4 Types of Public Speaking

Key Concepts

Impromptu speaking, mental framework (introduction, body, conclusion), attention grabber, thesis statement, preview, signposting, manuscript speaking, dictation software, extemporaneous speaking, preparation outline, speaking notes, 3*3+1 method, memorized speaking, mnemonic devices, visual map/memory palace.

Impromptu Speaking

Definition and Characteristics

Impromptu speaking involves delivering a speech with little to no immediate preparation. It's often referred to as "speaking off the cuff" or "speaking in the spur of the moment." The delivery style is conversational, natural, and relatable, relying on existing knowledge. While ideally there is no preparation time, even 30 seconds can allow for jotting down a few key notes.

Framework for Impromptu Speaking

A three-part framework (introduction, body, conclusion) is crucial for structuring impromptu speeches.

• Introduction: (approximately 30 seconds for a 5-minute speech, 20 seconds for a 2-minute message)
  • Attention Grabber: A quotation, rhetorical question, concise story, or startling statistic. Referencing the prompt is a simple approach.
    • Example: "As the Beatles once said, all you need is love."
  • Thesis Statement: The speaker's response to the prompt, a one-sentence overall point of view.
    • Example: "I agree with this Beatles quotation. When I look at my life, the thing that has made the biggest difference is love."
  • Preview: A statement outlining the main points to be discussed.
    • Example: "There are three reasons I believe that..."
• Body: Typically structured around three main points.
  • Signposting: Clearly indicating each point with "first," "second," and "third."
    • Example: "First, we all need a loving family."
  • Supporting Material: Stories or illustrative examples to support each point. Personal anecdotes are acceptable.
• Conclusion: (approximately 20-30 seconds for a 5-minute speech, 3 sentences for a 2-minute message)
  • Signal: Indicate the conclusion with phrases like "in conclusion" or "in closing."
  • Restate Thesis: Reiterate the main message or thesis.
    • Example: "In closing, the thing that has made the biggest difference in my life is love."
  • Recap Main Points: Concisely summarize the three main points.
    • Example: "...we would all be better off with a loving family, doing a job we love, and finding the love of our life."
  • Clincher: Revisit the original prompt or question, echoing the opening.
    • Example: "So to me, the Beatles were really on to something when they said, 'All you need is love.'"

Example Application

Using the prompt "All you need is love":

• Introduction:
  • Attention Grabber: "As the Beatles once said, all you need is love."
  • Thesis: "I agree with this Beatles quotation. When I look at my life, the thing that has made the biggest difference is love."
  • Preview: "I've seen this in my life in three ways."
• Body:
  • First: "First, we all need a loving family." (Story about coming from a loving family)
  • Second: "Second, it's also crucial to love what you do for a living." (Story about loving one's career)
  • Third: "Third, finding the love of your life is equally important." (Story about finding one's wife)
• Conclusion:
  • Signal: "In conclusion..."
  • Restate Thesis: "...the thing that has made the biggest difference in my life is love."
  • Recap: "...we would all be better off with a loving family, doing a job we love, and finding the love of your life."
  • Clincher: "So to me, the Beatles were really on to something when they said, 'All you need is love.'"

Challenge

The video presents a challenge to practice impromptu speaking using the framework. The prompt is: "Would you rather live by the beach or in the mountains and why?" The task is to choose one option and provide three reasons, aiming for a 1-2 minute message.

Manuscript Speaking

Definition and Use Cases

Manuscript speaking involves delivering a speech word-for-word from a meticulously prepared script. While it can sound robotic, it's useful when precision is crucial. Common use cases include:

• Teleprompter: Used by presidents, actors, and TV personalities.
• Zoom Calls: Reading from a script on a computer screen during virtual meetings.
• Formal Events: Reading from a paper manuscript at graduations, weddings, and religious ceremonies.

Tips for Effective Manuscript Delivery

• Use Dictation Software: Speak into a microphone (e.g., Google Docs voice typing) to create a more conversational first draft.
• Practice Aloud: Identify and revise awkward phrases or sentences.
• Get Lots of Repetitions: Practice at least 10 times to connect with the audience through eye contact, gestures, volume, and enthusiasm.
• Use Shorter Sentences: Break long sentences into shorter ones for clarity and a confident cadence.

Extemporaneous Speaking

Definition and Characteristics

Extemporaneous speaking involves delivering a carefully prepared and rehearsed speech from a brief set of notes. It's adaptable and preferred by most audiences.

Preparation and Delivery Tips

1. Decide on a Structure: Organize the body of the speech around three main points using chronological, topical, or problem-solution-benefit order.
2. Use Supporting Materials: Include facts, statistics, stories, examples, and quotations to appeal to both the listeners' minds and hearts.
3. Create a Preparation Outline: Develop a detailed outline with all information, but avoid writing a word-for-word script.
4. Practice Conversationaly: Use the 3*3+1 method:
   • 3 Days Before: Mumble through the entire preparation outline three times.
   • 2 Days Before: Cut the outline in half, keeping keywords and phrases, and practice three times standing up.
   • 1 Day Before: Cut the outline in half again and do three dress rehearsals with gestures, eye contact, and vocal emphasis.
   • Day Of: Go through the speech one last time.
5. Create Speaking Notes: Slim down the preparation outline to individual keywords and short phrases on note cards. Aim for one card per 1-2 minutes of speech.
6. Don't Use Visual Aids as Speaking Notes: Keep speaking notes separate from presentation slides. Use the "one slide challenge" to avoid turning your back on the audience.
7. Engage Listeners in a Structured Conversation: Focus on expressive delivery, eye contact, gestures, and vocal emphasis to connect with the audience.

Memorized Speaking

When to Memorize

Memorizing speeches is generally not recommended, but it may be necessary for performances, spoken word, monologues, stand-up comedy, or learning from great speeches.

Tips for Memorizing

1. Keep Your Message Short: Aim for a minute or less.
2. Use a Clear Structure: Logical flow makes memorization easier.
3. Use Mnemonic Devices: Create acronyms or memorable phrases to cue the next point.
4. Use a Visual Map: Visualize a diagram or use a memory palace technique.
5. Break Your Speech into Smaller Chunks: Memorize each chunk individually.
6. Tell Stories: Stories are easier to remember than technical information.
7. Practice Your Speech Aloud: Repetitions help make the speech part of your DNA and improve delivery skills.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The video provides a comprehensive guide to four classic types of public speaking: impromptu, manuscript, extemporaneous, and memorized. It emphasizes the importance of preparation, structure, and delivery techniques for each type. The frameworks and tips offered are designed to help speakers of all levels improve their confidence and effectiveness in various speaking situations. The key takeaway is that understanding the nuances of each speaking style and practicing the recommended techniques can significantly enhance one's ability to communicate effectively.