How to Write a Speech Outline?

A speech outline can boost your confidence and help you stay on track, making you appear powerful and in charge. As you compose your speech outline, consider how you will introduce yourself and your topic, the issues you will discuss, and how they have interests.

Why do we create outlines?

Creating a speech plan is important in preparing for a successful presentation. An outline helps to organize your thoughts, provides a logical flow of ideas, and boosts your confidence when speaking. Below, we explain how to develop a speech outline and give examples to demonstrate each step.

1. Introduction:

The introduction sets the stage for your speech and captures the audience's attention. It typically includes the following components:

• Attention Getter: 

Start with a compelling statement, question, or anecdote that grabs the audience's interest. For example, "Imagine a world where every child has access to quality education—what would that look like?"

• Thesis Statement: 

Clearly state the main idea or argument of your speech. For instance, "Today, I will discuss the importance of educational reform in ensuring equal opportunities for all children."

• Motivation: 

Explain why the audience should care about your topic. For example, "Education is the foundation of our society, and by investing in it, we invest in our future."

• Preview of Main Points: 

Briefly outline the key points you will cover in your speech. For instance, "I will cover three main areas: the current state of education, the challenges we face, and potential solutions."

2. Body:

The body of your speech is where you elaborate on your main points. Organize this section into clear, logical segments:

1. First Main Point: 

Present your first key argument or idea. For example, "The current state of education is marked by significant disparities."

• Sub-point: 

Provide supporting evidence or examples. For instance, "In low-income areas, schools often lack basic resources, affecting student performance."

• Evidence: 

Include statistics or quotes to back up your claims. For example, "According to a recent study, students in underfunded schools are 30% more likely to drop out."

• Transition: 

Use a transitional phrase to move to the next point smoothly. For example, "Now that we've examined the current state of education, let's discuss the challenges we face."

2. Second Main Point: 

Present your second key argument. For example, "One of the biggest challenges is funding."

• Sub-point: 

Provide supporting details. For instance, "Many districts struggle to secure adequate funding from state and local sources."

• Evidence: 

Include relevant statistics or anecdotes. For example, "In some districts, teachers are forced to buy their supplies due to budget cuts."

• Transition: 

Connect to the next point. For example, "Having addressed funding challenges, let’s explore potential solutions."

3. Third Main Point: 

Present your final key argument. For example, "Implementing community-based programs can significantly improve educational outcomes."

• Sub-point: 

Support your argument with evidence. For instance, "Programs that involve parents and local businesses have shown promising results."

• Evidence: 

Share success stories or data. For example, "In a pilot program in Chicago, student performance improved by 25%."

3. Conclusion:

The conclusion wraps up your speech and reinforces your main message. It typically includes:

• Summary: 

Briefly recap the main points you covered. For example, "Today, we discussed the disparities in education, the funding challenges, and the potential of community-based programs."

• Closure: 

Provide a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression. For example, "Together, we can advocate for educational reform that ensures every child has the opportunity to succeed."

• Call to Action: 

Encourage your audience to take specific steps. For instance, "I urge you to support local initiatives that aim to improve our schools and invest in our children’s futures."

What to Include in a Speech Outline?

Creating a well-structured speech outline is essential for delivering a clear and impactful message. Below are the key components to include in your speech outline, along with detailed explanations and examples for each section.

Introduction:

The introduction is your opportunity to set the tone for your speech and engage your audience from the start. It typically includes the following elements:

A Greeting:

Begin by introducing yourself and acknowledging any relevant parties. This establishes your credibility and creates a connection with the audience.

Example:

“Good evening, my name is Jesse Vargas, and I’ve had the honor of working as an outreach coordinator for Transcend Behind Bars for over three years now. Thank you, Andrea, for that charming introduction and for organizing this dinner for all of us.”

An Attention-Getter:

Start with a joke, story, or interesting fact to capture the audience's attention. Tailor your opener to the audience's demographics and interests.

Example:

“So, for the first 30 minutes of my speech, we’re going to sit and meditate until the ice melts in our waters… just kidding.”

The Topic and Why It’s Important:

Transition to your speech's topic by explaining its relevance to the audience. If your speech is argumentative, highlight the consequences of inaction. For informative speeches, emphasize the topic's significance.

Examples:

Argumentative Speech: “By a show of hands, how many people know someone struggling with addiction and incarceration? I’m here to tell you there’s a better way to help people overcome and not get trapped in the system.”

Informative Speech: “Have any of you ever felt like your mind was racing a million miles an hour? Transcendental meditation can help slow down your thoughts and address the root of that reaction in your nervous system.”

The Thesis of Your Speech

Present your thesis statement, which summarizes the main idea you will prove or inform the audience about.

Examples:

Argumentative Speech: “Including meditation in the prison system is an effective way to combat addiction during and after incarceration, turning repeat offenders into healthy contributors to society.”

Informative Speech: “The brain is the most powerful tool we have, and I'll show you how consciously controlling your breath can turn your brain into a more efficient and happier machine.”

Your Credentials:

Explain why you are qualified to speak on the topic. This could be personal experiences or educational background.

Examples:

Personal Affectation: 

“I used to be part of the system, in and out several times, my addiction growing stronger. Until ten years ago, when I discovered meditation and self-compassion.”

Educational Credentials: “Since the age of 22, I’ve devoted my life to studying neuroscience and meditation, earning a Master’s in Compassionate Psychology and a PhD in Neuroscience.”

A Preview of Your Main Points:

Outline the main points you will cover in your speech, giving the audience a roadmap of what to expect.

Examples:

Argumentative Speech: 

“First, I’ll discuss how the prison system is flawed regarding addiction. Then, I’ll provide evidence on how meditation can aid long-term recovery. Lastly, I’ll present examples of how we can implement these programs in state prisons.”

