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169 Five-Minute Topics for a Killer Speech or Presentation

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

There are pros and cons to giving a 5-minute presentation. One good thing is the length. Long presentations can easily become boring, and you have a much better chance of keeping your audience engaged from beginning to end than with a 5-minute speech.

In this article:

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Relationships, social media, supernatural, list of topics for a 5-minute speech or presentation.

Choosing a topic is extremely important. To help you getting started, here is a list of some killer topics for 5-minute speech or presentation.

• Why it’s better to adopt a pet from a shelter
• Choosing the perfect leash for your dog
• What is the best food for your pet?
• How much exercise does your pet need?
• The horror of puppy mills
• Bringing back endangered species
• How long are giraffes in labor
• Domestication of horses
• Picking the right vet
• Sleeping with your dog
• Why should you get goats in pairs
• Ethics of zoos
• The domestication of dogs
• How to keep a goldfish alive for a long time
• How to choose the right pet
• Why cats are so independent
• When to get a dog
• What kind of dog is best for a household with children
• Why therapy animals work
• How to find the money to go to college
• How much control should the federal government have over curriculum design?
• How to choose a college
• Ideas for narrowing down a career choice
• When to declare a major
• Benefits of charter schools
• Why charter schools are bad
• Negative effects of school vouchers
• Attracting the right people to the teaching profession
• Discipline in the classroom
• Memory tricks that work
• Why homework is bad
• Should students still have to use the books in the library?
• Why cursive should still be taught in schools
• Textbooks vs. tablets
• Benefits of going to a trade school
• Are there positives to taking a gap year?
• The problem with low teacher pay
• Social media in the classroom
• Benefits of integrating apps into the classroom
• The importance of attachment
• How to compromise on names for your kids
• What is the ideal age to start a family
• How important are grandparents
• Traveling with children
• Strategies for potty training
• How to help a child with nightmares
• Middle child syndrome
• How many kids should you have?
• How to recognize a gifted child
• When your child doesn’t like to eat
• How to encourage good eating habits
• When to intervene with a bully
• Being active in your child’s school
• The benefits of aunts and uncles
• When family falls apart
• The first days with a new baby
• When to call the doctor
• Caring for an ailing parent
• Balancing home and career
• When to start saving for retirement
• IRA vs. Roth IRA
• When should you start saving for your children’s college education?
• Crowdfunded loans vs. the bank
• How Kickstarter changed everything
• Using your HSA
• How to apply for a mortgage
• Improving your credit score
• How to negotiate a raise
• Renting vs. buying
• How does compound interest work?
• How to ask for a promotion
• When is it time to get a new job?
• What to do when you find out a coworker makes more than you
• How much of a down payment on a house do you really need?
• Living on minimum wage
• Is it better to lease or buy a new car?
• How to budget for a new car
• What to do when you lose your job
• Using credit cards responsibly
• Is rare meat safe?
• Vegan vs. vegetarian
• Microbrews vs. standard brewing
• How to make your own wine
• What are hops?
• Best plants for a backyard garden
• When to transplant sprouts
• Bananas and plantains
• How to make a brine for pickling
• Where did brunch begin?
• Why pineapple belongs on a pizza
• When to order in
• Planning a menu
• Meal planning and grocery lists
• Is free range really better?
• The perfect macaroni and cheese
• Growing your own herbs
• How to make your own pasta
• How to make cookies that are softer
• Benefits of drinking black coffee
• Benefits of a gluten-free diet
• Is the paleo diet accurate?
• Effects of not getting enough sleep
• Are meal subscription services worth it?
• Downsides to Crossfit
• Benefits of yoga
• How to meditate
• Can therapy change the way your mind works?
• Are GMOs really dangerous?
• The truth about diet soda
• Importance of hydration
• Why cleanses don’t work
• Best juice diet
• Most effective exercise for burning calories
• Do essential oils really work?
• The history of television
• When the railway was king
• Thwarted assassination attempts
• The first Olympics
• Media during World War II
• Military advancements between World War I and World War II
• War photographers
• Things you didn’t learn in history class
• Historical lies
• The early Internet
• Why podcasts are great
• Most unbiased news channel
• When do people tune into the news most
• How relevant are women’s magazines?
• Cable vs. Netflix
• How worried should you be about your browsing history?
• How to limit screen time
• Why it’s bad to use your smartphone right before bed
• Apple vs. Android
• The best age to get married
• How to get an amicable divorce
• Finding a roommate
• Splitting financial responsibilities evenly among the household
• How to have a happy marriage
• Choosing your family
• How to fight effectively
• Signs of an abusive relationship
• What to look for in a spouse
• When to let it go
• How to overcome self-doubt
• Faking confidence
• Becoming comfortable with yourself
• How to say no
• Relaxation techniques
• Controlling anxiety
• Qualities of a leader
• The importance of self-care
• Identifying triggers
• How to eliminate negativity
• Making new habits
• Ethics of posting pictures of your children on social media
• How Internet ads are tailored to you
• How to advertise your business on Facebook
• Privacy and social media
• How to protect your personal information
• When to allow your kids to get their own social media accounts
• Why you shouldn’t post your location on social media
• How to use a hashtag
• Uncovering Twitter Bots
• Snapchat etiquette
• Proof that aliens exist
• Debunking crop circles
• Is Bigfoot real?
• Proof that ghosts exist

Good 2-Minute Speech Topics for Students

13 All-Time Best TED Talks

23 thoughts on “169 Five-Minute Topics for a Killer Speech or Presentation”

Ideal Teacher

is life really a blessing?

This has helped me so much for my English class thank you!

Why personal (private) rules are helpful

I got an A!!!!!

Risks of abortion Wage gap How social media impacts education/mental health Why it’s important to have a good stable mental health Do teenagers really spend all their time on their phones Gsce requirements unfair or reasonable

Here is a kind of a dense topic, domestic abuse. Why does it happen? What are some ways to identify a abusive relationship? How does it affect families? Why is the abuser abusive?

We have presentation next week. I can’t think about the topic. Please help me!

i want a topic that involves supernatural: HELP

Is water wet?

death, what if the earth loses air entirely for five minutes, what is the most common death.

I have presentation next two day concerning with my classroom. I must choose five topics but i can’t think how to choose these topics. Please! help me

Tanks for giving me an A in drama

so helpful thank you

thanks this helped with my speach at school

i need a best topic to present on that is educational to consumer science and food nutrition students. can i please be assisted

what if the earth stopped spinning pros and cons of being an artist how Gen Z affected slang why people are afraid of the dark why knowing how to play an instrument is beneficial/not needed

Here’s a controversial one: are trans, intersex and non-binary people getting the same right as every else?

I have a presentation this week I don’t understand how to find a good title please help me I’m a diploma student the speech must have more than 10 minutes

How do create presentation for famous place in Sri Lanka

i need something for my oral communication class. it must be attention grabbing and not an argument. please help

I need ideas on a slide show presentation, a kid appropiate topic.

Pls I need more ideas on self help

hi lol i like these topics but i need a trendy one like something new or like a natural phenomene or someth like that… 🙂

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• Short Speech Topics

You will find 20 excellent short speech topics below that work when time is limited. Choosing a meaningful short speech topic may difficult in some circumstances.

As Mark Twain once said

If you want me to give a 2 hour presentation, I am ready today. If you want only a 5 minute speech, it will take me 2 weeks to prepare.

Because it's infinitely harder to communicate ideas and make an impact in a short space of time.

This, then, makes it that much more important to choose the right short speech topic.

Choose the wrong theme for your speech and you will struggle to deliver a presentation that covers it adequately. Choose the right topic, however, and you can create something powerful that will stick in the minds of your listeners, even if you are only able to speak for a few minutes.

Tips for Creating a Short Speech

• Pick something you feel strongly about. It's easier to make an impact in a short time when you speak with real passion.
• Pick something your audience is interested in too! All the passion in the world won't engage your listeners if the topic hold no interest for them!
• Consider speaking about a personal experience. Heartfelt emotions will be more keenly felt by your audience than those mustered up solely for the purpose of your speech!
• Focus on keeping your phrases brief and your words simple. See this page for help with this . A short speech is not the place for meandering thoughts and complicated sentence structures. Conciseness is key!
• Make sure your speech still includes the three key elements of any good presentation - a strong introduction , body and conclusion.
• Clearly identify the purpose of your speech. Is it to inform? Educate? Motivate? Criticize? Explain? Make sure that every word you write supports your overall purpose.
• Think hard before choosing a persuasive topic - this can be one of the most difficult types of speeches to deliver in a short space of time! It's not impossible, though - so be sure to have a strong argument if you want to convice people to think differently about something in only 5 minutes or so!
• Create a good title (if you will have the opportunity to use one).

Example Formats for Your Short Speech

Here's a simple template for a short persuasive speech...

SUPPORTING REASONS

   1. _________    2. _________    3. _________

   For example....

   Treating All Children as 'Winners' - Regardless of Success - is Harmful

- SUPPORTING REASONS

   1. It is not a reflection of real life.    2. It stifles competitiveness.    3. It does not reward hard work and achievement.

- CONCLUSION

For example....

• It is not a reflection of real life.
• It stifles competitiveness.
• It does not reward hard work and achievement.
• Whilst no one should be criticized for failure, success should be recognized and honored in order to encourage competitiveness in our children.

- INTRODUCTION

   Have you always wondered how to make a paper plane that actually flies?

- CLEAR STEPS TO DEMONSTRATE

    Fly the plane!

Demonstrations make great short speeches because these are very visual and thus make a big impact - but time yourself beforehand to be absolutely sure that you can complete your demonstration in the time allowed! Choose a good short speech topic like the ones listed below to ensure a successful presentation.

Problem and Solution

Divide this speech into 2 parts.

• First, set out the problem.
• Then, present the solution .

The problem part should be the longest . This may sound illogical, but it gives the solution more impact when the problem is presented in detail. Describe the problem as vividly as possible and the audience will be looking forward to hearing your ingenious solution!

20 Short Speech Topics

• How social media is uniting the world
• Why pets are better than children
• 5 things to do with a Raspberry Pi
• How to solve the problem of online trolls
• My wish for humanity
• How to take the perfect selfie
• Why we should all be vegan
• If I were an animal I'd be a______
• A day in the life of a dollar bill
• The butterfly effect (how one tiny change in circumstances can alter the course of your life - focus on one example)
• 5 ways to save time in the kitchen
• If I had 5 minutes to talk to Donald Trump I would _____
• What advice I wish someone gave my parents before I was born
• Why the Gettysburg Address is the best speech ever written
• Online dating - cringeworthy or cool?
• My most embarrassing moment
• If I won the lottery I would _____
• Why ______ is the best book ever written
• Why it's sometimes necessary to lie
• How to write a short speech (they won't be expecting that one!)

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333 Informative Speech Topics To Rock Your Presentation

A powerful presentation covers a compelling topic that sparks your interest and hooks the audience. Use this master list to find your next great speech idea.

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You have been assigned a speech, presentation, or essay, but you have no clue what to talk about. A powerful presentation begins with a compelling topic that sparks your interest and hooks the audience. But you also need to discuss something you feel excited to research and discuss. 

This guide contains 333 informative speech topics for your next presentation, plus pro tips for delivering the best presentation possible.

What Is An Informative Speech?

Informative speeches aim to teach or instruct the audience about a topic. They include objective information and fact-based research but can incorporate a unique perspective, compelling storytelling , or a powerful take-home message. Unlike a celebratory wedding toast or an inaugural speech , informative speeches are written specifically to educate.

The six key types of informative speeches are: 

• Definition speeches : This speech aims to explain a concept or theory. For example, a speech topic starting with “What is…?” is usually a definition-type informative speech. 
• Explanatory speeches : These speeches explain how something works. For example, an explanatory speech could explain how your brain processes information or how an electric car works. 
• Demonstrative speeches : These classic “how-to’s” show the audience how to perform a task and often include a visual presentation. For example, students could teach their classmates how to be more productive or cook a healthy meal.  
• Comparative speeches : When a speaker compares or contrasts two alternative things, they help the audience understand the similarities or differences between two topics. For example, a comparative speech may weigh the pros and cons of private versus public schools. 
• Descriptive speeches : This informative speech describes a person, place, or thing and explains why the subject is essential. For example, a student may teach their classmates about a historical figure, or an entrepreneur may give a descriptive speech about the specifics of their product idea.
• Persuasive informative speeches : Although persuasive speeches are often categorized separately, some informative speeches can cross over into persuasion by using evidence to convince the audience why a particular method or perspective is better than its alternatives. For example, a salesperson may give a presentation to convince clients to buy their services, or a mental health advocate may give a speech to persuade people to do yoga more regularly. 

How To Pick An Informative Speech Topic: The Five W’s

Whether you want to give a top-notch school speech assignment or a groundbreaking TED Talk , the best informative speeches have one thing in common: they deliver a purposeful message with a captivating delivery. You must understand the basic who, what, when, where, and why to pick the perfect topic. 

• Who: Before you start looking for topics, you should know who your audience is. A college speech class is a far different audience than a room of conference attendees. Consider what your audience is interested in, why they should care about your speech and their level of knowledge about the topic. If you talk about something too basic, they may be bored, but if you discuss something too technical, they may have difficulty understanding your speech. 
• What: Consider your passions and existing knowledge about a subject. The “what” of your speech is the meat of the presentation. Imagine a three-circle Venn diagram. The three circles are labeled: “things I am interested in,” “things my audience cares about,” and “things I can research.” The center point where these three circles overlap is the sweet spot for your speech topic. 
• When (Length): The length of your speech can drastically impact how in-depth you dive into the topic. A five-minute speech should cover a niche topic or a high-level concept. A thirty-minute to an hour-long presentation can teach about a more detailed topic. 
• Where: If you’re giving a speech in a meeting room at an office, your performance will likely be very different from speaking on stage in a large auditorium. Consider where you will be speaking and what kind of technology (projector, large screen, whiteboard, etc.) you will have available. The geographic location of your speech can also determine your selection of a local or regional topic relevant to the community. 
• Why: Most importantly, you should know the purpose of your speech. If your goal is to get a good grade, it may help you pay more attention to following the teacher’s rubric. If your goal is to convince the audience to make a lifestyle change or donate to an important cause, you should structure your speech with the core “why” in mind. 

The best speeches combine a simple message with charismatic delivery, an easily digestible structure, and something the audience can relate to. The essence of a great speech is that it arouses something in the audience, such as the motivation to take action or to see things in a new way.

List of Informative Speech Topics: 333 Ideas to Spark Your Creativity

In an informative speech, it is essential to have plenty of evidence or data to support your claims. But even the most well-researched presentation can feel hollow without the passion for delivering it authentically. 

As you explore ideas for your speech, you should naturally gravitate toward intriguing and exciting topics. Giving a speech about something you think your teacher or colleagues will like (rather than what you’re truly interested in) could ultimately be inauthentic or boring. Take note of what makes your heart beat a little faster and follow that curiosity . 

Easy Informative Speech Topics

If you’re in a pinch, choose a speech topic that doesn’t require extensive explanations to get the point across. It may be a good idea to avoid anything controversial or technical. Instead, choose a straightforward demonstrative or descriptive topic with a wide range of online information.

• How to improve your communication skills
• The most memorable speeches in history
• Why you should buy an electric car 
• The most popular cars of the year
• How to read body language  
• Top habits of successful people
• The most famous actors in history
• The benefits of time in nature
• Lesser known presidents
• Most popular breeds of dogs
• The worst natural disasters in the world 
• How to eat healthier  
• Harmful impacts of technology
• How to survive without electricity 
• The richest people in the world 
• The top companies in the world
• Child geniuses and prodigies
• How does sugar influence the body?
• The history of Disneyland
• How to break bad habits
• Top beauty products for younger skin
• How to do your homework faster 
• How to be more productive  
• High school students should do these 5 things before graduating
• Why high school students should take a gap year before college
• The best healthy snacks 
• Why you should go vegan
• How to be more confident  
• How to start a business
• Fashion through the decades 

Pro Tip : Start your speech with an attention-grabbing hook that draws the audience in to listen. Try not to start by mentioning a technical difficulty (“Is this microphone working?”) or saying a lackluster nicety (“Thanks for having me.”).

Instead, try starting with:

• A story: “I’m here for a reason. And It’s an interesting story….”
• A big idea: “The single most important thing I want to share with you today is….”
• A quirky one-liner or interesting fact: “You might have always thought….”

Here is a guide on How to Start a Speech: Best and Worst Speech Openers . 

