how to make a persuasive speech outline

Improve your practice.

Enhance your soft skills with a range of award-winning courses.

Persuasive Speech Outline, with Examples

March 17, 2021 - Gini Beqiri

A persuasive speech is a speech that is given with the intention of convincing the audience to believe or do something. This could be virtually anything – voting, organ donation, recycling, and so on.

A successful persuasive speech effectively convinces the audience to your point of view, providing you come across as trustworthy and knowledgeable about the topic you’re discussing.

So, how do you start convincing a group of strangers to share your opinion? And how do you connect with them enough to earn their trust?

Topics for your persuasive speech

We’ve made a list of persuasive speech topics you could use next time you’re asked to give one. The topics are thought-provoking and things which many people have an opinion on.

When using any of our persuasive speech ideas, make sure you have a solid knowledge about the topic you’re speaking about – and make sure you discuss counter arguments too.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• All school children should wear a uniform
• Facebook is making people more socially anxious
• It should be illegal to drive over the age of 80
• Lying isn’t always wrong
• The case for organ donation

Read our full list of  75 persuasive speech topics and ideas .

Preparation: Consider your audience

As with any speech, preparation is crucial. Before you put pen to paper, think about what you want to achieve with your speech. This will help organise your thoughts as you realistically can only cover 2-4 main points before your  audience get bored .

It’s also useful to think about who your audience are at this point. If they are unlikely to know much about your topic then you’ll need to factor in context of your topic when planning the structure and length of your speech. You should also consider their:

• Cultural or religious backgrounds
• Shared concerns, attitudes and problems
• Shared interests, beliefs and hopes
• Baseline attitude – are they hostile, neutral, or open to change?

The factors above will all determine the approach you take to writing your speech. For example, if your topic is about childhood obesity, you could begin with a story about your own children or a shared concern every parent has. This would suit an audience who are more likely to be parents than young professionals who have only just left college.

Remember the 3 main approaches to persuade others

There are three main approaches used to persuade others:

The ethos approach appeals to the audience’s ethics and morals, such as what is the ‘right thing’ to do for humanity, saving the environment, etc.

Pathos persuasion is when you appeal to the audience’s emotions, such as when you  tell a story  that makes them the main character in a difficult situation.

The logos approach to giving a persuasive speech is when you appeal to the audience’s logic – ie. your speech is essentially more driven by facts and logic. The benefit of this technique is that your point of view becomes virtually indisputable because you make the audience feel that only your view is the logical one.

• Ethos, Pathos, Logos: 3 Pillars of Public Speaking and Persuasion

Ideas for your persuasive speech outline

1. structure of your persuasive speech.

The opening and closing of speech are the most important. Consider these carefully when thinking about your persuasive speech outline. A  strong opening  ensures you have the audience’s attention from the start and gives them a positive first impression of you.

You’ll want to  start with a strong opening  such as an attention grabbing statement, statistic of fact. These are usually dramatic or shocking, such as:

Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead from the food that they eat – Jamie Oliver

Another good way of starting a persuasive speech is to include your audience in the picture you’re trying to paint. By making them part of the story, you’re embedding an emotional connection between them and your speech.

You could do this in a more toned-down way by talking about something you know that your audience has in common with you. It’s also helpful at this point to include your credentials in a persuasive speech to gain your audience’s trust.

Obama would spend hours with his team working on the opening and closing statements of his speech.

2. Stating your argument

You should  pick between 2 and 4 themes  to discuss during your speech so that you have enough time to explain your viewpoint and convince your audience to the same way of thinking.

It’s important that each of your points transitions seamlessly into the next one so that your speech has a logical flow. Work on your  connecting sentences  between each of your themes so that your speech is easy to listen to.

Your argument should be backed up by objective research and not purely your subjective opinion. Use examples, analogies, and stories so that the audience can relate more easily to your topic, and therefore are more likely to be persuaded to your point of view.

3. Addressing counter-arguments

Any balanced theory or thought  addresses and disputes counter-arguments  made against it. By addressing these, you’ll strengthen your persuasive speech by refuting your audience’s objections and you’ll show that you are knowledgeable to other thoughts on the topic.

When describing an opposing point of view, don’t explain it in a bias way – explain it in the same way someone who holds that view would describe it. That way, you won’t irritate members of your audience who disagree with you and you’ll show that you’ve reached your point of view through reasoned judgement. Simply identify any counter-argument and pose explanations against them.

• Complete Guide to Debating

4. Closing your speech

Your closing line of your speech is your last chance to convince your audience about what you’re saying. It’s also most likely to be the sentence they remember most about your entire speech so make sure it’s a good one!

