speech writing on good habits

Speech on Good Habits

Good habits are like invisible keys that unlock a healthier, happier life. They shape your daily routine and, in turn, your future.

You might not see the effects immediately, but over time, they can bring significant changes. So, let’s explore the world of good habits together.

1-minute Speech on Good Habits

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I stand before you today to speak about an essential aspect of our lives – ‘Good Habits’. We all have heard about the saying, “Habits make a man”, and it’s indeed very true. Our habits define us, shape our personality, and influence our behavior.

Good habits are like the building blocks of our character. They are the small practices, the routines we follow in our day-to-day life. They range from waking up early, maintaining personal hygiene, eating healthy, to saying a simple ‘Thank You’. These habits, when consistently followed, can bring about a significant positive change in our lives.

However, forming good habits is not an easy task. It requires a strong will, determination, and consistency. But, once ingrained, these habits become an integral part of us. They not only enhance our personalities but also lead us towards a successful life.

Let’s take a simple example. If we make a habit of reading daily, gradually, we will notice an improvement in our vocabulary, language skills, and overall knowledge. Another example could be regular exercise. It not only keeps us physically fit but also mentally alert and active.

In conclusion, we must understand that good habits are the stepping stones to success. It’s the small steps that we take daily that lead us to big achievements in life. So let’s start today, take one good habit and try to follow it consistently. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day. It’s the consistency that matters.

Also check:

Essay on Good Habits
10-lines on Good Habits

2-minute Speech on Good Habits

I warmly welcome you all to this session where we are going to discuss a topic of universal significance – ‘Good Habits’. Habits are the building blocks of our lives, and they determine the quality and direction of our lives to a great extent.

We’ve all heard the saying, “We are what we repeatedly do,” and this holds true when it comes to our habits. Good habits are a stepping stone to success and fulfillment in life. They are not formed in a day or two, but rather require consistent efforts, patience, and commitment.

Let me now paint a clearer picture of what I mean by good habits. Eating a balanced healthy diet, waking up early, exercising regularly, reading books, being punctual, maintaining personal hygiene, being kind and respectful to others, these are all examples of good habits.

Eating a balanced diet keeps your body healthy and fit. It provides the necessary nutrients to your body, helping it to function properly. Waking up early gives you extra hours to plan your day and get a head start on your tasks. Regular exercise strengthens your body, helps maintain weight, and improves your mental health. Reading books expands your knowledge, enhances your vocabulary, and broadens your perspective on different topics.

Now, you might wonder, how can we develop good habits? It’s simple. Start small. If you want to start eating healthy, don’t just overhaul your diet in one day. Start by including one healthy meal in your day. Once you’re comfortable with that, gradually make more changes. Similarly, if you want to start waking up early, don’t set your alarm for 5 am right away. Set it 15 minutes earlier than your usual time and gradually adjust it earlier.

Remember, consistency is key. You can’t expect to form a habit if you’re not consistent. Be patient. It might seem difficult in the beginning, but trust me, it gets easier with time. And most importantly, stay committed. Don’t give up when things get tough.

Let me also emphasize that good habits are not just about doing certain things regularly, but also about having a positive mindset. Being grateful for what we have, focusing on the positive aspects of life, and being kind to ourselves and others are also good habits that contribute to our overall well-being.

In conclusion, good habits are crucial for a successful and fulfilling life. They help us improve ourselves, achieve our goals, and lead a healthy and happy life. They might be challenging to form, but the benefits they bring are worth the effort. So, let’s make a conscious effort to develop good habits, and let’s start today. After all, our future is a reflection of the habits we form today.

Thank you for your attention. Let’s strive to make our lives better, one good habit at a time.

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Speech on Good Habits (857 words)

March 5, 2018 by Study Mentor Leave a Comment

Greetings to one and all present over here. I request you all to bear with me as I present in front of you my speech on the topic ‘Good Habits’.

I urge you to pardon me for any mistake that I commit knowingly or unknowingly while presenting my thoughts.

Good habits. What are good habits? And why it is needed? Have you ever reflected on these questions?

Well, Google defines good habits as a behaviour that is beneficial to one’s physical or mental health, often linked to a high level of discipline and self-control.

In simpler words we can state it as the regular works to be done by an individual which will not harm or affect his mental and physical health, but in turn will benefit him and make a better person out of him.

A person is known by the character that he projects in the society. In a society you have to literally ‘earn’ respect.

And that can be done only when you are a disciplined person which good habits. Only when you establish yourself as a self-righteous disciplined person, only then will the society take you seriously.

Otherwise, you will remain as an incongruous, unimportant piece of the big mass of such people about whom nobody ever bothers.

In India this number is high, since in maximum parts the literacy rate is low, hence the people do not give much importance to good habits.

They indulge in rather bad habits such as – drinking too much alcohol, talking loudly in public, talking on the phone while driving, spitting on walls, doing toilet out in the open and many more.

Hence, we should all start cultivating good habits at a young age. Otherwise, those children will face humiliation in their later life for their inappropriate habits and methods.

Here is a list of some good habits to start with. There are some basic habits which one should develop to lead a healthy life:-

Going to bed on time . Minimum eight hours of sleep is necessary for proper digestion.

Remember the age-old phrase “ early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise. “?

Doing regular exercises – Exercises are very important to keep our body in good working condition. Exercise in the early morning is the best therapy one can possibly get.

Eating healthy food – Food regulates our digestion. Our eating habits speak a lot about us. It tells how much importance we give to our body and mind. Hence, good food habits are a must.

Brushing twice a day – A healthy smile not only will make you happy but will make others happy too. Hence, to have a good smile you need healthy teeth.

To have healthy teeth you need to brush twice a day. Brushing twice a day removes all the germ attack that occurs in our teeth all throughout the night.

Do not keep any pending work – Not keeping any pending work or not being lazy is the most important habit that parents should teach children in recent days.

Often laziness leads to work build-up, which in later days forms a burden, sometimes this burden is so much that it becomes hard to finish. Hence, we should all give up on our lazy selves and start completing what is required of us on time.

Table manners – Table manners speaks about a person’s upbringing. People without proper upbringing do not know how to behave sophisticatedly when they are eating at a table with others.

Often such people are laughed at in high-class societies. Hence, to save oneself from embarrassment it is important that we should learn good table manners.

Cleaning up mess – Cleaning up what we have made dirty is our responsibility. This is an important teaching especially for children.

Children usually create a mess but forget to clear it up. They should be taught to clean up their own litter so that when they grow up they don’t get embarrassed in any public place.

Being responsible with money – Money matters are such which trouble even the elders. Money is a very conditional item.

Today it’s there, tomorrow it’s not there. Hence, it should be used very judiciously when it’s there with us. Saving money is also an art. Children should be made to learn its importance.

Sharing is caring – When we share we feel good. When we share with others it shows that we care for them.

Not littering public spaces – Public spaces are meant for everyone and not for an individual alone. Littering public spaces means you are breaching the rights of other people as well.

Respecting women and elders – Respecting women and elders not just for gender or age but for humanity.

These habits and some other habits can together build up a good citizen. Remember a good foundation only leads to a good building which stands erect for lifetime.

Hence, from childhood only we should start cultivating good habits to have a better tomorrow.

Not only this we should help others who lack such knowledge and encourage them to give up on their bad habits and adopts a better means to lead a healthy life.

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Short Speech on Good Habits

Category: Speech (English) On March 18, 2019 By Ananda

It has been always said that good habits lead to a good life. Good morning respected teachers and fellow students . Today I’m here to give you a speech on good habits. Since our birth, our parents start teaching us good habits because they want us to be a good human.

It’s always good to apply good habits in your life because they can make your life more hygienic, simple and enjoyable. You should always follow good habits like sleep early, wake up early, brush your teeth daily, have a bath daily, wash your hands after and before eating, avoiding junk food and so on.

Putting yourself into bad habits means inviting many germs and diseases in your life. You will be always troubled and could not manage to live a healthy and happy life. Habits always express your character . You show what type of human you are by your habits.

Shouting unnecessary, hitting while playing, not respecting elders, not obeying the rules are the characteristics of a person with bad habits. If you will follow them, then nobody will like to have a conversation with you or be your friend. Everyone will have you if you will not follow good habits.

In the last of my speech, I just want to say people come close to us by seeing our habits. If we will not follow good habits then no friends will be staying with us. We should always follow good habits to stay happy and healthy. Good habits always help us to be a good man and a good citizen. We should always neglect bad habit and if in case we attempt something wrong then we should know to accept our mistake and say sorry.

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Speech Writing /

How to Tackle a Bad Habit? Free Speech Samples for Students

Updated on
Nov 22, 2023

Tackling a bad habit requires dedication and strategic thinking, which can increase your chances of success in life. School students often indulge in bad habits, such as unhealthy beverages, smoking, skimping on sleep, not exercising, etc. Our bad habits are determined by self-awareness, reflection and understanding their effects on our goals and lives. A person’s character cannot be defined by their bad habits, but they must be addressed with appropriate planning and replaced with positive habits. Doing so will fill the void left by bad habits and will contribute to more lasting changes. Below we have discussed a speech on ‘How to tackle bad habits’ for students.

This Blog Includes:

Top 10 bad habits students must break, 1-minute speech on how to tackle a bad habit, psychological tips to tackle bad habits.

Also Read: 160+ Best and Easy English Speech Topics for Students

Here are 10 bad habits that students must break for a better lifestyle. Feel free to use them as examples in your speech or writing topics.

Binge eating
Skimping on sleep
Overuse of electronic devices
Negative self-talk
Procrastination
Multitasking during studies
Not drinking enough water
Lack of organisation
Neglecting self-care
Poor time management

Easy Speech on How to Tackle a Bad Habit

‘Hello and welcome to my fellow classmates and teachers. Today, I stand before you to present my speech on ‘How to tackle a bad habit.’ We all have one or more bad habits which interfere with our day-to-day life, which not only affects our mental health, but our physical health too. Quite often, these negative behaviours affect our individual goals, happiness and quality of life.’

‘Tacking bad habits can be a challenging task and most of us struggle to break them. From biting nails to procrastinating, these habits can interfere with our life and future in multiple ways. They can prevent us from achieving our goals, damaging our relationships, and negatively impacting our health. However, there are ways to overcome these bad habits and create a better future for ourselves.’

‘The first step in breaking a bad habit is to acknowledge that it exists. Accepting harsh reality can prove to be beneficial, as it will give you an idea about our current position. Once you have recognized the habit and its negative effects, appropriate measures can be taken.’

‘Another step will be to replace a bad habit with an alternative option. Consider this example; a lot of young people indulge in overeating in times of stress. Instead of this, try to take a walk or perform a physical activity. Studies have shown that during workouts, endorphins are released, which act as natural painkillers and mood lifters.’

‘Finally, working patiently and persistently is the key to breaking your bad habits. It takes time and consistent efforts to break one’s bad habits as they have been developed over time. A person’s positive attitude and commitment can help them overcome bad habits and create a brighter future for themselves.’

Also Read: Speech On Women Should Rule The World

Did you know you can tackle bad habits with easy and effective psychological tips? Experts suggest seeking help from others in times of hardship, but on an individual level too, a person can tackle a bad habit in real-time and come out with flying colours. Let’s discuss some psychological tips to tackle bad habits for students.

Self-Awareness

Understand what triggers your bad habits. Is it your friend circle? Or your mental stress due to academic pressure? Knowing the source that triggers your bad habits is the first and most important part of tackling them.

Replace With Positive Habits

One of the most effective ways to tackle your bad habits is to replace them with positive and enjoyable activities that trigger your brain’s reward centre. Exercising can be an effective way to tackle bad habits like binge eating, smoking, etc.

Set Short and Realistic Goals

Breaking your habit into smaller and manageable steps can help you to focus on each part clearly. These changes are more sustainable and easier to integrate into daily life.

Mindfulness and Meditation

Raising awareness about your thoughts and behaviours can be aided through mindfulness and meditation. Building the cycle of self-discipline through meditation can help overcome cravings and impulses associated with bad habits.

Visualising Temptation Situation

Mentally practising good habits over bad ones will surely help overcome unhealthy habits. For example, if you are at a party, and see everyone around you drinking and eating junk food, imagine yourself drinking water and holding a glass of water in your hand to keep your hands busy.

How to tackle a bad habit: Bad habits are unhealthy behaviours which affect our mental and physical health. We are consciously aware of these bad habits and yet we are doing them repetitively, because of the pleasure they offer us. Breaking bad habits requires determination, patience and other skills which collectively work to achieve the desired goals. Consulting an expert or a mentor can be a good choice, with whom you can discuss what triggers your behaviour to indulge in that bad habit.

Here are 5 common bad habits of students: Binge eating, Skimping on sleep, Overuse of electronic devices, Negative self-talk and Procrastination.

Talking bad habits in a month requires rigorous hard work and complete isolation from the environment which triggers your behaviour. Surround yourself with positive people who will constantly encourage you to participate in healthy activities. Read books and watch documentaries where the negative sides of bad habits are highlighted. Visualise a temptation situation where you can place yourself and imagine how good it will look if you practice a different approach.

For more information on such informative speech topics for your school, visit our speech writing page and follow Leverage Edu .

Shiva Tyagi

With an experience of over a year, I've developed a passion for writing blogs on wide range of topics. I am mostly inspired from topics related to social and environmental fields, where you come up with a positive outcome.

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Speech on Good Manners for Students in English [3 Minutes*]

December 10, 2020 by Sandeep

Good Manners Speech: Good manners play a vital role in shaping the personality of children. Good habits and manners reflect on a person’s upbringing, culture, social behaviour and value towards society. They lead to success in life and inculcate values of honesty, truthfulness, loyalty and sincerity in individuals.

Speech on Good Manners 500 Words in English

Below we have provided Good Manners Speech in English, suitable for class 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 students.

Good morning everyone presents here. Respected teachers & my dear friends. Today I am going to tell you all about good manners & its importance. We all live in a society, where the way of thinking, talking & acting must be following social norms. Right Manner is a part of human nature & life. We all must know how to behave well & perform good manners. It helps us to earn respect & dignity in society. People always love a man of good manners.

Good manners are incorporated by parents to their children so that they start adapting to it from a very young age. They teach them how to behave with the family, friends, neighbours, relatives & people around them. Modesty, humbleness & kindness are few of the essential traits of a good manners person. Greeting people with a ‘Namaste’ or handshake with a smile is one of the primary manners which all of learning from a very young age.

Reverting people with ‘thank you’ is one of sweet gesture. Saying ‘sorry’, ’excuse me’ are very common which we practice in our lives. Besides all these treating elders with respect & juniors with love & care is also a trait of good manners. We must take permission from other before using any property of others, offering seats to elders in public transport, being humble & polite, not using any offensive or abusive language are also the characters of a well-mannered person.

Good manners always open up the new doors for good connections in life. It also helps us ease of living life. It allows a new conversation with people which is essential for success in life. Good manners create an effective interaction & healthy discussion. Good manners create positivity in the environment. It is a vital part for the individual as well as for society. However, it is observed that the new generation is forgetting the importance of good manners day by day.

They are becoming rude & arrogant. The cases of indiscipline & irregularity are on hike. Good manners are the rudiment elementary education which starts from home. We all must stress on the fact that children are learning it from the very beginning itself. It is a part of life which impacts our existence in society. So we all must practice & follow good manners in our day to day life.

Short Speech on Good Manners

Below we have provided a short speech Good Manners, written in easy and simple words for class 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 school students.

Good morning to everyone present here. Today I ……. of class….. is going to deliver my speech on good manners.

Good manners are an integral part of our life & society. We all learn it from a very young age from our home. Teachers also teach us all good manners in school. It is essential for all of us as it helps in having a good impression on people around us. Being respectful, humble, caring, kind is few of the example of traits which is included in good manners. I will tell you a few of the traits which we all must practice in our day to day life.

Firstly wishing & greeting people whenever we meet them. We must acknowledge people with ‘Thank You’ whenever anyone does any favour for us. If we are wrong somewhere, we must say ‘sorry’. We all must respect our parents, teachers & all elders as well as must show care & love to the juniors. Maintaining cleanliness must be practised not only in-home or school but everywhere we go to. We must not use any offensive or abusive word ever.

Speech Writing for Class 6 Format Topics and Examples

Learn the art of speech writing for Class 6 format with engaging topics and examples. Develop essential communication skills, structure your ideas, and captivate your audience effectively. Enhance your confidence and excel in delivering impressive speeches with this comprehensive guide.

Speech writing is the process of creating a talk or presentation that someone will deliver to an audience. It involves organizing ideas and thoughts in a clear and persuasive manner.

When it comes to developing essential communication skills, speech writing plays a vital role in the academic journey of a class 6 student.

The ability to express ideas effectively through spoken words not only enhances confidence but also helps in shaping a young mind to become an articulate and persuasive individual.

In this article, we will explore various exciting and engaging speech writing topics that are specifically tailored for class 6 students. These topics are carefully selected to spark creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression in young minds.

Format of Writing Speech for Class 6

Speech writing is the art of crafting spoken words to convey a message effectively and persuasively to an audience. It involves structuring the speech with a clear introduction, main points, and a conclusion.

Speech writing for Class 6 follows a structured format to ensure clarity and coherence in delivering an effective message.

1. The format typically includes an introduction, where you greet the audience and introduce your topic.

2. The body contains the main points or arguments supported by examples and evidence.

3. Use simple language and maintain a conversational tone.

4. The conclusion summarizes the key points and leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

With this format, Class 6 students can master the art of speech writing , honing their

communication skills and becoming proficient public speakers.

How to Write Speech for Class 6

Speech writing for class 6 can be an exciting and rewarding experience.

To create an engaging speech, start by selecting a topic that interests you and your audience.

Begin the speech with a catchy introduction to grab attention,

Develop each point with supporting details and examples, making sure to keep it brief and focused.

Use transition words to flow smoothly from one idea to the next.

In the conclusion, summarize the main points and leave the audience with a memorable closing statement.

Introductory and Concluding Words Used for Writing Speech for Class 6

Writing a compelling speech for class 6 requires an engaging introduction that captures your audience’s attention right from the beginning. By using the right introductory words, you can set the tone for your speech and create a connection with your listeners.

Introductory Words :

Good morning, Respected Principal, Teachers, and my dear friends …….

Good morning/afternoon …….

Dear classmates …….

Ladies and gentlemen: …….

Did you know …….

Imagine …….

Have you ever …….

Today, I want to talk about …….

In this speech, I will discuss …….

Picture this …….

I am excited to share …….

Concluding Words:

“Thank you”.

Speech Writing Topics for Class 6

“ Speech Writing Topics for Class 6″ offers a diverse range of engaging and age-appropriate topics for young students to develop their communication skills. These Speech Writing 51 Topics for Class 6 cover areas such as personal experiences, hobbies, values, environmental awareness, technology, and more, providing opportunities for students to express their thoughts and ideas confidently.

1. My Favorite Hobby: Why I Love [hobby]

2. The Magic of Books: Why Reading is Important

3. My Dream Vacation Destination and Why I Want to Go There

4. The Role of Friendship in Our Lives

5. The Importance of Eating Healthy Foods

6. Why Pets Make Great Companions

7. How to Be a Good and Responsible Pet Owner

8. The Value of Saving Money and Setting Goals

9. The Influence of Role Models in My Life

10. The Impact of Technology on Our Daily Lives

11. The Beauty of Nature and Conservation Efforts

12. The Benefits of Exercise and Staying Active

13. My Favorite Fairy Tale and Its Moral Lessons

14. The Power of Kindness and How It Can Change the World

15. Overcoming a Challenge and What I Learned from It

16. The Role of Respect in Building Strong Relationships

17. The Importance of Honesty and Integrity in Our Actions

18. How I Can Make a Difference in My Community

19. The Significance of Family and Family Traditions

20. The Role of Education in Shaping Our Future

21. The Impact of Music and Art in My Life

22. The Power of Dreams and Aspirations

23. The Wonder of Science and Its Discoveries

24. The Value of Water and the Need for Conservation

25 The Role of Sports in Promoting Teamwork and Discipline

26. The Importance of Being Grateful and Showing Appreciation

27. The Impact of Bullying and How We Can Stop It

28. The Joy of Giving: How Helping Others Makes Us Happy

29. The Significance of National Holidays and Celebrations

30. The Role of Technology in Enhancing Learning

31. The Power of Imagination and Creative Thinking

32. The Journey of a Caterpillar to Becoming a Butterfly: Life Lessons

33. My Favorite Superhero and Their Inspiring Qualities

34. The Influence of My Parents and Their Guidance

35. The Impact of Pollution on Our Environment

36. The Importance of Setting Personal Goals

37. The Role of Heroes in History and What We Can Learn from Them

38. The Beauty of Different Cultures and Diversity

40. The Joy of Volunteering and Giving Back to the Community

41. The Power of Positive Thinking and Its Effects on Our Lives

42. The Wonder of the Solar System and Space Exploration

43. The Role of Nutrition in Keeping Us Healthy

44. The Significance of Good Manners and Politeness

45. The Importance of Protecting Endangered Animals

46. The Role of Media in Shaping Our Opinions

47. The Impact of Plastic Waste on Our Oceans and Marine Life

48. The Benefits of Learning a Second Language

49. The Influence of Fairy Tales and Folklore in Our Culture

50. The Role of Games and Play in Our Development

51. The Power of Small Acts of Kindness in Making a Big Difference

Examples of Speech Writing for Class 6

When it comes to developing essential communication skills, speech writing plays a vital role in the academic journey of a class 6 student. The ability to express ideas effectively through spoken words not only enhances confidence but also helps in shaping a young mind to become an articulate and persuasive individual. In this article, we will explore various exciting and engaging speech writing topics that are specifically tailored for class 6 students. These topics are carefully selected to spark creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression in young minds.