You can also watch our video to learn the best (and worst) speech openers:

Informative Speech Topics for College

If public speaking isn’t scary enough, college speech classes can be brutal. You want to impress your professor without thoroughly embarrassing yourself in front of your peers. These topics are scholarly without being boring. 

• How you can reduce your carbon footprint
• Different forms of learning
• The truth about microplastics and possible alternatives
• How to ace a college test 
• Why schools shouldn’t give homework 
• America’s fastest-growing cities
• The differences between female and male communication
• The best marketing tactics
• The importance of education for a country’s economy 
• Ethical questions of artificial intelligence
• Unique ways to stop global climate change
• How to live to be 100
• Benefits of E-learning
• History of education in America
• How to eradicate poverty
• The real picture of foster care in America
• How to decide on a college major
• Pros and cons of the current education system
• Economics of urban versus rural development
• The history of agriculture 
• How ancient Egyptians built the pyramids
• How to prevent the top 5 leading causes of death in America
• Understanding industrial hemp
• Pros and cons of remote work
• How college students can become millionaires by age 50 with monthly investing
• How to start an organic garden
• Private vs. public school
• The importance of discipline
• The most useful websites for college students
• Where does public university funding come from

Fun Informative Speech Topics

Most people don’t realize that playful topics like video games and reality TV can still be informative. These less serious subjects have the potential to become great speeches that invoke laughter, excitement, or new perspectives. 

• Can procrastination be good for you?
• Myth or reality? We only use 10% of our brains
• The funniest commercials of all time
• Bizzare sports you didn’t know existed 
• How snake venom attacks the body
• What will humans look like in the future? 
• Weirdest medical facts
• The strangest phobias 
• Secrets to a great relationship
• The fastest cars in the world 
• What causes hiccups
• Evidence of life on Mars 
• The world history of tattoos 
• Why college students love fast food 
• The evolution of video games 
• How cryptocurrency can change finance 
• Where do stereotypes come from?
• The most bizarre conspiracy theories 
• The most influential musicians of our time
• Top craziest amusement park rides in the world
• The most fun things to do when you’re bored
• History of tattoo art
• The seven wonders of the world
• How to survive an annoying roommate
• The truth about reality shows
• How to create a bucket list
• The secrets behind the best TV shows 
• Weirdest foods taste surprisingly delicious
• How to talk to people you don’t like 

Interesting Informative Speech Topics

The most viral TED Talks combine a compelling or unique idea with exceptional nonverbal delivery. These interesting topics are sure to get your audience thinking.

• The neuroscience of attraction
• Mind-blowing facts about volcanoes
• The psychology of selling things 
• Why you should turn your lawn into a garden
• Proof that aliens are real/fake 
• How to start a business for under $100
• The history of America from a minority perspective 
• How technology affects our brains
• What would happen to the economy if everyone grew their own food?
• The science and ethics of genetic modification 
• How the electric car originated 
• Elon Musk’s rise to success 
• What is neuro-linguistic programming (NLP)?
• How deaf people talk with emotion 
• Why smiles are contagious 

Informative Speech Topics About Science

From biology to chemistry to genetics, science encompasses many subjects. Where modern technology meets cutting-edge discoveries, these topics are for inquisitive researchers who want to dig into the data. 

• How your brain works
• History of space exploration
• How solar panels work
• The evolution of plants
• Fascinating origins of plant medicines
• How DNA evidence is used
• How galaxies are formed 
• How science is influenced by corporations 
• Why dinosaurs really went extinct
• The oldest fossils ever found 
• How does the human brain work?
• The effects of music on the brain  
• The life of Albert Einstein
• How earthquakes can be predicted
• The craziest scientists in history
• What is CRISPR?
• Potential cures for cancer 
• What is epigenetics?

Pro Tip : Google Scholar and PubMed are two excellent resources for peer-reviewed scientific literature. Accredited institutions conduct these studies and have undergone the rigor of the scientific method. They even include easy copy-and-paste citations if you need to turn in a bibliography with your speech.

Informative Speech Topics about Animals 

From cuddly pets to the alien-like mystery creatures of the deep ocean, animals are universally fascinating. 

• How to train a dog
• The most dangerous animals in the ocean
• How elephants use plants to medicate themselves 
• The science behind the fastest animals in the world
• Can depression be treated with emotional support animals?
• Comparing reptiles versus mammals
• The strongest animal in the world
• Top 10 strangest animals on Earth
• Comparing human and primate brains
• Animals that have their own languages
• Ethical questions with animal testing
• What causes animals to become extinct? 
• How to adopt a cat
• Pros and cons of the pet adoption system
• Is it kind to keep a monkey as a pet?

Informative Speech Topics Sports

Fitness, sports medicine, and professional sports teams are just scraping the surface regarding this subject. You can talk about the inspiring life of your favorite player or game history. The speech topics are perfect for anyone who loves to sweat and cheer.

• How sports teach kids discipline 
• The importance of physical activity for stress relief
• Why companies should promote workplace fitness programs  
• Top-paying careers in sports 
• How people with disabilities can still play sports
• Football culture in the American south 
• The importance of sports for children’s socialization
• The role of sports and masculinity in young boys 
• Gambling problems in sports
• What makes a great sports coach? 
• The best football players of all time 
• How yoga can complement workouts
• How to prevent sports injuries 
• The best physical therapy for college athletes
• The life of Michael Jordan
• Game-changing athletes in history 
• Lebron James’ secret to success  
• How Jackie Robinson transformed baseball 
• The best nutrition for athletes, based on science
• Top vegan athletes in the world 
• Why cheerleading is/isn’t a real sport
• Controversial moments in the Olympics 
• Modern controversies about transgender athletes 
• The most extreme sports in the world
• How hockey changed my life
• Pros and cons of CrossFit
• Why swimming is one of the healthiest workouts
• How adult hobby sports can improve socialization
• Daily exercise improves mental health 
• The best at-home workouts
• Top marketing strategies used by the Super Bowl
• How the Olympics promotes international peace 
• Should pro athletes have salary caps?
• How college athletes go pro
• Top female athletes in the world
• Interesting sports from around the world
• Why height is not the most important factor in basketball
• Why soccer is the most popular international sport
• Why women’s soccer gets less media coverage than men’s
• The best solo sports for introverts 
• How handicapped people can still play sports 
• The most inspirational handicapped athletes 

Bonus Tip: Level Up Your Speech With Stage Presence

Did you know that public speaking is actually a skill? Many people struggle with stage anxiety because they feel they ‘missed the memo’ on public speaking or they are lacking because they do not have a natural stage presence. Not true!

Stage presence and public speaking are skills you need to be taught—very few people have them naturally. 

Watch our video to learn 7 steps to overcome stage fright and beat performance anxiety:

Here are all the aspects of public speaking you can master.

• How to make a first impression with an audience
• How to have stage presence
• Powerful body language
• How to speak with a commanding voice
• What to do with your hands while speaking

For every speaking skill you add to your toolbox, the less speaking anxiety you will feel.

If you want help really diving into your presentation skills, be sure to sign-up for our course…

Master Your People Skills

• Create a Memorable Presence
• Communicate with Confidence
• Achieve Your Goals

Have a question about the presentation or People School? Email Science of People support .

Cultural Informative Speech Topics

Learning about different cultures can drastically expand your viewpoint of the world. These speech ideas cover everything from language to ancient history to pop culture. 

• How to learn about local culture while traveling
• The importance of workplace culture
• How to build a positive corporate culture 
• How social media connects and promotes culture 
• The oldest cultures in the world 
• Modern versus traditional gender roles 
• How women have transformed corporate leadership 
• The dangers of hustle culture
• How social media culture impacts self-esteem
• How to learn from watching movies
• The rise of podcasts and their role in modern culture 
• The role of social media in business 
• How immigrants maintain cultural traditions in their new countries
• Ancient archeological artifacts you’ve never heard of
• Native American spiritual traditions
• Holy herbs and plants across global cultures
• How to make an African tribal basket
• The portrayal of black culture in the media
• Culture of Scandinavia
• Burial rituals in ancient Mesopotamia 
• History and meaning of the Om symbol
• The history of Buddhism
• How to show respect in Japanese culture
• The cultural history of African Americans 
• Chinese traditional foods 
• Top 10 foreign dishes you have to try before you die
• The most important spiritual symbols in the world
• Generational differences in Mexican culture
• The symbolism of marigolds in Mexican traditions
• What is Dia De Los Muertos?  

Want to radically improve your presentation skills? Watch our video for 10 presentation ideas:

Informative Speech Topics About History

They say, “history repeats itself.” Consider giving a unique or lesser-known perspective about historical events for a thought-provoking speech. Use museum artifacts and first-hand accounts to guide your points. 

• The Civil Rights Movement
• The oldest civilizations in the world
• Nelson Mandela’s historical impact
• The truth about colonization and Thanksgiving 
• How the Industrial Revolution impacted the environment 
• The real story of the Titanic 
• The craziest criminals in history  
• What caused the Great Depression? 
• What schools get wrong about black history 
• Religion during the age of the Aztecs
• Archeological evidence of aliens
• Ancient history of dogs and wolves 
• What caused the Salem witch trials?
• The American Revolution
• The role of Christianity in slavery
• Human rights violations throughout history
• How life changed for Native Americans after colonization 
• The role of urbanization on the changing American landscape
• The cowboy era: myths and truths 
• The American Constitution
• The most influential people in world history
• Forming of the United Nations
• What caused World War I?
• Financial panics and recessions throughout history
• The Prohibition era 
• What led to consumerism in society? 
• The Vietnam War
• The California Gold Rush
• The true story of Pocahontas
• Little-known facts about Mexican history

Informative Speech Topics About Music

Music is the soundtrack to our lives. Beyond mere entertainment, its impact dives into the roots of culture, identity, and brain function. Here are some exciting ways to incorporate your love of music into an informative speech. 

• How music can help mental health 
• Why you should learn an instrument
• How listening to music improves your productivity
• Genres of music 
• Links between classical music and IQ
• Why do people bond over music 
• Rarest instruments in the world
• The easiest instruments to play
• Best country musicians of all time
• How hip hop music has shaped culture in America
• Evolution of rap and hip hop 
• The origins of rock n’ roll in southern blues music
• The history of opera
• The best electronic dance music
• The impact of reggae music
• How punk rock got its start 
• How folk music shaped Appalachia 
• Country music hall of fame
• Must-see musical landmarks around the world
• Importance of gospel music
• The ethics of sampling other artist’s music
• How music shapes subculture 
• Has social media made record companies obsolete?
• The importance of musical education in public schools
• Music as a form of protest
• How sad music helps you overcome heartbreaks
• Why music shapes generations
• How dancing can change your mindset
• From the phonograph to iPhone: History of music machines

Health Informative Speech Topics

The ever-changing landscape of health offers a wealth of resources. Leave an impact on your audience by inspiring them to improve their eating habits or approach healthy living in a new way. Be sure to find the right sources for these speeches to make sure you are citing correct health science.

• How to extend your lifespan 
• Links between diet and mental illnesses 
• How to cook healthy food on a budget 
• Why a daily walk outside can transform your health
• History of herbal medicine 
• Let food be thy medicine: From Hippocrates to modern day food pyramid
• Why you should do yoga for 15 minutes a day
• Benefits and drawbacks of a vegetarian diet
• The healthiest fruits in the world 
• What is really in processed food?
• Is weight lifting or cardio better for burning fat?
• How agriculture affects our health
• The gut microbiome
• The dangers of pesticides in our food system
• How soil health impacts human health 
• Who controls the food system? 
• The science behind keto diets
• The dangers of low-fat diets
• Top 5 best foods for brain function
• The daily habits of the healthiest people in the world
• Differences in definitions of health
• European versus American food ingredients 
• The role of fats in brain function 
• How to fix a headache
• The benefits of magnesium
• The best supplements, according to science 
• The main signs of a stroke
• The chronic disease epidemic in America 
• How to lose weight the healthy way
• Why you should avoid eating seed oils
• Why you should stop eating gluten 
• How to prevent arthritis
• The real causes of diabetes
• Is meat actually bad for you? Pros and cons
• How to stop the mental health epidemic 
• How dental health impacts your digestion
• Amazing benefits of black seed oil
• The Harvard Longevity Project: Why happy people live longer
• Ancient health remedies from around the world
• Why you should eat fermented foods
• Causes of cancer and how to prevent it
• Why people should donate their organs
• Effects of radiation
• The healthiest cultures in the world 
• Why obesity is a modern problem
• How to have stronger bones
• Healthcare access for minorities
• Why fast food restaurants are addictive
• Pros and cons of salt
• How to overcome stress
• The dangers of e-cigarettes
• People need to drink more water
• The insurance and healthcare system in America
• How friendships improve your health
• Why couples should exercise together
• Benefits of dark chocolate
• Dangerous food additives you’ve never heard of
• Easy ways to improve your nutrition
• How to reverse hair loss
• Secrets to have healthy hair
• Benefits and drawbacks of stem cell research 
• Why you should stop drinking soda
• How to reduce asthma attacks
• Health benefits of ginger
• Why you should drink tea

Key Takeaways: Find Inspiration for a Speech

Any informative topic can be used to craft a speech, but a showstopping presentation requires thinking outside the box and approaching your speech from a unique point of view. Before you settle on a topic for your next speech, be sure that your speech idea is:

• Authentically interesting : Discussing something that doesn’t spark your interest is no use. Choose a topic or idea that you actually care about for an authentic and passionate delivery. 
• Relevant to your audience : If you don’t know your audience, you might as well be speaking to a wall. Professional presenters understand the general knowledge level of their audience and what information will be valuable or interesting to them. 
• Easy to research : Obscure topics can be alluring and challenging to research. Choose a topic that has plenty of information available in books or online. Be sure to use reputable sources and cite them when necessary.
• The proper length : The depth and detail of your speech ultimately depend on the length of time you have to talk. Pick a subject that you can thoroughly describe in the allotted time frame.  

Once you narrow down a few of your favorite topic ideas, start brainstorming how you want your speech to impact the audience. Use these 10 Presentation Ideas That Will Radically Improve Your Presentation Skills , such as:

• Why you should save the best for first and last
• How to design epic presentation slides
• Why you shouldn’t over-rehearse
• How to own the stage 

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Pitch + Persuade

The 4-Minute Persuasive Speech

Use four sticky notes to make a persuasive speech.

How would you persuade one million people to change their minds? What if it was 1917—before radio, television, or the internet?

George Creel faced this exact problem at the start of World War I. The American government had joined the war and mobilized troops, but the public wasn’t on board with fighting “Europe’s War.”

Thanks for reading Pitch + Persuade! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

The president tasked Creel with boosting public opinion for the war. But how? Back then, getting a message to the public was hard. The only medium of mass communication was newspapers, which were already saturated with daily stories about the war.

As Creel considered his options, Donald Ryerson, a Chicago businessman, interrupted to pitch a solution.

What are Americans already doing that we could use to share our message?

At the time, millions of Americans went to the movies every week. Halfway through each movie, the show stopped for 4 minutes so workers could switch the film reels. Ryerson believed those 4 minutes were the perfect time to deliver a message to a captive audience.  

Ryerson proposed creating what he called 4 Minute Men—a grassroots network of thousands of people from local towns to go and give speeches during these brief intermissions. The speakers would focus on a single issue and call the audience to a single action. 1

Creel loved the idea so much that he put Ryerson in charge. Ryerson got to work, and his team recruited and trained over 75,000 local speakers and wrote hundreds of persuasive speeches for them. 2 Throughout the war, the 4 Minute Men gave almost one million speeches. They persuaded people to support the war in big and small ways with calls to action, such as “Donate your binoculars for Navy sailors,” “Buy Liberty Bonds to fund the war,” and “Know how to spot ‘German propaganda.’” 3

The 4 Minute Men program worked because it stuck to a persuasive formula. Grab your audience’s attention. Have a single point. Be quick (less than 4 minutes). Always have an action for the audience to take.

While these grassroots speaking tactics later evolved alongside the rise of the radio and television, their persuasive speech principles still work.

When creating a short, persuasive speech, use the 4-Minute Formula:

One Question

One Call to Action

First, ask yourself, “What’s the one point I want my audience to remember?” Brainstorm and write down your answer. The one point is the path of your speech. Everything else your speech includes—the question, story, and call to action—should trace back to your one point.

Once you’ve decided on your one point, it’s time to outline your speech. Grab four sticky notes and write bullet points for each section.

Start your speech with one question framed around your one point. You want to pique your audience’s curiosity so they’ll listen to learn the answer.

Next, tell them one story that answers the question. The more memorable, the better.

After your story, explicitly state the one point you want them to remember. Ideally, say it in a compelling and sticky way.