The most effective persuasive speeches end  with a  call to action . For example, if you’ve been speaking about organ donation, your call to action might be asking the audience to register as donors.

Practice answering AI questions on your speech and get  feedback on your performance .

If audience members ask you questions, make sure you listen carefully and respectfully to the full question. Don’t interject in the middle of a question or become defensive.

You should show that you have carefully considered their viewpoint and refute it in an objective way (if you have opposing opinions). Ensure you remain patient, friendly and polite at all times.

Example 1: Persuasive speech outline

This example is from the Kentucky Community and Technical College.

Specific purpose

To persuade my audience to start walking in order to improve their health.

Central idea

Regular walking can improve both your mental and physical health.

Introduction

Let’s be honest, we lead an easy life: automatic dishwashers, riding lawnmowers, T.V. remote controls, automatic garage door openers, power screwdrivers, bread machines, electric pencil sharpeners, etc., etc. etc. We live in a time-saving, energy-saving, convenient society. It’s a wonderful life. Or is it?

Continue reading

Example 2: Persuasive speech

Tips for delivering your persuasive speech

• Practice, practice, and practice some more . Record yourself speaking and listen for any nervous habits you have such as a nervous laugh, excessive use of filler words, or speaking too quickly.
• Show confident body language . Stand with your legs hip width apart with your shoulders centrally aligned. Ground your feet to the floor and place your hands beside your body so that hand gestures come freely. Your audience won’t be convinced about your argument if you don’t sound confident in it. Find out more about  confident body language here .
• Don’t memorise your speech word-for-word  or read off a script. If you memorise your persuasive speech, you’ll sound less authentic and panic if you lose your place. Similarly, if you read off a script you won’t sound genuine and you won’t be able to connect with the audience by  making eye contact . In turn, you’ll come across as less trustworthy and knowledgeable. You could simply remember your key points instead, or learn your opening and closing sentences.
• Remember to use facial expressions when storytelling  – they make you more relatable. By sharing a personal story you’ll more likely be speaking your truth which will help you build a connection with the audience too. Facial expressions help bring your story to life and transport the audience into your situation.
• Keep your speech as concise as possible . When practicing the delivery, see if you can edit it to have the same meaning but in a more succinct way. This will keep the audience engaged.

The best persuasive speech ideas are those that spark a level of controversy. However, a public speech is not the time to express an opinion that is considered outside the norm. If in doubt, play it safe and stick to topics that divide opinions about 50-50.

Bear in mind who your audience are and plan your persuasive speech outline accordingly, with researched evidence to support your argument. It’s important to consider counter-arguments to show that you are knowledgeable about the topic as a whole and not bias towards your own line of thought.

• College Essay
• Argumentative Essay
• Expository Essay
• Narrative Essay
• Descriptive Essay
• Scholarship Essay
• Admission Essay
• Reflective Essay
• Nursing Essay
• Economics Essay

Assignments

• Term Papers
• Research Papers
• Case Studies
• Dissertation
• Presentation
• Write My Assignment
• Editing Help
• Cheap Essay Writing
• How to Order

Persuasive Speech

Persuasive Speech Outline

Persuasive Speech Outline - Samples, Format, and Writing Tips

12 min read

People also read

Making Persuasive Speech Writing Easy: Steps and Tips

Good Persuasive Speech Topics & Ideas for Debaters

200+ Motivational Speech Topics and Ideas To Inspire You (2024)

16 Best Persuasive Speech Examples for Students

3 Basic Types of Persuasive Speeches

Have you ever been captivated by a persuasive speech that left a lasting impact? Persuasive speeches have the remarkable power to sway opinions, inspire action, and ignite change. 

Students are often tasked with assignments to develop their persuasive communication skills. Creating an outline ensures you cover all necessary points and avoid repetition or confusion.

In this blog, we will not only provide you with a persuasive speech outline template but also offer valuable writing tips. 

So, without further ado, let’s get right into it!

• 1. Components of a Persuasive Speech Outline
• 2. Persuasive Speech Outline Examples
• 3. Writing Tips for Creating Persuasive Speech Outlines
• 4. Mistakes to Avoid in Persuasive Speech Outlines

Components of a Persuasive Speech Outline

A persuasive speech aims to convince the audience of a specific point of view. Creating an outline helps in organizing thoughts and arguments. 

It ensures that every point, supporting evidence, and counterarguments are considered and presented systematically. 

Let's look into the components of a persuasive speech outline, specifically, the introduction, body, and conclusion. 

Persuasive Speech Introduction Outline

The introduction of your persuasive speech is your opportunity to make a strong first impression and capture your audience's attention. 

