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  • How to outline a speech

Sample speech outline template

Get a printable. Learn how to outline a speech effectively.

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 02-20-2023

There's a printable sample speech outline template below for you to download and use. 

Why? Because a well-completed outline becomes the backbone of your speech. You'll use it to  guide you logically, and carefully, through ALL the aspects you need to consider before you actually write the speech itself.

It will help you clarify what material you want to cover to fit your audience, and speech purpose, as well as help to effectively organize it.

What you'll find on this page:

  • t he reasons for using a speech outline
  • how to outline a speech : the 4 essentials steps involved in writing an outline - detailed sequential help, with examples, covering: 1. choosing a topic, 2. audience analysis, 3. choosing the best organizational pattern to fit your speech purpose, 4. what to put in each part of your speech: introduction, body and conclusion
  • a  printable speech outline template to download  
  • links to  2 completed examples of speech outlines  (a demonstration and a persuasive speech. Both with printable outlines to download.)
  • a link to 7 completed examples of impromptu speech outlines , each with printable speech outline templates 
  • links to more resources for preparing an effective speech  

dividing line dark green

Why bother writing a speech outline?

Because completing a speech outline is the first vital step toward preparing a successful speech.

Image: retro cartoon girl exclaiming. Text: She had a breakthrough realization. OMG - An outline gives a speech structure and saves time.

It is often overlooked in a misguided attempt to get on with what is considered the real work: writing the speech, or the words you're going to say.

Despite what many people think, time spent completing an outline is not wasted.  Instead, it helps you save it. A nd sidestep any anxiety caused by inadequate preparation.

The process might appear daunting and horrifically time consuming but prepare a speech outline all the same.☺

What you'll learn about speech structure, matching content  to your speech purpose and your audience's needs will pay you back over and over again. I  promise you, having an outline will make giving a speech easier and less stressful. 

How to best use this page

Read the page all the way through to familiarize yourself with the terms and the process. When you're done, click the link at the foot of the page to download and print the blank sample speech outline template for your own use.

How to outline a speech: 4 essential steps

The process of outlining a speech is broken down into 4 essential steps.

(Click a heading to find out more about each one)

  • deciding on your topic
  • considering the audience and refining your topic to suit them
  • deciding on the purpose of the speech
  • choosing an organizational method to support your speech purpose
  • opening greeting and attention getter
  • defining your thesis statement (a summary of what your speech is about)
  • establishing your credibility
  • an overview and the benefit to the audience
  • transition or link between introduction and body
  • main ideas with supporting ideas
  • examples and details
  • summary of main points
  • closer or call to action

Remember this old saying?

First: tell them what you're going to tell them. Second: tell them. Third: tell them what you told them.

A simple, or basic, speech outline follows that advice.

  • 'Tell them what you're going to tell them' becomes your introduction
  • 'Tell them' forms the body
  • 'Tell them what you told them' is your conclusion

Step 1 - Preparation for writing a speech outline

You need to complete this step before you do anything else. It is made up of five smaller steps, each of them an important part of the overall process. The decisions you make at this point will have a major impact on the final outcome of your speech. 

By the time you are finished step 1 you will have:

  • decided on your topic
  • analyzed your audience
  • refined your topic to meet the needs of your audience
  • decided on the specific purpose of your speech
  • chosen the best fitting of six organizational patterns to use - one matching your purpose and your material 

Image - rows of colorful 'cartoon' houses. Text: How to prepare a speech outline. Step 1 decide your topic & refine it to fit your audience.

Start with choosing a topic

The place to begin is deciding what you are going to talk about.

For example, if you are a realtor (real estate agent) who has been asked to talk to a suburban community group residential real estate seems like a good logical topic to pick.

(If you don't have a topic in mind, go to speech topics . You'll find 100s of them ordered by speech type and theme.)

Put yourself to one side & focus on your audience

However, before you make a final decision considering more closely who will be listening to you makes better sense than assuming whatever you come up with will be right!

How do you really know what aspects of your topic are best suited to meet your audience's needs? Or what would be of real benefit for them to hear about?

The scope of the topic 'residential real estate' is huge.

Your speech could cover any number of sub-topics like: financial advice for first home buyers, how to thoroughly check a house before purchase, the rise of mortgagee default sales, the collapse of property development schemes, how to purchase properties for makeovers...

Analyze your audience

So before you settle on the exact topic of your speech analyze your audience .

Without analysis you are 'guessing' what would be interesting and relevant for them to hear.

