start is by posing a problem or challenge. It immediately gets them thinking and invested in what you have to say. But how do you go about identifying and presenting that problem effectively? Let’s break it down.

Identifying a Relevant Problem or Challenge

The key to this particular strategy is relevance. You want to choose a problem or challenge that your audience can relate to and feel a sense of urgency around. It could be something they’re currently facing in their industry, a common pain point, or even a broader societal issue.

For example, let’s say you’re giving a speech to a group of small business owners. You might start by saying something like, “Raise your hand if you’ve ever struggled to keep up with the constantly changing landscape of digital marketing.” Chances are, most hands will shoot up, and you’ve immediately got their attention.

Presenting the Problem Clearly and Concisely

Once you’ve identified your problem, it’s crucial to present it in a way that’s clear, concise, and easy to understand. Avoid jargon or technical terms that might go over people’s heads. Instead, use plain language and concrete examples to illustrate the issue at hand.

Hinting at Potential Solutions or Your Speech’s Purpose

After you’ve laid out the problem, it’s time to give your audience a glimpse of what’s to come. Hint at potential solutions or the overall purpose of your speech. This creates a sense of anticipation and keeps them engaged, wondering how you’ll address the challenge you’ve presented.

You might say something like, “Today, I’m going to share with you three strategies for overcoming this obstacle and taking your business to the next level.” Or, “In the next 30 minutes, we’ll explore how this issue is impacting our community and what steps we can take to create meaningful change.”

By posing a problem or challenge right from the start, you set the stage for a compelling and impactful speech. Just remember to keep it relevant, clear, and forward-looking. Do that, and you’ll have your audience hooked from the very first sentence.

9. Practice and Refine Your Opening

You’ve crafted a strong opening that captures attention and sets the stage for your presentation. But even the most brilliant opening falls flat without practice and refinement. The key to delivering a powerful opening with confidence is repetition. It’s not enough to write it down and call it a day. You need to rehearse your opening until it becomes second nature.

Rehearsing Your Opening Repeatedly

Just like any skill, nailing the opening of your speech takes practice before you can master it. Set aside dedicated time to practice your opening. Stand in front of a mirror, record yourself, or grab a friend to listen. The more you rehearse, the more natural and engaging your delivery will become.

Seeking Feedback from Others

Practicing on your own is great, but getting feedback from others can take your opening to the next level. Share your opening with colleagues, friends, or family members who will give you honest and constructive feedback.

Ask them questions like: Did my opening grab your attention? Was it clear what my presentation is about? Did I seem confident and credible? Their insights can help you refine your content and delivery.

Making Adjustments Based on Feedback and Self-reflection

Once you’ve received feedback and reflected on your own performance, it’s time to make adjustments. Don’t be afraid to tweak your opening based on what you’ve learned. Maybe you need to cut out a sentence that doesn’t land or add a pause for emphasis.

The beauty of practicing and refining your opening is that it’s an ongoing process. Even the most seasoned speakers continue to improve and adapt their openings over time. So embrace the journey and watch as your opening becomes stronger and more impactful with each iteration. By investing time and effort into practicing and refining yours, you’ll be well on your way to captivating your audience from the very first word.

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FAQs on How to Start a Speech

How do you start a speech.

To kick off your speech, start with a bang: ask a thought-provoking question, share an intriguing fact, or tell a compelling story. This grabs attention and sets the stage.

What is a good line to start a speech?

“Let me tell you about the time…” works well for many speakers. It promises an interesting story and instantly draws listeners in.

What is a good intro for starting a speech?

A solid intro hooks your audience right away. Combine humor with curiosity or drop in an unexpected statistic to keep them on their toes.

What is the best word to start a speech?

“Imagine” opens up endless possibilities. It invites listeners into your world, setting up for engaging storytelling or powerful points ahead.

The beginning of any speech sets the stage for everything else you’ll say. It’s where you capture interest and build connection. Accordingly, investing time and energy into your introduction is well worth it. Whether you go with an engaging story or a surprising fact, you have the power to make your introduction unforgettable. And remember—it’s not just about what you say but also how confidently you deliver it.

• Last Updated: June 21, 2024

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How to start a speech: step-by-step guide

Jun 12, 2024

Posted by: Regine Fe Arat

Knowing how to start a speech is a valuable skill that can help you deliver engaging content. A strong opening statement can improve the odds of grabbing the audience’s attention and them connecting with your overall message.

Regardless of the topic, knowing how to start a speech effectively can directly impact the overall tone of your presentation. This guide will show you the dos and don’ts for starting a speech and provide some useful tips and tricks.

Why do you need to know how to start a speech well?

The beginning of a speech serves as the foundation for effective communication. Here’s why:

• Captures attention: most audiences only listen intently for 15 to 20 minutes, so the opening moments are crucial for grabbing their interest and ensuring they remain engaged.
• Establishes connection: it offers the opportunity to connect with the audience on a personal level, making them feel valued and invested in the message.
• Sets tone and expectations: the beginning sets the tone for the rest of the speech, signaling whether it will be formal, casual, serious or light-hearted. It also outlines what listeners can expect to learn from the presentation.
• Builds credibility: a strong opening establishes your credibility as the speaker and expertise on the topic. It’s how you earn the audience’s trust and respect.
• Creates anticipation: the beginning creates anticipation and curiosity among listeners by testing the main points or highlighting intriguing aspects of the topic.
• Provides context: it offers an opportunity to provide context or background information, ensuring that the audience understands the topic’s significance.

Being charismatic and engaging from the beginning will increase the odds of an audience hearing and comprehending what you are sharing. As the speaker, you need to find the strategy you feel comfortable with to engage the audience.

How to prepare for your speech

Preparing to write a speech requires careful planning and consideration to ensure your message resonates with your audience. From defining your purpose and audience to organizing your ideas and crafting a compelling narrative, each step is crucial for delivering a memorable and impactful speech.

Determine your objective

Start by clarifying the purpose: inform, persuade, entertain, or inspire? This will set the tone and ensure your speech resonates.

Understanding your objective guides content and structure, keeping you focused on your goal throughout the writing process. It also helps you choose the appropriate tone, language and supporting materials for maximum impact.

After you have given your speech, you can reflect on your original objective and assess your success. This is a useful tool for ensuring you meet your intended outcome and enables you to make adjustments for future speeches.

Know your audience members

Knowing your audience and understanding what your participants hope to gain from your speech can prove invaluable. If an audience finds your topic irrelevant from the start, it will be hard to win them back. They might find it difficult to remain interested, likely switching off or thinking about something else.

Understanding your audience can make all the difference. Directing your content toward the interests and needs of the audience will make it easier to keep them actively engaged and focused on your topic.

12 tips for starting a speech and keeping your audience engaged

Follow these tips to kickstart your speech in the best possible way.

1. Thank the organizers

Whether you thank the organizers for inviting you to speak at the event is a personal choice.

Consider Toastmasters, a non-profit organization that helps people improve their public speaking and leadership skills. The organization sets a standard for starting presentations, which is quite formal. A speaker says, “Mr Toastmaster, fellow Toastmasters and honored guests…” before starting their speech.

An invitation to speak means the organizers have vetted you. They know who you are and what value you will provide. You may want to acknowledge the organization for the opportunity, but your acknowledgment should only be short.

2. Be confident

Have confidence in your opening statement. Always introduce yourself and identify as an individual with topic-related expertise. This ensures the audience members develop respect for your authority and knowledge of the material.