Its primary purpose is to set the stage for the speech and introduce the topic in an engaging way. 

Here's how to craft an effective introduction:

• Hook Your Audience: Start with a hook that captures your audience's attention, like a quote, a shocking fact, a thought-provoking question, or a captivating story related to your topic.
• Thesis Statement: After the hook, clearly state your thesis statement , a concise, one-sentence declaration of your main argument or the central message of your speech.
• Overview of Main Points: End the introduction by briefly outlining the main points you'll cover in the body of your speech, giving your audience a roadmap of what to expect.

Let’s take a look at the example of this section in a speech:

Persuasive Speech Body Outline

The body of your persuasive speech outline is where you present your main points and supporting evidence to make a compelling case for your argument. 

Here's how to effectively organize and structure this section:

• Main Points: List your main arguments, with each one contributing to your overall message. Each point should be distinct and significant.
• Supporting Evidence: For each main point, provide supporting evidence, including facts, statistics, examples, expert opinions, or personal anecdotes that reinforce your arguments.
• Logical Organization: Arrange your main points logically, with the most persuasive ones coming first to guide your audience through your speech smoothly.

Let’s take a look at how this section will look in a speech:

Persuasive Speech Conclusion Outline

The conclusion of your persuasive speech outline serves the crucial role of bringing your speech to a memorable and impactful close. 

Here's how to craft an effective conclusion:

• Restate Thesis and Main Points: Start the conclusion by restating your thesis and summarizing your main points to remind your audience of your key arguments.
• Compelling Closing Statement: End with a compelling closing statement, such as a thought-provoking remark, a call to action, a rhetorical question, or a memorable quote that ties back to your topic and leaves your audience pondering.

Here is how it will look in the speech outline:

Persuasive Speech Outline Examples

Let’s take a look at an example of a persuasive speech outline to give you a better idea of the structure:

View this persuasive speech outline middle school:

Here are some amazing outline examples that you can refer to ensure you are on the right track:

Persuasive Speech Outline MLA Format

Body Shaming Persuasive Speech Outline

Problem Solution Persuasive Speech Outline

Animal Testing Persuasive Speech Outline

Death Penalty Persuasive Speech Outline

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Outline

Recycling Persuasive Speech Outline

Persuasive Speech Outline Sample

Sample Persuasive Speech Outline APA Format

Pro-choice Persuasive Speech Outline

Monroe Sequence Persuasive Speech Outline

Persuasive Speech Outline For College Students

Persuasive Speech Outline Template PDF

Drunk Driving Persuasive Speech Outline

School Uniforms Persuasive Speech Outline

Policy Persuasive Speech Outline Examples

Check out more persuasive speech examples to have a better idea of structuring your speech!

Writing Tips for Creating Persuasive Speech Outlines

When it comes to delivering a persuasive speech, the foundation of your success lies in your speech outline. 

Here are some writing tips to help you create a compelling and persuasive speech outline:

• Choose a Topic of Your Interest:

Select a persuasive speech topic that genuinely interests and inspires you as it will make your speech more persuasive.

• Identify the Type of Speech:

Knowing the type of persuasive speech you are delivering is crucial. It helps in structuring your outline and shaping your arguments accordingly. 

• Address Controversy or Debate:

Topics that involve controversy or ongoing debates often make for persuasive speeches. Presenting different viewpoints and then arguing for your perspective can engage your audience and make your speech more compelling.

• Consider Your Audience:

Think about your target audience's interests, beliefs, and values. Your topic should resonate with them. Tailor your message to address their concerns and align with their perspectives. 

• Focus on a Clear and Specific Issue:

A well-defined and specific topic is more persuasive than a broad or vague one. Narrow down your subject to a particular issue or aspect that you can thoroughly address within the allotted time. 

• Research and Gather Information:

Ensure that there is enough credible information available on your chosen topic. A well-researched speech with supporting evidence is more persuasive. 

• Organize Your Main Points Logically:

Arrange your main points in a logical order that builds your argument effectively. This helps your audience follow your reasoning and enhances the persuasiveness of your speech.

• Create Engaging Transitions:

Use smooth transitions between sections to maintain the flow of your speech. This helps keep your audience engaged and ensures your arguments are coherent.

Mistakes to Avoid in Persuasive Speech Outlines

While crafting a persuasive speech outline, it's equally important to be aware of common mistakes that can hinder your effectiveness. 

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you create a more persuasive and engaging speech:

• Lack of Clarity:

Ensure that your outline defines your main goal and message, making it easy for your audience to understand your intent.

• Overloading with Information:

Providing too much information can overwhelm your audience. Stick to the key points and avoid overwhelming your listeners with excessive data, details, or statistics. 