Refine your topic

Using what you found out about your audience, decide on an aspect of your topic that will be of benefit to them and the angle you will take on it. Take care with this. One size does not fit all!

For example a speech on housing affordability which includes a step by step plan toward buying a first home will likely interest an audience of youngish, (late 20s- early 40s), people with steady professional incomes.

But for another audience, (e.g. one that is older, less financially secure, or younger and not ready to consider settling yet...), it could be completely inappropriate.

Minimize the risk of getting it wrong by finding out as much as you can about your audience.

Deciding on the purpose of your speech

What is the purpose of this speech? Why are you giving it?

Is it to persuade or inform? Is it to demonstrate, entertain, or welcome? Or is it a combination of these?

What do you want your speech to achieve? Is there a particular action you want people to take as a result of listening to you?

Your answers to all of these questions will dictate what organizational pattern you'll use for your speech, its content and tone.

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Choosing an organizational pattern or method

Image: 6 colorful abstract patterns.Text: 6 organizational patterns for speeches.

There are 6 basic organizational patterns or methods of arranging the body (main points) of your material. Choose the one most appropriate for your need.

1. Cause - Effect

Because event 'A' happened, event 'B' occurred.

  • Because the driver was speeding, they crashed the car.
  • Because of the earthquake, the city was destroyed.
  • Because the minimum wage is low, families can not afford good health care.

2. Problem - Solution

The problem is 'X'. The answer is 'Y'.

  • The problem is unaffordable housing. The solution is community funded housing complexes.
  • The problem is unemployment. The solution is meaningful, sustainable education and employment programs.
  • The problem is poor food choices. The solution is practical community outreach programs to teach people about nutrition, food buying, storage and preparation, along side living wages, educational and employment programs.

This pattern suits a broad topic which can be broken down into  naturally occurring sub-topics.

  • The broad topic is 'Vocal Variety'. Its  sub-topics include rate of speech, use of pausing,  voice tone, volume, articulation...
  • The broad topic is 'Organizational speech patterns'. Sub-topics could be problem-solution, cause- effect, logical...
  • The broad topic is 'Residential real estate'. Its sub-topics could include houses for first-home buyers, how to apply for a mortgage, how to select the right neighborhood to buy in, the impact of high-density housing...

4. Spatial or geographic

Use this pattern for topics dealing with physical spaces.

  • The 10 most popular tourist attractions in New Zealand.
  • The European migration patterns of the 19th century.  
  • The population shift from country to town in USA.

5. Time or chronological/sequential

These are either historical topics or demonstration speeches. The foundation of both is an ordered sequence of events.

For example:

  • The history of women's suffrage in USA, the abolition of slavery 
  • How to bake a cake, how to mend a puncture in a bicycle tire, or how to knot a tie 

6. Advantage - disadvantage

Use this pattern to examine the range of positive and negative aspects of an idea or event.

  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of private schooling?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of lowering the voting age?
  • What is good about supporting local industry? What is negative about supporting local industry?

Step Two - Outlining the introduction

Image: smiling woman with a speech balloon.Text:How to prepare a great introduction for your speech.

The 5 parts of preparing an introduction

1. greeting & attention getter.

How are you going to greet your  audience, grab their attention and compel them to listen?

You could use a rhetorical question, a startling statistic, a quotation or a humorous one-liner. To be effective it must be related to your topic and apt for your audience.

  • Rhetorical question How many of you really are more afraid of public speaking than death?
  • A startling statistic Apparently in USA 75% of the population experiences public speaking anxiety. Some just a little. And some a lot.
  • A quotation Mark Twain famously said, there are only two types of speakers in the world: the nervous and the liars.
  • Humorous Speaker of United States House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi set a record for the longest speech on the House floor: 8 hours and 7 minutes. Relax. I only plan on taking 15 minutes of your valuable time. * * Be careful with humor. It will only work if it's appropriate; that is fitting for the occasion, and understood by the majority of your audience. For more about Nancy's record:  Nancy Pelosi's all-day marathon speech sets record as longest continuous speech since at least 1909.

For more on effective speech openings see: How to write a speech introduction - 12 of the best ways to start a speech

2. Thesis statement

This is a short summary of your speech topic and your point of view or angle.

Example:  

Green politics is no longer a fanciful fringe fad. It is a necessity.

3. Credibility

This segment establishes your right to speak on the topic. It cites your qualification or expertise.