Speech: Independence Day Celebration 2023

Good morning respected teachers, distinguished guests, dear classmates, and fellow citizens,

Today, as we gather to celebrate Independence Day, we stand on the threshold of history, reflecting on the monumental journey that brought us freedom. On this day, we pay tribute to the brave souls who valiantly fought against tyranny, sacrificing their lives for the noble cause of liberty.

Independence Day is not merely a date; it’s a reminder of the sacrifices made and the battles won to secure our nation’s sovereignty. It’s a day to honor the visionaries who dreamt of a free India, and the countless individuals who turned that dream into a reality.

As we hoist our national flag, let’s remember that freedom comes with responsibilities. We must uphold the ideals of unity, diversity, and progress that our forefathers cherished. It’s our duty to ensure that their sacrifices were not in vain, by working towards a nation where every citizen can thrive and prosper.

Let this day inspire us to rise above differences and work together for a better future. Let’s pledge to build a society where justice prevails, opportunities abound, and peace reigns. Happy Independence Day, and may our nation continue to shine as a beacon of hope and freedom.

Speech: My Favorite Book Character

Good morning/afternoon dear classmates and respected teachers,

Today, I want to share with you all about my favorite book character. The character that has captured my heart and imagination is none other than [Name of the Character]. This fascinating protagonist comes from the book [Name of the Book], written by [Author’s Name].

[Name of the Character] is a brave, adventurous, and kind-hearted individual. They possess qualities that I truly admire and wish to emulate. Through their journey in the book, I have learned valuable life lessons, such as the importance of courage, perseverance, and friendship.

Their remarkable adventures have taken me to magical worlds and taught me the power of imagination. Whenever I read about [Name of the Character], I feel like I am a part of their extraordinary world.

In conclusion, [Name of the Character] is not just a fictional creation; they have become a source of inspiration and a true friend to me. I will always cherish the memories of their adventures and the lessons they have taught me.

Thank you for listening!

Speech: Importance of Trees

Good morning/afternoon dear teachers and fellow students,

Today, I stand before you to express my views about the importance of trees. Trees are not just a part of our environment; they are essential to our very existence. They provide us with oxygen, absorb harmful carbon dioxide, and help in maintaining the ecological balance. Trees offer shade, shelter, and a habitat for various animals and birds.

Additionally, trees play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, conserving water, and enhancing biodiversity. They also beautify our surroundings, providing a sense of tranquility and peace.

As responsible citizens, it is our duty to protect and preserve our green friends. By planting more trees and caring for existing ones, we can contribute to a greener and healthier planet.

Let’s join hands in safeguarding these invaluable gifts of nature. Together, we can make a significant impact on our environment and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

Speech: My Dream Career

Good morning teachers and fellow students,

Today, I stand before you to talk about my aspirations and the career that fills me with excitement – my dream career. As a class 6 student, I dream of becoming a veterinarian.

From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by animals and their well-being. The idea of helping and caring for them brings immense joy to my heart. In my dream career, I imagine myself surrounded by furry friends, healing their ailments, and providing comfort to their owners.

To achieve my dream, I am determined to study hard, learn all about animal care, and never give up on my passion. I believe that with dedication and perseverance, my dream of becoming a veterinarian will come true, allowing me to make a positive impact on the lives of animals.

Thank you for listening to my dream career aspirations.

Speech: Act of Kindness

Good morning everyone,

Today, I want to talk about something that holds great significance in our lives and has the power to make the world a better place – acts of kindness. As a class 6 student, I have come to realize the importance of small acts of kindness and how they can have a big impact.

Acts of kindness can be as simple as offering a smile, helping a friend in need, or being there for someone who feels lonely. These actions might seem small, but they create ripples of positivity that spread far and wide.

Together, we can create a world where kindness flourishes, leaving an indelible mark on every heart it touches. We can also create a chain reaction of goodness that makes our school, our community, and the world a more compassionate and caring place.

Let us make a conscious effort to be kind every day. Each act of kindness, no matter how small, counts and can make a difference. So, let’s start today and sow seeds of kindness wherever we go.

Thank you for listening. Let’s be kind and make the world a brighter place for everyone.

Speech: Farewell to senior students

Dear teachers, respected seniors, and fellow students,

Today, we gather here to bid farewell to our dear senior students as they embark on a new journey beyond these school walls. As a class 6 student, I feel a mix of emotions – happy for their achievements, sad to see them go, but also excited for the possibilities that lie ahead.

Our seniors have been our role models, guiding us through challenges, and setting an excellent example for us to follow. They have been like older siblings, always there to support and encourage us.

This farewell party is an opportunity for us to express our gratitude and appreciation for their friendship and guidance. Let us cherish the memories we’ve created together and wish them success in their future endeavors.

To our seniors, we thank you for being a source of inspiration and leaving behind a legacy of excellence. As you move forward, know that you carry a piece of our hearts with you.

Congratulations and best wishes to our beloved seniors. Farewell!

Thank you all.

Speech: Your School

Dear teachers, esteemed guests, and fellow students,

Today, I am thrilled to speak about a place that holds a special place in my heart – our school. As a class 6 student, my school is like a second home to me, a place where I not only gain knowledge but also build lasting memories and friendships.

Our school is more than just a building; it’s a nurturing environment that fosters growth and learning. The dedicated teachers inspire us to reach our full potential, and the supportive staff ensures a safe and happy atmosphere for us to thrive.

The vibrant classrooms, the playground echoing with laughter, and the school events make each day memorable. It is a place where we celebrate our achievements and learn from our challenges.

I am grateful for the opportunities our school provides, and I am proud to be a part of this wonderful community. Together, let’s make our school an even better place for learning and growing.

Thank you all for being a part of this incredible journey in our school.

Speech: World Environment Day

Ladies and gentlemen, teachers, and my dear fellow students,

Today, we gather here to mark a significant occasion that calls for our attention and action – World Environment Day. As a class 6 student, I feel a deep sense of responsibility toward our planet and its well-being.

World Environment Day reminds us of the importance of preserving and protecting our environment. It’s a day when we come together as a global community to raise awareness about environmental issues and take steps to make a positive impact.

As young individuals, we have the power to bring about change. We can plant trees, conserve water, reduce waste, and adopt eco-friendly practices in our daily lives.

Let us pledge to be guardians of our environment, caring for nature as it cares for us. By doing so, we can ensure a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future for generations to come.

Thank you for your attention, and let us celebrate World Environment Day with a renewed commitment to protect our planet.

Speech: why students should obey their elders

Respected teachers and dear friends,

Today, I stand before you to shed light on a topic that holds great importance in our lives – why students should obey their elders. As class 6 students, we may sometimes wonder why it’s essential to listen to our elders, but there are compelling reasons for doing so.

Firstly, our elders have a wealth of experience and wisdom that comes from living through various situations. Their guidance can help us make better decisions and avoid pitfalls.

Secondly, obeying our elders shows respect and appreciation for their knowledge and care. It strengthens the bond between generations and fosters a sense of unity in our families and communities.

Lastly, obeying our elders teaches us discipline and helps us become responsible individuals. It prepares us to face challenges and handle responsibilities in the future.

Let us recognize the value of our elders’ advice and embrace the wisdom they offer. By doing so, we not only honor them but also empower ourselves to become better individuals.

Thank you for listening.

Speech: About Yourself

Hello everyone,

Today, I stand before you to share a little bit about myself. As a class 6 student, I believe it’s essential for us to know and understand each other better, building a strong and supportive community.

My name is [Your Name], and I am [Your Age] years old. I come from [Your City or Country], a place I hold close to my heart. I have a passion for [Your Hobbies or Interests], which brings me joy and fulfillment.

In school, my favorite subjects are [Your Favorite Subjects], and I enjoy learning new things every day. I am also an avid reader, exploring different worlds through books.

Apart from academics, I love spending time with my family and friends, creating cherished memories together.

I believe that each of us is unique and brings something special to this world. Let’s embrace our individuality and support one another on this exciting journey of growth and learning.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to introduce myself. I look forward to getting to know all of you better too.

Speech: Healthy Habits makes life Happy

Today, I want to talk about something that is the key to a happy life – healthy habits. As class 6 students, we are at an age where developing good habits can set us on a path of lifelong well-being.

Healthy habits encompass a range of practices, from eating nutritious foods and staying physically active to getting enough sleep and managing stress. When we adopt these habits, we not only feel better physically but also mentally and emotionally.

Regular exercise keeps our bodies strong and energetic, while nutritious meals fuel our minds for better learning and focus. Adequate sleep allows us to rejuvenate and be more productive during the day.

Taking care of ourselves also includes taking care of our surroundings and the environment. Let’s remember to keep our surroundings clean and minimize waste.

By cultivating healthy habits from a young age, we are laying a strong foundation for a happier and fulfilling life ahead. So, let’s pledge to prioritize our health and well-being and inspire others to do the same.

Speech: Your Favourite Sport

Ladies and gentlemen, teachers, and my dear friends,

Today, I am thrilled to talk about something that fills my heart with excitement – my favorite sport. As a class 6 student, I have discovered a passion for [Your Favorite Sport], and it has become an integral part of my life.

[Your Favorite Sport] is not just a game; it’s a thrilling experience that brings joy and adrenaline rush. Whether I am playing with my friends or watching professional players in action, it captivates me every time.

Engaging in this sport has been an enriching experience, instilling in me the vital values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Furthermore, it has become the driving force behind my physical activity and mental focus, pushing me to constantly challenge and better myself.

The camaraderie and the sense of achievement I feel after a game is unparalleled. It’s a sport that challenges me to push my limits and become a better version of myself.

I encourage all of you to find and embrace a favorite sport too. It’s not just about winning; it’s about the joy of playing and the lessons we learn along the way.

Thank you for listening. Let’s celebrate the love for sports and stay active and healthy together.

Speech: Value of Friendship

Dear teachers and fellow students,

Today, I want to talk about something that is truly priceless in our lives – the value of friendship. As class 6 students, we are at an age where friendships are forming, and they play a significant role in shaping who we are.

Friendship is more than just a word; it’s a beautiful bond that brings joy, support, and understanding. True friends stand by us through thick and thin, sharing our laughter and wiping away our tears.

They inspire us to be better individuals, offering encouragement and honest advice. With friends by our side, we feel a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Friendships also teach us essential life skills, like cooperation, empathy, and compromise. As we grow together, we learn the importance of trust and loyalty.

Let us cherish and nurture our friendships, celebrating the uniqueness of each friend. Together, let’s create a caring and compassionate community, where everyone feels valued and appreciated.

Thank you for listening. Let’s embrace the beautiful gift of friendship and make our lives more meaningful and fulfilling.

Speech: The value of learning from mistakes

Today, I want to share an essential life lesson that we all encounter on our journey of learning and growth – the value of learning from mistakes. As class 6 students, it’s natural for us to make mistakes as we explore new subjects and experiences.

Mistakes are not failures; they are opportunities to learn and improve. Each mistake offers valuable insights that help us understand our weaknesses and areas for growth.

When we embrace our mistakes and take responsibility for them, we become resilient and open to new possibilities. It’s through these experiences that we develop problem-solving skills and gain the confidence to face challenges.

Let’s remember that making mistakes is a part of being human, and it’s okay to stumble as long as we rise stronger each time.

So, let’s view mistakes as stepping stones to success, learning from them, and growing into better versions of ourselves.

Speech: The impact of technology on education

Good morning teachers and dear friends,

Today, I want to talk about a subject that has revolutionized the way we learn – the impact of technology on education. As class 6 students, we are fortunate to live in a time when technology plays a crucial role in our classrooms.

The advent of technology has revolutionized education, creating a dynamic and accessible learning environment that fosters interaction and engagement among students. With computers, tablets, and the internet, we have a vast sea of information at our fingertips. It enables us to explore diverse subjects and expand our knowledge beyond textbooks.

Digital tools and educational apps provide interactive learning experiences, making lessons fun and memorable. Virtual classrooms and online resources have made education available to students around the world, breaking down geographical barriers.

However, with this technological advancement, it’s crucial to use technology responsibly and ensure a balance between screen time and other activities.

Together, let’s harness the power of technology to become lifelong learners and shape a bright future.

Speech: The influence of social media

Dear teachers and my dear friends,

Today, I want to discuss a topic that has a significant impact on our lives – the influence of social media. As class 6 students, many of us are exposed to social media platforms and the digital world.

social media allows us to stay connected with friends and family, discover new interests, and access a wealth of knowledge.

However, we must be mindful of the influence of social media. It’s essential to use social media responsibly and respectfully, being kind to others and protecting our privacy.

Let’s remember that while social media can be a powerful tool for learning and communication, we must strike a balance and prioritize face-to-face interactions and outdoor activities.

Thank you for listening. Let’s use social media wisely and make the most of its positive aspects.

Speech: The Power of Imagination

Today, I want to talk about something that resides within each of us and has the power to shape our world – the power of imagination. As class 6 students, we have incredible imaginations that can take us on extraordinary journeys.

Imagination allows us to dream, create, and envision possibilities beyond the confines of reality. It is the spark that ignites our creativity, helping us to solve problems in unique ways.

Through imagination, we can explore distant galaxies, dive into the depths of the ocean, or venture into mythical lands. It knows no boundaries and encourages us to think outside the box.

Let’s embrace the power of our imagination, for it is the seed of innovation and the gateway to endless opportunities. With imagination as our ally, we can shape a world full of wonder and endless possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions Speech Writing for Class 6

Q. 1. How can I prepare for giving a speech in class 6?

Ans: To prepare for giving a speech, practice regularly in front of a mirror or with family and friends. Focus on speaking clearly, maintaining eye contact, and using expressive gestures.

Q. 2. Are these speech topics suitable for other grade levels?

Ans: Absolutely! While these topics are tailored for class 6 students, they can be adapted for other grade levels with slight modifications.

Q. 3. How long should a class 6 speech be?

Ans: Aim for a speech that lasts around 3-5 minutes. It’s essential to keep it concise and engaging.

Q. 4. Can I use props during my speech?

Ans: Yes, using props can enhance your speech and make it more engaging. However, ensure they are relevant and add value to your presentation.

Q. 5. Is it okay to be nervous before giving a speech?

Ans: It is entirely normal to feel nervous before public speaking. Remember, even seasoned speakers experience nerves. Practice and preparation will help you feel more confident.

Speech Writing Tips: 27 Key Tips from Seasoned Pros

Filed under: Featured articles , Public speaking articles , Public speaking tips and tricks , Speaking tips

Whether it’s your first speech or your hundredth, you might be feeling the anxiety build as you stare at a blank page. You need to wow your audience, but you’re not sure how. It can be stressful to create a moving speech from nothing, but you’re not alone. Below, I’ve compiled a killer list of speech writing tips from seasoned pros.

So, what are the best speech writing tips to remember? Choose the right topic for your audience, which is based on their interests and needs. To make your speech more interesting, avoid jargon, and use personal stories and humor in your speech. Make your transitions from subtopic to another smooth, natural, and flawless.

By the end of this article, you’ll know how to write an awesome speech from start to finish. So, let’s not waste another moment!

Table of Contents

Speech Writing Tips: The Audience

Before you begin writing your speech , you need to consider several factors about your audience. Without taking these points into consideration, your speech will fall flat or may even offend your audience, so don’t rush past this part.

#1 Who is my audience for this speech?

This is the first and most important question you need to ask yourself. The answer will dictate the path your speech should take. This first tip has everything to do with the people you’re talking to and nothing at all to do with you.

Why does your audience even matter? Isn’t your speech all about you?

No! If a speech needs to touch an audience, move them, or inspire them, the speaker needs to recognize the audience and adapt to them. Your job, before any other, is to figure out who your audience is and then write your speech around their needs and expectations.

For example, if your audience is a room full of young mothers at a convention aimed at small crafting businesses, you don’t want to come at them with a bunch of sports metaphors. That’s not to say they won’t understand or appreciate one of those thrown in for contrast and a new twist. However, it’s safe to assume they’d rather hear crafting anecdotes or small business stories instead of quips about the latest sports news.

On the flip side, if you’re speaking to a room full of lawyers on a retreat intended to relax and entertain them, you wouldn’t want to fill your speech with depressing cases and stories of judicial frustration. More on that in a moment though.

The bottom line is that you need to gauge who your audience is before you write a single word.

#2 Why is my audience here?

I touched on this briefly a moment ago, but I want to dig into it a bit deeper to drive my point home. Knowing who your audience is, is only half the equation. Understanding why they are there is the other half.

The “why” matters almost as much and who they are. For example, if the audience is there because it’s required, they may come into the speech feeling hostile and tense. A hostile audience is a closed-off audience; they’ll need to be handled with care.

If the audience has paid to be there, on the other hand, they are more likely to be receptive and open right from the start.

So, why are they there?

Is their attendance voluntary or compulsory?

#3 What does the audience want from my speech?

You know who you’ll be speaking to and why they are there. Now, you just need to figure out what they want from your speech. If you know what they want to walk away with, you can deliver it.

Recommended books

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In my previous examples, we saw mothers at a convention for small crafting business owners, and we saw a bunch of lawyers on a relaxing retreat. Each of those groups will be at their events for a specific reason, and you need to know what that reason is.

They are both groups of professionals, but they each have very different expectations for your speeches. One group expects to learn from you or be inspired. The other group wants to be entertained.

How you handle these two situations should be based on their needs. So, what do they want to get out of your speech ?

Are they there to learn?
Are they there to be inspired?
Do they want to be entertained?
Do they want to be challenged?
What do they hope to gain from your speech?
Why is this topic important to this particular audience?

Remember, this isn’t about what you want them to get out of it; it’s about their needs and expectations. Your job is to make sure your words resonate with them, and that won’t happen if you don’t understand what they need.

How do I utilize these speech writing tips for my audience?

So, now you know who your audience is, why they are there, and what they expect from you. But what do you do with all this information?

#4 Research demographics

Jump online and research your audience’s specific demographics. Important factors may include:

Political affiliations

#5 Be informed about the industry

Pay attention to current trends in their industries as well as past ones. Doing some research now can help your speech writing process in the long run, so take the time to dig deep.

#6 Understand the mission

Every event has a mission. Speak to the event organizers to get a better feel for the main mission of this event. This is a good time to ask more questions about the attendees, too.

#7 Check out the venue

Look up the venue and speak to the people in charge. Organizers often choose venues that are friendly to their causes or already have a good reputation in their circles.

#8 Research other speakers

It helps to look at past speakers for the group and how they were received. It’s also very helpful to do some research on fellow speakers at this particular event, if there are any.

Speech Writing Tips for Choosing A Topic

Though you will likely have instructions for the general theme of your speaking engagement, the specific topic will be up to you. Choosing the right topic for your audience and their needs can be a stressful part of writing a speech.

Choosing the wrong topic can make your speech a nightmare for you and your audience. So how do you choose the right speech topic for your audience? Using the previous speech writing tips to get to know your audience, you should already have some ideas about topics of interest to that group.

Just in case you’re still stumped, here are some more speech writing tips for choosing a topic.

#9 Explore relevant speech topics

While researching your audience, the event, and the venue, you probably stumbled across interesting tidbits of information about each. Use them. Even if they seem insignificant at first, everything is worth exploring at this stage.

Look at the bits of information floating around the group you’ll be speaking about. This can be something in the news, a hot topic on social media, or new legislation that could affect the group.

#10 Ask event coordinators for speech ideas

Event coordinators will have a clear picture of the event, the main focus, and the interest of the attendees. Ask the coordinator for suggestions on topics. They may be willing to share the list of topics already being discussed by other speakers, too.

Knowing what other people will be talking about can help you choose a smaller niche or expand on that topic. It can help you avoid redundancy, too.

#11 Ask social media for speech topics

Harness the power of social media by asking your followers what kinds of topics they’d like to explore. Even if these people won’t be in that audience, if they’re familiar with the main theme, they probably have an idea of what kind of speech they’d enjoy hearing.

Writing the Speech

You’ve done a lot of research, spoken to important people, and have a solid plan for impressing your audience. Now comes the hard part.

Getting your ideas and facts down onto paper can be frustrating and incredibly stressful. What will you say? How will the audience react? What if you don’t make sense?

These next tips can help you nail the writing process and produce your finest speech yet.

#12 Write your speech outline first

Outline your speech before you begin writing the words you’ll be speaking. This helps you stay on topic. It also gives you an opportunity to test out the flow of ideas and pacing.

If anything in your outline seems out of place, you have an opportunity at this point to make room for it, or just chuck it. Don’t hang onto stubborn bits past the outline stage. If it just won’t fit, don’t try to force it. You’ll only frustrate yourself. Save that bit for another speech.

#13 Write Your Speech Introduction Last

It may seem counterintuitive to write the beginning last, but hear me out.

Your speech introduction is one of the most important parts of your speech. This will set the tone for the entire speech. Sometimes, it’s hard to get past that first step and get to the meat of your speech because you aren’t entirely certain what your speech is about yet.

So, skip the intro and start working on the body first. You’ll edit that draft over and over, fine-tuning it to perfection. And once you’re done, you will know exactly what your speech is about.

That’s the point where you can nail your introduction, touching on a few key points, and getting your audience ready for the main event.

When you do begin your introduction, lay it out in a simple way. Introduce yourself, talk about your purpose, mention your key points briefly, and establish credibility so your audience can trust you. If you can add some humor at this point, that would help relax your audience, but only do so if it’s appropriate for the occasion.

Your speech introduction is your hook. This is the way you grab attention. Use this moment to engage the audience, too. Eye contact, body language, and asking questions right from start will draw attention.

But a good hook needs more than these tricks. You need to get attendees to want to stay and listen.

Some hooks include:

A puzzling question
Posing a dilemma
Or a combo of all of these

If you’re still stuck on introduction ideas, you can watch a few speeches from popular orators to get a feel for it.