3. Acknowledge the audience

Compliment the audience and treat them with respect. Smile sincerely to acknowledge you are happy to be there and thank them for attending your presentation.

Share how you feel honored to be among the industry’s greatest minds, exploring key ideas. Reveal your agenda for the rest of the event so the audience knows what to expect moving forward.

Knowing who is in the audience can also be crucial. What type of learners do you have? Are they analytical learners, influencers or dominants? Using the DiSC method to gauge your audience beforehand can be helpful.

4. Get directly to the point

Encourage audience members to stay engaged by telling them your presentation’s goal. For example, “Today, my goal is to have you leave with tools to better connect with your employees.”

Deliver your content confidently and immediately start with the main topic of discussion to avoid unnecessary banter. This may lose your audience’s attention.

Strong body language can positively impact your message delivery and help the audience remain focused.

5. Correlate your topic with current events

Many professional speakers link the theme of their speech to a well-known current event receiving widespread media attention. Most people are interested in newsworthy events, so this tactic can keep them interested in what you are saying.

While this can be an effective way to start a speech, be sure your chosen current event isn’t controversial. It should be something most audience members will receive positively.

6. Make a historical statement

Another common way to connect with an audience is to reference a historical personality or event. Many participants will believe the content is more powerful and worth listening to. This adds to your credibility.

Use examples of historical leaders and discuss their challenges, strengths and achievements, relating their experiences to what you are attempting to portray to your audience.

7. Make a shocking statement

Making a shocking statement supported by factual data can intrigue an audience to pay attention. The material doesn’t need to scare them but rather keep them actively engaged and thinking analytically.

8. Present a problem

Starting your speech with a problem can encourage audience members to help find a solution.

Posing an issue everyone has in common is key to gaining the audience’s undivided attention. Working together toward finding an answer can be rewarding for all involved.

9. Use a quote from recent research

Support your findings with the results of recent research relating to your topic of discussion.

While it’s important to share accurate data, don’t reference too much statistical information. This can leave people confused and make it harder for them to concentrate on the material you are sharing. Instead, be clear and concise, using direct quotes from the experts who conducted the research.

10.  Rely on your strengths and be entertaining

Understand your strengths and use them to your advantage to keep audience members actively engaged and entertained.

Avoid speaking in a monotone voice. Instead, adopt a variable, natural pitch and use powerful body language and fluid movement to ensure effective interaction with the audience.

Remember to smile! This will engage the audience from the beginning. It also shows them you are enjoying your topic.

Pausing at the beginning of your presentation and making eye contact with audience members can be a handy trick. It will capture the audience’s attention and create anticipation.

Share your material in a fun and interesting way right from the start to set the tone for the duration of your presentation.

11. Use familiarity

Using familiar terms and sharing information the audience can relate to is an ideal way to start a speech. It encourages participants to listen to your presentation with an open mind.

Starting your speech with something audience members are unfamiliar with is a surefire way to lose their interest and struggle to win it back.

12. Start your speech with inspiration

A speech’s ultimate purpose is to inspire audience members to take action. You also want to inform them of the positive impact they can have.

Whether you want them to purchase a product, invest in your project, learn a new technique or understand a complex formula, everything you say should be the focus of the desired action.

13. Make a strong statement followed by a question

A powerful opening statement related to the context of your presentation can immediately entice your audience. Following this statement with a direct question will encourage audience members to pay attention, think carefully and come up with an answer.

You can get to know your audience by using key questions to get them involved. For example:

• “Who agrees with this statement?”
• “Who thinks we should do this instead of that?”

Since most people feel inclined to find a solution when presented with a question, they will instinctively want to answer you. This tactic can make your audience more likely to continue listening to you throughout your speech.

14. Use props and interactive technology

Integrating props and interactive technology at the onset of a professional speech can significantly elevate its impact.

Props serve as visual aids, reinforcing key messages and enhancing audience comprehension. Meanwhile, interactive technology fosters engagement, inviting the audience to actively take part in the presentation.

This combination of tactics captures the audience’s attention and creates a dynamic and memorable experience.

What to avoid when starting your speech

Here are some things it’s best to avoid when starting your speech:

1. Projecting low energy

Audiences are quick to pick up on nonverbal cues, such as poor posture or low energy. If your mannerisms are distracting and your speaking technique makes you appear unconfident, the audience will likely lose interest.

Consider doing some yoga poses to boost your energy levels, increase blood flow and warm up your muscles before a presentation. Downward-facing dog and sun salutations are good examples.

You can also try using essential oils, especially citrus-based oils, to activate your senses. Add them to a diffuser or inhale them lightly.

2. Opening with a topic that doesn’t relate to the event or audience

Starting a speech with a generic topic that’s irrelevant to the event you are speaking at will lead to confusion among audience members. They may lose interest in what you are trying to relay.

3. Appearing anxious or nervous

While many people are uncomfortable with public speaking, addressing your feelings of inadequacy is never a good idea. Never start a speech with an apology.

Touching your face, adjusting your clothing, awkward gestures and other signs of nervousness can be detrimental to how an audience perceives your ability to present the material. Your inability to remain calm and stay focused will distract them and possibly even make them feel uncomfortable.

To combat nerves, visualize your speech going seamlessly before you get started. Also, take deep breaths – lots of them!

4. Being overconfident

Being overconfident can also deter your audience and make them feel uncomfortable. There’s a fine line between lacking confidence and overcompensating.

Try to match the audience’s knowledge level. This is how you build a relationship that encourages audience members to share your ideas and connect with what you say. They may quickly lose interest if you appear too confident.

5. Discussing too many statistics

Including too many statistics in your opening statement can make it difficult for audience members to focus. They might get lost in the data and doubt their ability to keep up with what you’re saying, causing them to switch off or get distracted.

This type of opening appeals to the analytical learner. They love numbers! If you use numbers, show an example so other (or different) learners can appreciate the statistical angle.

While it’s okay to use statistics to grab the audience’s attention, try to use figures sparingly, especially at the start of your speech.

6. Focusing too much on your company

Try not to share too many details about yourself or your company, as this can distract audience members from the main topic. It can also confuse them. They might not understand what you are intending to share.

Stay focused on the subject matter and avoid making the speech a campaign about working with your company – unless, of course, that’s the intention.

We’re all proud of what we do and the organization’s we represent, but you need to adopt a strategic approach to promote a company or business. Whatever you say about yourself or your business should back up and complement your wider message.

7. Using provocative or inappropriate language

Always remain professional and avoid provocative or inappropriate language. Don’t try to be funny or use slang terms, and keep your words clear and concise.

Unacceptable behavior will be off-putting for many audience members, so start your speech with language and actions that are appropriate to the setting and audience. This will set a positive tone for the rest of the presentation.

This is why knowing your audience is crucial. People who attend a stand-up performance at a comedy club will be expecting foul language. Professionals attending a presentation will expect a more formal approach.

Learn how to start a speech with power and confidence

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This deck is the perfect tool for getting started when you don’t know where to begin or to get unstuck when you feel lost. Our cards offer clear step-by-step instructions that get straight to the point without jargon, using prompts that are easy to follow for both novices and experts alike.

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20 public speaking tips for students in 2024, the art of strategic storytelling: how to master it, nine examples of brands that excel at storytelling.

English that goes straight to the heart

How to Write a Speech?