• Weak or Generic Introduction:

A lackluster or generic introduction can fail to capture your audience's attention. Aim for a strong and engaging start that piques the interest or emotions of the audience. 

• Neglecting Counterarguments:

Ignoring opposing viewpoints can make your speech appear one-sided. Address counterarguments and offer strong counterpoints to strengthen your position and credibility.

• Ignoring Your Audience's Perspective:

Ensure that your speech addresses their needs and concerns, making it more relevant and persuasive to them.

So there you have it!

We’ve covered the components of a persuasive speech outline in detail.

By using the tips in this blog, you can create structured and engaging outlines. The introduction, body, and conclusion all come together to captivate your audience and make a lasting impression.

Still need help writing your speech? Ask us to do my essay online , and we’ll take care of it for you. Our expert writers are skilled at crafting powerful speeches and outlines.

So, don’t wait, buy speech today at the best prices and get enjoy quality work!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you structure a persuasive speech.

A persuasive speech is typically structured into three main parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction , capture the audience's attention with a hook, introduce your topic, and state your thesis. In the body , present your main points logically, supported by evidence, and address counterarguments. Use transitions to maintain flow. In conclusion , summarize your key points, restate your thesis, and end with a strong call to action.

Write Essay Within 60 Seconds!

Cathy has been been working as an author on our platform for over five years now. She has a Masters degree in mass communication and is well-versed in the art of writing. Cathy is a professional who takes her work seriously and is widely appreciated by clients for her excellent writing skills.

Struggling With Your Paper?

Get a custom paper written at

With a FREE Turnitin report, and a 100% money-back guarantee

LIMITED TIME ONLY!

Keep reading

OFFER EXPIRES SOON!

Now Available on Whatsapp

+1 (800) 685-6772

Online 24/7

50% off on custom orders. Limited time only!

Persuasive Speech

Persuasive Speech Outline

Last updated on: Oct 26, 2024

A Comprehensive Guide to Crafting an Effective Persuasive Speech Outline

By: Nova A.

10 min read

Reviewed By: Rylee W.

Published on: Jun 19, 2023

Persuasive speeches are a type of speech that aim to convince and persuade an audience to take some action or change their attitudes. 

When preparing a persuasive speech , making an outline is an essential step that can really make a difference and bring you closer to success.

So how can you create an excellent outline for your persuasive speech?

Read on to find the answer. In this blog, you’ll get a step-by-step guide on creating an outline, along with some helpful tips and a practical example.

On this Page

How to Write a Persuasive Speech Outline - 7 Easy Steps

Let’s go through the step-by-step process of creating a perfect structure for your persuasive speech.

Step 1: Identify Your Topic & Objective

Begin by clearly identifying the topic and main objective of your persuasive speech. Your persuasive speech topic should be something you feel passionate about and have a strong stance on.

In addition, ask yourself what do you want to achieve with your speech? For instance, you could aim to:

• Change common attitudes
• Motivate your audience
• Inspire specific action 

Defining your objective will shape the content and direction of your speech outline.

Step 2: Write the Hook for an Engaging Introduction

Think about how you are going to start your speech. Remember, the hook is the most critical part of your speech's introduction—it's what grabs your audience's attention and compels them to listen. 

It could either be: 

• A surprising fact or statistic 
• A compelling story
• A provocative question
• Or an engaging quote

So write down your hook statement in your outline. Apart from that, you should also add points about the background information or context in your outline.

Step 3: Determine Your Key Points & Arguments

Next, determine the key points or arguments that support your objective. These are the main ideas or concepts you want to convey to your audience. 

Consider the key reasons or evidence that support your core message. These supporting points should be clear, relevant, and persuasive. Typically, three to five key points work well for a persuasive speech. 

Ensure that each key point supports your overall objective and is logically connected to the others. In addition, you should also address any counter arguments to make your central point stronger.

Step 4: Add Supporting Evidence for Each Key Point

For each key point in your persuasive speech outline, gather supporting evidence that strengthens your argument. This can include: 

• Relevant statistics 
• Research findings 
• Expert opinions 
• Anecdotes or examples

Ensure that your evidence is reliable, up-to-date, and directly supports the specific purpose you're addressing.

Step 5: Arrange Your Points in a Logical Order

Once you have identified your key points and their supporting evidence, arrange them in a logical order within your speech outline. 

Consider organizing them in a way that builds upon one another, enhancing the flow of your argument and building momentum toward your conclusion. 

You can choose to arrange them in the following ways:

• Chronologically 
• By order of importance
• Problem-to-solution model

Step 6: Write Call-to-Action for an Impactful Conclusion

The conclusion of your persuasive speech is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your audience. Depending on your topic, you can end with a specific call to action or a thought-provoking question for a memorable ending.