#14 Use personal stories and humor in your speech

After your outline is done, look at your subtopics and choose a few to add personal stories too. It’s best to put personal anecdotes with the most important parts of your speech to help those aspects stand out. Adding a personal touch keeps audiences engaged and interested.

Don’t waste your anecdotes on minor points, unless they add something bigger than entertainment to the mix.

Make sure your anecdotes don’t pull focus from your topic. If people are too connected with your story, it could pull their attention away from the real point of your speech. There is a balancing act here.

#14 Use repetition when writing your speech

Humans are creatures of habit and routine. Both habits and routine come from the repetition of actions, thoughts, and words. Use that to your advantage when you write your next speech.

Pick a short phrase to repeat throughout your speech. It will trigger a subconscious reaction in your audience and help them pay attention. It will help them remember your points, too.

An example of repetition in a speech is Winston Churchill’s “We shall fight on the beaches; we shall fight on the landing ground” speech . Everyone knows and remembers most of it. It’s the repetition of “we shall fight” that made this speech memorable.

#15 Remember that your audience is not you

You were asked to make this speech because you’re an authority. Your job is to impart your knowledge or to entertain your audience, but you have to remember that they’re not you.

The attendees may be interested in your topic, but they don’t have the same knowledge you do ; that’s why you are up there talking and not them. So, this speech writing tip is here to remind you to be a teacher, a guide, and an authority.

Your audience is interested in what you have to say. They will want and need specifics, facts, sources, and information. It’s your job to give it to them. Though each person listening may have some knowledge on your topic, you need to be sure your words and points are clear to someone who might not know much at all.

#16 Don’t patronize or talk down to your audience

Yes, you’re an authority. People will be looking to you for guidance and information. However, you’re not their parent. You’re not above them or more important than they are. Be careful not to cross the line from friendly expert to overbearing know-it-all.

#17 Choose jargon carefully

You want to write and speak naturally, but using too much industry jargon can be just as bad as using none at all. Be sure to choose appropriate industry jargon sparingly, but not too little.

Jargon helps build your credibility, while too much makes you sound desperate.

#18 Nail your speech transitions

You’ll need to go from one subtopic to another in a smooth, natural, and flawless way . This can be a major sticking point for some people.

One of my favorite ways is to put an anecdote between two subtopics to help bridge the gap. Most personal stories have multiple meanings and lessons to be learned. Put an anecdote between two closely related subtopics to help.

You can also use the recap method to transition between subtopics. It’s as simple as saying, “We explored this and this, but let’s turn to this for a moment”, and then continue on. This works best with subtopics that are naturally close together.

#19 Write a great speech ending

Hey, no pressure, but you need to write an awesome speech ending. This is your chance to recap briefly, excite the audience, and add your call to action.

What did your audience want and need from your speech? What was the point of the entire thing? The ending of your speech is where you show your audience that you delivered exactly what they needed.

A call to action can be as simple as signing up for your mailing list or as complex as voting or buying something. Whatever it is, make it clear that your speech has been persuading enough to give the attendees what they need.

One major problem a lot of speeches have is that they wander. It’s a common mistake to let your speech meander back and forth over a variety of topics.

While it may make total sense to you as you write it and even practice it, you must remember that your audience will probably get lost with your ramblings or lose interest in what you have to say.

Here are some speech writing tips to keep your speeches focused.

#20 Keep a narrow focus for your speech

It’s exciting to get up in front of people and talk about your passions. The problem many speakers run into is the desire to cram too much information into a short span of time . This confuses audiences and muddies your point.

Instead of putting every idea into your speech like a blanket, think of your speech as a thread in a bigger tapestry. You aren’t there to show them the entire picture; you’re there to show them details on one important part.

If you stay focused and on topic, your audience will get more out of your speech than if you try to cover every possible point. Besides, if you stay focused now, you are more likely to be asked back for another speech on another part of your tapestry.

#21 Keep your speech simple

This speech writing tip isn’t as much about wowing your audience as it is to caution against too many of those tactics at once . It’s tempting to fill speeches with various “tricks of the trade” to keep attendees glued to their seats, but it can backfire.

If you keep your speech simple and to the point, listeners are more likely to remember what you said. That means they’ll get a lot more out of your speech than the generic memory of you being really fun to watch.

Use short sentences
Use simple language appropriate for the audience
Don’t ramble
Cut extraneous words that don’t add value

#22 Write your speech like you speak

Too many people ignore this speech writing tip—don’t be one of them! You need to write your speech like you speak. That means using everyday language and even colloquialisms where appropriate.

By keeping your speech natural, it’ll help you stay comfortable and confident, which then helps you stay on topic. Adding big words you don’t normally use will only distract you and your audience.

#23 Stick to the facts to write an impressive speech

Understandable, it’s easy to get sucked into the excitement of passionate topics. When people are excited about something, they tend to exaggerate. Since exaggeration is sometimes considered as one branch of lying , that tendency can get you in trouble when writing a speech.

Elaboration is one thing—and it’s a good thing to do in your speech—but it’s a slippery slope from elaboration to exaggeration. Be sure you can cite your sources at any given moment.

Stick to the facts and you won’t find yourself in front of an audience shaking their heads in disbelief. Even if your facts are wild, if you can back them up with sources, you’ll keep your audience listening.

#24 Try to sound normal

Another big issue speakers face is sounding unnatural. There is a stiffness or obvious discomfort to some speakers that can make the audience feel uncomfortable. Some of this is due to anxiety over public speaking, but some has to do with poor word choice while writing the speech.

These tips will help you write a more natural-sounding speech.

Use common terminology for the industry, but avoid difficult to pronounce words.
Ask questions to keep the audience engaged. Speakers and audiences are more comfortable when it feels like a conversation.
Laugh, smile, and gesture as if you were speaking to a friend. Obviously, you don’t want to laugh and smile if it’s a somber event, but use socially acceptable emotions and behaviors to keep yourself relaxed.
Be open, honest, and human. If you know you’ll be nervous, add it to your speech. Poorly veiled discomfort can infect audiences, too. Showing your vulnerability will help show your human side while setting the audience at ease. And writing it in the speech in advance can help alleviate some of the stress.
Write your speech with contractions. Say things like “I’m” instead of “I am” and “they’re” instead of “they are” to keep your tone friendly.

Practice Makes Perfect

You’ve researched, outlined, written, and edited your speech. Pat yourself on the back, but you’re not done yet.

#25 Read your speech out loud

Seeing the same words over and over on the page can start to muddle your brain. It’s a fact. The more you look at your speech, the less likely you are to see the mistakes .

The only real way to overcome this is to read your words out loud. You can do this alone or with a friend, but you must not skip this part of your preparation.

When you read your words out loud, your brain will often autocorrect your mistakes, just like it does while writing and editing silently. The difference this time is that your ears will now catch the mistake and give you the chance to fix it.

So, for example, if you’re reading your speech and your mouth says one thing while the paper says something else, you know there’s an issue. Stop, examine the problem, and make corrections.

If you continue to stumble over places in your speech where it is grammatically correct and is mistake-free, your brain is telling you there’s still a problem. Maybe it doesn’t sound as natural as you thought. Maybe it’s the wrong tone.

Whatever it is, your brain, eyes, and ears are trying to tell you there’s an issue. Don’t ignore these situations.

#26 Record your speech

If you can’t figure out what the problem is while reading aloud, record yourself. This can be audio or video; it doesn’t matter. Just record your speech and then replay it.

You may be able to spot the mistake by listening or watching. If you’re still stumped why it sounds odd, ask a friend or two to help.

#27 Time yourself

When your speech is done, you have one more job to do. Time yourself. It seems so simple and obvious, but many people forget this step.

Writing a speech is an arduous task sometimes, and once it’s done, you may feel great relief. But if you don’t time yourself giving your completed speech, you may find yourself on speech day talking too long or not long enough.

While timing, if you keep coming up short, try these tricks to lengthen the speech:

Add pauses for emphasis
Speak slower
Practice suitable gestures and body language
Add more content

If your speech is coming up too long, try these tips to shorten it:

Speak faster, but not too fast
Add more contractions
Remove extra sentences
Check for the bad kind of repetition or overstating facts
If all else fails, you may need to cut sections

These speech writing tips cover the planning, research, writing, and practice stages. No matter where you’re running into difficulties in writing your speech, there should be something here to help. And if you’re completely stumped or too nervous to even begin, just follow the steps in order.

I’m always looking for more tips and tricks to share with my readers. If you’ve developed your own processes and would like to share, I’d love to hear from you.

Speech preparation: The important question of “What do i do if…” Speech preparation is vital, and the more thoroughly you do it, the greater the chance that your presentation will work out well. Also, it is wise to ask yourself a question “what you would do if…” (full article here)

33 tips to improve your presentation skills. This post will highlight 33 main presentation skills you should know and use in the future. Probably you will see that most of them are very simple to implement right away and don’t require elaborate action plans. (full article here)

How to speak with confidence in public? Accept the fact you’ll be nervous, but don’t let it control you. Prepare your speech or presentation well in advance. Practice in front of a variety of listeners. Learn controlled breathing. Act like you own the stage. (full article here)

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My name is Janek Tuttar , and I am the founder and author of Speak and Conquer website.

I have been teaching public speaking at Estonian Entrepreneurship University of Applied Sciences

Here, I am sharing the wisdom of how to cope in different public speaking situations.

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Hi! My name is Janek Tuttar, and I am the founder and author of SpeakAndConquer.com.

I have been teaching and blogging about public speaking since spring 2007. Here, I am sharing the wisdom of how to cope in different public speaking situations.

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How to write a speech that your audience remembers

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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.

Man-holding-microphone-at-panel-while-talking--how-to-give-a-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.

People-clapping-after-coworker-gave-a-speech-how-to-give-a-speech

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.

Woman-at-home-doing-research-in-her-laptop-how-to-give-a-speech

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.

Man-holding-microphone-while-speaking-in-public-how-to-give-a-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.

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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The 8 Key Elements of Highly Effective Speech

…and why your words barely matter.

Posted July 10, 2012 | Reviewed by Ekua Hagan

I’d like you to take a moment to experience the following sentence, taken from a recent article exploring the nature of human consciousness: “Neuroplastic mechanisms relevant to the growing number of empirical studies of the capacity of directed attention and mental effort systematically alter brain function.”

Exciting? Hardly! In fact, most of the words you read barely register in your brain, and most of the words you speak barely register in the listener’s brain. In fact, research shows that words are the least important part of communication when you have face-to-face conversations with others. So before you utter another word to another person, memorize this list of the 8 key elements of highly effective speech:

Gentle eye contact
Kind facial expression
Warm tone of voice
Expressive hand and body gestures
Relaxed disposition
Slow speech rate
The words themselves

Effective communication is based on trust, and if we don’t trust the speaker, we’re not going to listen to their words. Trust begins with eye contact because we need to see the person’s face to evaluate if they are being deceitful or not. In fact, when we are being watched, cooperation increases. [1] When we are not being watched, people tend to act more selfishly, with greater dishonesty. [2]

Gentle eye contact increases trustworthiness and encourages future cooperation, [3] and a happy gaze will increase emotional trust. [4] However, if we see the slightest bit of anger or fear on the speaker’s face, our trust will rapidly decrease. [5] But you can’t fake trustworthiness because the muscles around your mouth and eyes that reflect contentment and sincerity are involuntary. Solution: if you think about someone you love, or an event that brought you deep joy and satisfaction, a "Mona Lisa" smile will appear on your face and the muscles around your eyes will soften.

The tone of your voice is equally important when it comes to understanding what a person is really trying to say. If the facial expression expresses one emotion , but if the tone conveys a different one, neural dissonance takes place in the brain, causing the person confusion. [6] The result: trust erodes, suspicion increases, and cooperation decreases.

Researchers at the University of Amsterdam found that expressions of anger, contempt, disgust, fear, sadness, and surprise were better communicated through vocal tone than facial expression, whereas the face was more accurate for communicating expressions of joy, pride, and embarrassment . [7] And in business, a warm supportive voice is the sign of transformational leadership , generating more satisfaction, commitment, and cooperation between other members of the team. [8]

You can easily train your voice to convey more trust to others, and all you have to do is slow down and drop your pitch. This was tested at the University of Houston: when doctors reduced their speaking rate and pitch, especially when delivering bad news, the listener perceived them “as more caring and sympathetic.” [9] Harvard's Ted Kaptchuk also discovered that using a warm voice would double the healing power of a therapeutic treatment. [10]

If you want to express joy, your voice needs to become increasingly melodic, whereas sadness is spoken with a flat and monotonic voice. When we are angry, excited, or frightened, we raise the pitch and intensity of our voice, and there’s a lot of variability in both the speed and the tone. However, if the emotion is incongruent with the words you are using, it will create confusion for the listener. [11]

Gestures, and especially hand movements, are also important because they help orchestrate the language comprehension centers of your brain. [12] In fact, your brain needs to integrate both the sounds and body movements of the person who is speaking in order to accurately perceive what is meant. [13] From an evolutionary perspective, speech emerged from hand gestures and they both originate the same language area of the brain. [14] If our words and gestures are incongruent, it will create confusion in the listener’s brain. [15] Our suggestion: practice speaking in front of a mirror, consciously using your hands to “describe” the words you are speaking.

Your degree of relaxation is also reflected in your body language , facial expressions, and tone of voice, and any form of stress will convey a message of distrust . Why? Your stress tells the observer’s brain that there may be something wrong, and that stimulates defensive posturing in the listener. Research shows that even a one-minute relaxation exercise will increase activity in those parts of the brain that control language, communication, social awareness, mood-regulation, and decision-making . [16] Thus, a relaxed conversation allows for increased intimacy and empathy. Stress, however, causes us to talk too much because it hinders our ability to speak with clarity.

When you speak, slow down! Slow speech rates will increase the ability for the listener to comprehend what you are saying, and this is true for both young and older adults. [17] Slower speaking will also deepen that person’s respect for you, [18] Speaking slowly is not as natural as it may seem, and as children we automatically speak fast. But you can teach yourself, and your children to slow down by consciously cutting your speech rate in half. A slow voice has a calming effect on a person who is feeling anxious , whereas a loud fast voice will stimulate excitement, anger, or fear. [19]

Try this experiment: pair up with a partner and speak so slowly that … you … leave … 5 … seconds … of … silence … between … each … word. You’ll become aware of your negative inner speech that tells you that you should babble on endlessly and as fast as possible. It’s a trap, because the listener’s brain can only recall about 10 seconds of content! That’s why, when we train people in Compassionate Communication, we ask participants to speak only one sentence at a time, slowly, and then listen deeply as the other person speaks for ten seconds or less. This exercise will increase your overall consciousness about the importance of the first 7 elements of highly effective communication. Then, and only then, will you truly grasp the deeper meaning that is imparted by each word spoken by others.

But what about written communication, where you only have access to the words? When it comes to mutual comprehension, the written word pales in comparison to speech. To compensate, your brain imposes arbitrary meanings onto the words. You, the reader, give the words emotional impact that often differs from what the writer intended, which is why so many email correspondences get misinterpreted. And unless the writer fills in the blanks with specific emotional words and descriptive speech – storytelling – the reader will experience your writing as being flat, boring , dry, and probably more negative than you intended.

The solution: help the reader “paint a picture” in their mind with your words. Use concrete nouns and action verbs because they are easier for the reader’s brain to visualize. Words like “sunset” or “eat” are easy to see in the mind's eye, but words like “freedom” or “identify” force the brain to sort through too many conceptual frameworks. Instead, our lazy brain will skip over as many words as possible, especially the abstract ones. When this happens the deeper levels of meaning and feeling will be lost.

For more information on how to improve your speaking and listening skills, along with additional exercises to practice, see Words Can Change Your Brain: 12 Conversation Strategies for Building Trust, Reducing Conflict, and Increasing Intimacy (Newberg & Waldman, 2012, Hudson Street Press).

[1] Cues of being watched enhance cooperation in a real-world setting. Bateson M, Nettle D, Roberts G. Biol Lett. 2006 Sep 22;2(3):412-4.

[2] Effects of anonymity on antisocial behavior committed by individuals. Nogami T, Takai J. Psychol Rep. 2008 Feb;102(1):119-30.

[3] Eyes are on us, but nobody cares: are eye cues relevant for strong reciprocity? Fehr E, Schneider F. Proc Biol Sci. 2010 May 7;277(1686):1315-23.

[4] Evaluating faces on trustworthiness: an extension of systems for recognition of emotions signaling approach/avoidance behaviors. Todorov A. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2008 Mar;1124:208-24.

[5] Common neural mechanisms for the evaluation of facial trustworthiness and emotional expressions as revealed by behavioral adaptation. Engell AD, Todorov A, Haxby JV. Perception. 2010;39(7):931-41.

[6] Use of affective prosody by young and older adults. Dupuis K, Pichora-Fuller MK. Psychol Aging. 2010 Mar;25(1):16-29.

[7] "Worth a thousand words": absolute and relative decoding of nonlinguistic affect vocalizations. Hawk ST, van Kleef GA, Fischer AH, van der Schalk J. Emotion. 2009 Jun;9(3):293-305.

[8] Leadership = Communication? The Relations of Leaders' Communication Styles with Leadership Styles, Knowledge Sharing and Leadership Outcomes. de Vries RE, Bakker-Pieper A, Oostenveld W. J Bus Psychol. 2010 Sep;25(3):367-380.

[9] Voice analysis during bad news discussion in oncology: reduced pitch, decreased speaking rate, and nonverbal communication of empathy. McHenry M, Parker PA, Baile WF, Lenzi R. Support Care Cancer. 2011 May 15.

[10] Components of placebo effect: randomised controlled trial in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Kaptchuk TJ, Kelley JM, Conboy LA, Davis RB, Kerr CE, Jacobson EE, Kirsch I, Schyner RN, Nam BH, Nguyen LT, Park M, Rivers AL, McManus C, Kokkotou E, Drossman DA, Goldman P, Lembo AJ. BMJ. 2008 May 3;336(7651):999-1003.

[11] Use of affective prosody by young and older adults. Dupuis K, Pichora-Fuller MK. Psychol Aging. 2010 Mar;25(1):16-29.

[12] Gestures orchestrate brain networks for language understanding. Skipper JI, Goldin-Meadow S, Nusbaum HC, Small SL. Curr Biol. 2009 Apr 28;19(8):661-7.

[13] When language meets action: the neural integration of gesture and speech. Willems RM, Ozyürek A, Hagoort P. Cereb Cortex. 2007 Oct;17(10):2322-33.

[14] When the hands speak. Gentilucci M, Dalla Volta R, Gianelli C. J Physiol Paris. 2008 Jan-May;102(1-3):21-30. Epub 2008 Mar 18.

[15] How symbolic gestures and words interact with each other. Barbieri F, Buonocore A,Volta RD, Gentilucci M. Brain Lang. 2009 Jul;110(1):1-11.

[16i] Short-term meditation training improves attention and self-regulation. Tang YY, Ma Y, Wang J, Fan Y, Feng S, Lu Q, Yu Q, Sui D, Rothbart MK, Fan M, Posner MI. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2007 Oct 23;104(43):17152-6.

[17] Comprehension of speeded discourse by younger and older listeners. Gordon MS, Daneman M, Schneider BA. Exp Aging Res. 2009 Jul-Sep;35(3):277-96.

[18] Celerity and cajolery: rapid speech may promote or inhibit persuasion through its impact on message elaboration. Smith SM, Shaffer, DR. Pers Soc Psychol Bull. 1991 Dec;17(6):663-669.

[19] Voices of fear and anxiety and sadness and depression: the effects of speech rate and loudness on fear and anxiety and sadness and depression. Siegman AW, Boyle S. J Abnorm Psychol. 1993 Aug;102(3):430-7. The angry voice: its effects on the experience of anger and cardiovascular reactivity. Siegman AW, Anderson RA, Berger T. Psychosom Med. 1990 Nov-Dec;52(6):631-43.

Andrew Newberg, M.D ., and Mark Robert Waldman are the authors of Words Can Change Your Brain .

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Home » Blog » General » The Role of Habits in Speech: A Comprehensive Guide

The Role of Habits in Speech: A Comprehensive Guide

Speech is an essential aspect of our daily lives. It allows us to communicate, express our thoughts and emotions, and connect with others. However, many people may not realize the significant role that habits play in speech development and overall communication skills. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the concept of habits and their impact on speech. Whether you are a parent, educator, or someone interested in improving your own speech, this guide will provide valuable insights and strategies to help you develop and maintain good speech habits.

Understanding Habits

Before we delve into the role of habits in speech, let’s first define what habits are. Habits are automatic behaviors that we perform regularly, often without conscious thought. They are formed through repetition and reinforcement, and they play a crucial role in shaping our actions and behaviors.

In the context of speech, habits refer to the patterns and routines we develop in our vocal and articulatory systems. These habits can either support or hinder our ability to communicate effectively. Understanding how habits are formed and their impact on speech development is essential for identifying and addressing any potential issues.

The Impact of Habits on Speech

Good habits can have a positive impact on speech, leading to improved articulation, fluency, and vocal clarity. On the other hand, bad habits can impede speech development and lead to difficulties such as articulation problems, stuttering, and voice disorders.

Positive impact of good habits on speech

Developing good speech habits can have several benefits:

Improved articulation and pronunciation: Good habits help us produce clear and accurate speech sounds, making our words more intelligible to others.
Enhanced fluency and rhythm: Good habits contribute to smooth and fluent speech, allowing for natural pauses, phrasing, and intonation.
Increased vocal clarity and volume: Good habits promote proper breath support and vocal production, resulting in a clear and resonant voice.

