Book SummaryThe Master Guides: Public Speaking, by Shortform

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of The Master Guides: Public Speaking

Does the thought of speaking in front of an audience make you anxious? You’re not alone: Many people say they fear public speaking even more than death. But public speaking is also one of the most important and widely applicable skills in life, and the good news is, anyone can master it. By learning proven skills and techniques,...

The Master Guides: Public Speaking Summary How to Prepare Your Speech

First, let’s dive into the preparation work for your speech. In Public Speaking for Success, author and lecturer Dale Carnegie contends that the best speeches are extensively prepared ahead of time. In this section, we’ll look at various experts’ tips on how to:

• Choose a topic
• Structure and write an engaging speech
• Practice to boost your confidence and performance

Choose a Topic

Carnegie recommends that when choosing a speech topic, look for one that you’re both passionate and knowledgeable about, as a powerful speech is one that blends emotion and reason. Your emotions will fuel and animate your speech-giving, while your rock-solid information will persuade even the most intelligent and discerning audiences.

Be Passionate About Your Topic

In Talk Like TED, communication coach...

The Master Guides: Public Speaking Summary How to Deliver Your Speech

Now that we’ve outlined how to prepare, write, and practice your speech, we’ll explore experts’ tips and tricks to help you deliver it with confidence and clarity on the day of your presentation. That way, you’ll leave a powerful impression on your audience. We’ll cover how to manage your stress and anxiety, engage your audience, and hold their attention.

Manage Stress and Anxiety

It’s normal to feel nervous and release adrenaline before your speech, even if you’re a seasoned speaker. Anderson explains that adrenaline can be good: It gives you energy and animates your voice. However, in large doses, it can also make you shaky, give you dry mouth, and cause anxiety. He gives some tips for managing your nerves before you step out on stage:

Tip 1: Get active. If your adrenaline is high enough to make you shaky, do something physical to get rid of the excess. Carnegie suggests you jump around and shake your fists in the air—feel your convictions and allow them to animate you and fire you up.

**Tip 2:...

The Master Guides: Public Speaking Summary Shortform Resources

For more tips on public speaking and effective communication, see the following Shortform guides:

• TED Talks, Chris Anderson
• Talk Like TED, Carmine Gallo
• The Bezos Blueprint,...

Shortform Exercise: Prepare for an Upcoming Presentation

Now that you’ve learned the process of brainstorming, writing, and delivering a speech, think about how you can apply the techniques we discussed in the guide to a future presentation.

Think of a speech or presentation you have to give. If you have the freedom to choose the topic, what are some topics you’re passionate about? If you have to follow a given topic, what are some aspects of that topic that you find interesting or exciting?