4 Ways to Give a Speech

Posted by Ian McKenzie

Written on December 2, 2008

There are four basic methods of giving a speech: impromptu, manuscript reading, memorization, and outlined.

1. The Impromptu Speech

In one sense, the impromptu speech requires the least preparation; in another, if you’re a subject-matter expert, you’re always “preparing” impromptu speeches. With little advance notice, the speaker is asked to speak for a few minutes on a specific subject.

If you find yourself in this position, take a moment to prepare and apply the following principles:

Formulate the central idea. Don’t try to discuss the entire subject. Limit yourself to a specific aspect that you can discuss in a few minutes.
Open your talk with a sentence that says something. Don’t apologize for what you are about to say. Begin with a bang and get straight to the point.
The body of your speech must be unified. You can give examples, illustrations, comparisons, and contrasts to help explain your key sentences. Be as concrete and specific as possible.
Conclude on a strong note. You can repeat your key sentences, but rephrase them. Restate them briefly but clearly.

Here other tips for giving an impromptu speech:

Expect the possibility that you might be called on to speak, so make some preparations early.
Maximize whatever small amount of preparation time you are given to your benefit.
Practice active listening.
Manage speech anxiety by reminding yourself that no one expects you to be perfect when giving an impromptu speech.
Use the fundamental principles of speech organization: tell them what you’re going to tell them, tell them, tell them what you told them.
Consider the impromptu speech as an opportunity to practice and develop your speaking skills.

2. The Manuscript Speech

A manuscript speech is written out and read verbatim. When it’s important that the exact words are used in a correct way, a read speech is appropriate. Political leaders read speeches for accuracy and precision. They lack the spontaneity of the impromptu speech or the extemporaneous speech. It’s important for the speaker reading a speech to maintain rapport with the audience.

Here are some guidelines in giving a manuscript speech:

Only use a manuscript when what you are saying is of critical importance.
Use good oral style.
Practice, practice, practice.
Develop body language and gestures that support what you are saying.
Use effective vocal variety/contrast.
Remain flexible.

3. The Memorized Speech

This method of delivery is good only for elocution pieces. Like a speech that is read, it lacks spontaneity. In addition, memory can fail during delivery and can cause embarrassment. This type of speech should not be used in public speaking classes.

Here are some guidelines in giving a memorized speech:

Stay focused on your specific purpose and on the key ideas you want to convey.
Speak in the moment.
Practice, practice, practice.

4. The Outlined Speech

This should be the commonly used method of speaking. It is not read nor memorized. It spontaneous and natural. The speaker has time to prepare the ideas they wish to convey and the actual words are formulated at the moment of delivery.

This type speech must also be practiced but the words and arrangement of words are changed to something better and more effective. In rehearsing, the speaker is simply guided by an outline. If notes are held, these material or data which expound the ideas. The speaker doesn’t memorize the speech, but the order of ideas to achieve unity, organization, and clarity in speech.

An extemporaneous speech: