Impromptu Speeches are speeches given with little or no preparation ahead of time. Usually
you stand in front of the class and talk about a subject for a set period of time (e.g., 1-2 minutes).
The teacher announces the topic, give students a few minutes to organize their thoughts, and then
has one or more students give the speech.
Strategies & templates to succeed at impromptu speaking
Brainstorm
Jot your notes on whatever is handy - putting down as many ideas as you can. Select ONE
message (the best or strongest) from your notes to focus on. Write that down and any
opening/closing ideas.
Just like any other form of speech you require structure. You will need an opening, a body and a
conclusion. Focus on the body of the speech first. Sort the body of your speech first using which
ever of the impromptu speaking templates below best suits your topic.
3 impromptu speaking templates
1. PREP (Point, Reason, Example, Point)



Point: My main point is that impromptu speaking is an extremely valuable skill to have.
Reason: Being able to speak easily in public is empowering.
Example: I can remember the struggle to overcome the fear of standing to speak in front of
others. However that has changed. I can now speak up for myself, on behalf of others and do
so regularly.
 Point: The skills to talk competently and confidently in public have opened up opportunities I
had never dreamed of previously.
2. Past, Present, Future



In the past the answer to the problem we face was…
As of now, we have XXXXX answers to the problem...
In the future we predict we will have XXXXX answers to the problem...
3. Cause, Effect, Remedy



The cause of the problem facing us today is XXXX.
The effect of the problem is XXXX.
The remedy for the problem is XXXX.
Prepare the opening and the conclusion
Having planned the body of your speech, now focus on your opening and conclusion. Take your
lead from the impromptu speaking template you've chosen. If, for example, you've chosen Past,
Present, Future you might open with a comment based on time. For instance: "Thank-you for
invitation to speak to you about XXXX. To place this in context I'm going to take you on a journey.
Are you ready? Firstly we'll go back in time, then we'll focus on what's happening now and lastly,
we'll go forward ..." To close, summarize your points briefly and if possible, make your final remark
the clincher.
7 impromptu speaking delivery tips
1. Go slowly! Hurrying will increase any feelings of unease you have. Take your time.
2. Take your time to begin. Look around, smile. Make eye contact with one or two people.
3. Stand tall. Resist the urge to slump or fiddle or put your hands in your pockets.
4. Use your notes as reminders only. Do not try to remember a whole speech.
5. Talk conversationally. Assume your impromptu speech is a conversation with a friend. This will
keep your language natural and flowing.
6. Personalize your speech. Use examples/stories from your own experience.
7. Keep it short and to the point. An audience is far more likely to listen if you stay on target.
What do I do if my mind goes blank?
1. Firstly, never apologize. If you do, you transmit your anxiety to your audience.
2. Remember the power of the pause. Take the time you need to marshal your thoughts together
3. Paraphrase what you've already said. It will jog your memory into providing the next point you
want to make.