Outlines are classified into two types: preparation outlines and speaking outlines. Preparation outlines, which are written in full sentences, are intended to assist you in preparing and practicing your speech. Speaking outlines use the same approach but only contain crucial words. This will help you focus on what to say without getting distracted by unimportant details.
Preparation outlines can be used before class or during breaks. They allow you to practice important points while still having some time left for fun or interacting with other people.
Speaking outlines are very useful when you have limited time to prepare but need to make a clear statement. For example, if you were invited to give a presentation at work and had only one day to do so, you could write down only the main ideas of your speech and then speak from memory. Or perhaps you are giving a speech in class and want to focus on certain issues without being distracted by unnecessary details - writing an outline would be helpful in this case too.
Finally, speaking outlines can also be used as a guide to keep you on track if you start to feel like talking for too long or forgetting what you wanted to say. For example, if you were giving a presentation at work and felt like talking for over 20 minutes, you could write "20 minutes" as a reminder not to go beyond this limit.
Determine the following outline types: working outline, full-sentence outline, and speaking outline. Determine the benefits of presenting your speaking outline on notecards.
A speaking outline is the plan you will use while making a speech. The speaking outline is significantly shorter than the preparation outline, and it comprises brief phrases or sentences to remind speakers of the points they need to communicate, as well as supporting material and signposts.
An outline can be used by itself to talk about any topic in general or about your experience with that topic in particular. But it is most useful when trying to organize information into significant sections, which can then be developed into themes for further discussion.
The three main parts of an outline are the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. These correspond to the major parts of your speech.
In addition, an outline often includes: a list of topics to be covered; a list of references or sources of information needed to support ideas expressed in the speech; a list of questions to be asked during the speech; a summary of what has been said in order not to lose audience members who may be reading over their notes or listening to the recording of the speech later.
Finally, an outline is only a guide. You should feel free to expand on it or omit anything that doesn't fit your presentation style or audience needs. However, if you do add additional material, try to include links between topics so that the speech makes sense even if listeners read it quickly or miss some of the details presented.
Key Takeaways Working outlines help you with speech logic, development, and planning. The full-sentence outline develops the full details of the message. The speaking outline helps you stay organized in front of the audience without having to read to them.
An outline is only as good as its last update. If it's not updated regularly, it's going to be difficult for you to deliver the most relevant information possible. Also, if an outline is based on opinion instead of fact, it's going to be difficult for you to defend your arguments convincingly while presenting them.
Working with both a working and a full-sentence outline is helpful because you can move more quickly through your preparation process when you have some detail already worked out. As you think of new ideas or concepts you want to include in your talk, write them down on a piece of paper or using a digital tool. Go over these notes and see what needs to be changed or added to their corresponding sections in your outline. This way you will always have a current version of your outline that reflects how your presentation is coming together.
Finally, remember that practice makes perfect. You need to run through your presentation multiple times before you give it a live audience so that you cover all your bases and anything that might happen comes as no surprise. This will help you avoid any embarrassing moments once you get on stage!