Informative Speech: 

“I’ll explain what transcendental meditation is, the areas of the brain it impacts, and how it can treat mental disorders, improve relationships, and relieve physical pain.”

Body:

The body of your speech is where you delve into your main points. Each point should be clearly articulated and supported with evidence.

Present Your First Point:

Begin with your first main point, providing supporting evidence, statistics, or quotes. Organizing this information in bullet points can help during your delivery.

Example:

“I. Addiction impacts everyone, and studies show that half of the people in the prison system suffer from addiction. Only one-tenth have access to recovery programs, and over half of released prisoners return within three years. ‘Prison is a second-by-second assault on the soul…’ - Mumia Abu-Jamal. How can we expect those imprisoned to behave as good citizens when the system adds to their trauma?”

Transitioning Between Points:

Use transitions to smoothly connect your points. This helps maintain the audience's engagement and understanding.

Example:

“II. Now that we know how the system affects mental health, let’s discuss the proven benefits of meditation. Studies show that meditation decreases stress, anxiety, and aggression. I once thought it was bogus until I tried focused breathing during a panic attack, and it changed my life.”

Conclusion:

The conclusion wraps up your speech and reinforces your main message.

Make a Smooth Transition:

Signal to your audience that you are concluding. This can be a simple statement or a reference back to your introduction.

Example:

“In conclusion, now’s the time to fix what isn’t working.”

Summarize Your Main Points:

Reiterate the key points of your speech to reinforce them in the audience's mind.

Example:

“As I’ve shown, prisons fail to address addiction and meditation provides relief and helps maintain sobriety.”

Restate Your Thesis

Reemphasize your thesis to ensure it sticks with the audience.

Example:

“Now’s the time to implement meditation programs in prisons to decrease suffering and help individuals contribute meaningfully to society.”

End with Something Memorable

Leave your audience with a final thought or call to action that resonates.

Example:

“For those of you whose loved ones are affected by addiction, I hope what I’ve shared today inspires hope that there is a way out.”

Thank the Audience and Organizers

Express gratitude to your audience and acknowledge anyone who helped organize the event.

Example:

“Thank you for your attention. A big thank you to Andrea for organizing this wonderful event and to Transcend Behind Bars for saving my life.”

Allow for Questions:

If time permits, invite questions from the audience to clarify or expand on your points.

Example:

“Now, for the next 10 minutes, I’ll answer any questions you might have about what I’ve presented today.”

By following this structured outline, you can create a compelling and organized speech that effectively communicates your message to the audience. For more tips and resources on speech writing, visit Perfect Speech Writer for expert guidance tailored to your needs.

Things to Avoid in a Speech Outline:

• Data Dumping: 

Avoid overwhelming the audience with excessive statistics and numbers. Instead, use visuals like infographics to present the data while you explain its relevance.

• Extremely Formal Language: 

Keep your language casual, relatable, and conversational. Avoid using overly formal words or phrases that you wouldn't use in everyday discussions.

• Writing Every Word Verbatim: 

Use keywords in your outline to jog your memory during the speech rather than reading from a script. This will make your delivery sound more natural.

• Abrupt Introductions and Conclusions: 

Provide necessary background information and context in your introduction. End your speech with a memorable statement or call to action, not abruptly.

• Self-Judgment or Depreciation: 

Avoid undermining your credibility by apologizing for your public speaking skills or downplaying your presentation. Instead, express your passion for the topic.

By following these guidelines and focusing on engaging the audience with your content and delivery, you can create an effective and impactful speech outline. For more tips and resources, visit Perfect Speech Writer.

Different Types of Outlines:

There are several types of outlines used in the speechwriting process, each serving a different purpose:

1. Preparation Outline

A preparation outline serves as a comprehensive guide for your speech. It includes:

• Clear Introduction: Start with a greeting and introduce your topic, establishing the specific purpose of your speech.

• Key Ideas: List the main points you will cover, ensuring they align with your overall message.

• Transitional Statements: Include phrases that help you smoothly move from one point to the next, maintaining the flow of your speech.

• Conclusion: Summarize your key ideas and reinforce your message, leaving the audience with a memorable takeaway.

2. Rough Outline

A rough outline is a preliminary version that helps you organize your thoughts. It may consist of:

• Basic of Speech Outlines: Outline the structure of your speech, including the introduction, body, and conclusion.

• Whole Speech: Draft a brief version of what you plan to say, focusing on the overall message without getting into full sentences.

• Audience Members: Consider who will be listening and tailor your points accordingly to ensure engagement.

3. Full-Sentence Outline

A full-sentence outline provides a detailed framework for your speech. It should contain:

• Entire Speech: Write out your speech in full sentences, ensuring clarity and completeness in your ideas.

• Reader Success Stories: Include anecdotes or examples that illustrate your points and resonate with the audience.

• Public Speech: Focus on how your ideas relate to public speaking, emphasizing the importance of effective communication.

4. Speaking Outline

The speaking outline is a concise reference for your delivery. It typically includes:

• Organizational Tool: Use this outline to keep track of your main points and supporting details during your speech.

• Organizational Pattern: Decide on the structure of your speech (e.g., chronological, topical) to enhance clarity.

• Practice: Use the speaking outline to rehearse your delivery, ensuring you remain natural and engaging without reading verbatim.

5. Final Speech Outline

The final speech outline is what you will use on the day of your presentation. It should include:

• Leadership Success: Highlight key points that demonstrate effective leadership and its impact on personal and professional growth.

• Sales Success: Incorporate examples of successful sales techniques or strategies relevant to your audience.

• Video: If applicable, note where you will include multimedia elements to enhance your presentation.

By utilizing these different types of outlines, you can effectively prepare and deliver a successful speech that resonates with your audience and achieves your communication goals.