A speech is a spoken discourse or an expression of ideas delivered in front of an audience by the speaker. 

A speech can perform one or more of the following functions:

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• To convince the audience:  ‘Reasons why I Believe Indians don‟t have Civic Sense’
• To provoke the audience to take an action:  ‘Report Corruption to Kill Corruption’
• To inspire the audience:  ‘Do One Good Deed A Day’
• To inform the audience:  ‘Beauty Magazines Promote Low Self-esteem’

1. Before one starts writing, ask three questions:

• What is the purpose of the speech?
• Who is the audience?
• How long will the speech last?

Example: Topic: The Curse of Global Warming Purpose: To enlighten the audience about the harms of global warming Audience: Classmates and teachers

2. Engage in brainstorming and uncover all the points that could be made in the speech.

• Ignorance related to global warming
• Its slow manifestation
• Who are the culprits?
• What are the steps to be taken?
• What could happen if it is ignored?

3. Structure your writing. Divide your speech into three paragraphs that have an introduction , a body , and a conclusion . The introductory paragraph should also contain an address or a greeting to the audience.

• Types of address:
• A very good morning /afternoon /evening to everyone present here.
• Respected Principal, teachers and friends…
• Ladies and gentlemen, I welcome you to…

4. Always state the purpose behind the speech.

• The purpose of my speech is to highlight the problem of global warming.
• Today, I intend to bring to your notice, the problem of global warming.
• I stand in front of you today to talk about a heinous problem called global warming.

5. Create a rough outline of the speech before writing.

6. write from the perspective of the listener, not the speaker. good speeches are written keeping the audience in mind., 7. use pronouns such as ‘you’ and ‘we’ to address the audience. this adds a personal touch to the speech..

• I stand in front of you…
• I want you to ponder…
• Is this the nation you have dreamed of?

8. Refer to yourself in the first person by using pronouns such as ‘I’ and ‘Me’.

9. use repetitions of words and phrases to create an impact..

• I dream, I hope and I envision a day when…
• We can and we will…
• From the peaks of the Himalayas to the depths of the Indian Ocean…

10. Make use of transition words and phrases to connect points in a smooth and logical manner.

• The next point I would like to make is…
• That brings us to the main purpose…
• Not only … but also
• Let me begin with…
• Contrary to popular belief…
• In conclusion…
• I would like to end my speech by…

11. Make the speech memorable by using metaphors, similes, and other analogies.

• We have before us a mountain of a problem…
• It is a beautiful symphony of brotherhood…
• Like a ray of sunlight that brightens our mornings, this has brightened our lives with renewed hope…

12. As a speaker, exhibit moral conviction in your speech. Employ a sombre tone to address a serious topic. Do not use humour or sound flippant when talking about a sensitive issue. This will affect your credibility as a speaker.

13. ask rhetorical questions for maximised effect. rhetorical questions are those that are asked to make a point rather than to elicit an answer in order to get the kind of response you expect from the audience..

• Is there a solution to this problem?
• Are we truly that helpless?
• Does the government think the citizens are idiots?
• What have they done for us?

14. In the concluding paragraph, state your vision for the future or your hopes.

• I hope that one day the world will wake up to this injustice…
• I see a future where the next generation will breathe clean air…
• Let us all cooperate and bring about a revolution…

15. Conclude the speech by thanking the audience or by stating a powerful quote.

• Thank you for your patience.
• I would like to conclude this speech by expressing my heartfelt gratitude towards you.
• In the words borrowed from Star Wars, “May the force be with you!”
• As Benjamin Parker once said, “With great power comes great responsibility.”

Terrorism can only be countered by War

Respected Principal, teachers, and dear friends,

Today I am going to speak for the motion terrorism can only be countered by war. The prime goal of the defence system of a country is the safety of the region and the people. Terrorism has always been jeopardizing lives. Therefore, if a country needs to fight against such groups, war is justified. The attack is the best form of defence.

Terrorist groups have a strong and sophisticated network, which can be counteracted only with an equally strong defence system. Therefore, military operation is crucial in breaking the network completely.

Terrorist groups have no regard for rules of international harmony and concord. Therefore, the use of force in the form of war is justified. The number of terrorists and terrorist groups present in the world today is mind-boggling. The world can be freed from its grips only if they are attacked and wiped out completely.

With this, I conclude my speech. I would like to thank you all for being a patient audience.

Terror Cannot be Curbed by War

Today I am going to speak against the motion terrorism can only be countered by war. Terrorist groups are neither confined nor limited to a single country. Therefore, engaging a country’s military to wage war against such groups is inappropriate.

When countries are engaged in wars, there is a tremendous loss of life and property. War forces civilians to give up their social rights in exchange for their safety. However, once the war has stopped, terrorists will once again wreak havoc in the lives of people.

The additional power given in the hands of the ruling bodies during wartime is often misused and resources are wasted. A great deal of time and money is wasted in the name of war. It takes years for a country to regain normal function after a war. Therefore, war is not an option to fight terrorism. Terrorist groups entice poor and helpless youngsters by convincing them that becoming a terrorist is a way of getting all their freedom back.

I wish to wind up my speech by stating that violence indeed begets more violence. If terrorists are attacked, they are likely to displace their wrath on innocent people. Therefore, a war against terrorism is not justified. With this, I conclude my speech. Thank you all for your patience and cooperation.

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How To Write A Speech (Step by Step Guide)

November 17, 2020 | By Hitesh Bhasin | Filed Under: Careers

A speech is written to speak it out publicly in front of live audiences. It becomes imperative to maintain a positive relationship with the target so that you can hold their attention.

The key to how to write a speech is the gripping words and the way you present those words to keep the people in the auditorium hooked. It is about painting a mental likeness that people can connect and identify with.

A speech needs to have some style and flamboyance, for instance, some funny anecdotes, a quotation, or some local words if you are speaking in a different city or country to bridge the gap between you and the spectators and a good ending that will leave the listeners wanting for more.

Various types of speech

The different types of speeches that can make your task easier are-

1. Entertaining speech 

The speech that is written to entertain your audience is referred to as entertaining speech. The topics might not be practical and instructional, but even such speeches have relevance and support a specific purpose.

The need to entertain the audience and keep them captivated is more than any other type of speech.

2. Persuasive speech 

When the speaker tries to sway his audiences to his side of the story, then it is referred to as persuasive speech. The words are influential, no doubt, but the body language of the speaker is also convincing at its best.

It is the combination that works in favor of the speech. One of the prime examples of a persuasive speech can be at religious functions, where the religious leaders try to brainwash the listeners to their way of thinking.

Another example of a persuasive speech is when the teachers write a speech for the kids.

3. Informative speech 

As the name suggests, an informative speech is instructive by nature. It will have words that will educate and inform its target audiences about a specific topic.

For instance, you are speaking at a conference where Blockchain in accounting is the topic of conversation then your speech writing format will be informative as you would want to integrate and build a viable bridge between the two subjects. Make sure to keep your informative speech of the correct length lest you start boring your audience.

The introduction should grab the attention of the listeners so that they can get involved and relate to the content. It should be followed by a statement that will define your topic and state the purpose and end with a conclusion that will reaffirm the facts.

4. Special occasion speech 

Some speeches are meant for special occasions like a marriage ceremony where the best friends say few words to honor the bride and groom, at a convocation or graduation ceremony where their principal honors the students, the eulogy is spoken by friends and family members when someone close to them dies, etc.