Using myself as an example, I can speak about preparing speeches because I've written many over the past twenty or so years. Prior to becoming a professional speech writer , I taught high school level English and drama and I also belonged to the global public speaking club Toastmasters for a long time. 

4. Summative overview

This is a brief outline of the main points you are going to cover.

Today I am going to share with you three effective ways to lessen public speaking fear.

The first and second cover aspects of preparation: writing and rehearsal or practice: actually doing the work, rather than being frightened of it. ☺  The third is about the benefits of public speaking. 

5. Benefit(s)

What's in your speech for your audience? Why will they want to hear what you've got to tell them? Be specific. Tell them.

When you make a decision to speak up in public you also gain: confidence, the ability to take on leadership roles, a growing collection of presentation skills like story telling, how to use your voice, the ability to use props well, how to listen, how to craft a speech to meet the needs of specific audiences... In short, you release the potential to become a bigger and better you * .

( * For more see  14 benefits of public speaking .)

Step Three - Outlining the body of your speech

This is the heart of your speech, the place where you lay out what you want to share with your audience.

Generally three main ideas, along with supporting examples, work more effectively than  four or five or more.  If you have a number of them to choose from, go with your three strongest points. And if one of your final three is noticeably weaker sandwich it between the other two.

If you intend to use visual aids (slides showing graphs, tables or images), or actual props, mark them in too.

Body of speech - infographic with examples

Note: If you're unsure about the exact nature of links or transitions and how they work or what they are, you'll find more about them, with examples, on my page how to write a speech

  • Main Idea 3 - Supporting ideas - Details and examples - Visuals or props - Transition to...

Step Four - Outlining the conclusion of your speech

There are four parts to preparing an effective conclusion to your speech. Use them to draw together and summarize all the material from your introduction and the body of your speech, and end with a clincher! 

Graphic- how to end a speech

  • Summary of main ideas These are the main points you covered in the body of your speech.
  • Re-statement of thesis statement Use the statement from your introduction to reinforce your message.
  • Re-statement of benefit to audience Remind the audience of the benefits they'll receive through carrying out whatever your propose. Again this comes from your introduction.
  • Closer, Clincher or Call to Action This is your final sentence. To ensure your speech ends with a bang rather than a whimper check out this page on how to end a speech memorably. You'll find options and examples.

Get your printable sample speech outline template

This is a simple four page PDF of all four steps and their sub- headings with spaces for you to write your notes. Click to download and print your sample speech outline now.

Image: retro cartoon girl with starburst speech bubble. Text: Get your printable speech outline here. CLICK HERE.

2 completed examples of speech outlines

Use these links to go to a fully completed:

  • demonstration speech outline example  on how to leave an effective voice mail message (with a free printable sequential demonstration speech outline template) 
  • persuasive speech topic outline  example on overcoming public speaking fear using Monroe's Motivated Sequence (with a free printable MMS persuasive speech outline template)

Example impromptu speech outline patterns

Impromptu speech outline patterns - seven different structural formats, each with completed examples and a free blank printable outline for you to download and use. 

Graphic: retro fabric scraps Text: 7 impromptu speech outline patterns - completed examples plus printable outlines.

Other resources for preparing successful speeches

Planning and writing, rehearsing a speech.

Once you're done with planning, completing your sample speech outline and writing find out how to rehearse. A speech is a live performance. Rehearsal helps you expose and iron out glitches before you find them out the hard way - in front of your audience.

Speech evaluation

And if your speech is being assessed check out this standard speech evaluation form to see what aspects are likely to be judged and how a rating scale works.

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COMM 101: Fundamentals of Public Speaking - Valparaiso

  • Delivery Skills
  • Stage Fright
  • Body Language / Non-Verbal Communication
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  • Quotation Resources
  • Speech Outline Examples
  • Speech Examples
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  • Citation Resources This link opens in a new window

A basic speech outline should include three main sections:

  • The Introduction --  This is where you tell them what you're going to tell them.
  • The Body -- This is where you tell them.
  • The Conclusion -- This is where you tell them what you've told them.
  • Speech Outline Formatting Guide The outline for a public speech, according to COMM 101 online textbook  The Public Speaking Project , p.p. 8-9.

Use these samples to help prepare your speech outlines and bibliographies:

  • Sample Speech Preparation Outline This type of outline is very detailed with all the main points and subpoints written in complete sentences. Your bibliography should be included with this outline.
  • Sample Speech Speaking Outline This type of outline is very brief and uses phrases or key words for the main points and subpoints. This outline is used by the speaker during the speech.
  • << Previous: Quotation Resources
  • Next: Informative Speeches >>
  • Last Updated: May 16, 2024 10:02 AM
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Basic Speech Outline

Just like any other piece of writing, you have to make do with an outline to draft your speech. The purpose of this outline is to act as a blueprint for your subsequent presentations. It does this by highlighting the key elements of the speech.

