Outlining Your
Speech
Chapter 11
1
Preparation Outline
Helps prepare speech
 Not full text of speech

See Katy Mazz’s
Preparation Outline
on p. 233
2
Main Points

Most important ideas in
speech
3
Subpoint

Develops an aspect of a
main point
– Sub-subpoint
develops an aspect of a
subpoint
4
Coordination

Arranging points into
successive levels, with
points on a specific level
having equal importance
5
Subordination

Ranking ideas in order
from most to least
important
6
Connectives

Words & phrases that:
– Link main ideas
– Summarize arguments
– Help transition from one
point to the next
(Chapter 9)
7
Student Video Example
Rachel Rota;
Transition;
8 sec.
Click image to play video; “alt” &
“enter” keys for full screen.
Windows Media Player required
8
Tips for
Preparation Outline
Use complete sentences
 Label introduction, body,
conclusion & connectives
 Use consistent pattern of
symbols & indentation

9
Tips for
Preparation Outline (cont.)
Divide points into at least
two subpoints
 Check for balance
 Keep audience-centered
focus

10
Speaking Outline
Condensed form of
preparation outline
 Helps speaker remember
ideas while speaking

See Katy Mazz’s
Speech Outline
on p. 239
11
Tips for the
Speaking Outline
Use keywords & phrases
 Use an outline format
 Write clearly & legibly
 Add cues for delivery

See InfoTrac College Edition Exercise
11.1: Creating a Speaking Outline at the
Invitation to Public Speaking website.
12
Note Cards Advantages
Smaller & less obvious
than full sheets of paper
 Sturdier & less likely to
shake
 Give speaker something to
hold on to

13
Guidelines for Note Cards
Use keywords & phrases
 No more than 5 or 6 lines per
 Do not write full text
 Write clearly
& legibly/type

14
Guidelines for Note Cards
(cont.)
Use only one side of card
 Number each card
 Write cues for delivery
 Try not to tap, wave or
play with cards

15