Negative impact of bad habits on speech

Conversely, bad habits can have detrimental effects on speech:

Articulation difficulties: Bad habits, such as incorrect tongue placement or mouth posture, can lead to unclear speech and difficulty producing certain sounds.
Stuttering and disfluencies: Certain habits, like rapid or irregular breathing patterns, can contribute to stuttering or other speech disfluencies.
Voice disorders and hoarseness: Poor vocal hygiene habits, such as excessive throat clearing or misuse of the vocal folds, can result in voice disorders and hoarseness.

Identifying and Assessing Habits in Speech

Recognizing and assessing habits in speech is crucial for understanding the underlying factors contributing to speech difficulties. Here are some common habits that can affect speech:

Mouth posture and tongue placement: The position of the tongue and the posture of the mouth can significantly impact speech clarity and articulation.
Breathing patterns: Proper breathing is essential for speech production. Irregular or shallow breathing habits can affect fluency and vocal quality.
Vocal hygiene habits: Vocal hygiene refers to practices that promote vocal health, such as avoiding excessive throat clearing or speaking loudly in noisy environments.

Assessing habits in speech can be done through observation and analysis. Paying attention to a person’s speech patterns, articulation, and vocal quality can provide valuable insights into their habits. Additionally, speech assessments and evaluations conducted by a speech-language pathologist can offer a more in-depth understanding of an individual’s speech habits and any areas that may require intervention.

Strategies for Developing Good Speech Habits

Developing good speech habits requires consistent practice and targeted interventions. Here are some strategies that can help:

Speech therapy techniques

Working with a speech-language pathologist can provide valuable guidance and support in developing good speech habits. Some techniques commonly used in speech therapy include:

Articulation exercises: These exercises focus on improving speech sound production and clarity.
Breathing and vocal exercises: Techniques that promote proper breath support and vocal production.
Oral motor exercises: Activities that target the muscles involved in speech production, such as tongue and lip movements.

Incorporating habits into daily routines

Developing good speech habits requires consistency and integration into daily routines. Here are some strategies to consider:

Setting goals and creating a habit plan: Clearly define the speech habits you want to develop and create a plan to incorporate them into your daily life.
Practicing speech habits in various contexts: Practice your speech habits in different environments and situations to generalize them effectively.
Seeking support from professionals and loved ones: Engage the help of a speech-language pathologist and enlist the support of your family and friends to stay motivated and accountable.

Breaking Bad Speech Habits

If you have identified bad speech habits, it is essential to address them to improve your communication skills. Here are some steps to take:

Understanding the underlying causes

Identify the underlying factors contributing to your bad speech habits. This may involve self-reflection, seeking professional guidance, or conducting a thorough assessment of your speech patterns.

Targeted interventions and therapy approaches

Work with a speech-language pathologist who can provide targeted interventions and therapy approaches tailored to your specific needs. They can guide you through exercises and techniques to break bad habits and develop new, more effective speech patterns.

Consistency and persistence in habit change

Breaking bad speech habits requires consistent effort and persistence. It takes time to replace old habits with new ones, so be patient and stay committed to the process.

Maintaining Good Speech Habits

Once you have developed good speech habits, it is crucial to maintain them to ensure long-term success. Here are some strategies to help you maintain good speech habits:

Importance of ongoing practice and reinforcement

Regular practice is essential for maintaining good speech habits. Make speech exercises and drills a part of your daily routine to reinforce the habits you have developed.

Strategies for maintaining good speech habits

Here are some strategies to help you maintain good speech habits:

Self-monitoring and self-correction: Be aware of your speech patterns and correct any errors or deviations from your desired habits.
Regular speech exercises and drills: Continue practicing speech exercises and drills to reinforce good habits and prevent the reemergence of bad habits.
Seeking periodic check-ins with a speech-language pathologist: Schedule periodic appointments with a speech-language pathologist to ensure that your speech habits are still on track and address any concerns or challenges that may arise.

Habits play a significant role in speech development and overall communication skills. Developing good speech habits can lead to improved articulation, fluency, and vocal clarity, while bad habits can impede speech and lead to various difficulties. By understanding the impact of habits on speech, identifying and assessing them, and implementing strategies for developing and maintaining good habits, individuals can enhance their communication skills and overall quality of life. If you need further guidance or support in developing good speech habits, consider seeking professional help from a speech-language pathologist. Start your EverydaySpeech Free trial today and take the first step towards improving your speech habits.

Preparing for Success: Enhancing Social Communication in Grade 12

Preparing for Success: Enhancing Social Communication in Grade 12 Key Takeaways Strong social communication skills are crucial for academic success and building meaningful relationships in Grade 12. Social communication includes verbal and non-verbal communication,...

Preparing for Success: Enhancing Social Communication in Grade 12 Preparing for Success: Enhancing Social Communication in Grade 12 As students enter Grade 12, they are on the cusp of adulthood and preparing for the next chapter of their lives. While academic success...

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11 Tips for Giving a Great Speech

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Chances are you’ll be asked to give speeches or presentations in classes at school. If you get involved in volunteer groups, brief speeches to open events or thank participants are a must. Then there are the speeches at events such as weddings, as well as speeches that you might have to give in the workplace. That amounts to the average person being required to give quite a lot of speeches, even if they don’t get involved in an area such as politics where the ability to give a good speech becomes even more important. You might also have suffered through quite a number of bad speeches from other people – whether that’s at family events where the microphone squeaks the whole way through or a school presentation where the headteacher can’t quite make the jokes work. If you don’t want to inflict the same sort of experience on others, here are our top tips for giving a great speech.

1. Practise your microphone technique

Correct spacing is key - you want to be heard but don't want to end up deafening your audience!

2. Keep it short

Be strict with yourself when it comes to timing.

Particularly at something like a party or a wedding, no one will be unhappy if your speech runs a little short; it’ll just give them more time to investigate the canapés. If you are giving a speech for a class in school, and it’ll be assessed, you need to prioritise keeping it within the required time limits. But even under these circumstances, if you’ve been tasked – say – with giving a 10-15 minute speech, it’s usually better to come in nearer the 10 than the 15 minute mark. Put simply, even if your speech is terrible, your audience can probably tolerate it for 10 minutes. Much longer, and they’ll be struggling. This shouldn’t limit what you can cover; in the film Up , the whole of Carl and Ellie’s heartbreaking love story is told in under 12 minutes. Do you really need longer to make your points? Achieve brevity by writing out the speech you would give if you had all the time in the world, and then cut anything that seems extraneous or boring.

3. Consider what your audience wants to hear

If you are giving a speech in class because it’s your assignment, what your audience wants to hear is likely to be “the bell ringing for lunch”; you can’t help them there. But under other circumstances, consider what your audience wants to hear and what you want to say, and strive for there to be as much overlap as possible. In the context of a political speech, for instance, what you want to say might be why your party should receive votes; what your audience wants to hear is what your party would do for them, if they won power. Hopefully it should be possible to write a speech that meets both sets of needs, rather than focusing solely on whatever it is that you want to say and leaving your audience disappointed.

4. Pick a theme and stick to it

Here’s a goal for giving a speech: someone sitting near the back, who’s messing around on their phone for at least two-thirds of it and focusing mainly on how long it will be until lunch, should nonetheless be able to give a reasonably accurate answer to the question, “what was it about?” If you’re supposed to be giving a speech in defence of the nuclear deterrent, for example, both the topic and your position on it should be clearly identifiable. This means – to stick with the nuclear deterrent example – not talking for a while about jobs, and then the wider economy, and then the North-South divide, and then Scottish independence, and then Ukraine with a brief digression into South Ossetia before rounding off by squeaking out “and that’s why we should renew Trident!” seconds before you run out of time – no matter how relevant that cornucopia of topics may feel (and they are all relevant, albeit tenuously). It means that even if you do have to take a while to explain a more complex idea, you need to be concise, and bring it back to your theme as quickly as you can.

5. Speak slowly

Most people speak more quickly than they realise when they’re on stage, especially if they’re nervous. But no one will be able to follow your speech if you’re jabbering it out. Thankfully, this one is easy to fix with a little effort and practise. First of all, figure out how quickly you’re actually speaking: do a word count for your speech and then time yourself saying it. A fast speaker will speak at maybe 160 words per minute, a slow speaker at 100 wpm and an average speaker at 130 wpm. For a formal speech, you want to be speaking on the slow side. While this will vary by culture and environment, 120 wpm is a reasonable target to aim for; slow enough that everyone should be able to understand you, and fast enough that you hopefully won’t be sending them to sleep.

6. Tell a couple of jokes

A touch of humour won't go amiss, even if you're not a natural comedian.

This is a tricky tip because there are lots of pitfalls in the world of telling jokes. For instance, there’s the temptation to include an in-joke that three of your friends will understand and find hilarious, that is utterly baffling to everyone else in the room. Avoid this – if you include any jokes, witty references or anything along those lines, make sure they are accessible to everyone present. All the same, if you can manage a joke or two, it can be a useful way to break up a speech and retain the audience’s interest. A little self-deprecation (not too much!) or the use of classic joke formats such as “the scene was chaotic; it looked as if a bomb had hit and we didn’t know where to start on repairs – but that’s enough about the hen party…” work nicely even if you’re not very confident. Don’t turn it into a stand-up comedy sketch if you’re not a comedian, don’t wait for ages for laughter that’s not showing up, and don’t make jokes at the expense of anyone who you don’t know for sure can take it.

7. Don’t be afraid to repeat yourself if you need to

If you follow US or UK politics at all, you’ve probably heard some of these phrases recently: take back control, make America great again, long-term economic plan, son of a bus driver. Three of these have already led the party or people they’re associated with to electoral victory; the fourth remains to be seen. To take the ‘son of a bus driver’ as an example, this refers to Sadiq Khan, now Mayor of London. There can be hardly anyone in London who doesn’t know what their Mayor’s dad did for a living. Meanwhile, many of them probably can’t remember his rival Zac Goldsmith’s name, let alone anything he said during the campaign. The point is that repetition works. In pursuit of point 4, if you want people to remember your key theme, you’re going to have to say it more than once. Don’t assume that everyone will have paid attention to everything you’ve said, unless you’re in a classroom setting where they’ll get told off if they don’t.

8. Only use the visual aids you need

Scratch the notes and speak directly to your audience.

This tip applies to two things: PowerPoints and notes. If you can do without either (and your assignment allows it), then do. Every time you’re glancing over your notes or up at the screen, fiddling with the laptop to get the slide to move on, fighting with a video that isn’t working or struggling to read your own handwriting, is time that you’re not spending engaging with your audience. A well-written, clear speech delivered without notes is always going to be better than someone awkwardly reading aloud the bullet points on their PowerPoint slides. If you must do a presentation – for instance, because there are photos that need to be included – have as little text on it as possible, preferably none. That way, if there are people at the back who can’t really see the screen through the sea of heads in front of them, they’ll still be able to follow what you’re saying.

9. Get a friend to check for awkward mannerisms

Mannerisms that are entirely fine in normal life become awkward and strange when you’re speaking in public. Perhaps you’re inclined to fiddle with your hair or your cuffs, you rock back and forth on the balls of your feet, or you have a habit of reaching your hand to your cheek when you’re talking. No one would notice in everyday conversation, but when you’re on a stage, it’ll become all they’ll see. Some of this is easily avoidable – for instance, if you have long hair that you’re inclined to twirl or otherwise fiddle with, tie it up. For other mannerisms, get the critical friend who helped you sort out your microphone technique to tell you what they are, and do your best to suppress the more annoying ones.

10. Look around the room

Overly intense eye-contact can easily feel intimidating.

Talking about eye contact usually has the effect of making normal eye contact a lot harder, and so does giving a speech. All of a sudden, you’re up on stage, and you have no idea what a normal way to look at a group of people is. Some speakers deal with this by picking a point in the middle distance and speaking to it; others by picking a particular person near to the back and addressing their entire speech at them. This is obviously no fun for that person, who probably spends the whole thing feeling extremely uncomfortable, but it’s not too weird for everyone else. Better still, though, if you can manage it, is to look slowly and steadily around the room, trying to make eye contact with a decent range of people, before returning to the middle distance for a while, rinse and repeat. This needs to be slow and steady, or you give the impression that you’ve just smelled smoke and are casting about for a fire exit before the stampede beings.

11. Don’t be scared of a good reaction

If your speech is genuinely engaging, funny, inspiring or any of the other things you might hope it would be, your audience will react to it. There might be laughter, or applause, or even a bit of cheering depending on the setting. This can be daunting because when you’re practising your speech in front of your bedroom mirror, there’s no way to prepare for it. And it’s where even the best speakers can go wrong, by launching straight into what they were going to say next without waiting for the laughter or applause to stop, or by looking painfully awkward while it’s going on. It’s a pitfall that’s mostly solved by being aware it might happen. If your audience is applauding you or otherwise reacting well, it’s OK to smile, look up, wait for them to stop and then keep going with your speech – it’s as simple as that. You could even throw in a “thank you” before you continue in the knowledge that it’s all going well. Image credits: microphones ; audience ; boy with microphone ; clock ; winding road ; enjoy a joke ; sticky notes ;

10 Tips for Improving Your Public Speaking Skills

Few are immune to the fear of public speaking. Marjorie North offers 10 tips for speakers to calm the nerves and deliverable memorable orations.

Marjorie North

Snakes? Fine. Flying? No problem. Public speaking? Yikes! Just thinking about public speaking — routinely described as one of the greatest (and most common) fears — can make your palms sweat. But there are many ways to tackle this anxiety and learn to deliver a memorable speech.

In part one of this series, Mastering the Basics of Communication , I shared strategies to improve how you communicate. In part two, How to Communicate More Effectively in the Workplace , I examined how to apply these techniques as you interact with colleagues and supervisors in the workplace. For the third and final part of this series, I’m providing you with public speaking tips that will help reduce your anxiety, dispel myths, and improve your performance.

Here Are My 10 Tips for Public Speaking:

1. nervousness is normal. practice and prepare.

All people feel some physiological reactions like pounding hearts and trembling hands. Do not associate these feelings with the sense that you will perform poorly or make a fool of yourself. Some nerves are good. The adrenaline rush that makes you sweat also makes you more alert and ready to give your best performance.

The best way to overcome anxiety is to prepare, prepare, and prepare some more. Take the time to go over your notes several times. Once you have become comfortable with the material, practice — a lot. Videotape yourself, or get a friend to critique your performance.

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2. Know Your Audience. Your Speech Is About Them, Not You.

Before you begin to craft your message, consider who the message is intended for. Learn as much about your listeners as you can. This will help you determine your choice of words, level of information, organization pattern, and motivational statement.

3. Organize Your Material in the Most Effective Manner to Attain Your Purpose.

Create the framework for your speech. Write down the topic, general purpose, specific purpose, central idea, and main points. Make sure to grab the audience’s attention in the first 30 seconds.

4. Watch for Feedback and Adapt to It.

Keep the focus on the audience. Gauge their reactions, adjust your message, and stay flexible. Delivering a canned speech will guarantee that you lose the attention of or confuse even the most devoted listeners.

5. Let Your Personality Come Through.

Be yourself, don’t become a talking head — in any type of communication. You will establish better credibility if your personality shines through, and your audience will trust what you have to say if they can see you as a real person.

6. Use Humor, Tell Stories, and Use Effective Language.

Inject a funny anecdote in your presentation, and you will certainly grab your audience’s attention. Audiences generally like a personal touch in a speech. A story can provide that.

7. Don’t Read Unless You Have to. Work from an Outline.

Reading from a script or slide fractures the interpersonal connection. By maintaining eye contact with the audience, you keep the focus on yourself and your message. A brief outline can serve to jog your memory and keep you on task.

8. Use Your Voice and Hands Effectively. Omit Nervous Gestures.

Nonverbal communication carries most of the message. Good delivery does not call attention to itself, but instead conveys the speaker’s ideas clearly and without distraction.

9. Grab Attention at the Beginning, and Close with a Dynamic End.

Do you enjoy hearing a speech start with “Today I’m going to talk to you about X”? Most people don’t. Instead, use a startling statistic, an interesting anecdote, or concise quotation. Conclude your speech with a summary and a strong statement that your audience is sure to remember.

10. Use Audiovisual Aids Wisely.

Too many can break the direct connection to the audience, so use them sparingly. They should enhance or clarify your content, or capture and maintain your audience’s attention.

Practice Does Not Make Perfect

Good communication is never perfect, and nobody expects you to be perfect. However, putting in the requisite time to prepare will help you deliver a better speech. You may not be able to shake your nerves entirely, but you can learn to minimize them.

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About the Author

North is a consultant for political candidates, physicians, and lawyers, and runs a private practice specializing in public speaking, and executive communication skills. Previously, she was the clinical director in the department of speech and language pathology and audiology at Northeastern University.

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Speech on Success

About Speech on Success

Success is not something which we achieve in a day or year as it is a process of achieving your goals and feeling good about yourself. The definition of success changes from one individual to another. For some success could be doing your dream job, having a car or it could just be marrying a person you love the most. The definition of success changes and it is not the same for everyone.

Everyone around the world is running behind success as it is believed that success would solve all problems. Is success the same for everyone? and will successfully solve all the problems? and what elements will help in making a person successful? All the answers to the questions are given below in the speech on success. Students can refer to these speeches on success and try to understand the important elements required to be successful in life.

Here we have provided a long and short speech on success and along with that we have also given 10 line pointers about the motivational speech on success in English.

The road to success does not happen overnight. Whether they are large or small, your everyday actions, activities, and encounters ultimately determine your success. Success comes when persistence and hard work are combined. Only perseverance and commitment can lead to success.

As a group, we understood that we could not achieve something without giving up something. Success demands a similar amount of sacrifice. Anyhow, you'll be able to accomplish your goal if you perform these penances. In any case, many people achieve success. The result is however that they fall behind in terms of achieving mental, social, and physical success. A lack of success in different areas causes them to become separated. It has sometimes happened that individuals have become so fixated on success that those around them find themselves feeling awkward around them. There have been times when they have gone frantic. Aside from that, if one is not making progress as fast as others, they can become discouraged. With this in mind, we can conclude that success has been severely damaged.

Long Speech on Success in English

Good morning to everyone present today. I feel humbled that I was allowed to give a speech on success. I hope everyone learns new things and your definition of success changes.

So what is success? and why is everyone running after it? We live in a period where everyone wants to be successful. They want to accomplish something in their life. It could be to get the dream job or get good grades on the exams. The point which I want to prove is that the definition of success changes from one person to another. The person sitting next to you will have a completely different view of success compared to you so there is no definite definition of success for everyone around the world.

But success could be simply defined as the satisfaction one gets after accomplishing the goals. Let us take the example of the students sitting here and we all know that every student in school aspires and aims to be successful in school. Being successful in academics and getting good grades is the dream of every student. They need to do it to achieve their goals and be successful in life.

Students let me tell you the road to success is not easy and if was easy everyone would have been successful. Success is also not achieved in a day or a night. It is a long steady process that requires hard work, commitment, and sacrifice.

Students let me tell you that the amount of success a person achieves is directly related to the number of things that person has sacrificed in life. I want you all to understand this concept of sacrifice because it is required for you to become successful. I truly believe that if you are not ready to sacrifice the things that are dearest to your heart, you won’t achieve anything in life. I don’t mean that sacrificing things such as not even food or playing, those activities are required for the proper functioning of your brain. Not playing video games or watching television is the sacrifice you have to make if you want to get good grades in school. You can do fun activities when you are free and not when your examinations are approaching. It is very important to invest your time in studying when needed.

The next important thing that one should have to be successful in life is a firm blueprint to accomplish your goals. Students should plan accordingly to reach their goals and accomplish wonders. Blueprint is required and the first step in making a blueprint is to invest your time in your goals which could be done by preparing a good timetable. Students as we all know lost money could be earned back in the future but the time lost cannot be gained back. Time is the most valuable asset of anyone’s life and it is very important to figure out how to invest it and on whom we should invest it. Investing your time to develop a new skill and cultivate it in the future is what most successful people do. You might have heard about Elon Musk. He is the world’s richest person and people think he is the richest because he has money, the answer is no, he is the richest because of the goals he has accomplished throughout his life.20 years back he had invested his time in learning new skills and inventing new things and the time he invested back then has given him the status of the world richest man today. All I want to say to all the students present here is they do dream about a good life, do dream about a goal or a job that will settle your but it is also required that you have to work on that, you have to water it every day so that it will yield you the success you want in the future.

Students to be successful you have to go through failure. Facing failure fearlessly is required if you want to achieve your goals. Many people don’t take risks because they fear failure and those are the people who never become successful in life. Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, Mukesh Ambani, and many more are known for taking risks in life. What would have happened if Mukesh Ambani did not take the risk of introducing the Jio 4G network? We could still be using other networks and mostly our online learning could have been affected. Students, what I am trying to say is that taking a risk in life is very important and you may encounter failures. Facing failures is important as something that is the only thing that guides us through our journey to success. Do not be afraid of failure and always remember that when you fail forward and learn from it.

To conclude this speech I want to say that Success plays an important role in a person’s life. It is very important to be successful if you want to be recognized by the world but keep in mind that success is not the final stage of your life, it won’t solve all of your problems. We often hear that many people take success too seriously and have mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Having a goal in your mind and working towards it is very important but it does not mean being too serious about it. Work on the process of becoming successful rather than running after it. Spend time with your family and friends while you are working on your goals and please enjoy life I am successful with time. Success will come to you if you have invested your time in it.

Thank you.

Short Speech on Success in English

Good morning to everyone present here today. I feel honored to be allowed to give a small speech about success in school. I hope this speech helps you in understanding what success means.

Success does not have a definite definition as it varies from one person to another. Success could be simply defined as the satisfaction a person gets by achieving his or her goal. Success does not come without any problems as the road to success is filled with many hurdles. To achieve success one needs to be determined in life and have a plan to accomplish that goal.

