Question

Unless you can clearly identify what you want to sat and why you want to say it (your topic and purpose) prior to delivering a speech __________

Answer 1

To effectively deliver a speech, a clear understanding of your topic and purpose is essential, and developing a purpose statement is the first step. An outline organizes main ideas and creates natural flow, while researching and narrowing your topic ensures your message resonates with the audience.

Step-by-step explanation:

Before delivering a speech, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of your topic and purpose, as this will guide the direction and impact of your presentation. Developing a purpose statement is an essential first step in creating an effective outline for your speech. This statement should encapsulate what you aim to achieve with your presentation. An example of a purpose statement might be, "By the end of this presentation, my audience will better understand the impact of plastic waste on the ocean."

Without adequate preparation, trying to 'wing it' in a speech can result in a less effective delivery. Knowledge of your audience's attention span—a mere 20 minutes for adults and even less for younger audiences—should influence how you craft your message. An outline helps you organize your main ideas and create a flow for your speech, ensuring that it will engage your audience effectively.