University of Hawai'i Maui Community College Speech Department

Preparing Speeches

Preparation is Key!
If we fail to prepare--we prepare to fail.
So here is some information to help you prepare for success.

What is the purpose of your speech? To inform? To persuade? To entertain? Once you know the general purpose of your speech you can begin to prepare for your speech.

  1. Step # 1 -- Select a topic for your speech
    Use the Audience Centered approach to select your topic.

  2. Step # 2 -- Compose your Specific Purpose Statement, Central Idea, & Main Points.
    Use the Audience Centered approach as you compose these.

  3. Step # 3 -- Research your speech
    Internet Resources -- Virtual Library.

  4. Step # 4 -- Be Audience Centered -- Audience Analysis
    Who is your audience and what are their needs?

  5. Step # 5 -- Supporting Your Speech
    Use support materials that are: Pertinent; Varied; Sufficient; Detailed; Appropriate.

  6. Step # 6 -- Outlining Your Speech
    Use the basic informative outline to organize materials.

  7. Step # 7 -- Select Visual Aids for Your Speech
    Guideline and tips for using visual aids.

  8. Step # 8 -- Practicing Your Speech
    Perfect Practice makes Perfect.

  9. Step # 9 -- Using Creative Visualization to Ensure a Successful Speech
    Tips on using Visualization to help prepare you for your presentation.

  10. Step # 10 -- Presenting Your Speech on Speech Day
    Tips on giving effective presentations and tips on dealing with that "extra energy" on "Game Day."

Sample Speeches
Taking a look at (and a listen to) great speeches may help you prepare your speech.

For non-native English speakers check out the
English as a Second Language Page
for some ESL links and information.

What do you think?
Do you have any questions, comments, concerns, suggestions, or preparation tips of your own that you would like to share? If so, contact me, Ron St. John, with your feedback. I will get back to you as soon as possible. Be sure to state the title or subject matter, so I know to what material you are referring. Thank you for visiting the Public Speakers' Sites!


The Public Speakers' Resources
|Public Speakers' Page | Speech 151 | Speech 251 | Public Speaking Resources|
|Supporting Your Speech | Sample Speeches | Speech Practice | Speaking Tips|
|Speech Anxiety | Team Presentations | Group Communication | Interviewing|
|Using Visual Aids | ESL Links | Anonymous Feedback | Ron St. John|
|The Learning Center | MCC Library | Maui Language Institute|
|Distance Education Academic Support Services|
|The Ho'oulu OnLine (Student Newspaper)|
|The University of Hawai'i at Manoa|


Page Designer: Ron St. John
Copyright © 2002 - Ka Leo Kumu
Last Revised: September 5, 2002