Why study public speaking?

3. Methods of Speaking

In order to speak well it is best to decide on the method of speaking before actually preparing it. The main methods are:

  • speaking from a manuscript,
  • speaking from memory,
  • impromptu speaking,
  • extemporaneous speaking.

Speaking from a manuscript involves writing out the entire speech and then reading it. Some people, for example politicians, like this method because it allows them to choose their words carefully and they feel confident delivering the speech. However, this method should be strongly discouraged in other settings. It is definitely a dull experience, as the speaker cannot look at the audience, who in turns lose interest and switch off. In most cases, we really want to have a good rapport with the audience, and reading from your manuscript is not going to create it.


Speaking from memory has its advantages: you can write your whole speech before delivering it and thus control the wording. All you need to do later is to memorize it and then produce it in front of an audience. The obvious disadvantage is that you may forget what you have written, not to mention the fact that it takes a lot of time to prepare and memorize. Besides, you will almost certainly sound unnatural delivering the speech.


The third method of speaking is used in situations when you do not have much time for preparation (impromptu speaking): after a dinner party or in meetings or group discussions when you are asked to express your opinion. You need to think and organize quickly in order to be able to speak spontaneously about something. Experienced speakers find it easy to make such speeches. However, most people find it difficult and even intimidating, depending on their audience.

Finally, let’s consider the fourth method, which is a perfect balance between reading only and memorizing everything. In extemporaneous speaking, the delivery is carefully planned, outlined and practiced, but not memorized. The speaker uses his notes with the main ideas written down, but not the exact language to be used. To the audience it may look like this kind of presentation is only loosely prepared, but there is nothing further from the truth. The speech has to be as well researched and prepared as any other type, and carefully rehearsed to check for delivery problems (timing, etc.). This type of speech has many advantages; for example, you can adjust it to your audience and use it in various speaking situations.