Public speaking 101

The benefits of public speaking and learning how to do so

Public speaking is one of the most important skills you can learn to have in your life. It is a skill that you can use to make your career more successful, but it can be a challenge to learn how to do so effectively.

The public speaking checklist

• I’ve come up with my topic.
• I’ve found several sources to cite in my speech.
• I’ve gathered all the information that I need.
  • I marked down all of my sources, so I can credit them.
• I have organized the information.
• I’ve written my speech.
  • I’ve written a second draft.
  • I’ve written a third draft.
• I believe that this is as good as I can possibly make it.
• I have prepared note cards to keep the basic points on hand.
  • The cards are short and contain only a few details.
  • I’ve numbered the cards.
  • The cards are in sequential order.
• I have read my speech aloud at least twice to myself.
  • The speech sounds natural.
  • I have timed the speech.
  • It falls within the time I have allotted.
• I have recited my speech without a copy of it on hand.
  • I was able to recite my speech without stammering or blanking.
• I have rehearsed my speech in front of friends and family.
  • I have tested all props and technical items.
  • I made eye contact.
  • I received feedback on how to improve.
  • I used the suggestions to make my presentation better.

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