Close with one call to action for your audience—the one thing you want them to do or think about because of your speech.

For example, if this article were a 4-minute speech, it would look like this:

Try this 4-Minute Formula on your next speech. Grab some sticky notes and create a quick outline. Then practice, and you’ll be ready to give your short, persuasive speech.

Hamilton, John Maxwell. Manipulating the Masses (p. 150-189). LSU Press. Kindle Edition.

Ryerson setup and started the 4 Minute Man program until he was drafted into the War. William M. Blair took over the program and is credited with the successful scaling of the program.

“History Matters.” Four Minute Men: Volunteer Speeches During World War I , historymatters.gmu.edu/d/4970/. Accessed 10 Sept. 2023.

Ready for more?

99 Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

Persuasive speech topics are vast and varied. Whether you’re looking for a light-hearted topic to entertain an audience or something more serious to inspire action, there are plenty of easy persuasive speech topics to choose from. 

Take a look at this list of easy persuasive speech topics and see if any of them pique your interest!

• Importance of Wearing Sunscreen
• Benefits of Meditation and Mindfulness
• The Power of Connection: Why Strong Social Support Is Essential for Well-Being
• Dangers of Social Media Addiction
• The Need for Renewable Energy Sources
• The Benefits of Self-Care: Why It’s Essential for Your Health and Happiness
• The Benefits of Adopting a Plant-Based Diet
• The Importance of Financial Literacy and Budgeting
• Benefits of Learning to Code
• The Need for Stricter Animal Cruelty Laws
• Dangers of Fast Fashion and the Importance of Sustainable Fashion
• Living Life: Traveling and Experiencing Different Cultures
• The Importance of Mental Health Awareness and Seeking Help When Needed
• Benefits of Having a Diverse and Inclusive Society
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Simple Practices for Reducing Stress and Improving Mental Clarity
• The Need for Equal Pay for Equal Work
• Benefits of Getting a Good Night’s Sleep
• Dangers of Substance Abuse
• The Power of Exercise: How Regular Physical Activity Can Improve Your Physical and Mental Health
• Benefits of Using Public Transportation
• The Importance of Water Conservation
• Self-Reflection and Introspection: The Path to Personal Growth
• Learning a Musical Instrument is Beneficial
• Sleep: The Importance of Getting Enough Rest for Your Health and Productivity
• The Need for Better Gun Control Laws
• Dangers of Texting While Driving
• Setting Boundaries and Taking Care of Your Needs
•  Benefits of Reading for Pleasure
• The Importance of Protecting Civil Liberties
• Benefits of Spending Time in Nature
• Nourish Your Body: The Benefits of a Healthy Diet
• The Need for More Affordable Housing Options
• Dangers of Cyberbullying
• Supporting Small Businesses
• Taking Breaks and Giving Yourself Permission to Relax
• The Importance of Protecting Endangered Species
• Benefits of Reducing Screen Time
• The Need for Universal Healthcare Access
• The Importance of Engaging in Things That Bring Fulfillment
• The Benefits of Scheduling and Planning: How to Get More Done in Less Time
• The Power of Time Management for Achieving Work-Life Balance
• The Power of Saying No
• Benefits of Delegating and Asking for Help
• The Importance of Setting Priorities and Managing Time Effectively
• Maximizing Productivity Through Time Management Strategies
• The Benefits of Scheduling and Planning for Success
• The Power of Setting and Achieving Goals
• Benefits of Time Blocking and Focus Time
• Importance of Being Organized and Streamlining Processes
• Equal Education for All: The Importance of Providing Opportunities for Every Student
• The Importance of Homework and Its Impact on Student Learning
• The Benefits of a Later Start Time for High School Students
• Benefits of a Dress Code or Uniform Policy in Schools
• The Importance of Physical Education and Recess in Schools
• Benefits of Offering a Wider Variety of Elective Courses in Schools
• The Importance of Financial Literacy Education in Schools
• The Benefits of Incorporating More Hands-On, Experiential Learning Opportunities in Schools
• Importance of Mental Health Resources and Support in Schools
• Benefits of Implementing Restorative Justice Practices in Schools
• Importance of Providing Equal Educational Opportunities for All Students, Regardless of Their Socio-Economic Background.
• Importance of Spending Quality Time With Family
• Benefits of Regular Family Dinners
• The Benefits of Family Vacations
• Importance of Open and Honest Communication Within Families
• The Benefits of Teaching Children About Financial Responsibility and Budgeting
• The Benefits of Having a Strong Support System Within the Family
• Importance of Setting Boundaries and Establishing Rules Within Families
• The Benefits of Forgiveness and Reconciling Relationships Within Families
• The Importance of Showing Gratitude and Appreciation Towards Family Members
• Benefits of Implementing a “Digital Detox” and Disconnecting From Technology Within the Family
• The Importance of Reading Food Labels and Understanding Ingredients
• Dangers of Excessive Sugar Intake and Strategies for Reducing Sugar Consumption
• Benefits of Home Cooking and Meal Planning
• Environmental Impact of Food Waste and Strategies for Reducing Waste
• The Benefits of Incorporating More Whole Grains, Fruits, and Vegetables Into Your Diet
• Dangers of Fast Food and the Benefits of Eating More Home-Cooked Meals
• The Benefits of Eating Locally-Grown, Seasonal Produce
• Importance of Breakfast for Maintaining a Healthy Weight and Improving Cognitive Function
• Dangers of Dieting and the Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Relationship With Food
• The Importance of Being Punctual and the Consequences of Being Late
• The Importance of Being Honest and the Consequences of Lying
• Benefits of Volunteering and Giving Back to the Community
• The Importance of Being Respectful Towards Others and the Consequences of Being Disrespectful
• Benefits of Taking Responsibility for One’s Actions and the Dangers of Avoiding Responsibility
• Importance of Being Prepared and the Consequences of Being Unprepared
• Benefits of Being Organized and the Consequences of Being Disorganized
• Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Work-Life Balance and the Consequences of Neglecting Personal Relationships
• Importance of Communication in a Healthy Relationship
• Benefits of Forgiveness in a Relationship
• Dangers of Codependency and the Importance of Maintaining a Sense of Self in a Relationship
• The Benefits of Setting Boundaries in a Relationship
• The Importance of Trust in a Relationship and the Consequences of Betrayal
• Benefits of Compromise in a Relationship
• The Importance of Respecting Each Other’s Differences in a Relationship
• Benefits of Regular Date Nights and Keeping the Romance Alive in a Long-Term Relationship
• Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Romantic Life in a Relationship
• Benefits of Seeking Therapy or Counseling to Improve a Struggling Relationship
• Dangers of Smoking and the Need for Stricter Laws on Tobacco Advertising
• Importance of Voting and Civic Engagement

Final Thoughts

Remember, when choosing a topic for a persuasive speech, it’s important to choose something that you are passionate about and that you can argue convincingly. You should also consider your audience and whether the topic will be of interest to them.

Related Posts:

• Games, topic printables & more
• The 4 main speech types
• Example speeches
• Commemorative
• Declamation
• Demonstration
• Informative
• Introduction
• Student Council
• Speech topics
• Poems to read aloud
• How to write a speech
• Using props/visual aids
• Acute anxiety help
• Breathing exercises
• Letting go - free e-course
• Using self-hypnosis
• Delivery overview
• 4 modes of delivery
• How to make cue cards
• How to read a speech
• 9 vocal aspects
• Vocal variety
• Diction/articulation
• Pronunciation
• Speaking rate
• How to use pauses
• Eye contact
• Body language
• Voice image
• Voice health
• Public speaking activities and games
• About me/contact

How to write a good speech in 7 steps

By:  Susan Dugdale  

- an easily followed format for writing a great speech

Did you know writing a speech doesn't have be an anxious, nail biting experience?

Unsure? Don't be.

You may have lived with the idea you were never good with words for a long time. Or perhaps giving speeches at school brought you out in cold sweats.

However learning how to write a speech is relatively straight forward when you learn to write out loud.

And that's the journey I am offering to take you on: step by step.

To learn quickly, go slow

Take all the time you need. This speech format has 7 steps, each building on the next.

Walk, rather than run, your way through all of them. Don't be tempted to rush. Familiarize yourself with the ideas. Try them out.

I know there are well-advertised short cuts and promises of 'write a speech in 5 minutes'. However in reality they only truly work for somebody who already has the basic foundations of speech writing in place.

The foundation of good speech writing 

These steps are the backbone of sound speech preparation. Learn and follow them well at the outset and yes, given more experience and practice you could probably flick something together quickly. Like any skill, the more it's used, the easier it gets.

In the meantime...

Step 1: Begin with a speech overview or outline

Are you in a hurry? Without time to read a whole page? Grab ... The Quick How to Write a Speech Checklist And come back to get the details later.

• WHO you are writing your speech for (your target audience)
• WHY you are preparing this speech. What's the main purpose of your speech? Is it to inform or tell your audience about something? To teach them a new skill or demonstrate something? To persuade or to entertain? (See 4 types of speeches: informative, demonstrative, persuasive and special occasion or entertaining for more.) What do you want them to think, feel or do as a result of listening the speech?
• WHAT your speech is going to be about (its topic) - You'll want to have thought through your main points and have ranked them in order of importance. And have sorted the supporting research you need to make those points effectively.
• HOW much time you have for your speech eg. 3 minutes, 5 minutes... The amount of time you've been allocated dictates how much content you need. If you're unsure check this page: how many words per minute in a speech: a quick reference guide . You'll find estimates of the number of words required for 1 - 10 minute speeches by slow, medium and fast talkers.

Use an outline

The best way to make sure you deliver a perfect speech is to start by carefully completing a speech outline covering the essentials: WHO, WHY, WHAT and HOW.

Beginning to write without thinking your speech through is a bit like heading off on a journey not knowing why you're traveling or where you're going to end up. You can find yourself lost in a deep, dark, murky muddle of ideas very quickly!

Pulling together a speech overview or outline is a much safer option. It's the map you'll follow to get where you want to go.

Get a blank speech outline template to complete

Click the link to find out a whole lot more about preparing a speech outline . ☺ You'll also find a free printable blank speech outline template.  I recommend using it!

Understanding speech construction

Before you begin to write, using your completed outline as a guide, let's briefly look at what you're aiming to prepare.

• an opening or introduction
• the body where the bulk of the information is given
• and an ending (or summary).

Imagine your speech as a sandwich

If you think of a speech as a sandwich you'll get the idea.

The opening and ending are the slices of bread holding the filling (the major points or the body of your speech) together.

You can build yourself a simple sandwich with one filling (one big idea) or you could go gourmet and add up to three or, even five. The choice is yours.

But whatever you choose to serve, as a good cook, you need to consider who is going to eat it! And that's your audience.

So let's find out who they are before we do anything else. 

Step 2: Know who you are talking to

Understanding your audience.

Did you know a  good speech is never written from the speaker's point of view?  ( If you need to know more about why check out this page on  building rapport .)

Begin with the most important idea/point on your outline.

Consider HOW you can explain (show, tell) that to your audience in the most effective way for them to easily understand it.   

Writing from the audience's point of view

To help you write from an audience point of view, it's a good idea to identify either a real person or the type of person who is most likely to be listening to you.

Make sure you select someone who represents the "majority" of the people who will be in your audience. That is they are neither struggling to comprehend you at the bottom of your scale or light-years ahead at the top.

Now imagine they are sitting next to you eagerly waiting to hear what you're going to say. Give them a name, for example, Joe, to help make them real.

Ask yourself

• How do I need to tailor my information to meet Joe's needs? For example, do you tell personal stories to illustrate your main points? Absolutely! Yes. This is a very powerful technique. (Click storytelling in speeches to find out more.)
• What type or level of language is right for Joe as well as my topic? For example if I use jargon (activity, industry or profession specific vocabulary) will it be understood?

Step 3: Writing as you speak

Writing oral language.

Write down what you want to say about your first main point as if you were talking directly to Joe.

If it helps, say it all out loud before you write it down and/or record it.

Use the information below as a guide

(Click to download The Characteristics of Spoken Language  as a pdf.) 

You do not have to write absolutely everything you're going to say down * but you do need to write down, or outline, the sequence of ideas to ensure they are logical and easily followed.

Remember too, to explain or illustrate your point with examples from your research. 

( * Tip: If this is your first speech the safety net of having everything written down could be just what you need. It's easier to recover from a patch of jitters when you have a word by word manuscript than if you have either none, or a bare outline. Your call!)

Step 4: Checking tone and language

The focus of this step is re-working what you've done in Step 2 and 3.

You identified who you were talking to (Step 2) and in Step 3, wrote up your first main point.  Is it right? Have you made yourself clear?  Check it.

How well you complete this step depends on how well you understand the needs of the people who are going to listen to your speech.

Please do not assume because you know what you're talking about the person (Joe) you've chosen to represent your audience will too. Joe is not a mind-reader!

How to check what you've prepared

• Check the "tone" of your language . Is it right for the occasion, subject matter and your audience?
• Check the length of your sentences. You need short sentences. If they're too long or complicated you risk losing your listeners.

Check for jargon too. These are industry, activity or group exclusive words.

For instance take the phrase: authentic learning . This comes from teaching and refers to connecting lessons to the daily life of students. Authentic learning is learning that is relevant and meaningful for students. If you're not a teacher you may not understand the phrase.

The use of any vocabulary requiring insider knowledge needs to be thought through from the audience perspective. Jargon can close people out.

• Read what you've written out loud. If it flows naturally, in a logical manner, continue the process with your next main idea. If it doesn't, rework.

We use whole sentences and part ones, and we mix them up with asides or appeals e.g. "Did you get that? Of course you did. Right...Let's move it along. I was saying ..."

Click for more about the differences between spoken and written language .

And now repeat the process

Repeat this process for the remainder of your main ideas.

Because you've done the first one carefully, the rest should follow fairly easily.

Step 5: Use transitions

Providing links or transitions between main ideas.

Between each of your main ideas you need to provide a bridge or pathway for your audience. The clearer the pathway or bridge, the easier it is for them to make the transition from one idea to the next.

If your speech contains more than three main ideas and each is building on the last, then consider using a "catch-up" or summary as part of your transitions.

Is your speech being evaluated? Find out exactly what aspects you're being assessed on using this standard speech evaluation form

Link/transition examples

A link can be as simple as:

"We've explored one scenario for the ending of Block Buster 111, but let's consider another. This time..."

What follows this transition is the introduction of Main Idea Two.

Here's a summarizing link/transition example:

"We've ended Blockbuster 111 four ways so far. In the first, everybody died. In the second, everybody died BUT their ghosts remained to haunt the area. In the third, one villain died. His partner reformed and after a fight-out with the hero, they both strode off into the sunset, friends forever. In the fourth, the hero dies in a major battle but is reborn sometime in the future.

And now what about one more? What if nobody died? The fifth possibility..."

Go back through your main ideas checking the links. Remember Joe as you go. Try each transition or link out loud and really listen to yourself. Is it obvious? Easily followed?

Keep them if they are clear and concise.

For more about transitions (with examples) see Andrew Dlugan's excellent article, Speech Transitions: Magical words and Phrases .

Step 6: The end of your speech

The ideal ending is highly memorable . You want it to live on in the minds of your listeners long after your speech is finished. Often it combines a call to action with a summary of major points.

Example speech endings

Example 1: The desired outcome of a speech persuading people to vote for you in an upcoming election is that they get out there on voting day and do so. You can help that outcome along by calling them to register their support by signing a prepared pledge statement as they leave.

"We're agreed we want change. You can help us give it to you by signing this pledge statement as you leave. Be part of the change you want to see!

Example 2: The desired outcome is increased sales figures. The call to action is made urgent with the introduction of time specific incentives.

"You have three weeks from the time you leave this hall to make that dream family holiday in New Zealand yours. Can you do it? Will you do it? The kids will love it. Your wife will love it. Do it now!"

How to figure out the right call to action

A clue for working out what the most appropriate call to action might be, is to go back to your original purpose for giving the speech.

• Was it to motivate or inspire?
• Was it to persuade to a particular point of view?
• Was it to share specialist information?
• Was it to celebrate a person, a place, time or event?

Ask yourself what you want people to do as a result of having listened to your speech.

For more about ending speeches

Visit this page for more about how to end a speech effectively . You'll find two additional types of speech endings with examples.

Write and test

Write your ending and test it out loud. Try it out on a friend, or two. Is it good? Does it work?

Step 7: The introduction

Once you've got the filling (main ideas) the linking and the ending in place, it's time to focus on the introduction.

The introduction comes last as it's the most important part of your speech. This is the bit that either has people sitting up alert or slumped and waiting for you to end. It's the tone setter!

