What are the six steps in preparing a speech?

Answer 1

We all have a process. Don't focus on someone's steps. Decide on what works for you.

I start with the end point: what is the goal of my speech? Do I want someone to make a decision in my favor? Who are the decision makers and what are their interests and concerns? Or am I simply providing information or an update? Who is the audience and what level of knowledge do they possess? How long do I have to make my case? Do I have access to PowerPoints or is it entirely oral?

Armed with this information, I can outline the presentation. What points do I need to make to lead the decision makers towards my goal, or the audience to a complete understanding of my topic?

How much time can I devote to each point? If I am using PowerPoints, what information should be displayed on a slide?

For each point, what evidence do I have, how much is enough, and do I need to be aware of any objections that might be raised? Do I have a plan to deal with those objections?

How will I open my presentation? What theme will I telegraph to the audience? Will I use a joke or other oral gambit to break the ice?

Now that I have a draft, can present it in the allotted time? Where is my oral presentation strong - and can it be bolstered. Where is it weak and needs to be strengthened? Are some parts too long and others too short? If it involves PowerPoints, have I got the right balance between the information on the slide and my oral remarks? (I don't want to read the slide to the audience.) Where am I opening myself up to criticism, and should I avoid it or deal with it head on.

Have I rehearsed and revised enough to be completely confident in my presentation, aware of every weak point, and ready to deal with objections? What and how will I cut if the available time is shortened - by 10 minutes, by half?

Once I get to the venue, what does the room look like? Where should I stand to maximize my effect? What's the technology? What about the lighting and sound? Has my time been shortened? Who is in the audience I should know about? Do I have a way to keep track of time?