These are basically the points that are expounded on in the speech to support its core message. The introduction, main body, conclusion, key stories, and high-level concepts are top examples of these concepts.

How to Write a Basic Speech Outline

Step 1: open the speech with a greeting and introduction.

As a matter of courtesy, it is a good thing to open the speech with a greeting. Follow this by introducing yourself. Take time also to thank those who have attended that event as well as its organizers. Lastly, thank the person who asked you to arise and speak.

Step 2: establish your credibility

People are always curious to know how qualified you are to speak to them on any issue. That is why you have to establish your credibility. Put differently: who exactly are you and how qualified are you to speak about that issue?

Step 3: preview your major points

To be able to captivate the curiosity of your audience, it is necessary to run them through a preview of the main points you are about to talk about. Doing this will let them hold on their patience for the full stretch. Many people do lose their patience and simply switch off if the speech is too boring.

Step 4: back your arguments with supportive facts

After highlighting the main points, you should now back your arguments with supportive facts and pieces of evidence. These could take the forms of statistics, dates, or quotations from original sources. They go further to vouch for the credibility of the arguments.

Step 5: transition your arguments smoothly

It is important to transition your arguments from one paragraph or point to another. That way, the audience will draw a good connection from one point to another. That will also prevent the disconnects that usually typifies the lengthy speeches.

Step 6: provide a summary of the main points

At the tail end of your speech, you should make a summary of the main points you covered in the speech. This again is to give the listener a second chance to capture the gist of your speech.

Step 7: leave some time for questions

Though not compulsory, it is always in order to leave some time for questions. This is especially if the speech in question was a presentation or a dissertation. Include this in the outline to prevent you from forgetting the same.

Basic Speech Outline Templates

Basic Speech Outline for PDF 1

Tips for writing a basic speech outline

  • Identify the specific kind of speech. Speeches come in different shades and forms. It is necessary for you to identify the specific kind of speech you are intent on making. This will guide you into following the right channels and including only the critical details.
  • State the specific role of your speech. Move next to state the specific roles of your speech. Put differently, what exactly do you hope to achieve with your speech? It is important that you delineate this so as to leave out unnecessary details and dwell on the core roles of your speech only.
  • Use a persuasive tone. Speeches are designed to persuade the listeners to take some accompanying yet relevant courses of action. For this feat to be realized, you have to use and maintain a persuasive tone all along. You should not in any way be harsh or use disparaging terms.
  • Maintain a uniform pattern of symbolization and indentation. In order for your speech to be read and comprehended smoothly, you have to maintain a uniform pattern of indentation and symbolism. Such a consistent pattern will definitely ensure that there are no glitches or confusion in the course of reading.
  • Delineate the internal summaries, transitions, and internal previews. Lastly, you have to delineate the internal summaries, transitions, and internal previews. This again is critical to ensuring that anyone who reads the speech understands it fully and does not get lost along the way.

How did our templates helped you today?

Opps what went wrong, related posts.

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7+ introduction speech outline templates – pdf, word.

When you’re required to deliver a speech, then there’s a very high chance that the nerves will get the better of you and you may even forget a couple of lines that you want to discuss. This means you’re going to have to come up with a way to help ensure that you’re able to stay on track with the information that you want to share. You may also see sample outline templates.

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Self Introduction Speech Outline For College Students

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Free Example of Informative Speech Outline Template

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How to Write an Introductory Speech Outline

1. a greeting.

  • Bear in mind that there’s always a possibility that you’ll be nervous on stage. Place this in the outline so that you won’t forget.
  • If there’s anything about you that can relate to the audience or to the group that is responsible for organizing the event, then you’ll want to include that in your introduction. You should do this especially if you didn’t have the added benefit of having someone introduce you from the get-go. You may also see Email Outline templates.