What makes a great speech opening?

Ideally you want an opening that makes listening to you the only thing the 'Joes' in the audience want to do.

You want them to forget they're hungry or that their chair is hard or that their bills need paying.

The way to do that is to capture their interest straight away. You do this with a "hook".

Hooks to catch your audience's attention

Hooks come in as many forms as there are speeches and audiences. Your task is work out what specific hook is needed to catch your audience.

Go back to the purpose. Why are you giving this speech?

Once you have your answer, consider your call to action. What do you want the audience to do, and, or take away, as a result of listening to you?

Next think about the imaginary or real person you wrote for when you were focusing on your main ideas.

Choosing the best hook

• Is it humor?
• Would shock tactics work?
• Is it a rhetorical question?
• Is it formality or informality?
• Is it an outline or overview of what you're going to cover, including the call to action?
• Or is it a mix of all these elements?

A hook example

Here's an example from a fictional political speech. The speaker is lobbying for votes. His audience are predominately workers whose future's are not secure.

"How's your imagination this morning? Good? (Pause for response from audience) Great, I'm glad. Because we're going to put it to work starting right now.

I want you to see your future. What does it look like? Are you happy? Is everything as you want it to be? No? Let's change that. We could do it. And we could do it today.

At the end of this speech you're going to be given the opportunity to change your world, for a better one ...

No, I'm not a magician. Or a simpleton with big ideas and precious little commonsense. I'm an ordinary man, just like you. And I have a plan to share!"

And then our speaker is off into his main points supported by examples. The end, which he has already foreshadowed in his opening, is the call to vote for him.

Prepare several hooks

Experiment with several openings until you've found the one that serves your audience, your subject matter and your purpose best.

For many more examples of speech openings go to: how to write a speech introduction . You'll find 12 of the very best ways to start a speech.

That completes the initial seven steps towards writing your speech. If you've followed them all the way through, congratulations, you now have the text of your speech!

Although you might have the words, you're still a couple of steps away from being ready to deliver them. Both of them are essential if you want the very best outcome possible. They are below. Please take them.

Step 8: Checking content and timing

This step pulls everything together.

Check once, check twice, check three times & then once more!

Go through your speech really carefully.

On the first read through check you've got your main points in their correct order with supporting material, plus an effective introduction and ending.

On the second read through check the linking passages or transitions making sure they are clear and easily followed.

On the third reading check your sentence structure, language use and tone.

Double, triple check the timing

Now go though once more.

This time read it aloud slowly and time yourself.

If it's too long for the time allowance you've been given make the necessary cuts.

Start by looking at your examples rather than the main ideas themselves. If you've used several examples to illustrate one principal idea, cut the least important out.

Also look to see if you've repeated yourself unnecessarily or, gone off track. If it's not relevant, cut it.

Repeat the process, condensing until your speech fits the required length, preferably coming in just under your time limit.

You can also find out how approximately long it will take you to say the words you have by using this very handy words to minutes converter . It's an excellent tool, one I frequently use. While it can't give you a precise time, it does provide a reasonable estimate.

Step 9: Rehearsing your speech

And NOW you are finished with writing the speech, and are ready for REHEARSAL .

Please don't be tempted to skip this step. It is not an extra thrown in for good measure. It's essential.

The "not-so-secret" secret of successful speeches combines good writing with practice, practice and then, practicing some more.

Go to how to practice public speaking and you'll find rehearsal techniques and suggestions to boost your speech delivery from ordinary to extraordinary.

The Quick How to Write a Speech Checklist

Before you begin writing you need:.

• Your speech OUTLINE with your main ideas ranked in the order you're going to present them. (If you haven't done one complete this 4 step sample speech outline . It will make the writing process much easier.)
• Your RESEARCH
• You also need to know WHO you're speaking to, the PURPOSE of the speech and HOW long you're speaking for

The basic format

• the body where you present your main ideas

Split your time allowance so that you spend approximately 70% on the body and 15% each on the introduction and ending.

How to write the speech

• Write your main ideas out incorporating your examples and research
• Link them together making sure each flows in a smooth, logical progression
• Write your ending, summarizing your main ideas briefly and end with a call for action
• Write your introduction considering the 'hook' you're going to use to get your audience listening
• An often quoted saying to explain the process is: Tell them what you're going to tell them (Introduction) Tell them (Body of your speech - the main ideas plus examples) Tell them what you told them (The ending)

TEST before presenting. Read aloud several times to check the flow of material, the suitability of language and the timing.

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How To Choose The Best Speech Topics For You

When I “decided” to become a public speaker , there were so many topics I wanted to speak about.

I guess I am very opinionated! 

Maybe precisely because I am so intensely passionate about many issues, selecting my speech topics was an overwhelming experience, and it took some time to get them right.

If you’ve been considering becoming a public speaker, or you have been a speaker for a while but haven’t yet settled, because of the infinite amount of topics wandering in your brain, my purpose is to ease the process for you.

A remarkable speech starts with a remarkable topic, and I recommend choosing only three speeches to focus on. 

I recently worked with a single mom who is one of my star mentoring clients in my Digital Entrepreneur Blueprint program.

We were working on her three main signature speeches, and as we went through processes that helped her narrow down her choices, she ended up selecting the perfect topics, and she is now developing her speeches with clarity and confidence.

Even though she felt like she was the only person on the face of the earth who would take “so long” in choosing three main topics, I assured her that this is a daunting task for everyone. It’s also a very rewarding one, and I’m not speaking only about standing ovations!

3 Steps to Select the Right Speaking Topics

In my experience, I believe there are three steps you can take to select the right topics:  brainstorm, ask powerful questions, and get feedback from a friend or mentor who has public speaking expertise.

1- Brainstorm The Best Speaking Topics

The brainstorming process starts by listing what you know. Write as many topics as you can think of for about 5 minutes. Then look through the list and circle the ones you like most.

You will be surprised about how much overlap there is between what you know and what you love.

One common limiting belief is that you have to know every single thing about a topic to deliver a great speech or to be considered a credible speaker. 

While it’s best to pick a speaking topic you are knowledgeable about, you can certainly supplement it with careful research.

If you already have a blog or a book, I suggest you choose your three blogging categories, your most popular blog posts, or the three most popular chapters of your book as topics.

2- Ask Powerful Questions  

This step requires being really honest about the topics you selected. For each topic, answer these:

• Am I really passionate about this topic?
• Do I want to be known for my work on this topic?
• Is this topic something I have a deep conviction about?
• Do I have powerful life experiences related to this topic?
• Is this topic timely?
• Do I feel excited about researching this topic?
• Is this topic something I find to be too complicated, controversial, or uncomfortable for me?
• Will I love discussing this topic and sharing information about this topic?
• Is this a topic my audience cares about?
• Where do I see myself giving this talk? To what kind of people?
• Is this a topic that will inform, persuade, and entertain my audience?
• Can I offer a fresh perspective on this topic?
• Could this topic include metaphors, anecdotes, and stories related to my other interests?
• Do I have credibility in this subject matter or can I establish it in a quick manner?
• Can my audience trust me as an authority on the subject?
• Do I have confidence in my ability to connect with my audience on this topic?
• Can I provide insights and value about this topic within possible time restrictions?

Getting clear about these questions is essential so that you can start narrowing down topics and pondering whether you can educate, inspire, and empower an audience with what you share.

3- Get Feedback On Your Speech Topics

It is a good idea to take the topics that passed the test and consult with others to make sure the topic is a great fit for you.

We all have blinders when it comes to our own content.

From your mentor:

Your mentor or coach can help you dig even deeper and even discover new angles you haven’t thought about, and can guide you in the elimination process if you are still having issues coming up with your final three.

Your coach will be able to gauge your level of passion by examining your posture, your gestures, your eyes, your facial expressions, and your energy levels when discussing each topic.

From your audience:

Talk to a few people in your ideal target audience (the people you had in mind when you answered the questions), and ask about the remaining speech topics.

You don’t want to end up making a speech about something that is completely over their heads, or delivering content that is so basic that they feel you’re being condescending. Yeah, that totally happens!

You want your presentation to provide explicit value.

They are the REAL experts when it comes to learning how to connect with them, and delivering information without boring them or overwhelming them, or causing them to tune out (if they show up at all!) – Okay, that was a little dramatic, but you know what I mean.

From event planners

Now that you’ve answered where you see yourself giving the speech, talk to some of the event organizers you had in mind. And if you didn’t have any in mind, it’s time to write a wish list, darling!

Ask them if your speaking topic and approach is something they would consider and why/why not.

They will have great insight and they will be more likely to accept your speaking proposal when you submit one.

In summary, the best speech topic is one you know (and are willing to devote time to), a topic you truly love, and your audience deeply cares about.

Once you have your three topics, the next step is to develop them into a marketable format.

What You Will Need For Each Speech Topic

• a title for the talk that corresponds with the topic
• a subtitle for the talk
• a short description of what the talk is about
• the three main takeaways from the talk
• the formats in which you are available to deliver the talk
• who the talk is for
• a sprinkle of your credentials for delivering this talk

Selecting the best speech topics for you is a very personal journey, and that is why it starts with a self-assessment.

When you have three specific topics you speak about, you will soon be known as the go-to person in those categories, and with consistent delivery, plus the valuable feedback you receive in the process, your level of expertise will grow.

I’d love to support you in your goal of becoming a public speaker.

If you are ready to take your public speaking skills to a higher level, you must consider investing in one of my mentoring programs!

What would be one topic you would like to give a speech on? Leave your topic ideas in the comment section below.

Elayna is a single mom of 4, an award-winning Storyteller, Story Strategist, and Student of Pain. She’s a bestselling author, internationally acclaimed keynote speaker, and 4x TEDx speaker. Founder of the Positive MOM® and creator of the S.T.O.R.Y. System: a blueprint to craft and share powerful stories that will transform your results, so you can have the wealth, opportunities, and freedom you deserve. Connect with Elayna Fernández at thepositivemom.com/keynote-speaker and follow @thepositivemom. To receive a gift from Elayna, click HERE .

Want to support the Positive MOM blog?

The mission of the Positive MOM blog is to help moms break trauma cycles, find peace, and feel emotionally whole, so they can practice supportive parenting and create a positive and healthy environment for their children. If you found Elayna’s content valuable, please consider donating a love offering to enable her to keep creating content and helping more moms worldwide. Donate HERE .

Lora Dene King

Thursday 9th of April 2020

Forgiveness, the impact of a father's presence.

How To Shoot The Right Picture To Reflect Your Brand ★ Elayna Fernandez ~ The Positive MOM ♥

Friday 27th of March 2020

[…] and to be able to provide the photos when you’re promoted as a blogger covering an event, or speaker at a conference, without having to go back and ask […]

Learn 21 Ways To Skyrocket Your Blogging Success ★ Elayna Fernandez ~ The Positive MOM ♥

Friday 13th of March 2020

[…] topic. You can find many opportunities to speak at Meetup.com and you can read my post about how to choose your speaking topics and how to exactly how to design your speaker one sheet so you can get ideas on how to promote […]

Thursday 12th of March 2020

The positive support system from your parents as a child. (well balanced). Speak life into your children. Ask them questions on how you can improve your relationship. What do (you need from me ) Don't compare your life to theirs but explain how blessed they are. Try and take some stress off of them as well. They didn't ask to be born. Support there in school activities or out of school. Daily affirmations. Make sure they know they are good enough to face the world. Give your self credit for the small movement. Set daily goals, weekly goals, monthly goals, visit older family. Be the light

Christine G.

Friday 26th of July 2019

I enjoy public speaking, but I've been rusty! I truly enjoyed reading this post and especially found the 5 step marketable format helpful for staying focused on the subject and content.

4 Minute Presentation Ideas

A presentation is an amazing way to boost your confidence and present your point of view on certain topics.  However, it is not easy to speak and grab the attention of the audience in an effective way. Especially when you are given a limited time period to prepare for the speech it can be very difficult to be persuasive and deliver the speech to the best of your abilities. The speech might excite you in the beginning but as soon as you are about to present the speech the fear of delivering the best speech may start overwhelming you. Along with confidence a good speech topic also plays an important role in delivering a good speech. You must look for trending topics and choose the one that suits you as well as is great for your audience. You certainly do not want the audience to eventually lose interest in your speech so choosing a good topic is very important. Also make sure to choose a topic that interests you, something you love talking about as it is going to help you deliver the best speech.

For many, the process of choosing a good topic is the most difficult part of the presentation. Yes, definitely you need to pay full attention towards it but that does not mean you have to be overwhelmed because of it.

In the case of a 4-minute speech, you do not have much time to cover a vast number of points, therefore, it is very important for you to make it concise but informative. By providing sufficient information in an effective manner you make sure that the audience remembers what you spoke. Moreover most of the time in such a presentation they do have time limits and you are given limited time to prepare for the speech which means you have to prepare in the best way.

There are certain measures and steps that you can take to prepare a presentation that is quickly by overcoming the hurdles that may come in between delivering the speech easily and smoothly. It might come across like short presentations are easier than the long ones. You can definitely make it easy by preparing ahead of time, preparing relevant information and deliver  5 minutes speech  confidently.

While giving the speech you must convey the message very clearly to the audience but at the same time, you do not want to confuse them. So, it is very important to choose a great topic and also have a good idea about the topic you are going to speak on. Picking a topic that is very difficult may confuse the audience.

Here we are going to discuss some of the tips and skills that can help you with the speech.

• Know your audience

Since you have just got 4 minutes to give the speech you want to give your audience information that is interesting and they do not have much idea about it. Therefore it is very important for you to understand your audience. If you do not know your audience they will definitely start to lose interest in your speech. So, make sure to do proper research before delivering a presentation to your audience.

• Choose a perfect topic

When it comes to impromptu speech or short presentations the choice of topic does matter a lot. Sometimes a topic might be very good however it might be too complex for a 4-minute presentation. Here are some the points that you need to consider while choosing a topic.

• Pick a topic that interests you something you have an idea about and are comfortable talking about.
• Keep it uncomplicated and easy. But if the topic is tough then keep it short rather than making it very difficult to understand.
• Keep your focus on the main points probably one or two points.
• Understand your audience to deliver engaging content.
• Give your speech a solid and catchy start

In the case of short speeches, it is very important to pay extra attention to the starting of the speech. It must be catchy and should immediately grab the attention of the audience, therefore, it is very important to be relevant. To do so you can start by telling a quick story, take the audience’s poll, give data and statistics, show images to compel the audience. All this can help in grabbing the attention of the audience.

Speech Topics for a 4 Minute Presentation

• How to manage work at the office?
• Tips that can help in home makeover
• Beauty tips every girl should know
• How to take care of yourself during an emotional breakdown?
• Should interns be paid for their internship?
• What should be the criteria for bonuses?
• Why people should associate with NGOs?
• Why planning an outing for your children are important?
• How can you make Thanksgiving more interesting?
• Should uniforms be compulsory in school?
• How meditation can help in relaxing your mind?
• Why is voting for elections important?
• Why drinking soda is really bad for your health?
• Why you should only buy cruelty-free products?
• Why you must completely ban plastic?
• Why you must play some kind of sport?
• Why do the government need to focus more on drug control?
• What does technology hold in the near future?
• How technology has evolved over the years?
• Will robots really take up human tasks in the future?
• Steps you can take to be more eco-friendly.
• Why children should not be given cell phones at a very young age?
• Why you must avoid your children from playing violent video games?
• Safety measures you must take to drive safely.
• Why is lighting an important part of interior design?

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Humorous Speech Topic Ideas​

Pratiksha mishra.

• Speech Topics

What are Humorous Speeches?

Humorous speeches refer to speeches that are made in order to entertain the audience. Most of the times, humour is used as an element to bring back the audience should they have zoned out, or to lighten the mood after a heavy speech or sometimes for sheer entertainment.

How to Write a Humorous Speech?

If you thought you could google up jokes, twist them and place them strategically in your speech and that would be enough to evoke laughter, you aren’t entirely right. While this may sometimes work, most of the time, it won’t.

Use experiences unique to you

A comedian friend once taught me the simple art of weaving humour. He said that the most authentic humour is the one that springs from one’s personal life experiences.

Since these are unique, it is nearly impossible for people to have heard of them and thus adds integrity to the write-up.

Understand the audience the humour is for  

Apart from this, ensure you keep in mind the platform that you will be speaking on. Jokes on spouses seldom do good in a school set up and those on exams will likely bomb in a corporate meeting.

If you are picking a topic that is a burning issue, like that of climate change then you would want to add humour subtly.