Use strong verbs and emotionally resonant language to compel your audience to think, change, or take action.

Step 7: Revise & Improve

The final step in creating a persuasive speech outline is to thoroughly revise and improve your draft. Here's how to ensure your speech is polished and impactful:

• Review for clarity and coherence. Ensure that your arguments are concise, coherent, and easy to understand.
• Double-check the accuracy and relevance of the supporting evidence you've included for each key point. Make sure they are taken from credible sources and effectively strengthen your arguments. 
• Refine your language to make it more persuasive and impactful. Use vivid imagery, strong verbs, and rhetorical devices to engage your audience and evoke emotion.
• Review the length of your speech outline to ensure it aligns with your allotted speaking time. Trim any unnecessary content and streamline your arguments for maximum impact.

Persuasive Speech Format: Monroe’s Motivated Sequence

When it comes to outlining and delivering persuasive speeches, one effective format that has stood the test of time is Monroe's Motivated Sequence. Developed by Alan H. Monroe, this framework provides a structured way to engage and influence your audience. 

This format also complements the outline writing steps mentioned above. Let’s break down how you can apply Monroe's motivated sequence format to make your persuasive speech more effective. 

Step 1: Attention

The first step in Monroe's Motivated Sequence is to grab the attention of your audience. 

You can do it with a captivating hook. As mentioned above, you can use several techniques for capturing attention at the start, such as a compelling story or rhetorical question. The goal is to make your audience sit up, take notice, and become invested in what you have to say.

Step 2: Need

Once you have their attention, it's time to highlight the need for change or action. 

Paint a vivid picture that evokes emotions and demonstrates why the need for change, understanding, or action is urgent and important. Use compelling evidence and relatable anecdotes to make the issue tangible to your audience.

Step 3: Satisfaction 

After establishing the need, present your proposed solution or action step. Demonstrate how your solution directly addresses the identified problem and fulfills the needs of your audience. 

For this, you should provide a clear and detailed explanation of how your solution works and why it is the most effective approach. In addition, back up your claims with evidence, expert opinions, and success stories to strengthen your argument and build credibility.

Step 4: Visualization

To make your persuasive speech more impactful, help your audience visualize the potential outcomes. 

For instance, you could paint a compelling picture of what the future could look like if your solution is implemented. Again, try using descriptive language, vivid imagery, and storytelling techniques to engage and evoke their imaginations. 

Step 5: Action 

The final step in Monroe's Motivated Sequence is to call your audience to action. 

In simple words, clearly and explicitly state what you want them to do and how they can take action. Whether it's making a donation or changing their behavior, provide specific steps they can take to contribute to the cause.

Sample Persuasive Speech Outlines

Now that you know how to make your outline using our 7-step guide and the Monroe framework, check out some outline templates and examples. It’ll help you get a better understanding of how it looks in practice.

Problem-Cause-Solution Persuasive Speech Template

Death penalty persuasive speech template, more persuasive speech outline examples.

Want to have a look at more outline samples for a better idea? We've got you covered. Here are some more examples for you:

Pro Choice Persuasive Speech Outline

Universal Healthcare Persuasive Speech Outline

Recycling Persuasive Speech Outline

Persuasive Speech Outline On Mental Health

Tips for Creating an Outstanding Persuasive Speech Outline 

Here are some brief tips for creating an engaging persuasive speech outline:

• Choose a Compelling Topic : Select a topic that you are passionate about and that resonates with your audience. A topic that is relevant, timely, and sparks interest will captivate your listeners from the beginning.
• Conduct Thorough Research : Gather credible sources, statistics, examples, and expert opinions to support your arguments. A well-researched speech adds credibility and strengthens your persuasive case.
• Use Persuasive Language : Utilize persuasion techniques including ethos, pathos, and logos to make it compelling, persuasive, and engaging. Choose rhetorical devices such as metaphors, analogies, and powerful imagery to enhance your message and make it memorable.

In conclusion,

By following the outlined steps and examples provided, you can effectively structure your speech and craft persuasive arguments. Remember, you should always make an outline before writing your speech to make it organized and powerful from the start.

However, if you need further help with your speech, then consider hiring a professional service such as MyPerfectPaper.net.

MyPerfectPaper.net , offers reliable speech writing service for students. We have a team of experienced writers that is dedicated to delivering high-quality, custom-written essays.

If you need our help, then just say ' write my paper fast ' and we will make sure to deliver a high-quality paper on time. 

Don't hesitate to contact us for expert assistance and take your academic success to the next level.