2. An Attention-Getter

  • When you’re choosing your attention-getter, you have to keep your audience in mind. Think about the different topics that would specifically interest them and not just what might interest or amuse you. You may also like Planner Outline templates.
  • If you’re not entirely sure whether or not your attention-getter is going to work with an audience, then you can always try it out with friends or family members who are in a similar age group or who might have the same interests as the people you will be giving your speech to. Just make sure that these are people that you can trust to provide you with honest feedback as your attention-getter will depend entirely on how these people will react. You may also like letter outlines .
  • Remember that it has to relate to the event or with the audience that you’re giving your speech to—because you don’t want to embarrass yourself during situations such as you making a joke about pets getting run over when the event that you’re handing your speech to is one that focuses on the ethical treatment of animals. You may also like  Self Introduction Templates.

3. A Reason for the Audience to Listen to Your Speech

  • Make a brief statement  about the importance of the topic that you will be sharing with the audience.
  • If your speech is one that focuses on sharing important information to the audience, then you’ll have to explain why the information is important to ensure that the audience understands the reason why it’s being shared with them in the first place. You may also like  Sample Resumes .
  • For argumentative speeches, explain the points of your argument as well as what should happen if no actions are taken in regards to the issue that you’re sharing.

4. Your Thesis Statement

  • If you’re giving an argumentative speech, then your sample thesis statement format will focus on the point that you are trying to prove to the audience through all of the information as well as evidence that you’re willing to share during your speech. You have to point out your ideas in clear terms so that everyone understands what it’s going to be about.
  • The thesis statement for a more informative speech will simply summarize all of the information that you’re going to share with the audience once you deliver the speech. It’s not as difficult as one for an argumentative speech, but it’s still very important. You may also see outline in PDF .
  • For a more scientific speech, your thesis outline will reflect the hypothesis of the scientific study that you’re planning to present during the speech. If you’ve already been able to confirm something through the results of your scientific study, then you can point out in the speech as to the discovery you made, as well as all the facts and evidence that will help support and prove that your discovery is well founded. You can also see more on  Business Statements .

5. Your Credibility

  • If you’re giving a speech for a class in school, your “credibility” might be as simple as you stating that you’ve already done your research on the topic and that you’re taking the class where the topic was introduced.
  • For an argumentative speech, a personal connection to the subject matter can enhance your credibility. For example, if the topic that you’re focusing on your speech is the economy and how real estate is more expensive than ever, then you can share a story in which you know someone who’s having serious financial issues due to the problem. You have to make sure that the story you’re going to present is related to the subject matter, otherwise, it won’t hold enough ground for people to trust what you have to say. You may also like outline in word .
  • Also, be sure that you’re sharing something that’s true and not something that you just made up on the spot. Members of an audience can spot if the giver of a speech if making up a story or conveying something that’s true. It’s best that you stick with something that you can backup in the event that you’re questioned rather than having your reputation ruined for coming up with a clear line. You may also like Agenda Outline templates.

6. Preview of Your Main Points

  • There isn’t a specific rule, but speeches usually cover at least three main points. You should list them in your introduction in the order you plan to present them in your speech. The order in which you’re going to discuss all of them will depend entirely on the kind of speech that you sample plan on giving. You may also see presentation outline templates.
  • You should list them in your introduction in the order you simple plan to present them in your speech.
  • If your speech is about history, then you’ll have to point out events that happened in a chronological sample order .
  • Ultimately, you want to order your points in a way that feels natural to you and one wherein you are able to easily transition from one major point to the next. You may also like meeting minutes outline templates.

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Eulogy Speech

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how to make a speech outline pdf

A eulogy speech is a heartfelt tribute delivered at a funeral or memorial service to honor and celebrate the life of a deceased person. It often includes personal anecdotes, memories, and reflections on the individual’s character, accomplishments, and the impact they had on others. The purpose of a eulogy is to pay respect, provide comfort to the grieving, and highlight the meaningful aspects of the person’s life.

What is Eulogy Speech?

A eulogy speech is a commemorative address given during a funeral or memorial service to honor and remember someone who has passed away. It shares personal stories, highlights the deceased’s achievements, and reflects on their positive influence on family, friends, and the community. The eulogy offers solace to mourners by celebrating the individual’s life and legacy.

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Eulogy Speech Bundle Download

Eulogy Speech Format

Introduction.

Greet the audience and introduce yourself. State your relationship to the deceased.
Share personal anecdotes and memories. Highlight the deceased’s achievements and character traits. Reflect on their impact on family, friends, and community.
Summarize the key points. Express gratitude for the deceased’s life. Offer a final farewell or comforting message.  