Know where to place your jokes

In a typical humorous speech, strive to make your audience get two laughs within a minute. Don’t spend a large part of your speech developing the joke and then saying it.

Ensure that it is well-timed, and the punch lines are scattered and not bunched together.

How to Select a Topic?

There is no set way to select a topic. Pretty much any topic can be turned into a humorous one. However, ensure you remember your audience and their age, background etc. Usually, topics revolving around politics, friends, family tend to be the most picked up ones.

Humorous Speech Topic Ideas

• What should be the punishment for your dog when he loves your partner more than you?
• Why being a dog is better than being a human?
• Do doves still deliver messages?
• How are Pandas still fat when all they eat is healthy stuff?
• Why are cats the most attention-seeking pet?
• Why cow cuddling needs more attention?
• A parallel of how the Koala bear is similar to that clingy ex of yours
• Flamingos: The founders of Yoga (Natarajasana)
• Is animal horoscope a thing?
• Why is a dog more reliable than a security guard?
• Why should pet parties be held more often?
• Dogs and Cats are best friends but with trust issues. 
• How to read your dog’s mind?
• Why should pet-celebs be a thing?
• How to get the chill life of my pet?
• What you can learn about your office from watching The Office
• Everyone I Work With Is at Fault, Except Me
• David Weds Goliath: Mergers and Acquisitions for the New-Age Business
• Even Robots Need Blankets: Why Technological Dependence Isn’t Everything for Your Business
• What I’ll do When I Resign
• How to Lose a Job in 10 Days
• How Incompetent People Manage to Get the Best Jobs 
• A Business Needs “Clerk” Kent, and Not Superman
• Chicken Soup for the Business Soul
• Why a Good Business Leader Needs an Oscar
• No Filter: LinkedIn is Now the New Instagram
• Who Wants to Be a Millionaire: “I Don’t”, said the Billionaire
• Mind your Own Business
• Lead, Follow, or Get Out of The Way
• To be Ethically Unethical or Unethically Ethical
• Today’s Business Leader is Tomorrow’s Villain

College Students

• Broke, again?
• Broke up, again?
• The merry realisation of adulting
• How to tape broken hearts
• The price you pay when you intern for free
• Sleeping with your eyes open
• Finding bugs in the plagiarism checker
• How to ensure your dog eats your homework
• Understanding your dissertation guide
• Severe implications of prom night rejections
• The delicate ask of required attendance
• The truth in positive peer pressure
• The truth of multitasking
• Your foolproof guide to bunking right
• Finding the “X” algebra lost
• How a not-so-smart student is always at the top of the class
• The first rumor about me in school 
• Sugar-coating teachers will help during lab exams
• Beauty > Leadership skills while participating in college elections
• Teacher’s Day is the right day for seniors to bully juniors
• School exhibition is the right time to talk to your secret admirer
• Packing bags before the hour is the best feeling ever in school
• How to answer a prank call?
• The time when the teacher lauded the last bencher
• Yoga periods are nothing but laughter clubs
• The best one-liners to impress your teachers
• The time I got a haircut in school
• A group project is about that one person doing 80% of the task
• Being a bad dancer can make you a popular kid in school
• Best excuses that used to work in schools before
• How to flunk out of college?
• Best excuses to miss school
• What do teachers do off duty?
• Why does the school canteen have the best food?
• School trips can teach you more things than actual classes
• Have technical issues really increased or is it just the classic online excuse?
• Education abroad is all good until you have to wash your clothes
• How is Netflix teaching me more things than my actual teacher?
• How have mathematical proofs helped me in day-to-day life? They haven’t. 
• How moving my classroom seat helped me make more friends?
• Memorizing the periodic table is a huge flex
• How has multiple college assignments made me master procrastination
• Organic chemistry has helped me draw perfect hexagons 
• Plagiarism checks has made life more miserable
• Graduating college without Google is a very respectable deed

Environment

• How to kill your planet: a guide by humans. 
• Similarities between Dante’s Inferno and Earth’s Inferno
• Why I’d rather use a time machine to visit the past than the future
• Climate change doesn’t exist. Well, neither does the future
• Why real estate prices on the moon will skyrocket by 2150
• Garbage Disposal vs. Human Disposal: Which is the better solution?
• The funny thing about dolphins
• How 50 years later,  it will be humans trying to Find Nemo–and his family
• Your spirit animal hates you, and other things animal wished you knew
• Common sense is not common: well, good thing that greed is! 
• Why human beings are an endangered species
• Sustainable development 101 for unsustainable dummies
• A chain smoker & an industrialized city have a heartful conversation
• Plastic Bags and Plastic Surgeries: a comparison
• Rising tempers and rising temperatures: an analogy
• How Eating The Biggest Pizza Slice Is Leading To Shortest Lifetimes
• A Guide For Modern Day Colonization Enthusiasts: America & Food Exports
• How To Go From KFC To TLC: A Guide 
• How To Make A Pizza Without Burning Down Your Building 
• What To Do When Your Boyfriend Likes Food More Than You
• Top 10 Foods To Definitely Not Order On Your First Date
• How Not To Bake A Cake: Survival 101
• How To Eat 100 Packets Of Doritos And Not Throw Up: A Guide For Wannabe Mukbangers
• How To Stop Eating Chocolate: And Other Diet Tips To Make Your Life Miserable
• How To Eat Chilli Without Bawling Your Eyes Out 
• How Not To Die While Cooking A Meal For Yourself 
• How To Eat Avocado Without Throwing Up 
• Your Orange Juice Has No Orange: And More Facts To Make You Feel Stupid 
• Survival Guide 101 For The Morning After Eating Indian Food 
• Why You Should Eat Sweets: A Guide For Perpetually Sour People
• From Napoleon to Jimmy Carter: How the Great Leaders suffered the wrath of rabbits?
• Did Switzerland acquire Harry Potter’s Cloak of Invisibility during both the World Wars?
• Had the Roman Empire been in place, ‘Just one more territory’ would replace the favorite one-liner of ‘Just one more episode’
• The amusing similarity between the Cold War and Sheldon’s technique of blowing people’s minds
• Once upon a time, ‘forks’ were considered blasphemous
• From Chernobyl to the Three Mile Island: Disasters that tell you how pushing your sleep hours is not the cool thing to do
• How sticking a nose into people’s business could be a go-to-motto for US Administration?
• Being a President during the Reconstruction Era must have felt like Hell freezing over
• What’s weirder? Ketchup on Maggi or Ketchup as a medicine? Revisit History to make a call
• Remember how the originals survived so many assassination attempts in the show? Fidel Castro shares a similar history
• How Ibn Battuta’s travel journey became a real pain for all the history students?
• Herbert Hoover’s reaction after the Stock Market Crash of 1929 was the epitome of ‘Hunky-dory’
• The amusing time when the US built a fort over Canadian Territory to prepare for war with Canada
• The ill-fate of Turkeys: From being worshipped to becoming a thanksgiving meal
• Pope Gregory IV and the War on cats
• Marketing is nothing but fooling the customer
• Marrying a marketer is giving into a manipulation for the rest of your life
• Marketing and finance departments are as apart as a husband and a wife
• Marketing is synonymous with selling a part of yourself every day
• A petition to stop email marketing as my spam can no longer take it
• Do I like the product or did I fall for the marketing again?
• What to do after giving in to the marketing tactic and realizing midway?
• Who should teach the art of persuasion: A marketer or a politician? 
• A request for shorter customer satisfaction surveys to the marketing team
• How to not fall into the marketing trap?
• Do marketers also fall into marketing traps?
• Shops need a ‘Beware of the marketing tactic’ board
• Social media marketing or is it meme marketing?
• Similarities between Content Marketing and dating: You get a second chance only if the first one is a success
• Why is a marketer’s favorite drink: Brand-y?
• How to ensure that a marketing couple is on the same landing page?
• Do marketers still get into advertising if they don’t make a lasting impression?
• Will my marketer boyfriend break up with me due to lack of engagement?
• Do anti-social people also get into marketing?
• Does my marketer girlfriend really lead the relationship given her experience in marketing leads?
• Did Yoda really use sales force to get his first lead?
• Marketers love anything organic- be it food or content
• Marketers are bad at highway driving because they can only drive in traffic
• Marketers dislike twins due to duplicate content
• Finding a soul mate at a PPC agency is easier as people just click
• Making peace with the fact that room 404 was missing in the hotel
• Why do marketers like Tofu so much? (Top of the funnel)
• Does using Facebook while working count as working or shirking for digital marketers?
• High bounce rates no longer keep bouncing marketers
• How to not ignore the red flags while talking to a marketer?
• Democracy: The new stage for Pop Culture Icons
• The fake promise lexicon
• The PR battle during elections
• The petty perils of pedigree politics
• The ethical politician
• The dilemma to vote
• Why honest bureaucrats literally go miles
• Political humor- Still an Oxymoron?
• Censor over Sense in Politics
• Why memes can get you elected
• The Autocracy in Democracy
• The system’s gap of common sense
• The absurd math of NOTA
• When campaigns cost more than elections
• When educated people don’t vote and then crib
• The game of Monopoly is a mental sport.
• Running from responsibility is the only sport I play
• Why do South African sportsmen perform best in advertisements?
• Getting cold feet: A real problem for ice hockey players
• Hockey: Injuring someone is better than scoring
• Why is arguing with your spouse similar to wrestling?
• Football: A sport for anger issues
• WWE: A sport you are good at if you have a sibling
• Shakes-Spear: A nervous Javelin thrower
• A “Bawler” is a sad basketball player.
• Cinderella: A bad basketball player running away from the ball
• How does Messi’s mother ask him to clean the room?
• Penal-tea: The only tea footballers don’t like
• Do swimmers ever take a carpool?
• A red birthday card: An upsetting gift for a footballer
• Serving tables: An alternate job option for tennis player
• Fans no longer keep soccer players cool and here’s why
• New Jersey: The best place to get new jerseys
• Football: More like kick someone and not go to jail
• A parallel between playing badminton on a windy day and arguing with your spouse: You can’t get it right
• Soccer players definitely know how to use their heads!
• 7 Reasons why goalkeepers can’t save their work
• A good batter: Something that baseball teams and a tasty pancake both lack
• Boxing: A game to play with your ex
• How does the lack of goals make soccer similar to my life?
• Does the ‘scent’er spot really smell nice?
• Are ice hockey players really good at icebreakers?
• Does investing in skiing companies mean going downhill?
• Why do Jews love jujutsu?
• Why are pool-ups the best exercise for swimmers?

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Presentation Tips - 4 Ideas for Successful, Last-Minute Speeches

Tools , Performance , Strategic Thinking , Communication

Several people in very different settings have asked for presentation tips on making last-minute speeches or moderating panel discussions at events.

My presentation tips in both situations was pretty comparable ( although for panel discussions, I could actually point to a Brainzooming article specifically on the topic ).

If you have just a few moments to set the stage, get your point across, and get off stage, all with high impact, here are four ideas on how to make that happen:

1. If the speech topic feels off, redirect it to something that works better for you.

You want to be up on stage talking about something that you can relate to well, even if it isn’t exactly what the organizers planned. Look for how you can twist the topic more toward your strengths. If you deliver a great message, no one is going to remember you twisted the topic around a bit.

2. Start your speech with a personal story, and weave the story into a reinforcing pattern.

It’s clear we all love stories. But use a personal story at the start of your talk to its best advantage. Tie the opening story to your bigger message, but consider creating some suspense by not finishing the story. That creates the opportunity to finish or call back to the story at the end of your talk. That’s always a nice touch.

3. In between stories, make a couple of related, memorable points.

When you have only a few minutes to present or set the context for a panel, confine yourself to only a couple of points. Succinctly convey those points, ideally in a way that relates to the story you told to start the presentation.

4. Have a couple of go-to questions at the ready.

If there might be an opportunity for questions after your brief remarks, have a couple of questions that you either plant with audience members or ask and answer yourself. And a few conversation-rich questions are always helpful for a panel moderator.

If you’re a frequent speaker, what presentation tips would you offer for making short, last-minute speeches?

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Learn all about how  Mike Brown’s workshops on creating strategic impact can boost your success!

You might also like:.

Creating Strategic Impact - 9 Strategic Thinking Questions for Breaking a Business

Effective Presentation Skills – 6 Keys to Successful Last-Minute Changes

Creating Strategic Impact - Opportunities Experience Never Sees

Date published: 10/08/14

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• School Speech Topics and Ideas

Table of Contents

Explore the Ultimate Speech Topics: Connect, Influence, and Inspire Your Audience

Mastering the art of public speaking not only gives students an edge in terms of communication skills but also prepares them to present their views, put the concepts they believe in into action, and spark the minds of many other people. Through the speeches touching on various school speech topics and themes, students will be able to express their creativity, spark conversations that matter, and make their peers and communities better. In this article, we will travel through a diverse variety of captivating school speech topics and ideas to stir up students enthusiasm and confidence to deliver speeches impromptu.

Best Topics for Speech

Public speaking is a critical skill that students develop both in and outside of the academic environment. Regardless of whether they are presenting in a classroom, taking part in a funny debate , or representing their school by speaking at a competition, they tend to have to speak in the presence of their classmates, their teachers, or even an entire audience. Your selection of a gripping and thought-provoking subject is the most vital element for making your best speech topic captivating and memorable. Best Speech topic list here

Current Events and Issues

• Climate change and its impact on the environment
• Global healthcare challenges and solutions
• Social justice movements and equality issues
• Economic trends and their effects on society

Personal Development

• Overcoming adversity and building resilience
• Goal setting and achieving success
• Effective communication skills for personal and professional growth
• Mindfulness and mental well-being

Technology and Innovation

• The future of artificial intelligence and its ethical implications
• Advancements in renewable energy technologies
• Cybersecurity challenges in the digital age
• The impact of social media on society

History and Culture

• Lessons from historical figures or events
• Cultural diversity and its importance in a globalized world
• The significance of art and literature in shaping societies
• Celebrating heritage and traditions

Health and Wellness

• Nutrition and the importance of a balanced diet
• Mental health awareness and destigmatization
• Fitness and exercise for a healthy lifestyle
• Coping with stress and anxiety

Education and Learning

• The future of education in a digital era
• Importance of lifelong learning and continuous self-improvement
• Innovations in education technology
• Addressing challenges in access to education worldwide

Leadership and Motivation

• Qualities of effective leadership
• Inspirational stories of perseverance and success
• Strategies for motivating oneself and others
• Building strong teams and fostering collaboration

Environmental Conservation

• Sustainable living practices for a greener future
• Conservation of wildlife and natural habitats
• The role of individuals in combating climate change
• Importance of environmental education and activism

Social Issues and Advocacy

• Human rights and activism
• Gender equality and women’s empowerment
• Racial justice and combating discrimination
• LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity

Travel and Exploration

• Cultural immersion through travel experiences
• Sustainable tourism practices
• Adventure and exploration as a means of personal growth
• Discovering the beauty of the natural world through travel

Seize the moment to vocalize your opinions and you will be heard!

With the right topic, you have the power to inform and inspire.

A reasonable selection for a school speech topic is the initial consideration which determines its success in delivering a gripping speech. The topic contributes a lot and determines whether the class listen attentively or not. It sets the tone and the audience’s level of engagement. In that case, while the choice of the topic is vast, picking the most appropriate one is not an easy thing to do either. This article will explore how one can choose a best speech topic for a student representative speech – something that connects the speaker and the listeners as well.

Know Your Audience

As to picking a school speech topic, it is important to study your audience’s interests, values, and demographics. What used to matter to them and what issues they may have been passionate about should be considered. Pinpointing your topic that will be relatable to your audience will make your audience pay much more attention to what you are saying and also spark real conversations.

Identify Your Passion

The topic you choose must be the one that pulls your attention because this is the only way to catch listeners attention and truly present yourself. Think about your hobbies, experiences, and strengths to figure out which subjects you enjoy the most. One crucial part of your narration is the tone of voice you choose. When you appear on stage and speak with enthusiasm that will glow through you – the message will be captivating and more memorable to the audience.

Consider Relevance and Timeliness

Choose a subject that is associated with current affairs, social tendencies or problems happening in the school kingdom where you reside. Niche topics, not only show your awareness of the world then on but also provoke active interaction and debate. Keep abreast of calendars and connect the dots of your topic and current affairs.

Research and Explore

After you make a list of prospective topics, do some research in detail on each of the subject areas. The key here is working with credible resources and acquiring all the available data including contrasting views. Look at the depth of available information and check how well you can create coherent and powerful arguments or stories and choose best speech topics.