The special occasion speeches are generally short and informative with direct relevance to the event.

Steps for writing a speech

Some simple steps while writing a speech are as follows-

1. Know your target audience 

A speech is written with the mindset of reaching out to a specific target. Research your audience so that you can know and identify with them if you are looking for how to write a speech.

What the audience needs and what they want to hear are essential queries that the writer should consider before writing a speech outline.

If it is an intellectual audience at a formal event, you will have to keep your speech informative, whereas if it is a unique circumstance, then formal but specific to the occasion. When you recognize the target, it becomes easier to find words that will create a viable connection.

2. Select a topic 

Until and unless you have a specific topic at your disposal, writing a speech is merely impossible. In most cases, the speaker is told about the event and the topic he will have to speak on beforehand.

This helps him to concentrate on the given topic. In the absence of a specific topic, you can find out about the event and discern the topic if you are looking for how to write a speech.

This will give you a fair idea of the topic so that creating the framework is no longer a hassle.

3. Know about your topic 

Selecting the topic was the easier part, but knowing about it inside out is serious work. Research so that you can gather valuable information relevant to the content if you are looking for how to write a speech.

Do not stuff your speech with too much information as it will confuse and ultimately distract the audience. The idea is to hold their attention, not to overwhelm them with too much data. It is essential to get to the point in a few minutes so that people are interested in it from the onset.

Some people have a habit of taking it very slowly, and by the time they come to the main topic, they have already lost the audience. However, good the speech introduction was written later on; it becomes meaningless.

4. Determine the length of the speech 

The audience is not going to sit and listen to your words the whole day. No matter how good a speech is, there is a time to wrap it up before the audience starts leaving the event.

Know about the time allotted to every speaker beforehand so that you can write a speech outline accordingly by keeping the time limit in mind. The length of the speech is dependent on the time you have been given.

Make sure to keep it a bit short than the actual time so that you have some minutes to yourself. Once a speech is written, it is better to speak up and clock it so that the timeline is maintained.

5. Keep the tone right

The audience keeps on changing at every event, but the fact remains that until you create a bond with them, the speech is of no use. Sometimes you see people in the audience talking to each other or busy with their mobile devices, whereas the speaker is continuing with his speech.

It looks insulting, but the problem lies with the speaker who was unable to keep his audience entertained. The best way of how to write a speech and delivering it for maximum impact is by making it conversational.

Take a tone that you are most likely to use in your speech. It can be instructive or conversational or persuasive. Do not treat your audience like a fool and keep the tone polite. Using inappropriate language, cursing, and using swear words is also strictly no, so pay attention to the tone.

6. Determine the body of your speech 

Just like the length and tone, the body of the speech is equally important if you are looking for how to write a speech. There are various ways to organize the body of a speech, which, to a great deal, is dependent on the topic you are writing.

In the casual approach, the speechwriter will have to use the cause and effect pattern. In contrast, in the topical approach, the information related to a subject is presented one at a time.

The spatial approach will give the audience a general idea of the physical design, and the most commonly used chronological approach will follow the events in time. Organize it beforehand for the maximum impact if you are looking for how to write a speech.

7. Write your speech 

All the steps mentioned above are the groundwork so that you can write a speech that will prove useful in front of its target. If you are writing a speech for the first time, then think of the speech as an essay that will have the introduction at the onset to lay the groundwork, the body with the main points in the middle, and a mind-blowing conclusion at the end.

The primary point of differentiation between the two is that an essay is read, whereas the speech will be heard at an event at a specific time. Remember some necessary steps while writing the speech. Keep your thoughts organized and start with a speech outline.

Now think about the tone you want to use while speaking so that your speech can be written in the same format to avoid confusion. Use speaker notes as it will make your job easier. Using short and simple sentences in the speech is recommended as they are easy to write, remember, listen to, and understand.

Better be specific as facts and figures help to bond with the audience. When you are generalizing, it seems vague, and people often are not convinced. Repeat crucial keywords and buzzwords that have the power to connect with the audience.

8. Keep an eye on the conclusion 

The conclusion is often the most difficult as well as the essential part of the speech. How to conclude so that the listener is hooked and sees it as food for future thoughts should be your primary concern when writing a speech.

Restate the main points and end it with a bang to create the most significant effect if you are looking for how to write a speech.

9. Go through the speech carefully 

Once you have written your speech, it is time to read and revisit it thoroughly. Check that all the major points have been mentioned and are in the correct order.

Go through the length and tone to determine its suitability amongst the spectators if you are looking for how to write a speech.

10. Add a presentation tool 

This is the modern world where the visual impact is more significant than the words that you are speaking. To make your speech powerful, you can add a presentation tool, for instance, Google Slides or PowerPoint, so that it can be a blessing in making your point convincingly. The visual and audio additions will enhance your speech and keep the spectators engaged.

11. Practice 

Memorize the speech and practice innumerable times. This will help the speaker to look into the eyes of the audience and connect with them one-to-one.

12. Give out handouts 

If you are interested in creating maximum impact give out handouts. The audience can take them home and reconnect with you once again. It is also your contact information and can help you with further networking.

The reason why some speeches are successful and some are not is because people have taken the time to go through all the essential steps of speech writing to make the experience memorable.

Remember, the speech which manages to link together every syllable is the one that leaves a positive impression on the mindset of its audience.

Liked this post? Check out the complete series on Careers

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About Hitesh Bhasin

Hitesh Bhasin is the CEO of Marketing91 and has over a decade of experience in the marketing field. He is an accomplished author of thousands of insightful articles, including in-depth analyses of brands and companies. Holding an MBA in Marketing, Hitesh manages several offline ventures, where he applies all the concepts of Marketing that he writes about.

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Unlock the secrets to crafting exceptional how-to speeches with our step-by-step guide! Discover proven techniques to capture your audience’s attention, simplify complex ideas, and deliver engaging how-to speeches that leave a lasting impact. Your journey to mastering how to write a how-to speech starts here.

Imagine you’re standing in front of a room full of people. The spotlight is on you, and all eyes are fixed. You have something important to share that could change lives or make a difference. But as you open your mouth, the words come out jumbled, the message unclear. Your audience begins to drift away, their attention slipping through your fingers like sand.

We’ve all been there, haven’t we? That moment of public speaking anxiety, where the fear of failing to convey our message cripples us. But fear not, because in this post, we’re diving headfirst into the art of crafting a ‘how to’ speech that grabs your audience by the ears and leaves them hanging on to your every word.

Remember that your ‘how-to’ speech isn’t solely about yourself; it’s about aiding your audience. By customizing your subject to their interests and requirements, you can capture their undivided attention, much like when you delight them with their preferred cake at a gathering.

But how do you master this art? How do you transform your jumbled thoughts into a compelling speech? Fear not, because that’s exactly what we’re here to explore. In the following sections, we’ll break it down into simple, actionable steps so you can confidently step into the spotlight and deliver a ‘how to’ speech that leaves a mark.

Table of Contents

Understanding the basics of writing a how-to-speech

Consider the finer details of giving a ‘how-to’ speech. Think of it as if you were teaching a buddy the art of crafting an impeccable cup of coffee. You’d share the necessary components, lay out the procedures, and perhaps give expert suggestions to elevate the experience. Essentially, that’s the essence of a how-to speech.

A how-to speech is like your guide to doing something. It’s when you break down a process or a task into easy-to-follow steps so someone else can learn and do it, too. It’s all about teaching, sharing knowledge, and clarifying things.