Eulogy Speech Example

Introduction Good afternoon, everyone. My name is [Your Name], and I am honored to speak about my dear friend, John. Body John was a beacon of kindness and generosity. I remember the countless times he offered a helping hand, always putting others before himself. Whether it was volunteering at the local shelter or simply being there for a friend in need, John’s compassion knew no bounds. His passion for teaching inspired many students, leaving a lasting legacy in the community. John’s laughter and sense of humor brought joy to everyone around him, making even the toughest days brighter. Conclusion In closing, John was a remarkable person whose love and kindness touched us all. While we mourn his loss, let’s also celebrate his life and the beautiful memories we shared. Thank you, John, for your endless love and the joy you brought into our lives. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Short Eulogy Speech Example

Good afternoon, everyone. My name is [Your Name], and I am honored to speak about my beloved grandmother, Mary. Mary was a source of endless love and wisdom. She always had a kind word and a warm smile for everyone she met. Her dedication to her family was unwavering, and her strength inspired us all. I remember her stories, her laughter, and the way she made every holiday special. Though we will miss her dearly, let us cherish the beautiful memories and the love she shared with us. Thank you, Grandma, for everything. You will always be in our hearts.

Eulogy Speech for a Friend

Eulogy Speech for Friend

Eulogy Speech for Father

Eulogy Speech for Father

Eulogy Speech for Grandfather

Eulogy Speech for Grandfather

More Eulogy Speech Topics

  • Eulogy Speech for Grandmother
  • Eulogy Speech for Yourself
  • Eulogy Speech for Mother
  • Eulogy Speech for Colleague
  • Eulogy Speech for Teacher
  • Eulogy Speech for Mentor
  • Eulogy Speech for Uncle
  • Eulogy Speech for Aunt
  • Eulogy Speech for Brother
  • Eulogy Speech for Sister
  • Eulogy Speech for Husband
  • Eulogy Speech for Wife
  • Eulogy Speech for Child
  • Eulogy Speech for Cousin
  • Eulogy Speech for Boss
  • Eulogy Speech for Neighbor
  • Eulogy Speech for Coach
  • Eulogy Speech for Best Friend
  • Eulogy Speech for Religious Leader
  • Eulogy Speech for Artist
  • Eulogy Speech for Musician
  • Eulogy Speech for Scientist
  • Eulogy Speech for Community Leader
  • Eulogy Speech for Entrepreneur
  • Eulogy Speech for Lawyer
  • Eulogy Speech for Politician
  • Eulogy Speech for Author

How to Write Eulogy Speech

1. gather memories:.

Talk to family and friends for anecdotes and stories.

Reflect on your own memories and experiences.

2. Outline the Speech:

Introduction: Introduce yourself and your relationship to the deceased.

Body: Share personal stories, highlight achievements, and reflect on their character.

Conclusion: Summarize key points, express gratitude, and offer a final farewell.

3. Write the Draft:

Start with a hook or meaningful quote.

Use specific examples and anecdotes.

Keep it concise and heartfelt.

4. Edit and Revise:

Ensure clarity and flow.

Remove any unnecessary details.

Practice reading it aloud.

5. Deliver with Emotion:

Speak slowly and clearly.

Allow yourself to express your emotions.

Tips to Deliver Eulogy Speech

  • Practice: Rehearse your speech multiple times to gain confidence and ensure smooth delivery.
  • Stay Calm: Take deep breaths and remain composed. It’s okay to pause and collect your thoughts if you get emotional.
  • Speak Clearly: Project your voice and speak slowly to ensure everyone can hear and understand you.
  • Make Eye Contact: Engage with the audience by looking up occasionally, rather than reading directly from your notes.
  • Be Genuine: Speak from the heart and let your emotions show; it’s natural and touching.
  • Use Notes: Have a written copy or outline of your speech to keep you on track.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink water before and after to keep your throat clear.
  • Accept Support: If you become too emotional, it’s okay to ask someone to step in or take a moment to gather yourself.

Who typically delivers a eulogy?

A family member, close friend, or clergy member typically delivers the eulogy, sharing personal stories and memories.

How should I start a eulogy?

Start a eulogy with an introduction that acknowledges the audience and briefly states the purpose of the speech.

What should I include in a eulogy?

Include personal anecdotes, achievements, character traits, and meaningful stories that highlight the deceased’s life and impact.

How long should a eulogy be?

A eulogy typically lasts between 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the context and number of speakers.

How do I handle emotions while delivering a eulogy?

Practice beforehand, take deep breaths, and pause if needed. It’s okay to show emotion; it reflects genuine feelings.

Can I use humor in a eulogy?

