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After putting together a rough draft outline (i.e., the "skeleton" of the speech), writers can then progress to the speaking outline.
Speaking outlines fill out additional details about the speech, as well as where the speaker plans to mention short phrases, pause, and transition to other topics. This outline may also include where the speaker would like to ask questions or use visual aids such as flip charts and handouts.
The speaking outline acts as a guide for the speaker on how to time and pace the delivery of the speech.
Unlike the rough draft outline, which includes short notes on structure, the speaking outline covers both the main points and aids the speaker's memory on certain topics.
It offers the speaker more flexibility in tailoring the speech to the audience's needs and reactions.
Speaking outlines can be used to prepare and rehearse speeches, as well as serve as memory aids during the presentation.
While speaking outlines include an introduction, body, and conclusion, they also note where transitions take place and when vital key points or statistics should be mentioned during the presentation.
The structure of the speaking outline will likely vary slightly depending on the subject, timing, and audience. For example, notes may be added on when to introduce visual aids during the presentation.
Nevertheless, a basic speaking outline generally includes the following parts:
| Parts of a Speaking Outline | Description |
|---|---|
| Introduction | This includes notes on whether the speaker starts with a quote, statistics, personal story, or humorous joke. It leads into the overview of the speech, previews the main topics, and captures the attention of the audience. |
| First Transition | The first transition should be as smooth as possible, and be placed after the introduction and before the body of the speech. |
| Body | The body lists the main points, sub-points, and supporting evidence. Each sub-point in the outline should have a supporting bullet. |
| Second Transition | The second transition comes after the body and before the conclusion. |
| Conclusion | This includes a bullet to signal the end of the speech, a bullet restating the objectives or main argument, and a bullet that reviews the main topics discussed in the body. The speaker may also add a note to say a memorable statement or call to action (e.g., thank the audience, etc.). |
To successfully deliver an outlined speech, presenters are usually subject matter experts or at least sufficiently knowledgeable about the topic.
But even for experienced speakers and speech writers, a speaking outline organizes thoughts, uncovers transitions, and reminds speakers to elaborate on key ideas.
Rough draft outlines are part of the development process of speeches, crafting the flow and style of speakers' presentations into a substantive and complete product.
Creating rough draft outlines (i.e., an outline that serves as a precursor to the speech's rough draft) often helps organize and structure speakers' ideas into a cohesive and definitive topic.
Outlines help form the skeleton of the speaker's speech. They provide a pattern from which the speaker writes their main statement, argument, and supporting points.
The rough draft outline is particularly valuable at the prewriting stage and provides the writer flexibility for revisions to the structure of the speech.
Ultimately, rough outlines help organize the speech writer's initial thoughts into a comprehensive process that flows into a rough draft and eventually a final speech.
One of the most useful techniques for starting a rough draft outline is brainstorming. Similar to freewriting, brainstorming jumpstarts the creative process by letting the speechwriter's ideas flow and connect together around a specific topic. It also serves as a tool for overcoming writer's block.
Prior to starting the rough draft outline, some research should be completed. Ideally, the writer has also finalized the main topics they will be discussing during the speech.
The parts that comprise a rough draft outline are similar to other types of writing outlines. They include:
Because this is the rough draft outline, it will ultimately change as the speechwriter conducts additional research and continues to shape their speech topic.
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