Before I get into outlining your speech, just know that this process can make or break your speech. Outlining a speech takes some effort, but the payoff will be huge, so sit back, relax, and grab a Diet Coke because it just may take some time.
A working outline will go through many revisions and changes (thank goodness for word processors).
A working outline is in sentence format.
A working outline will include everything you want to say (again, using full and complete sentences)
Sentence Format in Working Outline
- Express speech points in full sentences.
- Used to give you the speaker practice before the speech.
- Used to make sure ALL key points/important events are covered in a specific order.
- This is a "no-mistake" format.
- Used commonly with a teleprompter.
- Write out your topic, general purpose, specific speech purpose, and thesis (this will help you stay focused).
- Establish your main points (optimally 2 to 5).
- Add supporting points (minimum of 2 per main point).
- Label each part of your speech (Introduction, Body, Conclusion).
- Label and write out transitions.
- Note sources in parentheses.
- Prepare a list of sources, and append it t the outline.
- Title your speech.
A speaking outline is in a phrase and/or key-word word format.
Phrase Format in Speaking Outline
- Limited words used.
- Key words to guide you.
Remember, if you have a lot of information/words down on your notes- YOU HAVE TO READ THEM ALL. It's a human nature thing. The more you read from your notes the more "unprofessional" your speech becomes.
Key-Word Format in Speaking Outline
- This is the preferred format for notes (if you have to use notes).
- Use one key word that is associated with the main idea.
- The benefit with this format is it allows you to connect with the audience through eye contact and reading non-verbals.
- You must be well-rehearsed to give an effective key-word format presentation (use sentence format to practice then move to practicing key-word).
Remember, a great speech has an attention-getter that captures the audience attention, and introduction that tells them what you are going to tell them. It is the preface to your speech.
You can break up your introduction into the following:
- Attention Getter
- Transition
- Preview/Introduction Statement
- Transition to Main Body
A conclusion summarizes main points of your speech (it tells the audience what you told them). Tied in with your conclusion is your final chance to make you and your speech memorable while telling the audience what you just spoke about. It is the epilogue of your speech.
Make sure you separate your Attention-Getter, Introduction, Conclusion and Memorable Statement from the body of your speech in your notes.
You can break up you conclusion into the following:
- Transition from Body of Speech
- Recap/Summary
- Memorable Statement
- Use note cards if you do not have lectern or pulpit from which you are presenting from.
- Do not use hand gestures that are holding your note cards as this can be a distraction.
- Leave blank spaces and margins on paper.
- Use large print or font (bold) so it is easy to see (Use a Sharpie).
- Glance at your notes- DO NOT READ FROM THEM, unless you have a long quote that must be read correctly and can't be memorized.
- Number your notes
- Do not staple papers or note cards together.
- Slide note cards/paper under each other. DO NOT TURN OR FLIP THEM OVER.
PRACTICE-PRACTICE-PRACTICE ahead of time so you can present without using notes a majority of the time.
Questions
- Which do you think is the most important, the Introduction, the Body, or the Conclusion? Why?
- What are some other "techy" things out there that can help you prepare and give a great speech?
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