How-to speeches help you share your expertise, pass on wisdom, and help others learn something new. Think about it – you’ve got skills and knowledge that others want, and a ‘how to’ speech is your chance to give it away.

Imagine showing your classmates how to solve a tricky math problem or guiding your colleagues through a complicated software setup. Your ‘how to’ speech can make complex stuff seem like a breeze. Plus, it’s not just about knowledge transfer; it’s about making a connection with your audience.

In simple terms, a how-to speech is your toolkit for sharing what you know and making life easier for others. It’s like being the hero who helps everyone conquer their challenges, one step at a time. So, get ready to unlock the secrets of crafting a ‘how to’ speech that shines!

Importance of clear communication while writing how-to-speeches

Clear communication makes all the difference. Imagine you’re trying to learn how to make a delicious sandwich, and your friend starts telling you to “spread the thing on that thing and add some stuff.” Confusing, right? You want specifics! That’s where clear communication comes in.

In learning how to write a how-to speech, being crystal clear matters big time. Your audience relies on your words to understand what to do. Think of it as being a GPS for their journey. If you give vague directions, they might get lost. But if you’re precise and clear, they’ll reach their destination with a smile.

Simplify the complex

Avoiding misunderstandings.

Sometimes, you’re explaining stuff that’s a bit complex, like rocket science (well, not really, but you get the point). Clear communication breaks down these complexities into bite-sized pieces. It takes the “I have no idea what you’re talking about” and turns it into “Oh, that makes sense!”

When you’re clear, you minimize the chances of misunderstandings. Nobody wants to end up with a sandwich when they are trying to bake a cake, right?

Whether you’re guiding someone through changing a tire, cooking a fancy meal, or even explaining how to use a new app, being clear is your superpower. It’s what separates a great ‘how to’ speech from a confusing one.

Clear your throat, speak confidently, and ensure your audience knows exactly what to do next. Your ‘how to’ speech is their guidebook to success!

How do you choose the right topic for your how-to speech?

Let’s talk about picking the perfect topic for your how-to speech. Think of it like choosing the flavor of ice cream you want to eat – it should be something you love and know a lot about.

Identify your expertise and passion

Connecting with your audience, brainstorm ideas.

• Analyze the audiences’ interests and needs

Select a relevant and engaging topic

First things first, what are you good at? What are you passionate about? Your how-to speech topic should be in your wheelhouse. If you’re a cooking whiz, maybe it’s “How to Whip Up a Gourmet Dinner in 30 Minutes.” If you’re a tech genius, it could be “How to Master Smartphone Photography.”

Why’s this Important? Well, imagine trying to explain something you know nothing about. It’d be like trying to teach someone to swim when you can’t even doggy paddle. Not fun, right? But when you choose a topic you’re passionate about, it shines through in your speech. Your enthusiasm is contagious, and your audience will feel it.

Your audience matters, too. Picking a topic that resonates with them is like serving their favourite ice cream flavour – it makes them happy. So, if you’re talking to a group of budding chefs, your cooking-related speech will hit the spot.

Sit down with a pen and paper and brainstorm. List all the things you’re good at, all the things you love doing, and all the things your audience might want to learn. Then, find the sweet spot where your expertise, passion, and interests meet.

Remember, your ‘how to’ speech topic is like the star of the show. So, choose wisely, and you’ll be on your way to delivering a speech that teaches, inspires, and engages your audience.

Analyze the audience’s interests and needs

Alright, now that you’ve figured out what you’re good at and what you love, it’s time to shift the spotlight onto your audience. Think of it like planning a surprise party – you need to know what your guests like.

Why audience matters: Your audience is like the VIPs at your party. They’re the ones you’re speaking to, teaching, and helping. So, understanding what they’re into and what they need is crucial.

What they are interested in: Picture yourself in their shoes. What would grab your attention? What topics would make you sit up and say, “Tell me more!” For example, if you’re speaking to a group of DIY enthusiasts, they might be eager to learn “How to Build Your Dream Treehouse.”

What they need: Now, think about their challenges and questions. What problems are they trying to solve? What knowledge are they hungry for? Your speech should serve up solutions and answers. If your audience struggles with time management, “How to Supercharge Your Productivity” could be the way to go.

Ask and listen: Don’t be shy to ask your audience directly. Connect with them on social media, send out surveys, or have a chat if you can. It’s like sending out party invites and asking, “What kind of cake do you like?” Their responses will guide you in choosing the perfect ‘how to’ speech topic.

Remember that your ‘how-to’ speech isn’t solely about yourself; it’s about aiding your audience. By customizing your subject to align with their interests and requirements, you can capture their undivided attention, much like when you delight them with their preferred cake at a gathering. So, put on your detective hat, uncover their preferences, and get ready to wow your audience!

Now that you know your stuff and understand your audience’s wishes let’s talk about hitting the bullseye with your how-to speech topic. It’s like picking the juiciest fruit from the tree – you want something ripe and ready to savor.

Stay relevant: Think about what’s going on right now. Are there trends or hot topics in your field? Staying current can make your ‘how to’ speech more appealing. For instance, if you’re into fitness, a topic like “How to Crush Your Home Workout Routine” during a pandemic could be spot on.

Solve a problem: Your topic should be a solution to a problem your audience faces. Imagine they’re all trying to figure out how to create a stunning garden. Bingo! You could dive into “How to Cultivate a Lush Garden Paradise.”

Be passionate: Passion is contagious. If you’re excited about your topic, your audience will catch that enthusiasm. When you talk about something you love, it shows, and it draws people in.

Think about impact: Consider the impact your speech could have. Will it help your audience in a significant way? Will it inspire them to take action or learn something new? If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track.

Engage the senses: Engaging topics often touch on the senses – sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. If you can make your audience visualize, feel, or even taste the outcome of your ‘how to’ speech, they’ll be hooked.

Remember, your topic is the first thing your audience hears. It’s like the opening scene of a blockbuster movie. Choose wisely, and you’ll set the stage for a captivating ‘how to’ speech that leaves your audience eager to learn and hungry for more.

Research and content development for your how-to speech

Think of this part like being a detective, hunting down the best clues to solve a case. In our case, the case is crafting an awesome how-to speech.

Why research matters

Find trustworthy sources, cross-check information, stay organized.

Why should you bother with research? It’s like building a strong foundation for a house. You want your speech to be rock-solid, and that starts with credible info.

Not all information is created equal. You want to look for sources that are reliable, like books, articles from respected publications, or experts in the field. Think of it as asking a trustworthy friend for advice.

Sometimes, info can be a bit iffy. It’s like hearing a rumour from a friend’s friend. To be sure, cross-check what you find. If multiple sources say the same thing, you’re on the right track.

Just like a detective with a notepad, jot down important details, stats, or examples. This will be your treasure chest of information when you craft your speech.

Keep all your research neatly organized. It’s like having your detective files in order. This way, you can easily find what you need when you’re putting your speech together.

Remember, your audience trusts you to give them accurate info. So, be the Sherlock Holmes of research, and you’ll have the facts and knowledge to make your ‘how to’ speech shine.

Organizing your how-to speech structure

Now that you’ve gathered your detective-style research, it’s time to put everything in order. Think of this like building a house – you need a strong frame to hold everything together.

Why structure matters

Start with the basics, introduction, transitions.

A well-organized speech is like a clear road map. It helps your audience follow along and understand your message without getting lost.

