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CMNS 101 Fundamentals of Communication

Public Speaking Research Guide

Delivery: Building Your Credibility with the Extemporaneous Speaking Style

What is Extemporaneous Speaking Style?

The extemporaneous speaking style refers to delivering a speech that is prepared and rehearsed in advance but not memorized or read word-for-word. This style allows for a natural and conversational delivery and strengthens your speaking credibility during your presentation.

  • Prepare Your Message: Research your topic thoroughly to demonstrate an understanding of the subject. Then, write an organized outline with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Finally, rehearse the verbal message with a keyword outline (bullet points) to become familiar with your content.
  • Add Nonverbal Cues for a Dynamic Delivery: As you prepare the keyword outline of your speech, add the nonverbal cues you can use to increase the dynamic energy in your presentation. Examples include highlighting keywords you want to emphasize for variation in pitch, writing reminders to look at the camera to increase eye contact, and setting reminders of gestures and facial expressions you can use to capture the emotional state of your message. Remember to practice the nonverbal cues with the verbal content of your speech.
  • Use the Keyword Outline to Deliver Your Speech: As you practice and record your speech, use the keyword outline as a guide. The keywords will remind you of your key points and transitions. By focusing on keywords rather than full sentences, you can maintain engagement with the audience while delivering information confidently.

Recommended Research for Further Learning

  • Talk about your connection to the topic
  • Connect to the audience with nonverbal cues, mentioning direct address ("you"), and setting the tone to the audience level of understanding
  • Include data, cite sources, tell a story
  • Take time and adopt open and friendly body language
  • Offer to take questions at the end