Nova Allison is a Digital Content Strategist with over eight years of experience. Nova has also worked as a technical and scientific writer. She is majorly involved in developing and reviewing online content plans that engage and resonate with audiences. Nova has a passion for writing that engages and informs her readers.

Was This Blog Helpful?

Keep reading.

• A Complete Guide to Crafting an Effective Persuasive Speech

• 200+ Engaging Persuasive Speech Topics & Ideas for 2024

• 15+ Persuasive Speech Examples to Engage and Persuade

Stuck With Assignments?

Get your paper done within 6 hours, with FREE and UNLIMITED revisions!

People Also Read

• Services Assignment Writing

© 2024 - All rights reserved

How to Write an Effective Persuasive Speech Outline: 5 Key Elements

• The Speaker Lab
• April 14, 2024

Table of Contents

If you’re a speaker, you are probably well familiar with the path from initial speech drafts to the day you actually present. By its nature, speech delivery is a journey filled with obstacles, yet it’s simultaneously an adventure in persuasion. With a well-crafted persuasive speech outline , you can do more than just present facts and figures to your audience. You can weave them into a narrative that captivates, convinces, and converts.

A meticulously planned persuasive speech outline isn’t just helpful; it’s essential. Crafting this blueprint carefully lets you deliver your message more effectively, making sure each point lands with the impact you’re aiming for. To help you achieve this impact, we have some tips and tricks for you to try.

Writing an Effective Persuasive Speech Outline

When we talk about persuasive speeches , we’re diving into the art of convincing others to see things from a certain point of view. Your speech is your one shot to grab attention, build your case, and inspire action. Your secret weapon for achieving this is your speech outline. In your speech outline, you want to touch on several key elements.

• Pick your fight: Start by zeroing in on what you really want to change or influence with this speech.
• Support your claim with evidence: Identify those key points that back up your stance to appeal to your audience’s rational side .
• The emotional hook: Weave in stories or facts that hit home emotionally .
• Avoid the kitchen sink approach: Don’t throw everything at them hoping something sticks. Be selective and strategic with the info you share.
• Nail that closer: Your conclusion isn’t just goodbye; it’s where you charge your audience with a call to action.

These elements form the backbone of your persuasive speech. By including these in your talk’s outline, you can’t go wrong.

Learn How You Could Get Your First (Or Next) Paid Speaking Gig In 90 Days or Less

We receive thousands of applications every day, but we only work with the top 5% of speakers .

Book a FREE call with our team to get started — you’ll learn why the vast majority of our students get a paid speaking gig within 90 days of finishing our program .

Establishing Your Main Objective and Structuring Your Points

Now that you have a general idea of what goes into a persuasive speech outline, let’s break a couple of these pieces down and look at them a little more closely.

Identifying the Purpose of Your Persuasive Speech

When writing your speech, you first need to nail down why you’re doing this in the first place. In other words, identify your main objective. After all, choosing to speak up isn’t merely about the desire to express oneself; it’s deeply rooted in understanding the effect you hope your discourse will unleash. Do you hope to sway opinions towards the belief that animal experimentation is a relic of the past? Or perhaps persuade them that social media does more good than harm? Whatever your cause, identifying your main objective will help keep you on track and avoid rambling.

Organizing Key Points for Maximum Impact

Once you’ve determined what you want to persuade your audience of, you can start building your argument. Specifically, you can determine your key points. Key points support your position on a topic, proving to your audience that you have actual reasons for taking your position.

To pack the most punch, arrange these key points in a logical order. Consider how you might connect your key points. Are there some that can be grouped together? The flow of your argument matters just as much as the argument itself, and a disjointed argument won’t do anyone any favors. As you organize your key points, consider these tips:

• Lead with strength, but don’t throw all your cards out at once.
• Build upon each point; important transitions between them can make or break audience engagement.
• Finish strong by tying back everything to the emotional chord you struck at the beginning.

Nailing these steps will ensure that when you speak, your message doesn’t just echo—it resonates.

Selecting Compelling Topics for Your Persuasive Speeches

Let’s face it, picking the right topic for your persuasive speech outline is half the battle. But what makes a topic not just good, but great? First off, it needs to spark interest, both yours and your audience’s. If you’re not fired up about it, chances are they won’t be either. Second, make sure the topic is something relevant. It should resonate with your listeners’ experiences or touch on their concerns and aspirations. Lastly, your topic has to be something you can research and back up with solid facts and expert opinions.

For ideas to get you started, check out a variety of speech topics here .