Success is directly proportional to the amount of hard work and the time you have invested in achieving that goal. hard work here to work physically which makes you tired but it just means that you have to prioritize important things that will make you successful and work towards it. Failure is the most important step in achieving your goals. Many of us fear as we think that it will not make us successful but sometimes failing is important as it helps in determining your path. Imagine what would have happened if Thomas Edison hesitated while he worked on discovering light? the world would have still been dark. Don’t fear failure, face it as it will help in achieving success.

To conclude this speech I want to say that the three most important things required for a person to be successful are Hard Work, failure, and having a timetable. Most successful people are very good at managing their time and it is required that if you want to succeed in life you also have to learn the skill of time management. Lastly do not take success too seriously as it will affect your health and the relationships around you. Work on the process of achieving your goal and I will be successful in life. Thank you.

10 lines about the Motivational Speech on Success in English

Success could be defined as the measure of happiness or fulfillment one person feels after achieving his or her goals.

Success does not have a definite formula or mantra which applies to everyone around the world. The meaning of success changes from one person to another.

Never chase success as it will only lead a person to be unhappy in life.

Success requires constant hard work and determination which many people are not ready to put in.

To be successful in life one needs to set a goal and work towards it with determination.

Successful people are very good at managing time so learn the skill of time management if you want to be successful in life.

Always learn from your failures and past experiences. Never allow your past to define you.

Make a definite blueprint for your life and note down the different goals you want to achieve in a different part of your life.

Do not be demotivated when you fail as sometimes failure is the only thing that will help you in determining your life.

Success is a direct product of the hard work you put into accomplishing your goal.

FAQs on Speech on Success

1. What's the definition of success in life?

It is possible for your definition of what success means to change; however, most people describe it as being content, upbeat, sheltered, well-constructed, and cherished. You need to be able to achieve your objectives whatever they may be in daily life. Success in life means that a person can attain what he/she has desired throughout their entire life. Your ambitions, dreams, and aspirations about how you want your life will determine how successful you are. You already have a successful life if you are proud of everything you have accomplished.

2. What is Success according to you?

For those of you who haven't decided what success means to them, there is an exercise you can try: Take 15 minutes and write words, symbols, or pictures that describe what success is for you. If you are struggling with ideas of success, you could focus on your immediate aims or near-term goals. If you start documenting a successful life for yourself, you might be inspired to examine the whole of your life. Here are some questions you might ask yourself:

How does happiness make me feel?

Is there any area in my life where I have already succeeded?

How can I apply that experience?

Did I learn anything from my failures?

What is my role model?

Which is the most important thing to me?

And how will I remember myself?

Our daily engagements and energizing activities are much better measures of success.

Natural abilities are often what motivate and engage us in the very activities that energise us.

Manage a team or grow a business if you have strong influencing or relationship skills. Maybe you thrive on solving complex problems, developing strategies, and developing visions. You're inspired by new ideas and produce your best work when you have time to think and reflect. However, deadlines and multiple projects also feel like an adrenaline rush to you.

3. Is success the only thing that matters?

It is not success that makes us happy. Often, society defines happiness as how much success you can achieve. We are extremely focused on creating success as a society. The concept that happiness results from success have become intoxicating:

I would be delighted to get promoted.

Success will make me happy.

My success will be measured by the factor of 12 increase in the share price of my company

and therefore, I will be pleased

All of these assumptions are false. Achieving success does not guarantee happiness. Success is a relative concept in everything that we do: the more successful we become, the higher the bar for defining success, making achievement more difficult.

The good news is that this is great for business, but if it's what determines your happiness, you'll end up unhappy. Big numbers always make people unhappy.

Although the difficulty level increases as the bar are next raised, the level of happiness remains unchanged.

4. How does success hurt us?

It is common knowledge that one cannot achieve something without sacrificing something. To achieve success, one has to sacrifice a variety of things. Even though these sacrifices may seem futile, they will not be in vain if you achieve your goal. Yes, many people become successful in their field but fail to achieve success in their mental, social, and physical lives. The tension of not being successful elsewhere is what draws them apart.

Oftentimes, people become obsessed with success to the point that the people around them become uncomfortable around them. This is sometimes considered madness. In addition to this, people get depressed if they do not succeed like other people. Therefore, success comes with a lot of disadvantages.

5. Does hard work correlate with Success?

Even though it may sound unfit to some people, hard work is essential to success. Success cannot be achieved without hard work. Laborious and sweaty work does not constitute hard work. A healthy body, a strong mind, willpower, and a positive mindset are all elements of hard work. You need the energy to achieve all of those things. Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. You should also do more than just work on your program, push yourself to the limit, take responsibility for other things, and improve your skills. Apart from that, you should associate with positive people, develop positive habits, and continue exercising for both the body and your mind.

Essentially, we can say that success is like a seed that needs a balanced proportion of all its components. Success can never be achieved in a day; one must undergo and deal with different conditions in life to achieve success. When you achieve your goal, you are feeling a sense of fulfilment, which is called success.

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Essay on Good Habits – 10 Lines, Short and Long Essay for Children

Key Points To Remember When Writing An Essay on Good Habits For Lower Primary Classes

10 lines on good habits for kids, short essay on good habits in english for children, long essay on good habits for kids, importance of good habits in life, list of good habits for successful life, what will your child learn from an essay on good habits.

Essay writing is an important skill for kids because it helps them think deeply about a topic and conclude. It also helps with sentence structure, vocabulary, coming up with ideas, and presenting them in words. In the lower primary classes, students are taught the importance of good habits. One way in which the teachers focus on this topic is by assigning it for essay writing. An essay on Good Habits for classes 1, 2 & 3 can give kids many ideas for writing about their good practices as they learn how to write short and long compositions.

‘Healthy Habits’ is a great essay topic as ample knowledge on this helps kids grow up happy and healthy. We all need good habits in our daily lives. These are mostly taught to us when we are young and stay with us until the end. Let us guide your child with some essential points for writing a good essay on habits.

A broad topic like good habits for an essay can be complicated for young students to understand, and that’s why kids need a lot of practice and exposure to language to learn how to write well. If you’re also unsure how to write an essay on good habits for children, consider a few points.

Everything you write should back up the central point.
Write a sentence that sums up what you want to say. Lastly, use facts and examples to back up your point.
There should be an introduction, the body (one to three paragraphs), and the end. Each paragraph should have about three to four sentences, which can change depending on your writing.
Start your essay by saying what the main point is, and at the end of your essay, you should restate your main point.

Having good habits is like having wisdom. If you keep up the good habits, you will move ahead in life and get more admiration. You can use these 10 points in an essay on good habits for classes 1 and 2.

Being a good person comes from having good habits.
Successful people have good habits that help them grow in life.
Everyone respects people with good habits.
If you have good habits, everyone will look up to you.
Good habits help you learn how to control yourself.
An excellent social reputation depends on good habits.
Having good habits can make your life better.
Healthy habits help you stay healthy.
A happy life is built on good habits.
Good habits will attract friends and company.

Good habits are vital for good health. It is possible to develop a variety of healthy habits that are helpful to one’s health. Children will learn to write a paragraph by reading this small essay on good habits.

Good habits are essential for having good education and behaviour. It is the foundation for the growth of everyone. We need time and determination to develop good practice. We need to be disciplined as it’s difficult to leave bad habits behind. Having good manners is a stepping stone. We need to practice all positive values such as hard work, punctuality, honesty and more until it becomes a routine. Everyone loves and looks up to someone with good habits. If we have clean habits, maintain good hygiene, appear well-groomed and remain tidy, people will find us attractive and will want to be our friends. Right from children to elders, we all should have good habits to be better people.

Good habits have a great impact on a person’s lifestyle and progress in their work. Writing an essay on good habits will allow kids to know more about this crucial asset of life and they will feel encouraged to embrace some good habits in their disposition. Here is a template for your reference:

Healthy living needs a healthy body as it is the base of progress and happiness. For our body and mind to stay healthy, we must follow some good habits. We can have a healthy lifestyle by taking essential steps as follows.

Structured Timetable

Keeping a good schedule every day is very important. We should try to eat three to four healthy meals a day, drink a lot of water, and maintain a fitness routine like walking, jogging, or running. This regime keeps the body healthy and balanced, which is the key to keeping the mind healthy.

Sincerity And Honesty

Being honest is an essential good habit because it shapes our overall disposition. We can show honesty in many ways, such as by telling the truth, admitting mistakes, recognising and fixing errors, not slandering other people, and analysing and improving ourselves.

To succeed in all aspects of life in today’s world, we must be honest and work hard. The goal should be to do the best work that benefits us and the people we are with. Work ethic and honesty are the best traits to develop for school or a job.

Punctuality

Being on time is one of the best habits to succeed in life and is an essential aspect of life. Being on time gives us confidence because it creates a good impression and shows how interested and honest we are in our work.

Whether old or young, we need to learn to value other people. What we offer always comes back to us. People will respect us if we treat them with respect. We should always be respectful enough to say “thank you” and “I’m sorry” when appropriate.

Cleanliness

We need to keep our surroundings clean. We need to make sure that our habits are good for the environment, and don’t cause any damage to it. Small acts like not littering, reducing the use of plastic and using dustbins will help us keep our environment clean. We need to maintain the same habit of keeping everything neat and tidy at home. When things go wrong, it’s hard to find anything if the place is messy.

Sharing is one of the most important values that helps us show love and care towards others. It develops the feeling of compassion, empathy, and togetherness.

Here are some reasons why good habita are important:

To help you reach your goals and dreams.
To make lifelong friends.
Family, friends, and people, in general, will respect you more.
Having good habits makes your life better.
You will achieve more success.
People will be willing to help you when you need it.

These good habits will help you succees in life:

Wake up, and go to bed early
Always be kind and polite to other people
Respect your friends, teachers, and elders
Have fun with good people
Read and learn all the time
Have a plan to study

Writing a composition on good habits will teach your youngster to organise their thoughts. In this way, they will learn how to structure their thoughts and ideas into the paragraphs that make up the body of their essay. They will feel motivated to absorb some good habits in their routine too.

Good habits take time to form and need discipline. Children need to learn good habits from an early age. We can live a healthy life if we keep up with good habits.

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14.4 Practicing for Successful Speech Delivery

Learning objectives.

Explain why having a strong conversational quality is important for effective public speaking.
Explain the importance of eye contact in public speaking.
Define vocalics and differentiate among the different factors of vocalics.
Explain effective physical manipulation during a speech.
Understand how to practice effectively for good speech delivery.

Christian Pierret – Speech – CC BY 2.0.

There is no foolproof recipe for good delivery. Each of us is unique, and we each embody different experiences and interests. This means each person has an approach, or a style, that is effective for her or him. This further means that anxiety can accompany even the most carefully researched and interesting message. Even when we know our messages are strong and well-articulated on paper, it is difficult to know for sure that our presentation will also be good.

We are still obligated to do our best out of respect for the audience and their needs. Fortunately, there are some tools that can be helpful to you even the very first time you present a speech. You will continue developing your skills each time you put them to use and can experiment to find out which combination of delivery elements is most effective for you.

What Is Good Delivery?

The more you care about your topic, the greater your motivation to present it well. Good delivery is a process of presenting a clear, coherent message in an interesting way. Communication scholar Stephen E. Lucas tells us:

Good delivery…conveys the speaker’s ideas clearly, interestingly, and without distracting the audience. Most audiences prefer delivery that combines a certain degree of formality with the best attributes of good conversation—directness, spontaneity, animation, vocal and facial expressiveness, and a lively sense of communication (Lucas, 2009).

Many writers on the nonverbal aspects of delivery have cited the findings of psychologist Albert Mehrabian, asserting that the bulk of an audience’s understanding of your message is based on nonverbal communication. Specifically, Mehrabian is often credited with finding that when audiences decoded a speaker’s meaning, the speaker’s face conveyed 55 percent of the information, the vocalics conveyed 38 percent, and the words conveyed just 7 percent (Mehrabian, 1972). Although numerous scholars, including Mehrabian himself, have stated that his findings are often misinterpreted (Mitchell), scholars and speech instructors do agree that nonverbal communication and speech delivery are extremely important to effective public speaking.

In this section of the chapter, we will explain six elements of good delivery: conversational style, conversational quality, eye contact, vocalics, physical manipulation, and variety. And since delivery is only as good as the practice that goes into it, we conclude with some tips for effective use of your practice time.

Conversational Style

Conversational style is a speaker’s ability to sound expressive and to be perceived by the audience as natural. It’s a style that approaches the way you normally express yourself in a much smaller group than your classroom audience. This means that you want to avoid having your presentation come across as didactic or overly exaggerated. You might not feel natural while you’re using a conversational style, but for the sake of audience preference and receptiveness, you should do your best to appear natural. It might be helpful to remember that the two most important elements of the speech are the message and the audience. You are the conduit with the important role of putting the two together in an effective way. Your audience should be thinking about the message, not the delivery.

Stephen E. Lucas defines conversational quality as the idea that “no matter how many times a speech has been rehearsed, it still sounds spontaneous” [emphasis in original] (Lucas, 2009). No one wants to hear a speech that is so well rehearsed that it sounds fake or robotic. One of the hardest parts of public speaking is rehearsing to the point where it can appear to your audience that the thoughts are magically coming to you while you’re speaking, but in reality you’ve spent a great deal of time thinking through each idea. When you can sound conversational, people pay attention.

Eye Contact

Eye contact is a speaker’s ability to have visual contact with everyone in the audience. Your audience should feel that you’re speaking to them, not simply uttering main and supporting points. If you are new to public speaking, you may find it intimidating to look audience members in the eye, but if you think about speakers you have seen who did not maintain eye contact, you’ll realize why this aspect of speech delivery is important. Without eye contact, the audience begins to feel invisible and unimportant, as if the speaker is just speaking to hear her or his own voice. Eye contact lets your audience feel that your attention is on them, not solely on the cards in front of you.

Sustained eye contact with your audience is one of the most important tools toward effective delivery. O’Hair, Stewart, and Rubenstein note that eye contact is mandatory for speakers to establish a good relationship with an audience (O’Hair, Stewart, & Rubenstein, 2001). Whether a speaker is speaking before a group of five or five hundred, the appearance of eye contact is an important way to bring an audience into your speech.

Eye contact can be a powerful tool. It is not simply a sign of sincerity, a sign of being well prepared and knowledgeable, or a sign of confidence; it also has the power to convey meanings. Arthur Koch tells us that all facial expressions “can communicate a wide range of emotions, including sadness, compassion, concern, anger, annoyance, fear, joy, and happiness” (Koch, 2010).

If you find the gaze of your audience too intimidating, you might feel tempted to resort to “faking” eye contact with them by looking at the wall just above their heads or by sweeping your gaze around the room instead of making actual eye contact with individuals in your audience until it becomes easier to provide real contact. The problem with fake eye contact is that it tends to look mechanical. Another problem with fake attention is that you lose the opportunity to assess the audience’s understanding of your message. Still, fake eye contact is somewhat better than gripping your cards and staring at them and only occasionally glancing quickly and shallowly at the audience.

This is not to say that you may never look at your notecards. On the contrary, one of the skills in extemporaneous speaking is the ability to alternate one’s gaze between the audience and one’s notes. Rehearsing your presentation in front of a few friends should help you develop the ability to maintain eye contact with your audience while referring to your notes. When you are giving a speech that is well prepared and well rehearsed, you will only need to look at your notes occasionally. This is an ability that will develop even further with practice. Your public speaking course is your best chance to get that practice.

Effective Use of Vocalics

Vocalics , also known as paralanguage, is the subfield of nonverbal communication that examines how we use our voices to communicate orally. This means that you speak loudly enough for all audience members (even those in the back of the room) to hear you clearly, and that you enunciate clearly enough to be understood by all audience members (even those who may have a hearing impairment or who may be English-language learners). If you tend to be soft-spoken, you will need to practice using a louder volume level that may feel unnatural to you at first. For all speakers, good vocalic technique is best achieved by facing the audience with your chin up and your eyes away from your notecards and by setting your voice at a moderate speed. Effective use of vocalics also means that you make use of appropriate pitch, pauses, vocal variety, and correct pronunciation.

If you are an English-language learner and feel apprehensive about giving a speech in English, there are two things to remember: first, you can meet with a reference librarian to learn the correct pronunciations of any English words you are unsure of; and second, the fact that you have an accent means you speak more languages than most Americans, which is an accomplishment to be proud of.

If you are one of the many people with a stutter or other speech challenge, you undoubtedly already know that there are numerous techniques for reducing stuttering and improving speech fluency and that there is no one agreed-upon “cure.” The Academy Award–winning movie The King’s Speech did much to increase public awareness of what a person with a stutter goes through when it comes to public speaking. It also prompted some well-known individuals who stutter, such as television news reporter John Stossel, to go public about their stuttering (Stossel, 2011). If you have decided to study public speaking in spite of a speech challenge, we commend you for your efforts and encourage you to work with your speech instructor to make whatever adaptations work best for you.

Volume refers to the loudness or softness of a speaker’s voice. As mentioned, public speakers need to speak loudly enough to be heard by everyone in the audience. In addition, volume is often needed to overcome ambient noise, such as the hum of an air conditioner or the dull roar of traffic passing by. In addition, you can use volume strategically to emphasize the most important points in your speech. Select these points carefully; if you emphasize everything, nothing will seem important. You also want to be sure to adjust your volume to the physical setting of the presentation. If you are in a large auditorium and your audience is several yards away, you will need to speak louder. If you are in a smaller space, with the audience a few feet away, you want to avoid overwhelming your audience with shouting or speaking too loudly.

Rate is the speed at which a person speaks. To keep your speech delivery interesting, your rate should vary. If you are speaking extemporaneously, your rate will naturally fluctuate. If you’re reading, your delivery is less likely to vary. Because rate is an important tool in enhancing the meanings in your speech, you do not want to give a monotone drone or a rapid “machine-gun” style delivery. Your rate should be appropriate for your topic and your points. A rapid, lively rate can communicate such meanings as enthusiasm, urgency, or humor. A slower, moderated rate can convey respect, seriousness, or careful reasoning. By varying rapid and slower rates within a single speech, you can emphasize your main points and keep your audience interested.

Pitch refers to the highness or lowness of a speaker’s voice. Some speakers have deep voices and others have high voices. As with one’s singing voice range, the pitch of one’s speaking voice is determined to a large extent by physiology (specifically, the length of one’s vocal folds, or cords, and the size of one’s vocal tract). We all have a normal speaking pitch where our voice is naturally settled, the pitch where we are most comfortable speaking, and most teachers advise speaking at the pitch that feels natural to you.

While our voices may be generally comfortable at a specific pitch level, we all have the ability to modulate, or move, our pitch up or down. In fact, we do this all the time. When we change the pitch of our voices, we are using inflections . Just as you can use volume strategically, you can also use pitch inflections to make your delivery more interesting and emphatic. If you ordinarily speak with a soprano voice, you may want to drop your voice to a slightly lower range to call attention to a particular point. How we use inflections can even change the entire meaning of what we are saying. For example, try saying the sentence “I love public speaking” with a higher pitch on one of the words—first raise the pitch on “I,” then say it again with the pitch raised on “love,” and so on. “ I love public speaking” conveys a different meaning from “I love public speaking,” doesn’t it?

There are some speakers who don’t change their pitch at all while speaking, which is called monotone . While very few people are completely monotone, some speakers slip into monotone patterns because of nerves. One way to ascertain whether you sound monotone is to record your voice and see how you sound. If you notice that your voice doesn’t fluctuate very much, you will need to be intentional in altering your pitch to ensure that the emphasis of your speech isn’t completely lost on your audience.

Finally, resist the habit of pitching your voice “up” at the ends of sentences. It makes them sound like questions instead of statements. This habit can be disorienting and distracting, interfering with the audience’s ability to focus entirely on the message. The speaker sounds uncertain or sounds as though he or she is seeking the understanding or approval of the listener. It hurts the speaker’s credibility and it needs to be avoided.

The effective use of pitch is one of the keys to an interesting delivery that will hold your audience’s attention.

Pauses are brief breaks in a speaker’s delivery that can show emphasis and enhance the clarity of a message. In terms of timing, the effective use of pauses is one of the most important skills to develop. Some speakers become uncomfortable very quickly with the “dead air” that the pause causes. And if the speaker is uncomfortable, the discomfort can transmit itself to the audience. That doesn’t mean you should avoid using pauses; your ability to use them confidently will increase with practice. Some of the best comedians use the well-timed pause to powerful and hilarious effect. Although your speech will not be a comedy routine, pauses are still useful for emphasis, especially when combined with a lowered pitch and rate to emphasize the important point you do not want your audience to miss.

Vocal Variety

Vocal variety has to do with changes in the vocalics we have just discussed: volume, pitch, rate, and pauses. No one wants to hear the same volume, pitch, rate, or use of pauses over and over again in a speech. Your audience should never be able to detect that you’re about to slow down or your voice is going to get deeper because you’re making an important point. When you think about how you sound in a normal conversation, your use of volume, pitch, rate, and pauses are all done spontaneously. If you try to overrehearse your vocalics, your speech will end up sounding artificial. Vocal variety should flow naturally from your wish to speak with expression. In that way, it will animate your speech and invite your listeners to understand your topic the way you do.

Pronunciation

The last major category related to vocalics is pronunciation , or the conventional patterns of speech used to form a word. Word pronunciation is important for two reasons: first, mispronouncing a word your audience is familiar with will harm your credibility as a speaker; and second, mispronouncing a word they are unfamiliar with can confuse and even misinform them. If there is any possibility at all that you don’t know the correct pronunciation of a word, find out. Many online dictionaries, such as the Wiktionary ( http://wiktionary.org ), provide free sound files illustrating the pronunciation of words.