Decide Your Best Speech Topic

By doing the research, you could narrow down the list of your topics according to criteria such as the intensity of your interest, the topicality of your audience, and the present availability of specific information. Find a subject that you are well versed in and which influences your main purposes of giving a speech; it may be to educate, persuade, entertain or inspire people.

Engage Your Audience – Inspiring School Speech Topics and Ideas

One of the things that should be considered when choosing a school speech topic is the fact that the speaker should feel a personal connection to the particular topic and it should be original. The topic must fit the individual’s interests and beliefs. In the following, we present the list of the most captivating school speech topics across different categories to encourage you to write enticing and meaningful speeches. Feel free to customize or tailor the topic according to your preferences to make it the best speech topic that is engaging and interactive.

Environment

• The urgency of addressing climate change: Actions are mandatory.
• Sustainable living: Small but effective actions for a greener tomorrow.
• Renewable energy: The transition toward a cleaner energy system.
• The value of including financial literacy education in schools curriculum.
• Addressing mental health stigma in schools: Strategies that focus on open dialogue and support.
• Advantages of Project-based Learning in critical thinking skills development.
• Youth participation in politics: Strengthening our voices.
• Human rights and social justice: Promoting intellectual equity and justice.
• The role of youth activism in shaping policy: From protests to progress!
• Nutrition education: Feeding our bodies for prosperity.
• The importance of sleep: Balancing the sleep for well-being.
• Combating substance abuse among teens: Prevention and aid.
• Overcoming adversity in sports: From the dilemma to the triumph.
• Gender equality in sports: Demolishing stereotypes and prejudice.
• The impact of sportsmanship: Playing with honour and respect.
• Digital literacy: Responsible online navigation.
• The future of artificial intelligence: Opportunities and setbacks.
• Ethical considerations in technology development: Balancing between creativity and care.

Social Issues

• Promoting empathy and understanding: Strategies in aiding inclusiveness in the school system.
• Discussing the role of socioeconomic status in shaping educational opportunities.
• Promoting volunteerism and community service among students: Changing our world, one community at a time.
• “A stitch in time saves nine” – highlighting effective planning as well as preemptive measures.
• “Look before you leap” – the significance of thoughtful contemplation and risk analysis.
• “Don’t bite off more than you can chew” – the importance of setting realistic goals and managing workload effectively.

Mastering the Mic: Hints on How to Hold a Vital and Appealing School Speech

• Be comprehended with the demographics, interests, and knowledge level of your audience.
• Start with an attention-grabbing intro, express your most vital points in the body and finish with a powerful summarization of the initial message.
• Practice your speech several times until you know the content and manner of expression by heart. Strive for a natural delivery while at the same time preserving a good posture and eye contact.
• Use slides, props or videos as a visual motivator and capture the attention of your audience by reinforcing the main points. Make sure that the images you use are neat, relevant, and not obstructive.
• Involve your listeners at an emotional level by adding some storytelling, anecdotes or your own experiences to your speech. Make your listeners the utmost part, give them a chance to feel empathy, inspiration, or even humor.

Choosing an impressive school speech topic can make the difference between an audience that just got through the presentation and one that will appreciate your efforts. Nevertheless, speakers need to find a specific thematic area that corresponds with their interests, values, and opinions. Through topics such as the environment, politics, health, sports, or technology, students have an opportunity to express their perspectives, encourage change, and generate interesting discussions. Moreover, just because you know how to make a speech does not automatically mean that it will take you only two minutes. Yes, it takes some hard work. Especially, when you are involved in other tasks as well and you are running short of time. When you cannot even concentrate on the class, don’t have to worry about anything. Seeking out a professional writer for assistance can help ease your anxiety and exhaustion. Get in touch with our expert writers at Best Assignment Help to help you write compelling best school speeches.

Most frequent questions and answers

What is speech?

Speech is the skill of expressing your thoughts, ideas, or information aloud to an audience.

What is the best topic to speak about in school?

The most suitable topic for discussion in school should represent your interests, reflect your audience, and, as a result, promote thinking or transfer valuable knowledge.

Which topic is best for a 4-minute speech?

A subject that is concise, focused, and allows for comprehensive exploration within a short time. Like 4 minutes would be perfect for the speeches like, “Social Media Impacts on Adolescents’ Mental Health: The Case Study” or “Voting in Local Elections: The Relevancy.”

Which topic is best for a 2-minute speech?

For a 2-minute speech, it would be wiser to choose a straight-to-the point, intriguing, and easily conveyable topic since time is limited. For example, “The Perks of Resilience” or “Tactics to Handle Stress Efficiently.”

What are some unique topics?

“The Psychology of Procrastination: “Overcoming and Learning from Our Weaknesses”

– “The Art of Mindfulness: Cultivating the awareness of the moment and living in the now.

– “The Power of Laughter: The contribution of Humor on Mental and Physical Health.

What are the benefits of giving a speech in academics?

Promotes skills in public speaking, Strengthen critical thinking and research skills, Develop confidence in putting across suggestions and opinions via speaking, Cultivate leadership skills and the ability to collaborate and influence others.

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• Guide to Making Great Speeches

Communication and public speaking are important life skills gained through 4-H participation. Speaking face-to-face is one of the oldest forms of communication and is still the most effective. The listener hears your words, but more than that, he/she watches your face and your hands. They catch your enthusiasm or your concern. It is a warm, personal way of communicating. For the rest of your life, you will be communicating, trying to persuade and to inform. The work you do now in 4-H public speaking will have longer-lasting benefits than any event. So give it all you’ve got!

By giving a speech, you develop:

• Ability to express yourself clearly and convincingly
• Skills in organizing your ideas and ability to present them in a logical order
• Research skills and factual information to support your ideas.
• Poise and confidence in your ability to present your ideas.

The only way to learn good public speaking skills is to give one, and you’ll get better the more you give.

Start with something simple, perhaps among friends at a 4-H Club meeting. You’ll have their interest and support, and the butterflies won’t be jumping in your stomach. All 4-H members should give at least one presentation or public speech each year. Once a year, you can find something to talk about, that you want to share with others. And you will learn more when you do a presentation than the members who watch.

Remember that public speaking is basically the same as a presentation, except that:

• It is just telling.
• It requires careful planning and effective delivery with gestures, voice variety, and proper grammar.

Types of Speeches

Before selecting a topic, you need to be aware of the different types of speeches. There are four major types: informative, persuasive, motivational and entertaining.

• Informative speech gives your audience information and facts on a subject.
• Persuasive speech is used to affect the listener’s behavior by changing a way of thinking. You are trying to convince or persuade them that your opinion is best.
• Motivational speech encourages people to join an activity, initiate a program or take some other kind of action.
• Entertaining speech amuses the audience, but it can also be used as a tool to communicate a message.

Selecting a Topic

Your first step is to select a subject or topic. Usually you’ll do best if you choose a subject from your own experiences. Determine the purpose of your presentation. Is it to inform, or do you want to create action?

When selecting your subject, ask yourself is it:

• Something you like to do.
• Something you have learned to do in 4-H or about 4-H.
• One single idea or theme.
• Something you think others would like to know how to do or know about.
• Timely and seasonal.
• Something interesting and worthwhile to you and your audience.
• Something you can do in a limited time.
• Something that has economic or practical importance to your community, your family, or to you.
• A topic on which you already have some knowledge, would like to know more about, and have an interest.
• A subject suitable to your age, experience, and surroundings.

You can find information about your subject from books, the Internet, newspapers, and magazines. Talk to parents, leaders, or teachers for ideas.

Select the topic you feel will work best and begin to organize your thoughts.

Planning a Speech

The purpose of your speech should be to communicate your ideas to your audience. To do this, your speech must be organized so that the audience can understand what you are telling them. A speech is usually outlined into three major parts: the introduction, body, and conclusion.

• Introduction : captures the attention of the audience. It introduces the central thought of the speech and appeals to the interests of the audience.
• Body : presents the major points through discussion and examples. This is the longest section fo the speech.
• Conclusion : restates the central thought and summarizes the major highlights of the speech. This is the "final thought," the high point and the last chance to impress the audience.

Identify Key Ideas First. Don't start gathering material until you have listed two to five major ideas or thoughts you want your listeners to know. These will guide your search.

Get Organized The four common ways to organize a speech are: 1) Logical, 2) Topical, 3) Spatial, and 4) Chronological.

• Logical . In this form, the problem is stated and the speaker gives the possible solutions. In a persuasive speech, the action or response the speaker gets from the audience is part of the solution.
• Topical . Here the speech is divided into general areas which become main headings. Suppose we were to inform an audience about the 4-H Club emblem. We might say that the emblem is composed of four H's. The names of these four H's woudl become our main headings. 
• Spatial . In this arrangement, the main headings are physically related to each other. An informative speech about the human body (head, shoulders, legs, feet, etc.) would use spatial arrangement.
• Chronological . The fourth arrangement is according to time sequence. In telling the history of America, a speaker discusses the events of history year by year.

Of these four arrangeents, logical and topical are used most often.

Use an Outline An outline is used to help you prepare the speech. It gives you a format to follow and helps get your thoughts onto paper in an organized manner. Here is a simple outline that you can change to fit your needs. This might be used for an informative speech with topical organization.

• Introduction
• Opening phrases to get audience attention
• Subject or purpose statement - why the audience should be concerned
• Bring 4-H into speech
• Sub-point, including detail
• How 4-H is or can be involved
• Summary of main points
• Closing statements

A good speaker usually prefers speaking from an outline. Speaking from a script may hamper delivery because one tends to read rather than "speak" from notes. However, in some instances, it may be wise to write out a speech. Make the decision based on what makes you the most comfortable. If you use notes, write them large enough so you can see them at a glance.

Develop a Catchy Introduction A good introduction is like a handshake; it introduces you in a friendly way. An attention-getter during the introduction makes the audience react positively and makes you feel successful. When you capture the listener's attention, you make them want to listen. The other purpose of the introduction is to inform the audience of your subject. This is where you will state the main points of your speech. Do not expand on them yet; just state them so that the audience knows what your speech is about.

To capture the attention and interest of the audience, you might begin your speech by:

• Challengin them wtih a question.
• Giving a startling statement, but not an offensive one.
• Recounting a personal experience or telling a story.
• Using an appropriate poem or quote. Be sure the method you choose is one that relates to the audience and to what you are going to say.
• Referencing a common experience with humor.
• Revealing statistics related to a cause.

Speakers usually don't begin with, "Good morning. My name is . . ." because it does not capture the interest of the audience. The introduction sets the stage for the speech, so you may want to write this section last. The length of the introduction should never exceed the body of the speech. It should be about five to ten percent of the total time allotted.

Develop the Body The body portion of your speech is where you support the main points of your topic. It contains the heart of your information. Plan this part of your speech first, and then you can develop an introduction and a conclusion that are appropriate. Three to five main points are a good number to use so the audience will not get confused. Try to keep your ideas well-defined so that the audience will remember them. The material supporting main points may be classified into four general types: testimony, statistics, examples, and analogies. 

• Testimony: the expression of an opinion on a topic by any person.
• Statistics: quantitative information produced by organizing and analyzing data collected and the relationships among them.
• Examples: include personal experience interviews with knowledgeable and experienced people, documents, and library resources.
• Analogy: a method of reasoning, concluding that when two particulars are alike in a number of known respects, they will be alike in an unknown respect.

Create a Memorable Conclusion The conclusion is the part of your speech that the audience will remember the most. It should summarize your main points in the body, briefly giving your audience one more chance to hear what you have said. Your conclusion may also motivate your audience to action or just round out your thoughts bringing the speech to a smooth ending. Don't expand on your points in this section. All of the details are given in the body. Listeners tend to remember first and last statements. Give these crucial moments of your speech special attention. While experts recommend that you not memorize your entire speech, it is helpful to memorize your introduction and conclusion. This insures you will get off to a good tsart, even if you are nervous. 

The introduction tells what you are going to tell them, the body is where you tell them, and the conclusion is where you tell them what you have told them. 

Using Transitions Transitions are the connecting parts of the speech. Transition words or phrases allow you to move smoothly from one point to another, developing relationships to help listeners understand your message. 

Transitions can be used between the three major parts of the speech and within each part. Use transitions between:

• The introduction and body. ("I will identify five reasons . . .")
• The major points wihtin the body. ("In addition to that, we need to . . . otherwise, we will not be able . . . and consequently the 4-H'ers . . .")
• The body and conclusion. ("So this means we must . . .")

These sample words can help accomplish the following transitions:

• Further, besides, also, finally, again -- to add a point.
• But, despite, however, on the contrary, yet -- to contrast one point with another.
• Consequently, therefore, accordingly -- to identify a result of an activity.
• Either, both, not only, on the other hand -- to link two alternate points.

When, then, inasmuch as -- to identify a cause of a major point.

So this means, to be sure, in reality -- to repeat and emphasize a point.

Points are, first, the, follow by, next -- to call attention to the next point. 

Planning Your Time 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

• Use your own words. Your words when spoken versus a written script will have a conversational quality and sound natural.
• Try not to use long sentences. They are hard to understand when spoken.
• Simplify ideas and main points so that the audience can understand and remember them.
• Use examples, stories, dialogue, or anything to help your audience visualize what you are telling them.
• Avoid clichés and words that are hard for you to pronounce.

Delivering Your Speech

The First Impression You will come to the audience’s attention as soon as you start to walk to the front of the room or onto the stage. You will have written and learned your speech, but there are other things that you need to do to be a successful public speaker:

• Create a “presence” by walking briskly to the front of the room with a sense of purpose. Project a feeling of confidence.
• Pause just a few seconds and smile naturally to relieve tension before speaking.
• Don’t be rigid. Use a relaxed and balanced posture. Often it works to separate your feet by 10 to 12 inches, perhaps with one foot slightly forward. This is a “home base” posture. It is your starting point for the speech. You don’t have to stay planted the entire time, however. You can move around. Move back and forward, going to and from the home base.
• Stand straight with your arms at your sides until you are ready to gesture. Practice good posture at all times.
• Look good. Get “a little bit dressed up”— reflect to your audience that this is an important event for you. Make a special effort to be well-groomed. Wear attractive, comfortable clothes (nothing inappropriate).
• If you’re nervous, don’t announce it. Once you do, your audience feels obligated to worry about you.

Delivery Delivery is a very important aspect of public speaking. It includes how well you use your voice and nonverbal communication or body actions. Look for these qualities in a good speaking voice:

• Vocal Expression
• Quality - mellow, clear, stable, steady, rich and full, instead of thin, harsh, nasal and shaky.
• Force - volume and intensity. Force of the voice should vary according to what you are saying to avoid monotony, but should be pleasant to listen to and loud enough to be heard.
• Pitch - position on the scale at which you speak. Different words will have higher or lower inflections than others, such as the rising of pitch at the end of a question. Normal speaking pitch should be at a moderate level.
• Rate - speed at which you speak. Rate will change with the effect you want to give. By slowing down, you can think ahead and give the audience a chance to absorb what you are saying. Pauses can be used effectively. But don’t let them appear to be memory problems.
• Enthusiasm - this is the magic ingredient. Enthusiasm is what convinces your audience to see your point of view, to agree with the material you are presenting. Enthusiasm helps build audience acceptance and creates a feeling of enjoyment and togetherness between the listener and the speaker. Remember, enthusiasm is contagious. Once you have it, it is not difficult to infect the audience with it.
• Enunciation and Articulation
• Pronounce all words so that the audience hears them. Try not to let endings such as “-ing” drop off words.
• Look up words if you are not sure of their correct pronunciation.
• Most of us have a tendency to slur words together, but over-precision is undesirable, too. It will sound “mech.can-i-cal.”
• A pleasing voice comes from a relaxed condition. By breathing deeply and evenly, you should be able to overcome a little of your nervousness. Short sentences will help put the pauses where they belong in relation to breathing.

All of these qualities contribute to the outcome of your speech. You have probably heard it one time or another, “It’s not what you said, but how you said it.” This shows that the way we speak has much to do with what our audience actually hears.

What to Do with Your Hands Body action is any physical movement by the speaker. It can relate your thoughts and feelings to the audience almost as effectively as words, so it is very important to understand this type of communication. How you feel always communicates itself to the audience through body language.

Any body movement, except moving from one spot to another, is considered a gesture. To convey your ideas to the audience, you will need to use your whole body. Use facial expressions and direct eye contact with your audience. Smile, frown, etc., just as you would in normal conversation.

Hands often speak louder than words. Here’s a trick to help you prepare how to use your hands during your speech. Stand in front of a full-length mirror with a large book in each hand.

Then, talk. At times, you’ll raise one hand or the other in a gesture, even though the books are heavy. Those are the real gestures. Save them. Eliminate all others. You’ll also discover that the books will tell you exactly how your hands should be positioned—bent slightly at the biggest knuckle—comfortably close to your body, not moving except when there’s an important point to be made.