Begin by deciding how you want to organize your speech. It could be chronological, problem-solution, or even a compare-and-contrast approach. Choose the one that best fits your topic.

Just like a grand entrance to a fancy party, your introduction sets the stage. Tell your audience what you’re going to talk about and why it’s important. A little teaser to grab their attention.

Now, let’s dive into crafting an introduction that’s like a magnetic force, pulling your audience into your ‘how to’ speech. Think of it as the opening scene of a blockbuster movie – it needs to be intriguing.

Why introduction matters: Your intro is the first impression. It’s like a firm handshake when you meet someone new. You want to grab your audience’s attention right from the start.

Hook ‘em in: Start with a bang – a captivating story, a surprising fact, or a thought-provoking question. Make your audience think, “I need to hear more!”

Preview your message: After the hook, give them a sneak peek of what’s coming. It’s like a movie trailer that teases the best parts. Let your audience know what they’ll learn or gain from your speech.

Keep It short and sweet: Don’t drag it out. Your intro is the appetizer, not the main course. Aim for around 10-15% of your total speech time.

Remember, your introduction is your audience’s first taste of what’s to come. Make it deliciously intriguing, and they’ll be hungry for more of your ‘how to’ speech goodness.

This is the meaty part of your speech, where you explain everything. If you’re doing a step-by-step ‘how to’ speech, each step gets its own section. Make sure it flows logically from one to the next. Now, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get into the juicy part – crafting the meat of your ‘how to’ speech. Think of this as building a staircase, one step at a time.

Why the body matters: This is where the real magic happens. The body of your speech is where you lay out all the steps, details, and information that your audience needs to learn or accomplish something.

Step-by-step: Just like a recipe in a cookbook, break down your topic into easy-to-follow steps. Imagine you’re teaching someone how to bake cookies. Each step, from gathering ingredients to setting the oven temperature, gets its moment.

Explain clearly: Use clear language and simple sentences. Pretend you’re explaining to a friend who’s never done it before. Be patient and thorough.

Visualize: Paint a mental picture for your audience. Help them see each step in their mind’s eye. It’s like a GPS guiding them on their journey.

Examples and tips: Add real-life examples and helpful tips along the way. It’s like seasoning your dish to perfection – it makes it even more delicious.

By the end of your speech, your audience should feel like they’ve taken a journey and learned something valuable. So, dive into the step-by-step instructions, and make sure you leave no stone unturned in teaching them your ‘how to.’

Think of this as your big finale, like fireworks at the end of a show. Summarize what you covered, restate why it’s essential, and leave your audience with a memorable ending. It’s like a parting gift of wisdom.

Now, let’s wrap things up in style with a memorable conclusion. Think of it as the grand finale of a fireworks show – it’s the lasting impression you leave on your audience.

Why conclusion matters: Your conclusion isn’t just a polite goodbye; it’s a chance to drive your message home. It’s like the closing scene of a movie that leaves you thinking.

Summarize key points: Recap the main points you’ve covered in your speech. It’s like highlighting the key takeaways from a book. Remind your audience of what they’ve learned.

Reiterate the importance: Explain once again why your topic is essential or how it can benefit your audience. Reinforce the “why” behind your ‘how to’ speech.

End on a high note: Finish with a strong and memorable statement. It’s like the punchline of a joke – leave your audience with something to ponder or act upon.

Thank your audience: Show gratitude for their time and attention. It’s like saying thanks to your guests at the end of a fantastic party.

Your conclusion should be like the cherry on top of a delicious sundae – it completes the experience and leaves a sweet taste in your audience’s mind. So, craft a conclusion that lingers in their thoughts long after your ‘how to’ speech is over.

Just like road signs, transitions help your audience move smoothly from one point to another. Use phrases like “Next, we’ll move on to…” or “Now that we’ve covered that, let’s talk about…”

Visuals (if needed)

If your ‘how to’ speech benefits from visuals, like diagrams or photos, include them in the appropriate spots. They’re like illustrations in a recipe book – they make things clearer.

By organizing your speech thoughtfully, you make it easier for your audience to follow along and understand your message. It’s like giving them a clear path to your knowledge. So, build that strong frame, and your ‘how to’ speech will stand tall and strong.

The art of writing: How to write a how-to speech

Let’s talk about writing – the heart of your how-to speech. Imagine you’re writing a letter to a friend. You want it to be clear and to the point, right? Well, that’s how you should write your speech, too.

Clear language

Cut the fluff, organization is key, avoid jargon.

Use simple words and sentences. Don’t try to impress with big words; aim to be understood. Imagine you’re explaining it to a 12-year-old.

Like trimming a bonsai tree, and cutting unnecessary words and details. Be ruthless. Keep only what’s essential to your message.

Arrange your ideas logically. Think of it as putting puzzle pieces together. Each piece fits just right, creating a complete picture.

Steer clear of fancy terms and acronyms that your audience might not know. It’s like speaking in a secret code – not cool.

Read your writing out loud. If it sounds confusing or clunky, chances are it needs some tweaking.

Clear and concise writing is like a well-tuned engine in your ‘how to’ speech. It keeps things running smoothly and ensures your audience gets the message without a hitch. So, follow these tips, and your words will flow like a clear stream, making your ‘how to’ speech shine.

Importance of using effective language and tone in how-to speeches

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of your writing. Think of it like choosing the right outfit for a special occasion – your language and tone should match the setting.

Effective language

Tone matters, engage your audience, stay positive.

Your words are like tools in a toolbox. Use them wisely. Be clear and precise. Avoid vague or confusing phrases. It’s like giving someone clear directions rather than pointing in a general direction.

Your tone sets the mood. It’s like the soundtrack to a movie. If you’re explaining a serious topic, keep it formal. If it’s a fun and casual subject, feel free to be more relaxed. Match your tone to your audience’s expectations.

Use relatable examples and stories. Make your audience feel like you’re speaking directly to them. It’s like having a friendly chat over a cup of coffee.

Positivity is contagious. If you’re excited and passionate about your topic, it’ll show in your words. Your enthusiasm can inspire and engage your audience.

Effective language and tone are like the secret sauce of your ‘how to’ speech. They make your words more engaging, relatable, and memorable. So, choose your words thoughtfully, and your audience will be hanging on to every sentence you say.

Avoid jargon and technical terms

It’s a good idea to avoid confusing jargon and technical terms in your writing. Think of it like having a conversation with your grandma – you would prefer not to use words she doesn’t understand.

Speak plainly

Clarify complex concepts, think about your audience, be the translator.

Imagine explaining your topic to someone who’s new to it. Use everyday words and phrases. Skip the jargon that might leave your audience scratching their heads.

If you need to delve into something complex, break it down into bite-sized pieces. It’s like explaining a recipe step by step, making it easy to follow.

Consider who you’re talking to. If it’s a group of experts, some technical terms might be okay. But if it’s a diverse audience, keep it simple and inclusive.

Your role is to be the bridge between your knowledge and your audience’s understanding. Translate the complex into the comprehensible.

Remember, clear and straightforward language makes your ‘how to’ speech accessible to everyone. It’s like opening the door to your knowledge and inviting everyone inside. So, steer clear of the jargon jungle, and your audience will thank you for it.

Engaging your audience with your how-to speech

Imagine you’re the storyteller around a campfire – your audience should be hooked from the start.

Why stories matter

Personal anecdotes, real-life examples, emotionally engage, paint vivid pictures.