Many have commented on the mispronunciation of words such as “nuclear” and “cavalry” by highly educated public speakers, including US presidents. There have been classroom examples as well. For instance, a student giving a speech on the Greek philosopher Socrates mispronounced his name at least eight times during her speech. This mispronunciation created a situation of great awkwardness and anxiety for the audience. Everyone felt embarrassed and the teacher, opting not to humiliate the student in front of the class, could not say anything out loud, instead providing a private written comment at the end of class.

One important aspect of pronunciation is articulation , or the ability to clearly pronounce each of a succession of syllables used to make up a word. Some people have difficulty articulating because of physiological problems that can be treated by trained speech therapists, but other people have articulation problems because they come from a cultural milieu where a dialect other than standard American English is the norm. Speech therapists, who generally guide their clients toward standard American English, use the acronym SODA when helping people learn how to more effectively articulate: substitutions , omissions , distortions , and additions .

Substitutions occur when a speaker replaces one consonant or vowel with another consonant ( water becomes wudda ; ask becomes ax ; mouth becomes mouf ).
Omissions occur when a speaker drops a consonant or vowel within a word ( Internet becomes Innet ; mesmerized becomes memerized ; probably becomes prolly ).
Distortions occur when a speaker articulates a word with nasal or slurring sounds ( pencil sounds like mencil ; precipitation sounds like persination ; second sounds like slecond ).
Additions occur when a speaker adds consonants or vowels to words that are not there ( anyway becomes anyways ; athletic becomes athaletic ; black becomes buhlack ; interpret becomes interpretate ).

Another aspect of pronunciation in public speaking is avoiding the use of verbal surrogates or “filler” words used as placeholders for actual words (like er , um , uh , etc.). You might be able to get away with saying “um” as many as two or three times in your speech before it becomes distracting, but the same cannot be said of “like.” We know of a student who trained herself to avoid saying “like.” As soon as the first speech was assigned, she began wearing a rubber band on her left wrist. Each time she caught herself saying “like,” she snapped herself with the rubber band. It hurt. Very quickly, she found that she could stop inflicting the snap on herself, and she had successfully confronted an unprofessional verbal habit.

Effective Physical Manipulation

In addition to using our voices effectively, a key to effective public speaking is physical manipulation , or the use of the body to emphasize meanings or convey meanings during a speech. While we will not attempt to give an entire discourse on nonverbal communication, we will discuss a few basic aspects of physical manipulation: posture, body movement, facial expressions, and dress. These aspects add up to the overall physical dimension of your speech, which we call self-presentation.

“Stand up tall!” I’m sure we’ve all heard this statement from a parent or a teacher at some point in our lives. The fact is, posture is actually quite important. When you stand up straight, you communicate to your audience, without saying a word, that you hold a position of power and take your position seriously. If however, you are slouching, hunched over, or leaning on something, you could be perceived as ill prepared, anxious, lacking in credibility, or not serious about your responsibilities as a speaker. While speakers often assume more casual posture as a presentation continues (especially if it is a long one, such as a ninety-minute class lecture), it is always wise to start by standing up straight and putting your best foot forward. Remember, you only get one shot at making a first impression, and your body’s orientation is one of the first pieces of information audiences use to make that impression.

Body Movement

Unless you are stuck behind a podium because of the need to use a nonmovable microphone, you should never stand in one place during a speech. However, movement during a speech should also not resemble pacing. One of our authors once saw a speaker who would walk around a small table where her speaking notes were located. She would walk around the table once, toss her chalk twice, and then repeat the process. Instead of listening to what the speaker was saying, everyone became transfixed by her walk-and-chalk-toss pattern. As speakers, we must be mindful of how we go about moving while speaking. One common method for easily integrating some movement into your speech is to take a few steps any time you transition from one idea to the next. By only moving at transition points, not only do you help focus your audience’s attention on the transition from one idea to the next, but you also are able to increase your nonverbal immediacy by getting closer to different segments of your audience.

Body movement also includes gestures. These should be neither overdramatic nor subdued. At one extreme, arm-waving and fist-pounding will distract from your message and reduce your credibility. At the other extreme, refraining from the use of gestures is the waste of an opportunity to suggest emphasis, enthusiasm, or other personal connection with your topic.

There are many ways to use gestures. The most obvious are hand gestures, which should be used in moderation at carefully selected times in the speech. If you overuse gestures, they lose meaning. Many late-night comedy parodies of political leaders include patterned, overused gestures or other delivery habits associated with a particular speaker. However, the well-placed use of simple, natural gestures to indicate emphasis, direction, size is usually effective. Normally, a gesture with one hand is enough. Rather than trying to have a gesture for every sentence, use just a few well-planned gestures. It is often more effective to make a gesture and hold it for a few moments than to begin waving your hands and arms around in a series of gestures.

Finally, just as you should avoid pacing, you will also want to avoid other distracting movements when you are speaking. Many speakers have unconscious mannerisms such as twirling their hair, putting their hands in and out of their pockets, jingling their keys, licking their lips, or clicking a pen while speaking. As with other aspects of speech delivery, practicing in front of others will help you become conscious of such distractions and plan ways to avoid doing them.

Facial Expressions

Faces are amazing things and convey so much information. As speakers, we must be acutely aware of what our face looks like while speaking. While many of us do not look forward to seeing ourselves on videotape, often the only way you can critically evaluate what your face is doing while you are speaking is to watch a recording of your speech. If video is not available, you can practice speaking in front of a mirror.

There are two extremes you want to avoid: no facial expression and overanimated facial expressions. First, you do not want to have a completely blank face while speaking. Some people just do not show much emotion with their faces naturally, but this blankness is often increased when the speaker is nervous. Audiences will react negatively to the message of such a speaker because they will sense that something is amiss. If a speaker is talking about the joys of Disney World and his face doesn’t show any excitement, the audience is going to be turned off to the speaker and his message. On the other extreme end is the speaker whose face looks like that of an exaggerated cartoon character. Instead, your goal is to show a variety of appropriate facial expressions while speaking.

Like vocalics and gestures, facial expression can be used strategically to enhance meaning. A smile or pleasant facial expression is generally appropriate at the beginning of a speech to indicate your wish for a good transaction with your audience. However, you should not smile throughout a speech on drug addiction, poverty, or the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. An inappropriate smile creates confusion about your meaning and may make your audience feel uncomfortable. On the other hand, a serious scowl might look hostile or threatening to audience members and become a distraction from the message. If you keep the meaning of your speech foremost in your mind, you will more readily find the balance in facial expression.

Another common problem some new speakers have is showing only one expression. One of our coauthors competed in speech in college. After one of his speeches (about how people die on amusement park rides), one of his judges pulled him aside and informed him that his speech was “creepy.” Apparently, while speaking about death, our coauthor smiled the entire time. The incongruity between the speech on death and dying and the coauthor’s smile just left the judge a little creeped out. If you are excited in a part of your speech, you should show excitement on your face. On the other hand, if you are at a serious part of your speech, your facial expressions should be serious.

While there are no clear-cut guidelines for how you should dress for every speech you’ll give, dress is still a very important part of how others will perceive you (again, it’s all about the first impression). If you want to be taken seriously, you must present yourself seriously. While we do not advocate dressing up in a suit every time you give a speech, there are definitely times when wearing a suit is appropriate.

One general rule you can use for determining dress is the “step-above rule,” which states that you should dress one step above your audience. If your audience is going to be dressed casually in shorts and jeans, then wear nice casual clothing such as a pair of neatly pressed slacks and a collared shirt or blouse. If, however, your audience is going to be wearing “business casual” attire, then you should probably wear a sport coat, a dress, or a suit. The goal of the step-above rule is to establish yourself as someone to be taken seriously. On the other hand, if you dress two steps above your audience, you may put too much distance between yourself and your audience, coming across as overly formal or even arrogant.

Another general rule for dressing is to avoid distractions in your appearance. Overly tight or revealing garments, over-the-top hairstyles or makeup, jangling jewelry, or a display of tattoos and piercings can serve to draw your audience’s attention away from your speech. Remembering that your message is the most important aspect of your speech, keep that message in mind when you choose your clothing and accessories.

Self-Presentation

When you present your speech, you are also presenting yourself. Self-presentation, sometimes also referred to as poise or stage presence, is determined by how you look, how you stand, how you walk to the lectern, and how you use your voice and gestures. Your self-presentation can either enhance your message or detract from it. Worse, a poor self-presentation can turn a good, well-prepared speech into a forgettable waste of time. You want your self-presentation to support your credibility and improve the likelihood that the audience will listen with interest.

Your personal appearance should reflect the careful preparation of your speech. Your personal appearance is the first thing your audience will see, and from it, they will make inferences about the speech you’re about to present.

One of the biggest mistakes novice public speakers make is to use the same gesture over and over again during a speech. While you don’t want your gestures to look fake, you should be careful to include a variety of different nonverbal components while speaking. You should make sure that your face, body, and words are all working in conjunction with each other to support your message.

Practice Effectively

You might get away with presenting a hastily practiced speech, but the speech will not be as good as it could be. In order to develop your best speech delivery, you need to practice—and use your practice time effectively. Practicing does not mean reading over your notes, mentally running through your speech, or even speaking your speech aloud over and over. Instead, you need to practice with the goal of identifying the weaknesses in your delivery, improving upon them, and building good speech delivery habits.

When you practice your speech, place both your feet in full, firm contact with the floor to keep your body from swaying side to side. Some new public speakers find that they don’t know what to do with their hands during the speech. Your practice sessions should help you get comfortable. When you’re not gesturing, you can rest your free hand lightly on a lectern or simply allow it to hang at your side. Since this is not a familiar posture for most people, it might feel awkward, but in your practice sessions, you can begin getting used to it.

Seek Input from Others

Because we can’t see ourselves as others see us, one of the best ways to improve your delivery is to seek constructive criticism from others. This, of course, is an aspect of your public speaking course, as you will receive evaluations from your instructor and possibly from your fellow students. However, by practicing in front of others before it is time to present your speech, you can anticipate and correct problems so that you can receive a better evaluation when you give the speech “for real.”

Ask your practice observers to be honest about the aspects of your delivery that could be better. Sometimes students create study groups just for this purpose. When you create a study group of classroom peers, everyone has an understanding of the entire creative process, and their feedback will thus be more useful to you than the feedback you might get from someone who has never taken the course or given a speech.

If your practice observers seem reluctant to offer useful criticisms, ask questions. How was your eye contact? Could they hear you? Was your voice well modulated? Did you mispronounce any words? How was your posture? Were your gestures effective? Did you have any mannerisms that you should learn to avoid? Because peers are sometimes reluctant to say things that could sound critical, direct questions are often a useful way to help them speak up.

If you learn from these practice sessions that your voice tends to drop at the ends of sentences, make a conscious effort to support your voice as you conclude each main point. If you learn that you have a habit of clicking a pen, make sure you don’t have a pen with you when you speak or that you keep it in your pocket. If your practice observers mention that you tend to hide your hands in the sleeves of your shirt or jacket, next time wear short sleeves or roll your sleeves up before beginning your speech. If you learn through practice that you tend to sway or rock while you speak, you can consciously practice and build the habit of not swaying.

When it is your turn to give feedback to others in your group, assume that they are as interested in doing well as you are. Give feedback in the spirit of helping their speeches be as good as possible.

Use Audio and/or Video to Record Yourself

Technology has made it easier than ever to record yourself and others using the proliferation of electronic devices people are likely to own. Video, of course, allows you the advantage of being able to see yourself as others see you, while audio allows you to concentrate on the audible aspects of your delivery. As we mentioned earlier in the chapter, if neither video nor audio is available, you can always observe yourself by practicing your delivery in front of a mirror.

After you have recorded yourself, it may seem obvious that you should watch and listen to the recording. This can be intimidating, as you may fear that your performance anxiety will be so obvious that everyone will notice it in the recording. But students are often pleasantly surprised when they watch and listen to their recordings, as even students with very high anxiety may find out that they “come across” in a speech much better than they expected.

A recording can also be a very effective diagnostic device. Sometimes students believe they are making strong contact with their audiences, but their cards contain so many notes that they succumb to the temptation of reading. By finding out from the video that you misjudged your eye contact, you can be motivated to rewrite your notecards in a way that doesn’t provide the opportunity to do so much reading.

It is most likely that in viewing your recording, you will benefit from discovering your strengths and finding weak areas you can strengthen.

Good Delivery Is a Habit

Luckily, public speaking is an activity that, when done conscientiously, strengthens with practice. As you become aware of the areas where your delivery has room for improvement, you will begin developing a keen sense of what “works” and what audiences respond to.

It is advisable to practice out loud in front of other people several times, spreading your rehearsals out over several days. To do this kind of practice, of course, you need to have your speech be finalized well ahead of the date when you are going to give it. During these practice sessions, you can time your speech to make sure it lasts the appropriate length of time. A friend of ours was the second student on the program in an event where each student’s presentation was to last thirty to forty-five minutes. After the first student had been speaking for seventy-five minutes, the professor in charge asked, “Can we speed this up?” The student said yes, and proceeded to continue speaking for another seventy-five minutes before finally concluding his portion of the program. Although we might fault the professor for not “pulling the plug,” clearly the student had not timed his speech in advance.

Your practice sessions will also enable you to make adjustments to your notecards to make them more effective in supporting your contact with your audience. This kind of practice is not just a strategy for beginners; it is practiced by many highly placed public figures with extensive experience in public speaking.

Your public speaking course is one of the best opportunities you will have to manage your performance anxiety, build your confidence in speaking extemporaneously, develop your vocal skills, and become adept at self-presentation. The habits you can develop through targeted practice are to build continuously on your strengths and to challenge yourself to find new areas for improving your delivery. By taking advantage of these opportunities, you will gain the ability to present a speech effectively whenever you may be called upon to speak publicly.

Key Takeaways

Conversational style is a speaker’s ability to sound expressive while being perceived by the audience as natural. Conversational quality is a speaker’s ability to prepare a speech and rehearse a speech but still sound spontaneous when delivering it.
Eye contact helps capture and maintain an audience’s interest while contributing to the speaker’s credibility.
Vocalics are the nonverbal components of the verbal message. There are six important vocalic components for a speaker to be aware of: volume (loudness or softness), pitch (highness or lowness), rate (fastness or slowness), pauses (use of breaks to add emphasis), vocal variety (use of a range of vocalic strategies), and pronunciation (using conventional patterns of speech formation).
Physical manipulation is the use of one’s body to add meaning and emphasis to a speech. As such, excessive or nonexistent physical manipulation can detract from a speaker’s speech.
Good delivery is a habit that is built through effective practice.
Find a speech online and examine the speaker’s overall presentation. How good was the speaker’s delivery? Make a list of the aspects of delivery in this chapter and evaluate the speaker according to the list. In what areas might the speaker improve?
Record a practice session of your speech. Write a self-critique, answering the following questions: What surprised you the most? What is an area of strength upon which you can build? What is one area for improvement?

Koch, A. (2010). Speaking with a purpose (8th ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon, p. 233.

Lucas, S. E. (2009). The art of public speaking (9th ed.). Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill, p. 244.

Mehrabian, A. (1972). Nonverbal communication . Chicago, IL: Aldine-Atherton.

Mitchell, O. (n.d.). Mehrabian and nonverbal communication [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://www.speakingaboutpresenting.com/presentation-myths/mehrabian-nonverbal-communication-research

O’Hair, D., Stewart, R., & Rubenstein, H. (2001). A speaker’s guidebook: Text and reference. Boston, MA: Bedford/St. Martin’s.

Stossel, J. (2011, March 2). An Academy Award–winning movie, stuttering and me [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=42081

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Chapter 4: Effective Study Habits

Work smarter, not harder: effective studying techniques, developing smart study skills.

At the beginning of the semester, your workload is relatively light. This is the perfect time to brush up on your study skills and establish good habits. When the demands on your time and energy become more intense, you will have a system in place for handling them. The goal of this section is to help you develop your own method for studying and learning efficiently.

As you work through this section, remember that every student is different. The strategies presented here are techniques that work well for many people; however, you may need to adapt them to develop a system that works well for you personally. If your friend swears by her smartphone, but you hate having to carry extra electronic gadgets around, then using a smartphone will not be the best organizational strategy for you.

Take a moment to consider what techniques have been effective (or ineffective) for you in the past. Which habits from your high school years or your work life could help you succeed now? Which habits might get in your way? What changes might you need to make?

Understanding Your Learning Preferences

To succeed in your post-secondary education—or any situation where you must master new concepts and skills—it helps to know what makes you tick. For decades, educational researchers and organizational psychologists have examined how people take in and assimilate new information, how some people learn differently than others, and what conditions make students and workers most productive. Here are just a few questions to think about:

What times of day are you most productive? If your energy peaks early, you might benefit from blocking out early morning time for studying or writing. If you are a night owl, set aside a few evenings a week for schoolwork.
How much clutter can you handle in your workspace? Some people work fine at a messy desk and know exactly where to find what they need in their stack of papers; however, most people benefit from maintaining a neat, organized space.
How well do you juggle potential distractions in your environment? If you can study at home without being tempted to turn on the television, check your email, fix yourself a snack, and so on, you may make home your workspace. However, if you need a less distracting environment to stay focused, you may be able to find one on campus or in your community.
Does a little background noise help or hinder your productivity? Some people work better when listening to background music or the low hum of conversation in a coffee shop. Others need total silence.
When you work with a partner or group, do you stay on task? A study partner or group can sometimes be invaluable. However, working this way takes extra planning and effort, so be sure to use the time productively. If you find that group study sessions turn into social occasions, you may study better on your own.
How do you manage stress? Accept that at certain points in the semester, you will feel stressed out. In your day-to-day routine, make time for activities that help you reduce stress, such as exercising, spending time with friends, or just scheduling downtime to relax

Video source: https://youtu.be/Bxv9lf5HjZM

Understanding your Learning Style

For the purposes of this chapter, learning style refers to the way you prefer to take in new information, by seeing, by listening, or through some other channel. (For more information, see the section on learning styles.)

Most people have one channel that works best for them when it comes to taking in new information. Knowing yours can help you develop strategies for studying, time management, and note taking that work especially well for you.

To begin identifying your learning style, think about how you would go about the process of assembling a piece of furniture. Which of these options sounds most like you?

You would carefully look over the diagrams in the assembly manual first so you could picture each step in the process.
You would silently read the directions through, step by step, and then look at the diagrams afterward.
You would read the directions aloud under your breath. Having someone explain the steps to you would also help.
You would start putting the pieces together and figure out the process through trial and error, consulting the directions as you worked.

Now read the following explanations of each option in the list above. Again, think about whether each description sounds like you.

If you chose 1, you may be a visual learner . You understand ideas best when they are presented in a visual format, such as a flow chart, a diagram, or text with clear headings and many photos or illustrations.
If you chose 2, you may be a verbal learner . You understand ideas best through reading and writing about them and taking detailed notes.
If you chose 3, you may be an auditory learner . You understand ideas best through listening. You learn well from spoken lectures or books on tape.
If you chose 4, you may be a kinesthetic learner . You learn best through doing and prefer hands-on activities. In long lectures, fidgeting may help you focus.

Learning Style Strategies

Time Management

Getting Started: Short- and Long-Term Planning

At the beginning of the semester, establishing a daily/weekly routine for when you will study and write can be extremely beneficial. A general guideline is that for every hour spent in class, you should expect to spend another two to three hours on reading, writing, and studying for tests. Therefore, if you are taking a biology course that meets three times a week for an hour at a time, you can expect to spend six to nine hours per week on it outside of class. You will need to budget time for each class just like an employer schedules shifts at work, and you must make that study time a priority.

That may sound like a lot when taking several classes, but if you plan your time carefully, it is manageable. A typical full-time schedule of 15 credit hours translates into 30 to 45 hours per week spent on schoolwork outside of class. All in all, a full-time student would spend about as much time on school each week as an employee spends on work. Balancing school and a job can be more challenging, but still doable.

In addition to setting aside regular work periods, you will need to plan ahead to handle more intense demands, such as studying for exams and writing major papers. At the beginning of the semester, go through your course syllabi and mark all major due dates and exam dates on a calendar. Use a format that you check regularly, such as your smartphone or the calendar feature in your email. (In Section 1.3 Becoming a Successful Writer , you will learn strategies for planning major writing assignments so you can complete them on time.)

PRO TIP: The two- to three-hour rule may sound intimidating. However, keep in mind that this is only a rule of thumb. Realistically, some courses will be more challenging than others, and the demands will ebb and flow throughout the semester. You may have trouble-free weeks and stressful weeks. When you schedule your classes, try to balance introductory-level classes with more advanced classes so that your work load stays manageable.

Self-Practice Exercise

Now that you have learned some time management basics, it is time to apply those skills. For this exercise, you will develop a weekly schedule and a semester calendar.

Working with your class schedule, map out a week-‐long schedule of study time. Try to apply the two to three-hour rule. Be sure to include any other nonnegotiable responsibilities, such as a job or child care duties.
Use your course syllabi to record exam dates and due dates for major assignments in a calendar (paper or electronic). Use a star, highlighting, or other special marking to set off any days or weeks that look especially demanding.

Staying Consistent: Time Management Dos and Do Not’s

Setting up a schedule is easy. Sticking with it, however, may be challenging. A schedule that looked great on paper may prove to be unrealistic. Sometimes, despite students’ best intentions, they end up procrastinating or pulling all-nighters to finish a paper or study for an exam.

Keep in mind, however, that your weekly schedule and semester calendar are time management tools. Like any tool, their effectiveness depends on the user: you. If you leave a tool sitting in the box unused (e.g., you set up your schedule and then forget about it), it will not help you complete the task. And if, for some reason, a particular tool or strategy is not getting the job done, you need to figure out why and maybe try using something else.

