This summary is organized around the questions found at the beginning of the chapter. See if you can answer them before reading the summary paragraphs.

1. How can I feel confident and at ease while I am speaking?

Many people feel somewhat nervous about delivering a speech in public. This is a common and normal feeling and is called communication apprehension. Most speakers can control or manage this apprehension by preparing, relaxing, and visualizing success. Preparing and practicing your speech will help give you the necessary confidence to deliver a successful speech. Relaxing before you speak by walking, taking deep breaths, and exhaling slowly, or stretching your arms, neck, and back can also help control the symptoms of anxiety. Finally, visualize success by picturing yourself standing in front of an appreciative audience delivering a self-assured presentation.

2. What are four different types or modes of delivery?

In manuscript speaking, the speaker reads from a script that is written out word for word. Manuscript speaking allows for precise word choice and exact time limits, but it limits the speaker's eye contact with the audience and use of gestures. In memorized speaking, the speaker writes out the speech, memorizes the content, and then delivers the speech word for word without the use of notes. Memorizing the manuscript allows speakers to establish consistent eye contact and use gestures. Memorizing a speech of any length takes a great deal of time and inexperienced speakers frequently forget what they want to say. Impromptu speaking is delivering a speech with limited preparation and notes. Impromptu speeches are often spontaneous and full of energy but often lack structure or development of main ideas. Extemporaneous speaking is the most versatile and useful mode of delivering a speech and involves careful preparation of content delivered with the help of a keyword outline. Although extemporaneous speakers practice their delivery thoroughly, they do not write the speech out word for word. Rather, they come up with the exact wording of the speech at the moment of delivery. Extemporaneous speakers can establish consistent eye contact, gesture effectively, and respond to audience reactions and situations.

3. What words should I use in the speech?

You should use words that are clear, vivid, and conversational. Use concrete words that are simple and that the audience recognizes. Use metaphors and similes to create vivid pictures for your audience and avoid clichés. Talk directly to the audience, as if you are in a conversation, by using personal pronouns such as "we" and "I," rhetorical questions, and active verbs.

4. How can I use my voice, gestures, and speaking aids to enhance my delivery?

Speak clearly so that the audience can understand your words and project your voice so that everyone in the audience can hear you. Vary the rate, volume, and inflection of your voice to add meaning and emphasis to your words. An effective speaking posture includes standing with both feet on the floor, squaring your body to the center of the audience, raising your head to establish eye contact, and gesturing with your hands above your waist. Look at the entire audience by constantly but slowly moving your gaze around the audience. Practice facial gestures that are consistent with the mood of the speech.

Speaking aids often help increase the audience's attention, maintain their interest in the speech, and recall ideas once the speech is over. Use speaking aids that add content to the speech. Practice using your speaking aid before the speech and if something goes wrong, don't panic. Computer presentation packages are increasingly used in professional presentations. They can be powerful speaking aids but could distract from the speech if used improperly. Be sure that you know the software thoroughly and use computer slides to enhance your message.

5. How can I deliver a responsible presentation?

Speakers should use language and gestures that are culturally sensitive and inclusive. A responsible speaker should be aware of inequities in language and select words that are neutral. They should avoid the generic use of "man," including the general use of masculine pronouns, and balance male and female examples, quotes, and testimony. Responsible speakers adapt their gestures to the culture and feedback of the audience.