How do you prepare for public speaking?

Answer 1

Let's assume it's a speech. Debates are different. Asking a question in public is different. Testimony is different.

1. Become an expert in the subject of your presentation. Learn all you can about your topic.
2. Understand your objective. Are you trying to convince, entertain, call to action, or inform?
3. Know your audience. Experts? Your peer? People with an ax to grind? Supporters?
4. Be clear on the amount of time available. You don't want to rush or be cut off before you finish.
5. Develop an outline with your objective, the points you need make and your conclusion.
6. Match the outline sections to the time available. Aim for around 125 words a minute.
7. Start writing each section to fit the time available.
8. Practice out loud, to cut words and edit to fit the time..
9. Practice out loud - until you have your speech own cold!!!!