Yes, using appropriate humor can lighten the mood and celebrate the deceased’s joyful moments and personality.

How should I organize a eulogy?

Organize a eulogy with a clear structure: introduction, main body with stories and reflections, and a heartfelt conclusion.

What tone should a eulogy have?

The tone should be respectful, heartfelt, and personal, reflecting the unique personality and life of the deceased.

Can I read a eulogy from notes?

Yes, reading from notes or a written script ensures you stay on track and cover all important points.

How do I personalize a eulogy?

Personalize a eulogy by including specific stories, memories, and experiences that illustrate the deceased’s character and impact.

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Text prompt

  • Instructive
  • Professional

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IMAGES

  1. FREE 8+ Sample Speech Outline Templates in PDF

    how to make a speech outline pdf

  2. FREE 8+ Sample Speech Outline Templates in PDF

    how to make a speech outline pdf

  3. Basic Speech Outline: Samples & Exampels (with Writing Guide)

    how to make a speech outline pdf

  4. Speech Outline Examples

    how to make a speech outline pdf

  5. Speech Outline Examples

    how to make a speech outline pdf

  6. Speech Outline Examples

    how to make a speech outline pdf

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COMMENTS

  1. PDF Developing a Speech Outline

    Developing a Speech Outline Once assigned a speech, you will be tasked with creating an outline. The purpose of this outline is to provide you with a guide that helps effectively sequence your information, as well as helps you to remember all of your main points while in front of an audience! Much like an essay, this outline will consist of an

  2. Sample speech outline: examples with a printable template☺

    how to outline a speech: the 4 essentials steps involved in writing an outline - detailed sequential help, with examples, covering: 1. choosing a topic, 2. audience analysis, 3. choosing the best organizational pattern to fit your speech purpose, 4. what to put in each part of your speech: introduction, body and conclusion. a printable speech ...

  3. PDF Developing a Speech Outline

    Developing a Speech Outline When assigned a speech, you may be tasked with creating an outline, or you may be interested in creating one on your own. The purpose of this outline is to provide you with a guide that helps effectively sequence your information, as well as helps you to remember all of your main points while in front of an audience!

  4. PDF Outlining Your Speech

    Because the speaking outline only contains key words, you should focus on delivering your speech extemporaneously (conversationally, without memorization). D. If you will be using notecards during your speech, you can write your notecards using your speaking outline. Make sure to number or bind your notecards so that they do not fall out of order.

  5. PDF Speech Outline Template

    Speech Outline Template . INTRODUCTION . I. Introduce your speech topic to your audience A. Attention-getter: This statement should make people pay attention and clue them to your topic. It might be a question, a quotation, example, anecdote, or statistic.

  6. PDF Goals and Strategies for Preparing a Speech

    2. Supporting evidence and ideas a) Include statistics, examples, quotes, anecdotes, visual aids, etc. b) Explain how this evidence supports the goals of the speech. c) Transition to the next point. [Note:Use as many body paragraphs as you need to develop your speech fully.

  7. PDF Informative Speech & Outline

    Informative Speech. An Informative Speech focus on educating an audience through the use of facts. and evidence to establish credibility. It can include definitions, explanations, descriptions, visual images, demonstrations. It should focus on speaking about. objects, events, processes, concepts, and examples. An informative speech.

  8. PDF How to Outline a Speech

    Your introduction sets the stage for the rest of your speech. As the first thing the audience hears from you, it is also one of the most remembered parts of a speech. It should contain three main elements. Hook: This will grab your audience's attention and make them interested in your speech. For example, you might ask a question, tell a story ...

  9. PDF Developing an Effective Speech Outline

    to make sure she/he has grasped that information before the speaker moves on to the next point. 7. Attach a Bibliography. A bibliography is a list of the books, magazines, and newspapers you consulted in preparing your speech. Use MLA format in noting your bibliography. The key is consistency, clarity of presentation, and accuracy.

  10. PDF The Basic Structure of a Speech Mr. Harpine (2008)

    Making a Simple Outline An outline is a way to organize your ideas logically and clearly. Without making an outline your speech will probably lack structure, and so be difficult to understand. By using a presentation outline, you can "see" the structure of your speech. In addition, It can also serve as your speaking script. 1. Introduction

  11. Speech Outline Examples

    The outline for a public speech, according to COMM 101 online textbook The Public Speaking Project, p.p. 8-9. Use these samples to help prepare your speech outlines and bibliographies: Sample Speech Preparation Outline. This type of outline is very detailed with all the main points and subpoints written in complete sentences. Your bibliography ...