With that in mind, read the list of time management dos and don’ts. Keep this list handy as a reference you can use throughout the semester to troubleshoot if you feel like your schoolwork is getting off track.

Do set aside time to review your schedule and calendar regularly and update or adjust them as needed.
Do be realistic when you schedule study time. Do not plan to write your paper on Friday night when everyone else is out socializing. When Friday comes, you might end up abandoning your plans and hanging out with your friends instead.
Do be honest with yourself about where your time goes. Do not fritter away your study time on distractions like email and social networking sites.
Do accept that occasionally your work may get a little off track. No one is perfect.
Do accept that sometimes you may not have time for all the fun things you would like to do.
Do recognize times when you feel overextended. Sometimes you may just need to get through an especially demanding week. However, if you feel exhausted and overworked all the time, you may need to scale back on some of your commitments.
Do make a plan for handling high-stress periods, such as final exam week. Try to reduce your other commitments during those periods—for instance, by scheduling time off from your job. Build in some time for relaxing activities, too.
Do be kind to yourself – many students balance school and other important responsibilities (work, family, friends, etc.). There will be times where you will have to prioritize where your time goes, and that’s okay.

Try Not To:

Procrastinate on challenging assignments. Instead, break them into smaller, manageable tasks that can be accomplished one at a time. An assignment calculator can be a useful tool for helping to get yourself organized.
Fall into the trap of “all or nothing” thinking. (e.g. “There is no way I can fit in a three-hour study session today, so I will just wait until the weekend.”) Extended periods of free time are hard to come by, so find ways to use small blocks of time productively. For instance, if you have a free half hour between classes, use it to preview a chapter or brainstorm ideas for an essay.

One of the best things you can do for yourself as a student is realize that we all procrastinate at some point. Knowing your procrastination style can help you to recognize and change bad habits. Look at the chart below and see if you can identify your procrastination style (you might use more than one!):

The key to managing your time effectively is consistency. Completing the following tasks will help you stay on track throughout the semester.

Establish regular times to “check in” with yourself to identify and prioritize tasks and plan how to accomplish them. Many people find it is best to set aside a few minutes for this each day and to take some time to plan at the beginning of each week.
For the next two weeks, focus on consistently using whatever time management system you have set up. Check in with yourself daily and weekly, stick to your schedule, and take note of anything that interferes. At the end of the two weeks, review your schedule and determine whether you need to adjust it.

studying & Note-Taking Methods

Summarizing is one of the most effective means of studying and making sure that you’ve learned the concept/skill. Can you go through the steps mentally? Can you describe or explain it to someone else in your own words? This is the process of summarizing and synthesizing information.

When summarizing material from a source, you zero in on the main points and restate them concisely in your own words. This technique is appropriate when only the major ideas are relevant to your paper or when you need to simplify complex information into a few key points for your readers. To create a summary, consider the following points:

Review the source material as you summarize it.
Identify the main idea and restate it as concisely as you can—preferably in one sentence. Depending on your purpose, you may also add another sentence or two condensing any important details or examples.
Check your summary to make sure it is accurate and complete.
Make a careful record of where you found the information because you will need to include the reference and citation if you choose to use the information in an essay. It is much easier to do this when you are creating the summary and taking notes than having to go back and hunt for the information later. Guessing where you think you got it from is not good enough.

Summaries and Abstracts

When you read many academic journal articles, you will notice there is an abstract before the article starts: this is a summary of the article’s contents. Be careful when you are summarizing an article to not depend too much on the abstract as it is already a condensed version of the content. The author of the abstract identified the main points from his or her perspective; these may not match your own purpose or your own idea of what is important. What may also happen if you try to summarize the abstract is you will probably end up replacing some words with synonyms and not changing the overall ideas into your own words because the ideas are already summarized, and it is difficult to make them more generalized. You have to read the entire source or section of the source and determine for yourself what the key and supporting ideas are.

PRO TIP: A summary or abstract of a reading passage is one-tenth to one-quarter the length of the original passage, written in your own words. The criteria for a summary are that it:

Is similar to an outline but in complete sentences and can stand as an independent piece of writing
Includes only the main points and key details
Is valuable because it is the surest way to measure your understanding
Helps you remember because you must attend carefully to what you read, organize your thoughts, and write them out to make it meaningful to you (This is absolutely necessary when you cannot mark a book because it belongs to someone else.)
Challenges you to be concise in your writing while providing balanced coverage of the main points.
Challenges you to paraphrase or use your own words and avoid using too many quotations.
Is important to remain objective because you are giving the author’s views not your own.

Article: Assessing the Efficacy of Low – Carbohydrate Diets

Adrienne Howell, Ph.D. (2010)

Over the past few years, a number of clinical studies have explored whether high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets are more effective for weight loss than other frequently recommended diet plans, such as diets that drastically curtail fat intake (Pritikin) or that emphasize consuming lean meats, grains, vegetables, and a moderate amount of unsaturated fats (the Mediterranean diet). A 2009 study found that obese teenagers who followed a low-carbohydrate diet lost an average of 15.6 kilograms over a six-month period, whereas teenagers following a low-fat diet or a Mediterranean diet lost an average of 11.1 kilograms and 9.3 kilograms respectively. Two 2010 studies that measured weight loss for obese adults following these same three diet plans found similar results. Over three months, subjects on the low-carbohydrate diet plan lost anywhere from four to six kilograms more than subjects who followed other diet plans.

In three recent studies, researchers compared outcomes for obese subjects who followed either a low-carbohydrate diet, a low-fat diet, or a Mediterranean diet and found that subjects following a low-carbohydrate diet lost more weight in the same time (Howell, 2010).

What Is aNNOTATION?

Most students already know how to annotate. When you make notes in the margins and highlight your textbooks, you are annotating that source.

When you take notes in the margins of your readings, highlight key ideas, underline passages, etc, you are annotating a source. Annotations are a valuable research tool because they allow you to capture your first ideas and impressions of a text, as well as enable you to find key information again quickly without having to re-read the entire text.

When annotating, you should be looking for several things:

Key ideas, terms, and concepts
Words or concepts that you don’t understand yet
Points that are being made with which you (dis)agree
Pieces of evidence that would be useful for your own paper
Inconsistent information with what you have read elsewhere
Parts of the text you may wish to return to later in the research process

PRO TIP: LEARN TO USE YOUR HIGHLIGHTER PROPERLY!

Many students – if not most – do not use highlighters effectively. Highlighting is a visual cue that is intended to help you recall or find information quickly. If you are the person who highlights 3/4 of the page or chapter, you are not using the tool effectively.

When studying, you should have multiple colours of highlighter with you and designate certain colours for certain things. For example:

DEFINITIONS MAIN IDEAS UNCLEAR CONCEPTS KEY EVIDENCE OR POINTS

This strategy has a few benefits:

It forces you to slow down to switch colours, giving you more time to process what you’re reading
It makes you read actively in order to determine how the information should be classified (for example: is this a definition or a main idea ?)
It creates a study system for you that is consistent and easier to follow

Video source: https://youtu.be/eVajQPuRmk8

Read the following passage and use a note-‐taking method to identify the main points.
Compose a sentence summarizing the paragraph’s main points.

Several factors about the environment influence our behaviour. First, temperature can influence us greatly. We seem to feel best when the temperature is in the high teens to low 20s. If it is too hot or cold, we have trouble concentrating. Lighting also influences how we function. A dark lecture hall may interfere with the lecture, or a bright nightclub might spoil romantic conversation. Finally, our behaviour is affected by colour. Some colours make us feel a peaceful while others are exciting. If you wanted a quiet room in which to study, for example, you would not paint it bright orange or red.

Collaboration: Please share with a classmate and compare your answers.

Here are possible answers:

Key points:

Environmental factors influence behaviour:

Temperature: extremes make focus difficult
Lighting: inappropriate lighting is disorientating
Colour: colour affects relaxation

Summary sentence: Three environmental influences that impact human behaviour include temperature, as extreme fluctuations make it difficult to focus; lighting, which can affect our ability to engage with different environments; and colour, which affects our mood.

Passage taken from: Ueland, B. (2006). Becoming a Master Student. Boston, MA : Houghton Mifflin College Div., p. 121.

Read the passage.
Highlight or underline necessary information (hint: there are five important ideas).
Write your summary.

Most people drink orange juice and eat oranges because they are said to be rich in vitamin C. There are also other foods that are rich in vitamin C. It is found in citrus fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, cabbage, cauliflower, and carrots.

Vitamin C is important to our health. Do you really know how essential this nutrient is to our health and well-being? Our body needs to heal itself. Vitamin C can repair and prevent damage to the cells in our body and heal wounds. It also keeps our teeth and gums healthy. That is not all. It protects our body from infections such as colds and flu and also helps us to get better faster when we have these infections. That is why a lot of people drink orange juice and take vitamin C tablets every day. This wonderful vitamin is also good for our heart. It protects the linings of the arteries, which are the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood. In other words, it offers protection against heart disease.

If we do not get enough vitamin C, which means we are not eating enough food that contains this vitamin, it can lead to serious diseases. Lack of vitamin C can lead to scurvy, which causes swollen gums, cheeks, fingers, hands, toes, and feet. In serious conditions, it can lead to bleeding from wounds, loss of teeth, and opening up of wounds. Therefore, make sure you have enough vitamin C in your diet.

Exercise taken from: http://www.scribd.com/doc/98238709/Form-‐Three-‐Summary-‐Writing-‐Exercise

Annotating, note making, or note taking is a matter of personal preference in terms of style. The most important thing is to do something . Again we stress that reading is like a dialogue with an author. The author wrote this material. Pretend you are actually talking to the author.

Do not let an idea pass without noting it.
Do not let an ambiguity go by without questioning it.
Do not let a term slip away if context does not help you understand it; look it up!
Engage and you will both understand and remember.

PRO TIP: Put small checks in pencil where you would normally underline. When you finish a section, look back and see what you really need to mark. (If you check over 50 percent of the page, you probably are marking to go back and learn later versus thinking about what is really important to learn now!)

Use consistent symbols to visually help you identify what is happening on the page:

Circle central themes or write at the beginning of the section if it is not directly stated.
[Bracket] main points.
Underline key words or phrases for significant details.
Put numbers 1, 2, 3 for items listed.
Put square brackets or highlights for key terms when the definition follows.
Use stars (*), question marks (?), or diagrams in the margins to show relevance.
Use key word outlines in the margins for highlighting.
Write questions in the margin that test your memory of what is written right there.
Use blank spaces indicating the number of ideas to be remembered, forcing you to test yourself versus just rereading.

General Note-Taking Guidelines

Before class, quickly review your notes from the previous class and the assigned reading. Fixing key terms and concepts in your mind will help you stay focused and pick out the important points during the lecture.
Come prepared with paper, pens, highlighters, textbooks, and any important handouts.
Come to class with a positive attitude and a readiness to learn. During class, make a point of concentrating. Ask questions if you need to. Be an active participant.
During class, capture important ideas as concisely as you can. Use words or phrases instead of full sentences, and abbreviate when possible.
Visually organize your notes into main topics, subtopics, and supporting points, and show the relationships between ideas. Leave space if necessary so you can add more details under important topics or subtopics.
If your professor gives you permission to do so, you could consider taking pictures of the notes on the board with a mobile device or audio recording the lecture.
Ideas that the instructor repeats frequently or points out as key ideas
Ideas the instructor lists on a whiteboard or transparency
Details, facts, explanations, and lists that develop main points
Review your notes regularly throughout the semester, not just before exams.

Organizing Ideas in Your Notes

A good note-taking system needs to help you differentiate among major points, related subtopics, and supporting details. It visually represents the connections between ideas. Finally, to be effective, your note-taking system must allow you to record and organize information fairly quickly. Although some students like to create detailed, formal outlines or concept maps when they read, these may not be good strategies for class notes because spoken lectures may not allow time for to create them.

Instead, focus on recording content simply and quickly to create organized, legible notes. Try one of the following techniques.

Modified Outline Format

A modified outline format uses indented spacing to show the hierarchy of ideas without including roman numerals, lettering, and so forth. Just use a dash or bullet to signify each new point unless your instructor specifically presents a numbered list of items.

The first example shows Crystal’s notes from a developmental psychology class about an important theorist in this field. Notice how the line for the main topic is all the way to the left. Subtopics are indented, and supporting details are indented one level further. Crystal also used abbreviations for terms like development and example .

If you are a visual learner, you may prefer to use a more graphic format for notes, such as a mind map. The next example shows how Crystal’s lecture notes could be set up differently. Although the format is different, the content and organization are the same.

If the content of a lecture falls into a predictable, well organized pattern, you might choose to use a chart or table to record your notes. This system works best when you already know, either before class or at the beginning of class, which categories you should include. The next figure shows how this system might be used.

The Cornell Note-Taking System

In addition to the general techniques already described, you might find it useful to practise a specific strategy known as the Cornell note-taking system. This popular format makes it easy not only to organize information clearly but also to note key terms and summarize content.

To use the Cornell system, begin by setting up the page with these components:

The course name and lecture date at the top of the page
A narrow column (about two inches) at the left side of the page
A wide column (about five to six inches) on the right side of the page
A space of a few lines marked off at the bottom of the page

During the lecture, you record notes in the wide column. You can do so using the traditional modified outline format or a more visual format if you prefer.

Then, as soon as possible after the lecture, review your notes and identify key terms. Jot these down in the narrow left-hand column. You can use this column as a study aid by covering the notes on the right-hand side, reviewing the key terms, and trying to recall as much as you can about them so that you can mentally restate the main points of the lecture. Uncover the notes on the right to check your understanding. Finally, use the space at the bottom of the page to summarize each page of notes in a few sentences.

Over the next few weeks, establish a note-‐taking system that works for you.

If you are not already doing so, try using one of the aforementioned techniques. (Remember that the Cornell system can be combined with other note-‐taking formats.)
It can take some trial and error to find a note-‐taking system that works for you. If you find that you are struggling to keep up with lectures, consider whether you need to switch to a different format or be more careful about distinguishing key concepts from unimportant details.
If you find that you are having trouble taking notes effectively, set up an appointment with your school’s academic resource centre.

Using Online Study Tools

1. guided study session videos.

One excellent tool to help with accountability is guided study session videos. Much like guided meditation, these videos can help you stay on track and give you some accountability. It’s like a study partner that can’t distract you!

Video source: https://youtu.be/reRYtjr1BNo

2. The Pomodoro Technique

Much like a Guided Study Session, the Pomodoro Study Session plays ambient noise and displays a timer. Every 25 minutes, you take a break from whatever you’re doing. During this time you can stretch, check your phone, etc. Here’s a neat Harry Potter themed one!

Video source: https://youtu.be/SkmH9CsMqOo

3. Browser Lockdown Tools

Are you the person who is always getting distracted while studying? You might consider a website blocker (list of some available here) that will prohibit you from accessing certain sites for a certain length of time. You tell it your guilty procrastination sites (Reddit? Instagram? Discord?) and how long you want them locked.

And maybe leave your phone/tablet in another room… 😏

4. Find a Notetaking Program/System

There are a variety of free notetaking systems and programs available. Many students prefer the ease of a program like Google Docs , but there are others such as Evernote , and OneNote .

5. Looking into Assistive Technology

Assistive technology has been used by students with disabilities for a long time; however, these tools are equally valuable for all students! Not all of them are free, but they can be a game changer for some people:

Digital Highlighters: these cool gadgets allow you to scan hardcopy texts with a pen and it will transfer the text into a digital format on your computer/tablet. Some popular options are Scanmarker and IrisPen

Text-to-Speech Pens/Reader Pens: Similar to digital highlighters, these pens also have the ability to read the text that you scan out loud. Some of them also feature dictionaries built into the pen. They are often a tool of choice for students who are learning English as an additional language and for those with dyslexia, AD(H)D, etc. The most popular option is the C-Pen

Digital Notebooks and Smart Pens: Digital notebooks are an excellent hybrid of physical note taking with technological storage. One of the more popular options is the Rocektbook , which is reusable and allows you to write notes and scan them to a notetaking program using a phone app. Smart Pens, like the LiveScribe Pen allow you to record audio, take pictures, and transfer handwritten notes to a note taking program.

Text-to-Speech Readers: this type of technology has become more popular in recent years. These programs read digital texts aloud to you, and many are available online for free, but you may wish to start with one like NaturalReader to see if it’s helpful.

Speech-to-Text Programs: the opposite of a text-to-speech reader and exactly what it sounds like, Speech-to-Text programs allow you to dictate to the computer using a microphone and what you say will be converted into text. This website has a list of popular free programs, broken down by OS.

Using Available ACADEMIC Support Resources

One reason students sometimes find post-secondary courses overwhelming is that they do not know about, or are reluctant to use, the resources available to them. There is help available; your student fees help pay for resources that can help in many ways, such as a health centre or tutoring service. If you need help, consider asking for help from any of the following:

Your instructor: If you are making an honest effort but still struggling with a particular course, set a time to meet with your instructor and discuss what you can do to improve. He or she may be able to shed light on a confusing concept or give you strategies to catch up.
Your academic advisor or program coordinator: Many institutions assign students an academic advisor or program coordinator who can help you choose courses and ensure that you fulfill degree and major requirements.
The academic resource centre: These centres offer a variety of services, which may range from general coaching in study skills to tutoring for specific courses. Find out what is offered at your school and use the services that you need.
The writing centre ( Sheridan Tutoring Services ): These centres employ tutors to help you manage your writing assignments. They will not write or edit your paper for you, but they can help you through the stages of the writing process. (In some schools, the writing centre is part of the academic resource centre.)
The career resource centre: Visit the career resource centre for guidance in choosing a career path, developing a resumé, and finding and applying for jobs.
Sheridan Counselling services : Sheridan offers counselling services on campus for free. Use these services if you need help coping with a difficult personal situation or managing depression, anxiety, or other problems.

Students sometimes neglect to use available resources due to limited time, unwillingness to admit there is a problem, or embarrassment about needing to ask for help. Unfortunately, ignoring a problem usually makes it harder to cope with later on. Waiting until the end of the semester may also mean fewer resources are available, since many other students are also seeking last minute help.

Writing for Academic and Professional Contexts: An Introduction Copyright © 2023 by Sheridan College is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Delivery Techniques →

How to Give a Speech: 10 Tips for Powerful Public Speaking

When we start preparing to give a speech, it can be a nerve-wracking experience. It’s completely normal—most of us feel a combination of excitement and nerves when we’re about to take the stage.

However, with some strategic planning and practical advice, you can make sure your speech is powerful and effective. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to give a speech that will leave your audience engaged and inspired.

We’ll examine 10 tips to help you build a powerful speech, from outlining your points methodically to crafting captivating introductions . Whether you’re a beginner or experienced public speaker, these nuggets of wisdom will help you take your next speech to the next level. Let’s get started!

Quick Review of Key Points

Preparing ahead of time is the key to giving an effective speech. Make sure to structure your speaking points, rehearse your delivery, and be aware of the needs of your audience for maximum impact.

How to Prepare for a Speech

Preparing for a speech is an essential step to public speaking success. It can help to build your confidence, create content that reaches the audience, and reduce performance anxiety.

Although it can be time-consuming in the beginning, preparation will ensure less stress and more comfort during delivery. Here are some tips to consider when preparing for a speech:

Practice : Before delivering a speech, practice it out loud several times. This will allow you to gain experience in speaking without an audience and increase your confidence when you do have one.

Practicing also helps to identify awkward moments in the speech or any difficult phrases which then can be changed or removed altogether. Additionally, it helps you determine where to pause for effect. Research : Depending on the topic of the speech , research should be done beforehand to gather information that is relevant and interesting for the audience. It is important to get acquainted with the language typically used by audiences to ensure a clear understanding of what is being said.

Additionally, relevant statistics and stories concerning the topic are a great way to draw in listeners and make the presentation more engaging .

Know Your Audience : When preparing your speech, be sure to consider who will be listening. For instance, if giving a presentation at work, include industry jargon that members would understand and include relevant topics from publications that might be familiar to the employees.

On the other hand, if consulting business professionals in their field then technical language may be easier for them to comprehend than laypeople or students.

By gathering valuable information about the topic and getting comfortable with a speech’s content and delivery through practice, speakers will gain more assurance during their talk as well as respect from their audience.

Preparing beforehand not only gives insight into how to engage listeners but also encourages more meaningful conversations after the event. Now that we have discussed how to prepare for a speech let us move on to creating an outline which will provide structure during delivery.

Create an Outline

After determining the audience and purpose of your speech, the next step to effective public speaking is to create an outline .

An outline serves as a roadmap to ensure that your speech has a logical flow and contains all important points. It also can help keep you on track during the speech itself, allowing you to stay focused and organized.

When constructing an outline, consider drawing up both a main point and sub-points for each portion of the speech. Both should be relevant to the goal of the presentation and backed up by facts and research.

Brainstorming can help in this process; try grouping your ideas together in clusters to make sure you cover all possible angles.

Furthermore, writing out exact quotations or figures can prove beneficial in forming a cohesive argument. At this stage, it is also wise to decide where transitions, humor, stories, or other engaging techniques will be included.

While there are differing opinions as to whether outlines should be memorized or simply used as a reference while speaking, many agree that they should serve their purpose – not only articulate the main thoughts of the speech but also assist the speaker with maintaining focus and preventing distractions.

The debate between those who advocate for memorization versus casual consulting touches upon issues such as rehearsal time, risk of errors in delivery, ease of practice versus actual performance and more.

Each side has valid arguments that should be weighed prior to deciding what type of approach best suits your needs.

Having a firmly constructed outline acts as a valuable tool when it comes time to deliver a powerful public speech. By actively utilizing this tactic, speakers may not only enhance their clarity and coherence, but also add structure and vibrance to their presentations.