Enhancing Persuasion Through Rhetorical Appeals

The art of persuasion is something that’s been studied since ancient Greece. Back then, Greek philosopher Aristotle came up with the three rhetorical appeals . Each one described a different way of convincing your audience of your position. Together, these appeals help you form a rock-strong argument, making them worth learning.

Building Credibility with Ethos

To get people on your side, you first need to win their trust. That’s where ethos comes into play. Demonstrating to your listeners that you’re both trustworthy and deserving of their attention hinges on transparency about your qualifications, genuine self, and the wisdom gained from occasional setbacks. Letting folks know why they should listen can make all the difference.

Connecting with the Audience Through Pathos

At some point, we’ve all been moved by a story or an ad because it hit right in the feels. That sort of emotional appeal is called pathos , and it’s powerful stuff. If you want people really invested in what you’re saying, then be sure to use this appeal in your presentation. To harness the power of pathos, try telling a story , especially one your audience can relate to. The key is authenticity—sharing true experiences resonates more than anything fabricated ever could.

Strengthening Arguments with Logos

Last but not least, we have logos, our logical appeal. Oftentimes, this logical appeal entails facts and data points, which are used to back up what you’re selling, turning skeptics into believers. But just because you’re listing facts and figures doesn’t mean this part has to be boring. To keep your audience engaged, craft persuasive narratives and then ground them in robust proof. Giving your story to go with your numbers doesn’t just help keep them engaged, it also helps the information stick.

The Importance of Supporting Evidence and Counterarguments

In your persuasive speech outline, you need to note compelling evidence for each key point. In addition, you’ll want to address opposing views.

Gathering and Presenting Convincing Evidence

No matter how trustworthy you seem, or how compelling your stories are, most people need tangible proof. That’s where concrete evidence steps into the spotlight. To fortify your argument and boost its believability, sprinkle in a mix of hard data, customer stories, numerical evidence, and endorsements from authorities. To illustrate this data for your audience, you may find it helpful to create a slideshow . Supporting every assertion with research is an essential part of any persuasive speech. Without it, arguments inevitably sound flimsy and unconvincing.

Addressing Opposing Views Effectively

Although it may seem counterintuitive, address counter-arguments head-on in your persuasive speech outline. It might feel like walking into enemy territory but it actually strengthens your own argument. By acknowledging opposing views, you’re showing that not only do you know what they are, but also that they don’t scare you.

When you address these counter-arguments, demonstrate your understanding. Again, this is where your good research skills are going to come in handy. Present the facts, and ditch biased explanations. In other words, don’t mock or belittle the other side’s viewpoint or you’ll undermine your own trustworthiness. Instead, explain opposing viewpoints with neutrality.

Adopting this strategy not only neutralizes possible objections but also enhances your stance. Plus, this makes for an engaging dialogue between both sides of any debate, which keeps audience members hooked from start to finish.

In essence, tackling counter-arguments is less about winning over naysayers and more about enriching discussions around hot-button issues. At its core, persuasion isn’t just convincing folks; it’s sparking conversations worth having.

Crafting a Captivating Introduction and Conclusion

Now that you have the body of your persuasive speech outline, it’s time to talk beginning and end. To really hit your message home, you want to grab your audience’s attention at the beginning and call them to action at the end.

Creating an Engaging Hook to Capture Attention

The opening of your speech is where you need a good first impression. To hook your audience, consider starting with an intriguing question, a surprising fact, or even a short story related to your topic. Whatever route you choose, keep it interesting and concise, so that you can transition into the rest of your persuasive speech outline.

Concluding with a Strong Call to Action

Crafting strong conclusions is about leaving your readers feeling pumped and ready to jump into action. After all, if you’ve argued convincingly enough, your audience should be ready to act. To channel this energy, urge listeners towards specific actions. Here are some strategies:

• Suggest clear next steps: Don’t leave your audience hanging wondering what’s next. Give them concrete steps they can take immediately after reading.
• Create urgency: Why wait? Let folks know why now is the perfect time to act.
• Show benefits: Paint vivid pictures of how taking action will positively impact their lives or solve their problems.

With that captivating hook and a decisive call-to-action, you are one step closer to presenting an unforgettable speech.

Utilizing Monroe’s Motivated Sequence for Persuasive Structure

As you finish off your persuasive speech outline, you may be wondering how best to structure your speech. If that’s you, then Purdue University professor Alan H. Monroe has some answers. In his book “Monroe’s Principles of Speech,” the professor outlines Monroe’s Motivated Sequence, the best structure for persuasive speeches. Each step is broken down below.

Attention: Grabbing the Audience’s Focus

You’ve got something important to say. But first, you need them to listen. Start with a bang. Throwing out a shocking truth, posing a thought-provoking query, or sharing an enthralling tale could work magic in grabbing their attention. It’s all about making heads turn and ears perk up.

