Choosing and Limiting Your Speech Topic

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR SPEECH TOPIC 1. First, consider what kind of speech it is. If you are writing a persuasive speech, and let's say you have a lot of freedom to choose a topic. Well, choose a concept that is your opinion, that you want to persuade others to think or act upon. If it is a demonstrative speech, consider what you already know about that you'd like to demonstrate to others. If it is an informative speech, think about what you are either well informed about or are interested in and would like to learn more about.

2. Map Ideas.

Start mapping out your ideas on paper. Write down an idea on your paper and circle it. Then draw branches (like sun rays) off the main circle and write down ideas that correspond or complement the main idea. You can do this several times, filling a paper with several main circles and branches off the circles.

3. Look at your ideas and choose. Take a look at the ideas you have written and choose the one that sticks out the most to you.

4. Consider your resources.

You will probably have to do at least some research. If you need information, check out some web sites or print media before you commit to your topic.

Demonstration speech What will you need to bring to school? What can you actually DO in a classroom? Here is a brief how-to and list of ideas: Demonstration Topics

Persuasive speech Can you find information on at least two sides? You need to know what your opposition says so you can argue against it. Check out this site: Persuasive Topics

Informative Speech If you can choose your own topic, this site has a long list of possibilities. Informative Speech Topics

It is important that you don't procrastinate when writing a speech. If you keep pushing the work until the last possible moment, you won't end up with a very good speech. Speech writing is an art. It takes time to brainstorm ideas, research, write, edit, and practice a great speech. If you need help with this process, seek out a good speech coach to help you, advise you, encourage you, and guide you. Don't wait. Do it now.