Final answer:
The first step in the speech making process is selecting a topic, followed by conducting research and analyzing the audience to inform the speech’s purpose and organization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step in the speech making process is selecting a topic. Once you have a topic in mind, it's essential to conduct research to narrow down the subject matter and understand the context and background information. Before crafting your speech, it is crucial to analyze the audience to tailor your message in a way that is relevant and engaging to them. This understanding will help shape your speech's purpose, and ensure the language and tone are appropriate for the audience. After setting a clear purpose, you can then proceed to create a detailed organizational plan for your speech.
By emphasizing the importance of audience awareness and purpose in crafting a speech, one increases the likelihood of delivering an effective and informative speech that resonates with listeners. Throughout the process, remember to be adaptable, allowing research and feedback to continually refine your speech's thesis, structure, and main points.