Section 1
Finding and Selecting a Topic
The Importance of Choosing a Good Topic
Choosing a good topic is an essential step towards delivering an effective speech.
Your Areas of Expertise
When selecting a topic consider areas in which you have expertise.
Your Areas of Interest
Consider areas that you are interested in when trying to select a topic for your speech.
Brainstorming
Brainstorming is one method to finding the right topic for a speech.
Scoping Your Topic
Once you have generated a variety of ideas, it is time to narrow the topic to ensure it fits the scope of your speech.
Section 2
Establishing a Purpose and a Thesis
General Purpose
Examine the general purpose of why you're speaking; every idea in your speech should connect to that purpose to reinforce your thesis.
Specific Purpose of a Speech
The specific purpose of a speech fuses the topic and general purpose.
Defining the Thesis
Your thesis statement should clearly articulate the purpose and main points of your speech.