This is a draft. Pay attention to word choice and sentence structure. Make it as good as possible, but remember that you’ll be able to fix any mistakes before you make your notes. Get all of your ideas on paper. It doesn’t matter if they’re crazy, inspiring, or weird. You have a chance to perfect what doesn’t work later on. [2] X Research source
It’s a good idea to time yourself while you do this. That way, you’ll know when you need to cut down your speech’s length. Learn transitional phrases to help your speech flow naturally. [4] X Research source
Highlight things that worked from your first draft and areas that you want to keep that need to be reworded.
Record your own speech and listen to the phrases and pacing. Listen for any awkward phrases and try to smooth them out in the next draft. If you know someone who’s given a public speech before, ask them to listen. They will have more experience and will be less biased.
For example, you are speaking about the life of a politician. You can use the word “Military” to show yourself when it’s time to talk about their military experience. Images can also help solidify the order of your speech. Visualize uniformed soldiers marching in unison and you won’t forget you need to talk about military training. Write out the first words of your transition sentences to help keep yourself on track.
For example, if you need to introduce your second idea at the three minute mark, write three minutes on the card containing that idea.
Write the words in a pen that’s legible to you. Black or blue ink works best. If you have bad handwriting, you can type out your notes. Cut and glue them onto your notes or print them directly by using the “Size” option in the “Print Layout” tab.
For example, write out “award” or “Purple Heart” to remind yourself to mention the awards someone earned in service.
For instance, write down “75% pass” if you need to inform your audience how many people pass a class.
Customize the color code to whatever works best for you. This works best if you color code while you practice your speech, but it could be distracting or confusing by the time you give the speech.
You can also bind the cards together. Use a drill or hole punch on the upper left corner of the notes. Loop a string through them. They’ll be easy to flip and can’t be mixed up. However, make sure the flipping of the notecards is not distracting to the audience.
Memorizing a speech word-for-word is unhelpful because the audience can tell that you’re reciting a script. Only use memorization and scripted words if you’re painting a picture with your words or you need to tell a joke with comedic timing.
Because you are using a minimal outline, your speech will sound a little different every time. However, it’ll also sound more natural.
You can time yourself again while giving the speech so you know exactly how long it is rather than making a guess. It can show you when you’re going off-script too much. Keep in mind when you give the speech, you’re bound to talk faster and the speech will be shorter.
