Summary

The essential steps in developing an effective speech are to:

• Analyze the situation with which you are faced, including both the nature of your assignment and the audience.
• Choose a topic that is suitable to both the situation and the audience.
• Decide on a general and specific purpose.
• Write a clear thesis statement.
• Prepare the substance of your speech.
• Organize your speech.
• Present your speech effectively.

There are many ways to come up with an appropriate topic, including:

• making a personal inventory
• talking to friends
• reading widely
• checking the Internet
• brainstorming

An appropriate speech topic should be:

• interesting to you
• interesting to your audience
• appropriate to the situation
• appropriate to the time available
• manageable
• worthwhile

The primary function of a speech is expressed as a general purpose:

• to inform
• to persuade
• to entertain

A specific purpose describes your goal or objective in speaking to a particular audience.

The thesis statement focuses your audience's attention on the central point you wish to make in your speech.

Resources for preparing your speech include:

• your own experiences
• general sources of information
• interviews with experts
• computerized searches
• specialized sources of information

A clearly organized speech:

• opens with impact
• focuses on your thesis statement
• connects with your audience
• previews your main points
• organizes your ideas with three to five main points
• summarizes your main points
• closes with impact

Common organizational patterns include:

• chronological
• spatial
• categorical
• problem-solution

Transitional statements are called signposts.

In presenting your speech use your voice, face, and body.

Of the four methods of speech delivery, we recommend the extemporaneous method.