Stories are like magic spells that capture your audience’s attention and imagination. They make your speech relatable and memorable.

Share personal experiences related to your topic. It’s like saying, “Hey, I’ve been there too.” It creates a connection between you and your audience.

Sprinkle your speech with real-life examples. It’s like showing them the ropes through concrete situations. People love relatable stories they can learn from.

Use stories to evoke emotions. Whether it’s laughter, surprise, or empathy, emotions make your speech unforgettable. It’s like seasoning your speech to taste.

Help your audience visualize what you’re saying. It’s like turning your speech into a mental movie. Use descriptive language and paint a picture with your words.

Remember, your audience doesn’t just want information; they want to be entertained and inspired. Stories, examples, and anecdotes are your tools for doing just that. So, weave them into your how-to speech, and watch your audience hang onto your every word, just like they would with a gripping tale.

The importance of visual aids, if applicable in your how-to speeches

Alright, let’s dive into a crucial aspect of engaging your audience – the use of visual aids. It’s like adding illustrations to a storybook; they enhance the experience and understanding.

• Why visual aids matter

Clarify complex ideas

Engage visual learners, enhance engagement, remember to keep it simple, why visual aids matter  .

Visuals, like charts, graphs, images, or slides, can take your ‘how to’ speech to the next level. They provide a visual roadmap and reinforce your message.

If your topic has intricate details, visuals simplify the understanding process. It’s like a map guiding you through a maze – it makes things much clearer.

People absorb information differently. Some are visual learners who grasp concepts better with images. Visual aids cater to their needs and make your speech inclusive.

Visuals can grab and hold your audience’s attention. They add variety to your speech and prevent it from becoming monotonous.

Don’t go overboard with visuals. Less is often more. Use them when they truly enhance your message but avoid overwhelming your audience.

Incorporating visual aids, when appropriate, can be a game-changer. They add an extra layer of engagement and understanding to your ‘how to’ speech. So, think about how visuals can complement your message, and if they fit, use them wisely to elevate your speech to the next level of impact and engagement.

Techniques for audience interaction and engagement in how-to speeches

Now, let’s uncover some techniques to keep your audience engaged throughout your ‘how to’ speech. Think of it as hosting a lively dinner party – you want your guests to participate and enjoy themselves.

Why engagement matters

• Ask questions

Use rhetorical questions

Poll your audience, tell relatable stories, pause for thought.

An engaged audience is like a team ready for action. They’re more likely to absorb your message, stay interested, and remember what you say.

Ask Questions

Interact by asking questions. It’s like a friendly chat where you genuinely want to know your audience’s thoughts. Encourage them to participate.

These are questions you don’t expect answers to. They make your audience think. For example, “Have you ever wondered…?”

If you have a large audience, use technology to create polls or surveys. It’s like involving everyone in a group decision – it makes them feel heard.

Share stories or examples that your audience can relate to. It’s like saying, “Hey, this could be you!” People connect with stories.

Sometimes, silence is golden. Pause after making a point. It gives your audience a moment to process and reflect.

Engaging your audience is a bit like a dance – you lead, but you also let them take the floor.

These techniques create a dynamic atmosphere where everyone is involved, making your ‘how to’ speech not just informative but also enjoyable. So, sprinkle these tricks into your speech, and watch your audience become active participants in their learning journey.

Rehearsing and refining your speech

We are at the stage where you need to practice and refine your how-to speech. Think of it as rehearsing for a big performance – the more you practice, the smoother it gets.

Why practice matters

Practice alone, record yourself, time yourself, practice in front of a mirror, get feedback.

Practice is like sharpening a tool before using it. It helps you become confident, reduces nervousness, and ensures you deliver a polished speech.

Start by rehearsing on your own. It’s like a solo dress rehearsal. Go through your speech, making sure you remember each step and detail.

Record your practice sessions on your phone or camera. It’s like watching a playback of a sports match to see where you can improve.

Keep an eye on the clock. Your speech should fit within the allocated time. Being too long or too short can disrupt the flow.

This helps you work on your body language and facial expressions. It’s like fine-tuning your performance for an audience.

Share your speech with a friend or family member and ask for their honest feedback. They can point out areas where you can improve.

Feedback is your secret weapon. It’s like having a coach on your side, helping you become better with each practice. So, don’t skip this crucial step. Practice and feedback will turn your how-to speech into a flawless performance that leaves your audience impressed and informed.

Tips for improving your how-to speech delivery and timing

You should remember it’s not just about what you say but how you say it that counts.

Work on your pacing

Use pauses for emphasis, vary your voice.

• Practice in front of the mirror

Seek honest feedback

Rehearse your speech multiple times. It’s like learning the steps of a dance routine until they become second nature.

Pay attention to your speech’s speed. Don’t rush through it like a racecar or drag it out like a turtle. Find a comfortable pace that your audience can follow.

Pauses are like punctuation in your speech. They give your audience time to digest what you’ve said and emphasize important points.

Don’t be a monotone robot. Use changes in pitch, tone, and volume to keep your audience engaged. It’s like playing different musical notes to create a melody.

Practice in front of a mirror or record yourself

This helps you work on your body language and gestures, ensuring they complement your words.

Share your speech with someone you trust and ask for their input. They can provide valuable insights on your delivery.

Improving your delivery and timing is like adding the icing on the cake. It makes your ‘how to’ speech not just informative but also engaging and enjoyable to listen to.

Finalizing your how-to speech

Now, it’s time to put the finishing touches on your how-to speech. Think of it as fine-tuning a musical instrument before a concert – you want everything to be just right.

Why editing matters

Check for clarity, verify facts, cut the clutter, ensuring your speech flows smoothly.

Editing is like the chef’s final taste test; it ensures your speech is clear, accurate, and free from errors.

Start by reading your speech aloud. It’s like checking for any off-key notes in a song. If something sounds off, revise it.

Make sure your sentences are clear and easy to understand. It’s like removing any tangled threads from a tapestry.

Double-check your facts and information. It’s like making sure all the pieces of a puzzle fit perfectly.

Eliminate any unnecessary words or details. It’s like trimming the excess fat from a steak; it makes your speech lean and mean.

Hunt for spelling and grammar mistakes. It’s like picking up typos and grammatical hiccups. They can be distracting.

Editing and proofreading are like adding the final coat of paint to a masterpiece. They make your ‘how to’ speech shine and ensure your audience gets the best experience.

Don’t rush this step. Take your time, and when you’re done, you’ll have a speech that’s not just informative but also polished to perfection.

Now, let’s focus on making sure your ‘how to’ speech flows like a serene river, with each idea seamlessly connecting to the next. Think of it like a well-choreographed dance; a smooth flow keeps your audience engaged and makes your speech easy to follow.

Transitions are key: Use transition words like “first,” “next,” “then,” and “finally” to guide your audience from one step to another. It’s like giving them a roadmap for your speech.

Logical progression: Arrange your ideas logically. Start with the basics and build up to more complex concepts. It’s like constructing a sturdy building; you need a strong foundation before adding the upper floors.

Repetition with a purpose: Repeat key points for emphasis, but don’t overdo it. It’s like a catchy chorus in a song; it sticks in your mind without becoming annoying.

Keep it consistent: Maintain a consistent tone and style throughout your speech. It’s like sticking to the same music genre in an album; it creates a harmonious experience.