Most gestures are variations and combinations of different movements. There are four basic hand positions used to express several meanings:

• Index finger: This gesture is suggestive or descriptive, and is used to point out an object or an idea. For example, “You are the problem and solution.”
• Palms up: This can show that you are in favor of something or to compare two things, but never for emphasis alone. For example, “on the one hand . . . while on the other hand. . .”
• Palms down: This is the opposite of palms up. It shows disapproval and is made rapidly. “I want nothing to do with it!” can be emphasized by crossing the hands and arms in a downward sweep.
• Fist: A very emphatic gesture such as this is used to show an important feeling of the speaker such as “We must fight this problem.” Beginners may need to make a conscious effort to include gestures because they feel inhibited or shy, but put a purpose behind them. You should feel that a gesture is necessary to express your idea. Work toward a natural look as you make gestures and movements to emphasize points.

Control Your Nerves Stage fright or nervousness before you speak to a group of people is natural. Understanding how and why it happens will help you overcome stage fright and change your nervousness to work to your advantage.

When faced with making a speech, it is only natural to be apprehensive or fearful because you care what the audience thinks of you. Stage fright is a physical and mental fear that causes your heart to quicken because you are breathing faster. As your heart speeds up, your blood pressure rises and adrenaline is released into the blood stream. This increases the supply of nervous energy. Muscles in your body tend to contract, causing the feeling of “butterflies” in your stomach.

Nervousness before giving a speech is a natural reaction that most people experience, but it does not mean that you will fail. Contrary to popular belief, nervousness is good for you and your speech—that is, up to a certain point. The challenge is to manage the nervousness so it gives you a performance edge. Then your senses will be alert, and you will be able to talk with animation and liveliness.

Try some of these tips:

• Don’t fight nervousness. Accept it as a positive influence.
• Reassure yourself that you are well prepared by having chosen a topic that interests you, and then, be confident that you have done enough research to be knowledgeable on your subject.
• Make sure that you have a clear organizational plan for the flow of your speech.
• Prepare a good introduction that includes material for gaining attention. By breaking the ice with your audience, you will feel more at ease as the speech progresses.
• Practice your speech out loud and in a physical setting that is similar to your speech making situation. As you practice, imagine yourself in the setting. The more you practice your speech, the better you’ll feel about giving it to other people. If you know exactly what you are going to say (know it, don’t memorize it), you won’t need to worry about going blank. Try practicing your speech once a day for two weeks before the contest. It will get tiring after the first week, and then become easier as you work on the gestures. Also practice before a full-length mirror to improve eye contact and poise.
• Take a brisk walk. Walking gets your whole body loosened up and burns off excess nervousness.
• While you’re sitting there waiting to present, let your arms dangle at their side.
• Try deep breathing for two minutes.
• Talk positively to yourself.

Remember, everyone is at least a little nervous in front of others, so don’t give up if you do stumble over words of forget what to say next. As you gain experience, you will gain self-confidence. It will become easier to speak each time because you know that you can handle it.

Use of Notes Using notes is allowed, but not encouraged. If you feel you need notes, try putting just your speech outline on a card. You then can refer to it, but not read off it. Do not gesture with your cards, but don’t try to hide them either. If you forget what you wanted to say next, you can refer to the main points on your outline and easily recover.

Reading from a manuscript is not encouraged. Keep in mind that reference to notes and especially to the manuscript may detract from eye contact, audience interaction, and smoothness of delivery. Notes or manuscripts are, however, allowed. How well notes are used may be a factor in judging.

Also, practice enough so that your speech does not sound memorized.

Using a Microphone When speaking to a very large audience, you may need to use a microphone to reach more people and to speak in a conversational, person-to-person style.

• Before the speech, check the microphone by talking into it to see if the height and volume are correct.
• Speak directly into the “mike” (about four to eight inches away is usually best), but do not lean into or away from it.
• Use a lapel mic if possible. This allows you to move around more than with a stationary microphone, but avoid turning your head away from it.
• Don’t rustle papers. Sounds will be magnified.
• Don’t be afraid of using a microphone. Try to produce a natural sound by listening to your voice to see if the “s, z, sh, and th” sounds are whistling or hissing too much.

Acknowledge Your Sources When using materials written or spoken by someone else, be sure you acknowledge the source. For instance, a poem, quote, or passage from a book can be used as long as you identify who the author was. Using someone else’s exact words under the pretense that they are your own is called plagiarism.

You should also be able to back up what you say. If you want to state that there are 15,000 meadowlarks in Nebraska, you should also tell the source of information. You want to appear as a credible source to your audience, that is, a person to be trusted for accurate and truthful information. One of the most common faults of a speaker is the failure to give credit to sources or to make a statement of fact without proper documentation or evidence of research.

How Did You Do?

After giving a speech, people often do not go any further to become a good public speaker. There is more to it than just the speaking. A good speaker knows the value of their speech. Some speeches can be very good in content, but not be delivered well. Others may not expand enough on their subject. Every speech should be reviewed to determine the strengths of the speech and how it can be improved. Use the scorecard to evaluate your speech to make you a better public speaker.

Through the years, as you gain experience and confidence, you might want to try different speaking techniques, but starting with good basic skills will make you a much better speaker. The old saying of “practice makes perfect” is a good guideline to follow. The more speaking experiences you have the better you will become.

Public speaking benefits are almost too numerous to count, but perhaps the most important one is the confidence that you develop in yourself.

In The Future

Everyone can benefit from public speaking experience. Your life will be richer if you develop skillful communication with other people. Almost every profession that comes in contact with the public needs people like you with speaking skills. There are unlimited opportunities in fields such as television and radio, teaching, law, medicine, sales, entertainment, public relations, farming, and many, many more.

The 4-H Public Speaking Contest is just the beginning. Take the opportunities that arise to speak at your 4-H club meetings, school groups, organizations, or community clubs. High school speech contests are good experiences because you have the chance to participate in activities such as dramatic interpretation of poetry and prose, extemporaneous speaking, one-act plays, public address, and acting. But don’t stop here. There are many good college speech courses that can open up new doors for you, such as:

• Speech Therapy
• Basic Theory of Acting
• Radio and T.V. broadcasting
• Non-verbal human communication
• Interpretive reading
• Business and professional speaking

4-H Contest Opportunities

Youth enrolled in the Nebraska 4-H Youth Development Program are eligible to participate in the county-based communication contests or the 4-H Prepared Speech or Impromptu Speech Contest at the  State 4-H Premier Communication Event . Contact your  local Nebraska Extension Office  for more information. 

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Nebraska 4-H Communications Resources

• How to Prepare a 4-H Radio Public Service Announcement
• Planning a 4-H Presentation
• Giving a Presentation
• Creating Presentation Visuals
• Creating Digital Presentation Visuals

4 Minute Speech on Education In English

A very good morning to one and all present here. Today, I will be giving a short speech on the topic of ‘Education’.

Wikipedia defines the term ‘education’ to be “a purposeful activity directed at achieving certain aims, such as transmitting knowledge or fostering skills and character traits. These aims may include the development of understanding, rationality, kindness, and honesty.”

Education, as the above-given definition, must thus not only be confined to mere theoretical knowledge as it is often misinterpreted to be. It should rather be a holistic process which aims to hone one to become a qualified individual as one grows up into adulthood.

The process of acquiring a basic level of knowledge like this through schooling is crucial for everyone as they grow up from children to adults. Moreover, it teaches one integral values in life and helps build character and become financially independent at a later stage.

Today, however, the aim of education does not have anything to do with knowledge. Rather, it has morphed into a rat race!

Being academically proficient and receiving straight As is of prime importance nowadays. Rather than understanding new concepts and learning meaningfully from them, what matters now is blindly memorizing the syllabus for the sake of ‘scoring good grades’ and writing answers that would appease the examiner with appropriate ‘keywords’!

The education system as a whole needs to be revised thus. The aim of education must shift from receiving good grades to learning knowledge and learning through a more hands-on approach. Practical skills must be given more importance thus rather than education turning into a bloodthirsty battle for marks!

Thank you. 

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I've already looked around the internet but can't seem to find one what will last at least 4 minutes or more. It also has to be a non-controversial one like abortion type of controversial.

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75 Persuasive Speech Topics and Ideas

October 4, 2018 - Gini Beqiri

To write a captivating and persuasive speech you must first decide on a topic that will engage, inform and also persuade the audience. We have discussed how to choose a topic and we have provided a list of speech ideas covering a wide range of categories.

What is persuasive speech?

The aim of a persuasive speech is to inform, educate and convince or motivate an audience to do something. You are essentially trying to sway the audience to adopt your own viewpoint.

The best persuasive speech topics are thought-provoking, daring and have a clear opinion. You should speak about something you are knowledgeable about and can argue your opinion for, as well as objectively discuss counter-arguments.

How to choose a topic for your speech

It’s not easy picking a topic for your speech as there are many options so consider the following factors when deciding.

Familiarity

Topics that you’re familiar with will make it easier to prepare for the speech.

It’s best if you decide on a topic in which you have a genuine interest in because you’ll be doing lots of research on it and if it’s something you enjoy the process will be significantly easier and more enjoyable. The audience will also see this enthusiasm when you’re presenting which will make the speech more persuasive.

The audience’s interest

The audience must care about the topic. You don’t want to lose their attention so choose something you think they’ll be interested in hearing about.

Consider choosing a topic that allows you to be more descriptive because this allows the audience to visualize which consequently helps persuade them.

Not overdone

When people have heard about a topic repeatedly they’re less likely to listen to you as it doesn’t interest them anymore. Avoid cliché or overdone topics as it’s difficult to maintain your audience’s attention because they feel like they’ve heard it all before.

An exception to this would be if you had new viewpoints or new facts to share. If this is the case then ensure you clarify early in your speech that you have unique views or information on the topic.

Emotional topics

Emotions are motivators so the audience is more likely to be persuaded and act on your requests if you present an emotional topic.

People like hearing about issues that affect them or their community, country etc. They find these topics more relatable which means they find them more interesting. Look at local issues and news to discover these topics.

Desired outcome

What do you want your audience to do as a result of your speech? Use this as a guide to choosing your topic, for example, maybe you want people to recycle more so you present a speech on the effect of microplastics in the ocean.

Persuasive speech topics

Lots of timely persuasive topics can be found using social media, the radio, TV and newspapers. We have compiled a list of 75 persuasive speech topic ideas covering a wide range of categories.

Some of the topics also fall into other categories and we have posed the topics as questions so they can be easily adapted into statements to suit your own viewpoint.

• Should pets be adopted rather than bought from a breeder?
• Should wild animals be tamed?
• Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like monkeys?
• Should all zoos and aquariums be closed?

Arts/Culture

• Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
• Should graffiti be considered art?
• Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
• Should automobile drivers be required to take a test every three years?
• Are sports cars dangerous?
• Should bicycles share the roads with cars?
• Should bicycle riders be required by law to always wear helmets?

Business and economy

• Do introverts make great leaders?
• Does owning a business leave you feeling isolated?
• What is to blame for the rise in energy prices?
• Does hiring cheaper foreign employees hurt the economy?
• Should interns be paid for their work?
• Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
• Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
• Should boys and girls should be taught in separate classrooms?
• Should schools include meditation breaks during the day?
• Should students be allowed to have their mobile phones with them during school?
• Should teachers have to pass a test every decade to renew their certifications?
• Should online teaching be given equal importance as the regular form of teaching?
• Is higher education over-rated?
• What are the best ways to stop bullying?
• Should people with more than one DUI lose their drivers’ licenses?
• Should prostitution be legalised?
• Should guns be illegal in the US?
• Should cannabis be legalised for medical reasons?
• Is equality a myth?
• Does what is “right” and “wrong” change from generation to generation?
• Is there never a good enough reason to declare war?
• Should governments tax sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
• Has cosmetic surgery risen to a level that exceeds good sense?
• Is the fast-food industry legally accountable for obesity?
• Should school cafeterias only offer healthy food options?
• Is acupuncture a valid medical technique?
• Should assisted suicide be legal?
• Does consuming meat affect health?
• Is dieting a good way to lose weight?

Law and politics

• Should voting be made compulsory?
• Should the President (or similar position) be allowed to serve more than two terms?
• Would poverty reduce by fixing housing?
• Should drug addicts be sent for treatment in hospitals instead of prisons?
• Would it be fair for the government to detain suspected terrorists without proper trial?
• Is torture acceptable when used for national security?
• Should celebrities who break the law receive stiffer penalties?
• Should the government completely ban all cigarettes and tobacco products
• Is it wrong for the media to promote a certain beauty standard?
• Is the media responsible for the moral degradation of teenagers?
• Should advertising be aimed at children?
• Has freedom of press gone too far?
• Should prayer be allowed in public schools?
• Does religion have a place in government?
• How do cults differ from religion?

Science and the environment

• Should recycling be mandatory?
• Should genetically modified foods be sold in supermarkets?
• Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
• Should selling plastic bags be completely banned in shops?
• Should smoking in public places be banned?
• Should professional female athletes be paid the same as male athletes in the same sport?
• Should doping be allowed in professional sports?
• Should schools be required to teach all students how to swim?
• How does parental pressure affect young athletes?
• Will technology reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
• What age should children be allowed to have mobile phones?
• Should libraries be replaced with unlimited access to e-books?
• Should we recognize Bitcoin as a legal currency?
• Should bloggers and vloggers be treated as journalists and punished for indiscretions?
• Has technology helped connect people or isolate them?
• Should mobile phone use in public places be regulated?
• Do violent video games make people more violent?

World peace

• What is the safest country in the world?
• Is planetary nuclear disarmament possible?
• Is the idea of peace on earth naive?

These topics are just suggestions so you need to assess whether they would be suitable for your particular audience. You can easily adapt the topics to suit your interests and audience, for example, you could substitute “meat” in the topic “Does consuming meat affect health?” for many possibilities, such as “processed foods”, “mainly vegan food”, “dairy” and so on.

After choosing your topic

After you’ve chosen your topic it’s important to do the following:

• Research thoroughly
• Think about all of the different viewpoints
• Tailor to your audience – discussing your topic with others is a helpful way to gain an understanding of your audience.
• How involved are you with this topic – are you a key character?
• Have you contributed to this area, perhaps through blogs, books, papers and products.
• How qualified are you to speak on this topic?
• Do you have personal experience in it? How many years?
• How long have you been interested in the area?

While it may be difficult to choose from such a variety of persuasive speech topics, think about which of the above you have the most knowledge of and can argue your opinion on.

For advice about how to deliver your persuasive speech, check out our blog  Persuasive Speech Outline and Ideas .

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13 Best AI Video Tools to Try in 2024 (Mostly Free!)

Featuring the most exciting and feature-packed A.I. video editor tools currently available, from AI tools for editing to the best new AI video generators.

AI | Software | By Jeff Collier

Shotkit may earn a commission on affiliate links. Learn more.

You’re about to discover the best AI video editing tools to speed up your film making workflow.

I’ve used all kinds of fancy video editing software over my years producing home movies.

…but nothing as exciting as this selection of AI-powered tools.

Use AI to reframe your videos in one click for multiple devices, match colours, tag footage and more in this popular full-featured video editor.

This guide is for everyone from budding YouTuber to professional content creator… and every filmmaker in between.

(If you’re a photographer, make sure you check our articles on AI photo tools and AI photo editing software .)

I’ll walk you through the best AI video software that can streamline your editing workflow, save you time, and boost your creativity.

Table of Contents

What Are the Best AI Video Tools to Try in 2024?

1. Adobe Premiere Pro | Best AI Software to Create Videos

• Best all round video editor
• Cloud-syncing for backups
• Free trial available
• Colour matching speeds up edits
• Auto reframing useful for social media
• Subscription based model
• Steep learning curve
• Requires high computer specs

Not only is Premiere Pro my pick of the best video editing software , but it’s now my favourite AI video app too.

With the latest version you can download using the button above, you’ll get some crazy powerful AI tools to make creating high quality videos a cinch.

Colour Match allows you to match the colours in two different clips in your sequence to help get rid of any discrepancies between different shots in the same scene – really useful if you use two different cameras.

The Auto Reframe tool is a godsend for social media video content, allowing you to change horizontal 16:9 video footage into a tall 9:16 aspec ratio, perfect for instagram Stories or YouTube Shorts.

If you shoot interviews, the auto audio ducking feature uses AI to lower the volume of music when dialogue is happening

Adobe Sensei is the ‘brain’ behind the AI in Premiere Pro, providing other features such as Auto Classification which tags your footage and Morph Cut which smoothes out jump cuts.

