Tips for Preparing a Talk

PLAN IT

To whom are you speaking? What do they already know about you and your topic? Click here for topic suggestions for a demonstration speech. Click here for topic suggestions for a persuasive speech. What are their attitudes? What knowledge will be useful and interesting to them? Do plenty of audience analysis!

Research your talk. Find at least three credible sources to support your arguments. Consider asking on-campus professors and reference librarians for assistance. Take good notes so that you can reference your sources during your presentation.

Outline your talk. What is your thesis? What main points will support this? Generally, 3-5 points are recommended. Each main point needs to be supported with subordinate points and evidence, including examples, visuals, statistics, testimonials, and metaphors.

Outline your introduction (to gain attention, establish credibility and preview your main points). Outline your conclusion (to summarize your main points, restate your thesis, and end with a memorable statement).

PRACTICE IT

Rehearse your talk. Practice with your visual aids. Hide your visuals until you are ready to speak about them. Rehearse putting them away when you are finished with them. Visualize your audience listening and responding to you. Consider how you’ll use gestures, facial expressions, and language to deliver your message.

If you’re able, rehearse with a camcorder. Rehearse in front of your group members and get feedback. Recognize that your natural nervousness will give you additional energy and think about how to harness it to work for you, rather than against you. Consider ways that you can deal with your nervousness in a constructive manner. For instance, how can you move your body purposefully during your introduction, when you are experiencing primary tension?

PRESENT IT

You’ve done your homework. You’ve prepared well and you’re ready to deliver your talk. Enjoy this. You’ve an important message to convey. Remember to interact with your audience. Don’t talk at us. Watch the time limits; it’s a cardinal sin to go overtime.

It’s a good idea to videotape your presentations. When you’ve completed your talk, review your video a few times for both delivery and content. If you’d like, you’re welcome to consult with me (Nan Peck). We can review the video together and discuss your performance.

Public speaking is an art and a skill. With practice, you’ll learn to enjoy it and to recognize the power of the spoken word!