Practice the flow: When you practice, pay attention to how smoothly your speech flows. Make adjustments as needed to ensure it feels natural.

A smooth flow is like the secret ingredient that turns a collection of words into a captivating ‘how to’ speech. It helps your audience navigate through your content effortlessly, making it an enjoyable learning journey. So, take the time to fine-tune your speech’s flow, and you’ll have your audience nodding along in agreement from start to finish.

1. How to get into speech writing?

Getting started with speech writing is as simple as picking up a pen or sitting at your computer. Begin by choosing a topic you’re passionate about or knowledgeable in. Then, outline the key points you want to cover and start writing your speech. Practice delivering it, seek feedback, and keep refining your skills.

2. How can I improve my speech writing?

Improvement comes with practice. Read and study great speeches, learn from them, and apply those lessons to your own work. Pay attention to clarity, engagement, and flow. Seek feedback from others, and don’t be afraid to edit and proofread rigorously.

The more you write and refine, the better you’ll become. Keep honing your skills, and soon, you’ll master the art of ‘how to’ speechwriting.

3. How to write a maid of honor speech

Writing a maid of honor speech is a special task. Start with a warm welcome and introduce yourself. Share memorable moments with the bride, like how you met or funny anecdotes. Add some compliments for the bride. Highlight her qualities, and express your happiness for her.

Talk about the groom and their relationship, mentioning what makes them a great couple. Offer some advice, well wishes, or a quote to inspire the couple. Raise your glass and propose a toast to the newlyweds. Rehearse your speech to feel confident.

Remember, it’s about celebrating love and friendship, so be heartfelt and sincere.

4. How to write a speech about someone you admire

Writing a speech about someone you admire is a wonderful way to honor them. Here’s a straightforward approach:

Begin by introducing the person and explaining why you admire them. Share how you know them and any personal experiences that highlight their admirable qualities. Talk about the specific qualities or actions that make them admirable.

Provide anecdotes or stories that illustrate these qualities. Explain how this person’s actions or qualities have made a positive impact on you or others. Sum up your admiration and express your gratitude or well wishes.

The purpose of the speech is to celebrate the person’s greatness and share why they inspire you. Speak from the heart, and your speech will convey your admiration beautifully.

5. How to write a remembrance speech

Writing a remembrance speech can be emotionally challenging, but it’s a beautiful way to honour someone’s memory. Here’s a simple guide:

Start off by mentioning the person you’re remembering and your relationship with them. Share personal memories or stories that reflect the person’s life, character, and impact. Express your feelings, whether it’s grief, gratitude, or admiration.

Discuss the person’s admirable qualities, achievements, and contributions. Conclude with a heartfelt message, offering comfort, inspiration, or a call to remember their legacy.

Remember to speak from the heart and be sincere. A remembrance speech is a way to keep their memory alive and provide solace to those who mourn.

6. How to write a welcome speech for an event

Crafting a welcoming speech for an event is like opening the door to a friendly gathering. Here’s how to do it:

Greet with a warm welcome to the attendees. Make them feel valued and appreciated. Give a brief overview of the event, its purpose, and what attendees can expect. Recognize any special guests or dignitaries in the audience.

Thank everyone for their presence and any contributions that made the event possible. Share your enthusiasm and set a positive tone for the event. Encourage attendees to connect with each other and participate in the event. Conclude with best wishes for a successful and enjoyable event.

A welcome speech is like a friendly handshake, creating a warm atmosphere for your event. Keep it sincere, concise, and filled with hospitality to make attendees feel right at home.

Congratulations on completing your journey in ‘how to’ speechwriting! This skill involves simplifying complex ideas using plain language and engaging techniques like stories and visuals. Practice boosts confidence; seek feedback and prepare to conquer stage fright. Ensure a seamless flow in your speech and edit meticulously.

Now, apply your knowledge by crafting your how-to speech and refining it with practice and feedback. Mastering this art is invaluable, whether you’re teaching, inspiring, or informing. Your words can make a lasting impact. Keep honing your craft, and your speeches will educate, captivate, and inspire your audience.

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FACT SHEET: President   Biden Announces New Actions to Keep Families   Together

Since his first day in office, President Biden has called on Congress to secure our border and address our broken immigration system. As Congressional Republicans have continued to put partisan politics ahead of national security – twice voting against the toughest and fairest set of reforms in decades – the President and his Administration have taken actions to secure the border, including:

• Implementing executive actions to bar migrants who cross our Southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum when encounters are high;
• Deploying record numbers of law enforcement personnel, infrastructure, and technology to the Southern border;
• Seizing record amounts of fentanyl at our ports of entry;
• Revoking the visas of CEOs and government officials outside the U.S. who profit from migrants coming to the U.S. unlawfully; and
• Expanding efforts to dismantle human smuggling networks and prosecuting individuals who violate immigration laws.

President Biden believes that securing the border is essential. He also believes in expanding lawful pathways and keeping families together, and that immigrants who have been in the United States for decades, paying taxes and contributing to their communities, are part of the social fabric of our country. The Day One immigration reform plan that the President sent to Congress reflects both the need for a secure border and protections for the long-term undocumented. While Congress has failed to act on these reforms, the Biden-Harris Administration has worked to strengthen our lawful immigration system. In addition to vigorously defending the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood arrivals) policy, the Administration has extended Affordable Care Act coverage to DACA recipients and streamlined, expanded, and instituted new reunification programs so that families can stay together while they complete the immigration process.  Still, there is more that we can do to bring peace of mind and stability to Americans living in mixed-status families as well as young people educated in this country, including Dreamers. That is why today, President Biden announced new actions for people who have been here many years to keep American families together and allow more young people to contribute to our economy.   Keeping American Families Together

• Today, President Biden is announcing that the Department of Homeland Security will take action to ensure that U.S. citizens with noncitizen spouses and children can keep their families together.
• This new process will help certain noncitizen spouses and children apply for lawful permanent residence – status that they are already eligible for – without leaving the country.
• These actions will promote family unity and strengthen our economy, providing a significant benefit to the country and helping U.S. citizens and their noncitizen family members stay together.
• In order to be eligible, noncitizens must – as of June 17, 2024 – have resided in the United States for 10 or more years and be legally married to a U.S. citizen, while satisfying all applicable legal requirements. On average, those who are eligible for this process have resided in the U.S. for 23 years.
• Those who are approved after DHS’s case-by-case assessment of their application will be afforded a three-year period to apply for permanent residency. They will be allowed to remain with their families in the United States and be eligible for work authorization for up to three years. This will apply to all married couples who are eligible.  
• This action will protect approximately half a million spouses of U.S. citizens, and approximately 50,000 noncitizen children under the age of 21 whose parent is married to a U.S. citizen.

Easing the Visa Process for U.S. College Graduates, Including Dreamers

• President Obama and then-Vice President Biden established the DACA policy to allow young people who were brought here as children to come out of the shadows and contribute to our country in significant ways. Twelve years later, DACA recipients who started as high school and college students are now building successful careers and establishing families of their own.
• Today’s announcement will allow individuals, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers, who have earned a degree at an accredited U.S. institution of higher education in the United States, and who have received an offer of employment from a U.S. employer in a field related to their degree, to more quickly receive work visas.
• Recognizing that it is in our national interest to ensure that individuals who are educated in the U.S. are able to use their skills and education to benefit our country, the Administration is taking action to facilitate the employment visa process for those who have graduated from college and have a high-skilled job offer, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers. 

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