  12. PDF Public Speaking Handbook

    HOW TO Pick a Speech Topic 29 HOW TO Develop and Use a Specific Purpose 30 HOW TO Identify the Main Ideas in Your Speech HOW T31 SAMPLE OUTLINE 33 SAMPLE SPEECH Cinderella by Grace Hildenbrand 37 4 Speaking Freely and Ethically 41 4.1 Speaking Freely 43 QUICK CHECK History of Free Speech in the United States 46 4.2 Speaking Ethically 47

  13. PDF a guide to making great speeches final 2010

    There are approximately 150 words in each speaking minute. If you have seven minutes for a speech, you will prepare approximately 1,050 words. Consider this time schedule as a guide: 5-10% Introduction (50-115 words) 80% Body (850 words) 10-15% Conclusion (115-150 words) Tips for Writing Your Speech.

  14. PDF informative speech outline

    Full-Sentence Outline Template To use this template: All underlined words iden-fy specific parts of your speech. Feel free to leave these in place, followed by the respec-ve element of your speech. They will help ensure you have included and can easily iden-fy these essen-al elements of your speech. All other items should be replaced with the

  15. PDF Sample Outline Template and Guide

    Conclusion. I. Restatement of Thesis: Reemphasize the main idea of your speech. II. Summary of Main Points: Restate the main points of your speech. Tell your audience what you told them. III. Memorable Closer: Use a well-worded closing phrase. Try to refer back to the introduction. Sharing an inspirational story is almost always memorable.

  16. PDF Sample Student Narrative Speech Outline

    Speech 101 - Narrative Speech Outline . General Purpose: To share a personal experience and the insight or lesson gained. Specific Purpose: After hearing my speech, my audience will understand the importance of expressing their gratitude to the people they love. Thesis: It's important to show your gratitude and love to your friends,

  17. PDF 8038 Speech Outline Worksheet

    Support/evidence. Use examples, facts, or statistics from your research to illustrate your main point and sub-point. 2. Sub-point. 3. Sub-point Support/evidence. 4. Transition. Signal that the conclusion of the speech is approaching.

  18. PDF Preparing and Delivering Speeches

    A. Review the main idea (thesis) of the speech B. Choose a plan of organization C. Develop an outline using the main points D. Add supporting details to the outline E. Write the introduction 1) To get the audience's attention (hook) 2) To motivate the audience 3) To let the audience know what the speech is about

  19. PDF Creating a Persuasive Speech Which Calls For Action Using an Outline

    designed to get their attention. What you say has to relate directly to your speech topic. You should look to use evidence and/or emotion in your attention getting device. Examples of Attention Getting Devices (circle the ones that are of most interest to you for your speech): Quotation(s) Really short story (real or hypothetical) Question(s)

  20. Basic Speech Outline: Samples & Exampels (with Writing Guide)

    Step 1: open the speech with a greeting and introduction. As a matter of courtesy, it is a good thing to open the speech with a greeting. Follow this by introducing yourself. Take time also to thank those who have attended that event as well as its organizers. Lastly, thank the person who asked you to arise and speak.

  21. 29+ Speech Outline Templates

    29+ Speech Outline Templates - PDF, DOC. When you download a free speech outline template sample, you will find that this premium template helps you to clarify what you wish to say to the audience as well as organize all the print material you have in an easy and reliable manner. The Outline Template decreases the burden of having to draw up ...

  22. 7+ Introduction Speech Outline Templates

    How to Write an Introductory Speech Outline. With the help of a speech printable outline, you can increase your confidence as well as help you keep your authority and control during the entire duration of your speech.While this will only cover how you're going to introduce yourself as well as what you're going to share, this is still very important.

  23. PDF Informative Speech Outline Format

    Restate your first main point. Restate your second main point. Restate you third main point. Restate Thesis: Closure: Exact same as above. Develop a creative closing that will give the speech a sense of ending. This point may be more than one sentence. You should refer back to your Attention Getter.

  24. Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab

    The Online Writing Lab (the Purdue OWL) at Purdue University houses writing resources and instructional material, and we provide these as a free service at Purdue.

  25. Eulogy Speech

    2. Outline the Speech: Introduction: Introduce yourself and your relationship to the deceased. Body: Share personal stories, highlight achievements, and reflect on their character. Conclusion: Summarize key points, express gratitude, and offer a final farewell. 3. Write the Draft: Start with a hook or meaningful quote. Use specific examples and ...