Overall, even if you didn’t use any of the AI video features in Premiere Pro, you’d still be left with the top editing software of the year – start by downloading a free trial and see what you think.

• How to Download Adobe Premiere Pro

2. Topaz Video AI | Photography AI Tool for Enlargements

• Extremely powerful video editing tool
• Upscaling, image stabilization, and slow-motion capabilities
• Can generate multiple previews at the same time
• Relatively expensive

Simply put, Topaz Video AI is a standalone desktop video editing application that makes your videos look better.

Drag and drop your video into the software, select from the menu of presets, and let the deep-learning robot minds cast their magic.

You can even upscale your footage. That means that all your grainy, blurry old 1080p film can now be enhanced to 4K or 8K.

You can also render your footage in slow motion which can be handy if you forgot to shoot in the correct frame rate:

Let’s say you shot at 24 fps – give Topaz that video and the AI will create new frames between the actual frames you shot, so your 24 fps could become 60 fps, and you can slow it right down.

The program also has two types of image stabilization to help you produce engaging videos:

The first crops into your footage to create this effect, and the other is image-aware and will fill in the missing gaps around the edges of your video so that the field of view doesn’t change.

With this powerful AI video editing software, you can tweak just about any setting you’d want to use to enhance the quality of your footage – the frame rate, the amount of grain, or the sharpness.

Not only that, you can create your own custom presets for adding to future videos.

• Topaz Video AI Review

3. Filmora | Affordable AI Video Maker

• Simple, easy-to-use interface
• Good suite of AI tools
• Subscription or perpetual license options
• Doesn’t have the slick feel of some competitors

As well as giving you all the tools you’d expect from a video editing suite, for adding templates, titles and subtitles, and for making adjustments to the video and audio tracks, Filmora also has some fantastic AI tools.

You can adjust your footage’s aspect ratio, upscale video resolution from lowly 1080p to, for example, 4K, and change your frame rate to make fast video slow and slow video fast.

Other AI tools include their chroma key, which enables you to remove specific background colours.

This is especially useful for green screen footage, to make the background transparent so that you can add other media.

AI portrait does essentially the same thing and removes even complex backgrounds from behind subjects.

Added to that, Filmora has AI image stabilization, and lens correction to help you sort out any irritating distortion your lens might have gifted you.

In general, Filmora is my recommended video editing software for beginners – it may not have every feature of Final Cut or Adobe Premiere for video creation, but for the price, it can’t be beaten.

• Filmora Review
• Best green screen software

4. Fliki | Best AI Video Generator

• Simple workflow to convert ideas, scripts, blogs, PPT, product URLs, and tweets into videos
• 2000+ AI voices in 75+ languages and 100+ dialects
• First in the industry to offer AI-generated video clips
• High-quality avatars with voice cloning in 29 languages
• Translate/Dub videos in 75+ Languages
• Intuitive and easy-to-use interface
• Require a paid subscription for premium features

Fliki is a groundbreaking text to video AI tool perfect for transforming text into engaging videos with professional voiceovers. Its user-friendly design makes it accessible even to those with little technical experience, allowing them to produce high-quality video content effortlessly.

Fliki’s extensive voice selection, available in 75+ languages and over 100 dialects, provides unparalleled personalization options. It also offers advanced voice cloning in 29 languages, and it leads the industry with its unique AI video clips—just input text and watch as Fliki’s AI crafts distinct video content akin to OpenAI’s Sora technology.

Whether you’re a content creator, a marketer, or just someone with a personal project, Fliki AI Video Generator provides the tools and flexibility needed to produce visually appealing and impactful videos.

5. Deep Brain | Text to Speech AI Video Tools

• Innovative AI human technology
• Multi-language text-to-speech solutions
• Wide application across sectors
• Free online AI video editor
• Highly customizable avatars
• Learning curve

DeepBrain AI stands out in the field of artificial intelligence with its cutting-edge AI human technology.

It excels at creating real-time, interactive artificial humans that can be employed in various domains, such as customer service, virtual assistance, and educational content delivery.

Their service enables the use of AI avatars that are customizable to suit different business needs, providing a unique interactive experience for end-users.

It’s particularly beneficial for enterprises looking to scale their operations with AI while maintaining a human-like touch in their customer engagement strategies.

• Good for beginners
• Easy to learn
• Range of templates and tools
• Speech to subtitles feature
• Some features are only available in higher price plans

One of the best AI video editing options for beginners is Veed.io.

It has an extremely simple and easy-to-learn interface, but despite this, it still packs a punch.

Veed.io has many of the features of the previous two video editing software programs in this article.

With it, you can change the frame rate to speed up or slow down your footage, and you can also remove backgrounds with a single click.

Something it’s well-known for is its AI-powered speech to subtitles tool, which accurately transcribes in moments, saving you potential hours of work.

And there’s also the text-to-speech feature. With this, you can give your video a voiceover without manually recording your own voice, and you can choose from a range of voice profiles and accents.

I’ve included Veed in this list of the best AI video software because I’ve spent many a day transcribing videos manually, and know how frustrating it can be.

• What is an AI camera?

7. Synthesia

• Easy way to make presentations
• Powerful, simple-to-use tool
• Impressive range of features
• Affordable AI video creation platform
• Limited, specialized use case

Synthesia specializes in speech-to-video creation using artificial intelligence to create engaging videos.

They give you a range of templates and amazingly lifelike avatars which you can make say anything you want – ideal for creating YouTube videos you don’t want to appear in.

Whatever you type, they can say in a range of accents, using diction and, in the most recent iteration, gestures.

It’s spooky how realistic it all sounds – even if you don’t have any staff or any desire to appear in YouTube videos yourself, Synthesia can help with your video creation.

You can add a background behind your avatar, add a music track, and use a range of other tools to make the video your own.

• How can AI benefit photography?

• Easy to use and learn
• Simple but powerful
• Simple, two-tier pricing
• Article-to-text feature
• Only the highest membership tiers have access to the best video and image libraries

This software shares a lot in look and feel with Veed.io.

It has a super-simple, clean interface that is very easy to navigate. It also has a vast bank of templates for a range of needs from sports to marketing, to help you kick things off.

One of its most impressive features is the AI-powered article-to-text tool.

With this, you can copy and paste an article into the tool, and it will scrape the text to extract the main ideas, and then create concise content around these.

It can create a unique video from an article too. Let’s say I wanted to make a video from this article – I could just paste the URL into InVid, and the video would be created for me!

This makes it the best AI video tool for batch creating multiple clips from a blog.

Like Veed.io, InVideo also offers automated text-to-speech. No more need to record voiceovers, all thanks to the power of video artificial intelligence.

• What’s the best mobile video editing app for iPhone and Android?

9. Descript 

• Unique product
• Powerful editing tools
• Edit video with text
• Slick interface
• It’s not for everyone, but that’s just me trying to find something to say

One for the podcasters . A powerful speech-to-text editor that will save you time by allowing you to edit automatically transcribed text and video voiceover at the same time.

Simply put, you can record yourself, your voice and your face, and Descript uses AI to make a video and a written script from this.

You can then edit that script, for example shortening long pauses in your speech, removing filler and thinking words, or removing whole phrases.

Whatever you remove is also removed from the recorded footage, thereby seamlessly editing your video with AI.

The software also allows you to sync your visuals with specific moments in the script, and there’s a toolbar to help you collaborate on a project with a team.

Add to that powerful video editing features such as the ability to grade colours, remove backgrounds, and beef up sound quality, and you have yourself a winner.

10. FlexClip

• Interface good for beginners
• Great template and stock library
• AI speech to text
• AI text to speech
• Limited tools for pros
• Only exports to 1080p

This software is rich in templates and has an impressive amount of stock imagery and video you can use to inspire or pad out your videos.

The interface is very simple – it’s the best AI video editing software I tested for beginners, who will get the hang of it very easily.

Once you have your footage uploaded, you have the standard range of editing tools to work with, to make your video look exactly as you want it to.

You can adjust the brightness, and the speed, you can flip it around, trim it, or use FlexClip’s range of filters to automatically adjust the colours.

In terms of AI video creation features, there’s speech-to-text, which can quickly generate subtitles, and text-to-speech, which can help you make natural-sounding voiceovers.

11. Rawshorts

• Good library of resources
• Timesaver for small businesses
• Text to animation
• Automatic voice generator
• Free version is quite limited

This powerful tool is specifically for people who want to make video animations.

Write a script (or get ChatGPT to do that for you!) and paste it into the program. The software will then generate a voiceover, scrape your text for the main ideas, and then use those to make a coherent, animated storyboard.

You’ve probably seen these types of animations used on software product sales pages to explain how to use the software.

This type of animation can cost thousands of dollars to produce (not to mention countless hours of drawing), but now thanks to AI, you can do it for a fraction of the time and cost.

If you need to create videos for small businesses, you can imagine how much easier this clever AI video tool can make your work.

12. Lumen 5

• Quick and easy tool to use
• Text to video
• Good range of editing tools
• Free version is very limited

This nifty AI video editing softwa re software helps you automatically transform blog posts, Zoom calls, or articles, into video.

It’s super easy to do. For example, just paste your blog article URL into the program, and it will extract the key points to match them with relevant text and video.

From there, you can tweak what you want, edit text, and swap out photos and videos from Lumen 5’s online library.

You can also make talking head videos and enhance your videos with callouts and cutaways.

My favourite feature is the ability to select words in the transcript (auto-generated by AI, of course!), then match the visuals directly to the timing of the audio.

For video creation for social media, which often needs captions timed to voice over or talking heads, this AI video app is insanely useful.

13. SyntheSys

• Professional-level software
• Text-to-video capabilities
• Easy-to-use dashboard
• More expensive than other text-to-video competitors

Using SyntheSys, you can get a lifelike avatar to present a video for you, generated from text, or create a natural-sounding voiceover track.

They have a library of male and female avatars, and their technology allows them to use gestures, and natural voice tones, and speak in 145 languages.

It’s a great tool for businesses, or anyone wanting to quickly create human-looking and -sounding content for commercial purposes.

Whether you want to remain anonymous in your video clips or simply prefer to use someone else, AI video generators like this can help speed up your video creation process.

What Is the Best AI Tool to Create Videos?

It really depends on what kind of video you want to create, as there is quite a diverse range of AI video generators out there for different use cases.

A cinematographer or videographer is more likely to need a tool with the power and scope of Topaz Video AI or Filmora. These can really help you dive deep into your footage and create something extraordinary for professional videos.

Veed.io and InVid are best for beginners or those who perhaps need video clips for personal use or smaller scale production edits.

Then there are the tools that are better for small businesses, YouTubers, or for commercial use.

Descript is a great tool for Youtubers and podcasters to clean up their script and video, whereas Rawshorts will help you create an animation from your script.

Those looking for AI to make them a voiceover or a complete presentation with a video or even an avatar will need something different again.

Lumen 5, for example, will help you create high quality videos like these, while Synthesia or SyntheSys will generate a presentation for you with a human-ish presenter.

How Does an AI Video Generator Work?

The computer science behind the nuts and bolts of AI video generation is beyond both my human intelligence and the scope of this article.

But in simple terms, what I understand of it is that machine-learning, the machine who has learned – which is a way of saying ‘an extremely powerful computer’ – knowing language on some robotic, mathematical level, scrapes the text and converts it into computer language: numbers.

As computers understand everything in these terms, the combinations of numbers it receives from the text will correspond to number patterns within videos that express the same ideas as the text. They will match. And thus, a video is born.

AI Video Editing Software FAQ s

What is the best AI tool to create videos?

For creating videos and ease of use, I’d have to say Lumen 5 for enabling you to quickly make a coherent video from text, or SyntheSys for creating realistic avatar-led video presentations. For specific edits, Topaz Video AI can’t be beaten.

Is there an AI that edits videos?

Yes. For example, Topaz AI and Filmora both help you edit your videos.

You can use image stabilization, change the frame rate to create natural-looking slow-motion effects, upscale your videos, and do many more things that only a year or so ago, weren’t possible.

How do I know if a video was created by AI?

With many ai video editing tools, you simply won’t know, and that’s increasingly the case.

The AI tools in Topaz Video AI are so powerful there’s really no way of telling if that slow-motion video was originally filmed at 60 fps or 24 fps.

Likewise, the human avatar you can use to give your video presentations can use natural gestures, voice tones and intonation, which can make it very difficult to know if they’re real or not.

Take for example, the Deep Fake video below:

It’s certainly very hard to spot if the video creation was by AI or if it was actual footage.

What AI video app is everyone using?

Everyone is using all of them! All of the video apps in this article are being used by someone, somewhere to save time, to be more efficient, and to create something more compelling for a variety of use cases.

If I had to choose one, I’d say it was Topaz Video AI, just because that’s the world I come from, and I know that it’s a very popular resource.

For another use case, I’d find it hard to believe that most podcasters weren’t using Descript, as it’s such a powerful and powerfully specialised tool.

Is Synthesia Ai video free to use?

No, it’s not. Synthesia is only offered on a subscription basis.

AI Video Editing Tools: Final Words

So there you go.

Honestly, even though I wrote this article myself, my mind is a little blown.

AI is so new, but it can already do so much.

It’s hard to know where it’s going to lead, but although that’s a little terrifying, it’s also exciting.

Especially if you’re working with video.

The AI video generators and tools available to you are so powerful that they will change the way you film and the way you think about filming.

Cinematographers can make 8K cinematic, slow-motion, fully stabilized footage from 1080p footage filmed on an old camera.

YouTubers can make video content of themselves with all their thinking words removed.

Businesses can make promo videos, voiceovers or video presentations without hiring voiceover artists.

It’s head-spinning! Doesn’t it make you want to create AI generated videos just to see how incredible the technology has become?

If you’re not already using AI video generators in some form, it definitelt feels like right now is the time to start.

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Jeff Collier is an experienced film photographer who enjoys experimenting with modern digital photography equipment, software and apps. He’s also an ex-world champion triathlete and avid cyclist, clocking hundreds of km each week in the beautiful Tweed Valley of northern NSW, Australia.

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• Defence and armed forces

Prime Minister's remarks for the 80th anniversary of D-Day

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's remarks at the British Normandy Memorial for the 80th anniversary of D-Day [6 June 2024].

Eighty years ago, the weather broke - and the greatest invasion force in history left the shores of Britain to liberate Europe. 

We are here today to remember the sacrifice of the tens of thousands who did not make it home. 

And we are here to honour the service of those who did. 

Men like Ken Cooke. 

18 years old. He’d never been on a boat before. He’d never been on a beach before. 

Yet with his regiment, the Green Howards, he landed in the first wave to storm Gold Beach. 

Or Stan Ford, 19, who was manning a gun turret on HMS Fratton when a torpedo struck, blowing him into the water. 

The ship sank in 4 minutes. 31 of Stan’s shipmates were lost from a crew of 80. 

Or Royal Marine Dennis Donovan, who landed on Juno Beach alongside Canadian forces. 

They fought their way off the beach and into the bitter house-to-house fighting to take Langrune-sur-Mer. 

By the end of the first day, a quarter of his unit was dead or wounded.   

Ken, Stan, and Dennis are here today, alongside dozens of their fellow veterans. 

We are humbled to be with you. And for what you did that day, we will always be grateful. 

I can guess how they might feel when they hear us applaud their courage. 

“I’m no hero”, they will say. “I just did my duty”. 

That humility is so much a part of why they are truly the best of us. 

But to call one person a hero does not diminish the heroism of others. 

Each of you who contributed that day – sailor, soldier, aviator, civilian… 

…whether you fought on the beaches, or parachuted from the skies, or flew fighters or gliders… 

…whether you were an engineer, or a radio operator, or an intelligence officer… 

…your actions freed a continent and built a better world. 

You risked everything. And we owe you everything.   

We cannot possibly hope to repay that debt. 

But we can – and we must – pledge never to forget. 

After the war, many of you dedicated your lives to telling the story of what happened here. 

You sold poppies and raised millions for charity.  

You taught generations of young people about the horrors of war. 

You lived lives of quiet dignity and dedication in your homes, workplaces, communities. 

Yet with each passing year, it falls now to those of us who listened in awe to your stories…

…to pass them on to our own children and grandchildren. 

Because only by remembering can we make certain that the cause you fought for… 

…and that so many of your friends and colleagues died for… 

…that great cause of freedom, peace, and democracy… 

…will never be taken for granted. 

That is why we come here today.  

That is why we honour our veterans – now and always. 

And that is why I ask those who can, to rise and please join me in giving our heroes the welcome they so deserve.

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