2.  Speech preparation is the most important element to a successful presentation, It is also the best way to reduce nervousness and combat fear.

3.  This may seem like an easy task, but there are infinite speaking topics. How do you choose the right one?  Your topic leads to your core message — the entire presentation aims to deliver this core message to your audience.

4.  our speech needs structure. Without structure, your audience will either wonder what your core message is or they will lose interest in you entirely.  Sadly, this step is often skipped to “save time.”  A planned outline is vital.

5.  Speech writing is an iterative process which begins with your first draft.  Once the first draft is created, speech writing involves iteratively massaging your speech into its most effective form.  Edit your speech for focus, clarity, concision, continuity, variety and impact.  Remember your speech should be written for the ear and you should adopt it so it does not sound like an essay or a legal document.

6.  At this stage, the words are ready, but that’s all you have — words. A presentation is not read by the audience; it is listened to and watched.

7.  Great speakers seem natural when they speak, almost as though they are speaking the words for the first time.  Nothing could be more wrong. Rehearsing your speech makes you a master of the content.  Asking for feedback and acting on it gives you confidence that your presentation will be a success.

8.  This could be the first step in preparing for your next speech.  After you’ve delivered your speech, examine your performance objectively. This will solidify lessons learned as you prepare for your next speech challenge.