Now that we have explored what goes into crafting an effective outline, let’s dive deeper into how we can best collect resources and research our topics for maximum impact.

Collect Sources and Research

Collecting sources and research is a crucial step for any public speaking engagement. It ensures that you have the necessary information to make strong points and back up your statements.

Before writing your speech, take time to research your topic to gain familiarity with different perspectives, facts, and counterpoints. This will help you to craft an argument that can stand up to scrutiny while also adding a breadth of knowledge to your speech.

Interviews can be a powerful source of evidence and anecdotes, so try to include one or two relevant interviews in your research process. Relying solely on secondary sources such as books and articles can lead to a narrow scope of understanding.

Interviews provide an opportunity to hear directly from an expert and create an interesting dynamic in your speech by adding personal experiences as well as commentary from a professional.

In research it is important to stay objective. Gather a variety of perspectives and be open-minded about their merits. Don’t forget to consider both sides of the argument when researching for your speech.

Doing this allows you to understand the opposing perspective and enables you to anticipate potential counter arguments from your audience.

By acknowledging them beforehand, you may increase the persuasive power of your speech by showing confidence in the points you make.

Once you have collected all sources, review them carefully and separate the most pertinent information from the less useful material.

Synthesising this information into concise yet impactful points is a critical part in delivering powerful talks without overloading your audience with too much data or going off track during your speech delivery.

Organizing Your Speech

Before you start putting your words together, it’s important to consider how the different parts of a speech fit together. By taking the time to organize the ideas in your speech , you’ll be able to deliver a presentation that is well-constructed and easy to understand.

One way to help with organizing your speech is to write an outline . An outline is like a map or plan that will provide you with a framework for each section of your speech.

Start by writing out your main points and then include additional details underneath each one. This will help keep your speech focused and provide direction for where you are going next.

Another approach for organizing your speech is known as the “inverted pyramid” method. This structure starts with your conclusion at the beginning of the speech, and then works backward by providing more explanation and detail as it moves toward the introduction.

This method can be helpful when speaking about topics that are unfamiliar to the audience since it doesn’t require them to wait until near the end of the presentation to learn what you’ve been talking about.

No matter which organization approach you choose, make sure to practice it before giving your speech so that you are comfortable with its flow. Lastly, remember that it’s ok to adjust things while you speak if they don’t seem or feel quite right.

Now let’s take a look at how we can use these organizing techniques to actually put our speeches together – starting with structuring our speech.

Structure Your Speech

Creating a strong structure for your speech will ensure that the audience stays engaged and understands your main points. As you are developing an outline, map out how you want to begin and end your speech.

Break up the information into smaller sections with either verbal or visual cues so that your audience can clearly see how you are transitioning between topics . Consider adding humor judiciously throughout your presentation as this could help engage the audience and lighten any tension.

The length of your presentation is also important. You will want to make sure that you include all of the necessary information without going over time.

Oftentimes less is more; if you can say it in five minutes why use ten? Make sure that you practice timed rehearsals so that you can gauge how long you’re actually speaking.

In contrast, avoid trying to pack too much content into one presentation as this could overwhelm both you and the audience. If needed, offer supplemental reading materials for those who may be interested in delving further into the subject matter.

Paragraphs can also be helpful when organizing large amounts of content within the body of your presentation. Utilizing paragraph breaks gives your audience a break and helps to highlight key ideas or summaries before moving onto a new topic area.

Finally, it is crucial to remember what your desired outcome is from the presentation; plan accordingly by ensuring that the beginning, middle, and end serve their respective purposes and adhere to that goal.

With careful deliberations, structuring a successful presentation can be achieved with relative ease.

Having established a solid structure for your speech, it’s important to focus on another key element: rehearsal. The next section will discuss the benefits of practicing before delivering a powerful public speaking performance.

Rehearse Your Speech

Rehearsing is integral to giving a successful speech. When you rehearse your presentation, you give your mind an opportunity to become familiar with the notes and concepts that you are presenting. It also increases your confidence and reduces anxiety or self-doubt.

In fact, studies have found that those who rehearsed their presentation had higher scores in public speaking performance and language proficiency evaluations.

When it comes to how much rehearsal is enough, opinions are divided. Some people believe that over-rehearsing can lead to a more robotic speech with less natural emotion and connection with the audience .

On the other hand, others argue that no matter how well-versed someone is on the topic, additional rehearsal time improves both the delivery of the speech and memorization of key points and facts.

Ultimately, it’s important to practice until you personally find the most comfortable level for yourself, as this will ultimately result in a more engaging delivery.

Finally, if at all possible, try to practice in front of a friend or colleague for honest feedback on any elements that need improvement before the big day. Rehearsal dedication may be tedious, but it results in big rewards on stage–enabling you to deliver your content with clarity, confidence, and poise.

With thoughtful preparation complete, it’s now time to step into the spotlight and give your speech!

Giving Your Speech

The key to success when giving a speech is to be well prepared and confident. Every individual’s preparation process will vary, but the basics should stay the same.

Start by studying your content, understanding the material and being able to repeat it in your own words. Clarify any potentially difficult points. Create visual aids like PowerPoint slides or handouts that supplement the key ideas in your speech.

Practice your public speaking skills with informal conversations with friends and family or rehearse it alone in front of a mirror. Use visualization; imagine yourself confidently delivering your speech. Consider addressing a practice audience if possible to become more accustomed to a live size group.

On the day of the event, arrive early and plan for any potential obstacles: What if my computer doesn’t work? What if I forget something? Allow sufficient time for setup and check-in.

When you are ready to give your speech, take some deep breaths, focus on the positives, and distract yourself from any anxious thoughts with positive affirmations. Remember you have prepared diligently for this moment, you are well prepared and you will succeed!

Start strong by engaging the audience immediately with an attention grabbing opening statement. Speak clearly and make sure that everyone can hear and understand your message.

Slow down and emphasize points as needed throughout your presentation. Be aware of pace, volume, and tone of voice: too fast/monotone can confuse/bore listeners while pauses add a dramatic effect that keeps their interest piqued.

Ultimately, giving a successful speech will depend on knowing your material well enough to speak confidently in front of your audience without hesitation or missteps.

When you do make a mistake (and they happen!) don’t panic – know that mistakes are inevitable but don’t be discouraged; get back on track as soon as possible and continue at the same energy level you had before the mistake occurred.

Having successfully given your speech, take a moment to reflect on what went well and what could be improved upon for next time before transitioning into the next step: mastering delivery.

Master Your Delivery

Mastering your delivery is the key to an effective speech. Without purposeful body language and careful emphasis on certain words , your speech may lack wow-factor and prevent listeners from tuning in. Following these simple tips can help you get started with delivering an engaging and memorable speech:

The most important part of delivery is practice. Rehearse and perfect your speech ahead of time – this allows for more natural flow and confidence during your presentation. It also helps to create pauses between sentences for clarity, emphasize key points, and not be too casual or stiff.

Practicing inflections and varying tones adds interest to your speech by keeping listeners’ attention.

Additionally, it’s important to project your voic e so everyone in the room can hear you; make sure you’re speaking loud enough but don’t feel pressure to shout or yell at any point unless that’s part of the atmosphere of the event.

It’s also crucial to maintain good posture while speaking – stand tall with both feet on the ground, keep your back straight, hold yourself up without gesturing too much or leaning against a podium if applicable.

To further engage listeners, use purposeful hand gestures as they help emphasize certain points and add visual interest – however, avoid overusing them as it can hinders communication.

Make meaningful eye contact with audience members throughout the presentation – otherwise you might come across as unenthusiastic or bored with what you’re saying which deters attention away from the content itself.

By mastering your delivery, you can boost the impact of your presentation considerably – providing a memorable experience for your audience that stands out from others’. As such, it’s worth investing time into practicing ahead of time until delivery feels comfortable and second nature.

Having said this, making use of visual aids such as PowerPoint slides can greatly improve the impact of a speech once delivery has been mastered – let’s look into that next.

Use Visual Aids

Using visual aids can help presenters express concepts more clearly and engage the audience.

Visuals are particularly useful when conveying complex information, such as data, trends, or statistics — they impart meaning at a glance. But some public speakers may wonder if visual aids can be distracting or unnecessary.

Even though visuals can attract attention away from a presenter’s verbal delivery, carefully designed visuals can actually support the speech and help provide clarity. If done well, visuals are effective for capturing an audience’s interest and helping them to better understand the content being presented.

For example, a graph or chart should relate to the points made in the speech and should be discussed in more detail during its appearance onscreen. The presentation can also include larger images that effectively reinforce the ideas conveyed in the speech.

Videos and sound clips are other powerful forms of multimedia that could be employed to make the speech more meaningful.

To ensure that visuals enhance the message of the presentation, key factors to consider include relevancy to topic, good graphic design or aesthetics, accurate size to prevent distortion or blurriness, and seamless integration into the keynote slides or printed handouts .

In this way, visuals offer an opportunity for presenters to demonstrate their creativity and keep their audiences interested in what is being said. Thus, used wisely and aptly, visuals can add tremendous value to speeches by presenting arguments more efficiently and driving home important points. Now let’s explore effective techniques for speech giving that will allow you to craft and deliver your speeches with confidence.

Effective Techniques for Speech Giving

There are a number of effective techniques for giving a speech that will help you deliver it with confidence and poise.

First, practice your delivery in advance. You should practice both in front of a mirror or recording device to check for any distracting habits such as talking too quickly or mispronouncing words.

Second, use simple, clear language and short, concise sentences. Avoid overly technical terms and jargon that may leave your audience confused.

Third, work to establish a connection with your audience by using appropriate facial expressions and hand gestures while speaking.

Fourth, utilize effective persuasive techniques such as presenting evidence, strong arguments supported by facts, personal anecdotes and vivid metaphors.

Finally, articulate an organized structure for your speech. Your speech should have an introduction, body and conclusion to clearly communicate the main point and provide the audience with the necessary context to understand it better.

While these techniques may sound intimidating at first, they can be learned over time with practice and will make all the difference in how successful your speech delivery is received by your audience.

To build on these skills further , the next section will provide tips on how to build confidence when giving a speech.

Building Confidence

Building confidence is key when giving a powerful speech, as it will enable you to deliver the speech in a more poised and credible manner.

To create this confidence , start by understanding that any hesitation or butterflies prior to your speech are completely normal and should not be feared. Instead, view them as natural states of anticipation for something exciting, knowing that you are about to give an amazing speech.

Next, understanding who your audience is and tailoring your speech to meet their expectations will help build your confidence.

Familiarizing yourself with their interests and knowledge on the subject matter ahead of time can equip you with the understanding needed to respond appropriately if questions arise or objections surface during the speech.

Further, practice is key when building confidence for a public speaking engagement . Rehearsing with friends or colleagues before hand will give you an opportunity to learn where problem areas are within the content of your speech, as well as help solidify your delivery by becoming more comfortable with each step.

Checking sound levels in the room you’re presenting in coupled with learning where exits/emergency locations are located within that space can also help alleviate stress levels and boost self-assurance while delivering the speech.

Finally, wearing comfortable clothing and dressing professionally adds an extra layer of confidence when speaking in public.

If possible, bring an additional outfit on hand during the presentation in case of spills or accidents that would require a quick change between sections of the talk. Having this back-up plan in place can aid in keeping peace of mind at ease throughout the speech.

In conclusion, building confidence prior to a public speaking event can mean the difference between a good and great delivery of your message.

By taking into account each of these tips you can ensure that this part of your preparation runs smoothly and sets you up for success when delivering powerful speeches.

With a well-crafted note card of talking points and strong sense of self-assurance, it’s time to start speaking with passion!

Speaking with Passion

As a public speaker, your audience expects you to engage not only with your words but also with your emotions. To share the most impactful message, it is important to speak passionately about your subject.

Doing so will make your speech more memorable and thereby more effective in convincing your audience of its legitimacy.

The power of speaking authentically with emotion lies in its relatability and connection. Showing feelings allows people to connect with you as a person rather than just a speaker. It opens the door to understanding through empathy and active listening .

Examples might include adding personal stories , telling jokes, or displaying your feelings openly during the delivery of your message.

However, not all topics lend themselves easily to expressing emotion. If the subject matter is overly complex or technical there may be less opportunity for emotional expression—but this doesn’t mean those conversations can’t incorporate emotion.

Even if faced with a difficult situation such as death or financial turmoil, emotions can still be conveyed in a respectful way that keeps audiences engaged.

Remember that how much emotion you show depends on the type of audience you’re sharing it with—using sensitivity when delivering passionate speeches helps avoid awkwardness or embarrassment for any attendees who may find opinionated language uncomfortable for whatever reason.

Striking the right balance between being straightforward and showing compassion takes practice, so take the time to develop a style that works best for you and improves upon each performance.

Finally, incorporating passion into a speech gives it life and makes it relatable and engaging—which are essential elements to speaking effectively.

Having passion means giving ourselves permission to take ownership over our stories, making them deeply personal in order to reach our goals and touch people’s hearts in meaningful ways. With that said, let’s move on to discussing how we should tackle dealing with challenges while giving a speech.

Dealing with Challenges

The process of delivering a speech can be challenging, but it is also rewarding. Difficulties can arise during the process that may threaten to derail your success. To ensure you are adequately prepared for these possible pitfalls it is important to consider strategies for proactively mitigating the risk of encountering these challenges. 1. Public Speaking Anxiety: Many people experience some form of anxiety when asked to speak in public. There are a number of techniques available to combat this fear and increase confidence, such as deep breathing exercises, mental rehearsal, positive self-talk and visualization of success.

Learning about the audience, creating an engaging presentation and using props or visual aids can also help reduce anxiety levels and create a better overall experience for both the speaker and the audience. 2. Unfamiliar Topics or Audiences: When presenting on unfamiliar topics or to an unknown audience it can be difficult to prepare effectively.

In this situation it is important to conduct research on the topic and familiarize yourself with the needs of your audience so that the content is tailored accordingly. It is also helpful to use humor or stories related to the topic in order to engage your audience and make them more receptive to your message. 3. Lack of Support: If you lack support from family, friends, colleagues or mentors, it can be difficult to push through difficult conversations or speeches without any additional motivation.

To overcome this challenge, seek out peer mentorship opportunities or find compatible online communities where people discuss similar topics or objectives. Here you can share ideas, provide feedback and learn from others who have experienced similar issues. 4. Time Constraints: One of the biggest challenges when giving a speech is managing your time effectively in order to deliver an effective message without going over allotted timeslots and boring your audience .

To successfully address this challenge try setting manageable goals for each section of your speech and practice regularly. Replicating real-time conditions as closely as possible will help you stay within time constraints when delivering your speech on the day itself. In conclusion, there are many potential challenges you may face when giving a speech or taking part in a public speaking event – but with proper preparation and practice they are easily managed if approached correctly.

With knowledge of techniques for dealing with such scenarios comes increased confidence when stepping up to the podium – further improving your chances of delivering an effective speech that resonates with your audience members.

Responses to Frequently Asked Questions

How should i end my speech to leave a lasting impression.

The best way to end your speech is by reinforcing your main point and summarizing the key takeaways. You should also encourage the audience to take action, whether it be to sign up for a newsletter, make a donation, or visit your website for more information. This final call to action will not only leave a lasting impression on the audience but will also help you achieve any goals you might have had when making your speech in the first place.

What techniques can I use to keep my audience engaged during my speech?

One of the best techniques for keeping an audience engaged during a speech is to keep it interactive . Ask questions throughout the presentation, as well as allowing for audience input and discussion. This can help to keep people’s attention and create a more engaging experience.

Another great tip is to use humor. Even if you don’t consider yourself a natural comedian, sprinkling in a few jokes here and there can break up the monotony of long speeches and keep people interested. Humor can also help to make points stick in people’s minds, making them easier to remember.

Finally, try to be enthusiastic about the content of your speech. If you show too much indifference or lethargic behavior, it will discourage your audience from paying attention and taking your message seriously.

Instead, be passionate about what you are saying so that the energy of your words carries into the room and engages your audience with excitement.

How can I use storytelling to make my speech more interesting?

Storytelling is a powerful tool that can be used to make any speech more interesting. Telling stories in your speech will help engage the audience and make your message stick. Here are some tips for using storytelling in your speech:

1. Choose stories that are relevant to your message and audience. Think about stories that will best illustrate the point you are trying to convey, or evoke emotions in your listeners. 2. Use vivid descriptions and visuals when telling your story. Be sure to include details such as setting, character descriptions, dialogue and plot points. This will help to bring the story to life for your audience. 3. Make sure the story you are telling has a strong conclusion or moral at the end. This will help add emphasis to your message and make it memorable. 4. Practice telling stories out loud before delivering a speech with them. Rehearsing will help you deliver your story more effectively and with more confidence in front of an audience. By using these tips, storytelling can be an effective tool to make any speech more interesting, engaging, and persuasive!

How can I prepare for my speech effectively?

Preparing for a speech effectively is essential to delivering an impactful and memorable presentation. Here are some tips: 1. Have a clear goal in mind. Before starting to prepare, ask yourself what the purpose of giving the speech is: what message do you want to convey? Defining this will help to structure your content and focus your research. 2. Research thoroughly. Make sure you understand the subject matter well, so that your delivery sounds confident and inspiring. Using facts and data will strengthen your arguments and make your talk more convincing. 3. Outline your speech. Make a rough outline of how you want it to go – from beginning to end – well in advance of the actual presentation. This will give you a strong foundation upon which you can craft an engaging talk with an effective narrative arc that keeps audiences interested and engaged. 4. Practice regularly. Rehearsing your speech out loud several times is key to ensuring that you know it well enough to feel comfortable when delivering it live in front of an audience.

5. Time yourself. Record how long it takes for you to go through your entire speech, so that you can adjust the length as needed before delivering it live – remember that most speeches should last no more than 10-15 minutes. 6. Identify potential questions from the audience and prepare answers before hand. Knowing ahead of time what kind of questions people may ask can help reduce the anxiety of not knowing what comes next, enabling you to stay confident when speaking in public. 7. Work on building up confidence levels before delivering a speech. Visualize yourself succeeding in delivering a great presentation; practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or positive self-talk; or use props during practice sessions such as water bottles or stress balls if needed to remain calm during the real thing!

What strategies can I use to reduce my anxiety when giving a speech?

1. Plan Ahead: Create an outline of your speech beforehand and practice it multiple times to become familiar with the content. Doing a trial run with the audience can also help you get used to speaking in front of people.

2. Visualize Success: Positive visualization is a great way to reduce anxiety before giving a speech. Imagine yourself confidently delivering the speech while feeling relaxed and composed.

3. Get Organized: Make sure you have all the materials necessary for your presentation, including notes, slides, etc., to reduce any additional stress that may come from not having what you need when you speak.

4. Take Deep Breaths: Before and during the speech, take a few deep breaths as this will help calm nerves and make sure your breathing is regulated throughout the duration of your presentation.

5. Speak Slowly: It is common to feel anxious while giving a speech and try to rush through it too quickly. Speaking slowly helps maintain composure while delivering your message effectively and clearly.

6. Pay Attention to Your Body: Your posture, stance, movements , facial expressions can all influence how confident you appear to your audience and how nervous you may be feeling inside. Check in with yourself frequently throughout the presentation and correct any tense body language or physical actions if needed.

7. Focus on the Audience: If you notice that your anxiety levels are growing as you present, shift your focus onto the audience instead of yourself as this will help refocus your attention away from negative thoughts that may arise from fear or insecurity.

8. Make Eye Contact: Establishing eye contact with your audience is a key confidence-builder for public speakers—it shows that you’re strong, engaged with them, and receptive to feedback or questions they might have regarding your speech topic .

9. Practice Positive Affirmations: Positive thoughts will boost your self-confidence as well as your mood which can help increase performance quality significantly during speeches or presentations in general—so don’t forget to tell yourself “you can do it!” several times throughout the day leading up to the event!

10. Seek Support of Friends & Family: Many experienced public speakers suggest seeking support of close friends & family members prior and during their speeches—not only does it allow helpful critique regarding content but it also creates a more comfortable atmosphere while speaking which can reduce pre-speech jitters drastically.

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Speech on Good Habits
Good habits are like the building blocks of our character. They are the small practices, the routines we follow in our day-to-day life. They range from waking up early, maintaining personal hygiene, eating healthy, to saying a simple 'Thank You'. These habits, when consistently followed, can bring about a significant positive change in our ...
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Speech on Good Habits (857 words) March 5, 2018 by Study Mentor Leave a Comment. Greetings to one and all present over here. I request you all to bear with me as I present in front of you my speech on the topic 'Good Habits'. I urge you to pardon me for any mistake that I commit knowingly or unknowingly while presenting my thoughts. Good ...
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Good habits always help us to be a good man and a good citizen. We should always neglect bad habit and if in case we attempt something wrong then we should know to accept our mistake and say sorry. Thank you for hearing my speech and giving your crucial time. Category: Speech (English) It has been always said that good habits lead to a good life.
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Keep Focus. #20 Keep a narrow focus for your speech. #21 Keep your speech simple. #22 Write your speech like you speak. #23 Stick to the facts to write an impressive speech. #24 Try to sound normal. Practice Makes Perfect. #25 Read your speech out loud. #26 Record your speech.
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Create the framework for your speech. Write down the topic, general purpose, specific purpose, central idea, and main points. Make sure to grab the audience's attention in the first 30 seconds. 4. Watch for Feedback and Adapt to It. Keep the focus on the audience. Gauge their reactions, adjust your message, and stay flexible.
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Having good habits is like having wisdom. If you keep up the good habits, you will move ahead in life and get more admiration. You can use these 10 points in an essay on good habits for classes 1 and 2. Being a good person comes from having good habits. Successful people have good habits that help them grow in life.
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