Organizing Speech Points: Tips and Strategies

Key Message

• A well-organized speech should resemble a BLT with distinct layers, not a messy Sloppy Joe.
• Clear organization aids audience understanding and retention.

General Tips for Main Points

• Number of Main Points:
  • Aim for 2-5 main points.
  • More than 5 can overwhelm the audience.
  • Group related steps under broader main points if necessary.
• Example:
  • For changing a tire: Group 16 steps into pre-jack, on-jack, and post-jack phases.

Crafting Main Points

• Mini Thesis Statements:
  • Each main point should be a clear, declarative sentence supporting the main thesis.
• Parallel Construction:
  • Use similar language patterns for emphasis (e.g., "Before adopting a puppy, consider...").
• Balanced Points:
  • Ensure main points are balanced in length and importance.
  • Avoid overshadowing or under-developing any point.
• Distinctive Points:
  • Avoid using "and" in main points to prevent blurring distinct ideas.
• Primacy and Recency Principles:
  • Place most important points first or last for maximum impact.

Organizing Supporting Points

• Declarative Sentences:
  • Supporting points should be clear statements supporting their main point.
• Coordination and Subordination:
  • Maintain clear hierarchy and organization (e.g., main points, sub-points, sub-sub-points).
  • Align points with comparable letter/number designations.
  • Subordinate supporting points under their corresponding main point.

Conclusion

• Avoid the "Sloppy Joe" approach where everything runs together.
• Aim for a "BLT" structure with clear, defined layers.
• Future videos will cover more on outlining and public speaking tips.

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Recommended Viewing

• Additional videos for more insights into public speaking techniques.