Need: Highlighting the Issue at Hand

Now that they’re listening, show them there’s a gaping hole in their lives that only your message can fill. Paint a vivid picture of the problem your speech addresses.

Satisfaction: Proposing a Solution

This is where you come in as the hero with a plan. Introduce your solution clearly and convincingly. How does it patch things up? Why does it outshine merely applying quick fixes to deep-rooted issues? Give your audience hope.

Visualization: Helping the Audience Visualize Benefits

Show them life on the other side of adopting your idea or product—brighter, easier, better. Use vivid imagery and relatable scenarios so they can see themselves reaping those benefits firsthand.

Action: Encouraging Audience Action

Last step: nudge them from “maybe” to “yes.” Make this part irresistible by being clear about what action they should take next—and why now’s the time to act. Whether signing up, voting, or changing behavior, make sure they know how easy taking that first step can be.

Learn more about Monroe’s Motivated Sequence here .

Find Out Exactly How Much You Could Make As a Paid Speaker

Use The Official Speaker Fee Calculator to tell you what you should charge for your first (or next) speaking gig — virtual or in-person! 

Overcoming Public Speaking Fears for Effective Delivery

Let’s face it, the thought of public speaking can turn even the most confident folks into a bundle of nerves. But hey, you’ve got this. Dive into these expert strategies and you’ll find yourself delivering speeches like a seasoned orator in no time.

Techniques to Build Confidence in Public Speaking

If you’re feeling nervous on the big day, these three techniques are perfect for you. Take a look!

• Breathe: Deep breathing is your secret weapon against those pesky nerves. It tells your brain that everything is going to be okay.
• Pose like a superhero: Stand tall and strike a power pose before you go on stage. This isn’t just fun; science backs it up as a confidence booster .
• Kick perfectionism to the curb: Aim for connection with your audience, not perfection. Mistakes make you human and more relatable.

The goal here is to calm yourself enough to be able to deliver your persuasive speech outline with confidence. Even if you still feel a little nervous, you can still present an awesome speech. You just don’t want those nerves running the show.

Practicing Your Speech for Perfect Execution

If you know that you tend to get nervous when public speaking, then you don’t want to be running through you speech for the first time on the big day. Instead, practice beforehand using these techniques.

• The mirror is your friend: Practice in front of a mirror to catch any odd gestures or facial expressions.
• Vary your voice: As you deliver your speech, let your voice rise and fall to match what you’re sharing. Avoid speaking in a monotone.
• Say no to memorization: Rather than memorizing every word, learn key points by heart. You want to sound natural out there.

Remembering these steps won’t just help you tackle public speaking fear, but will also polish those all-important public speaking skills .

Once you’ve honed the skills you need to write a persuasive speech outline, the only thing left to do is to get out there and practice them. So take the rhetorical appeals—ethos, logos, and pathos—and practice weaving each element into your speech. Or take Monroe’s Motivated Sequence and work on structuring your outline accordingly.

Prepare well and when you hit the stage, you have not just a well-prepared persuasive speech outline, but also the power to alter perspectives, challenge the status quo, or even change lives.

• Last Updated: April 11, 2024

Explore Related Resources

Book a call with our team to get started — you’ll learn why the vast majority of our students get a paid speaking gig within 90 days of finishing our program .

If you’re ready to control your schedule, grow your income, and make an impact in the world – it’s time to take the first step. Book a FREE consulting call and let’s get you Booked and Paid to Speak ® .

About The Speaker Lab

We teach speakers how to consistently get booked and paid to speak.  Since 2015, we’ve helped thousands of speakers find clarity, confidence, and a clear path to make an impact.

Get Started

Let's connect.

[email protected]

Copyright ©2023 The Speaker Lab. All rights reserved.

• 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
• Blogging Aloud
• About me/contact
• Writing a persuasive speech
• Persuasive speech outline

Persuasive speech outline example

-an outline using Monroe's 5 step Motivated Sequence

By:  Susan Dugdale  

This persuasive speech outline example uses Monroe's Motivated Sequence (MMS) - a 5 step structural pattern for organizing material focusing on, as its name suggests, motivational appeals.

The sequence forms the basis of many of the successful political, public awareness or advertising campaigns you see and hear around you on a daily basis.

For example: campaigns to raise awareness of health issues: The Heart Truth, NDAFW - National Drugs and Alcohol Facts Week, or STOMP Out Bullying. *

Why is the framework so popular? Because it faithfully follows the psychology of persuasion. In a nutshell, it works. Exceedingly well.

Use the quick links to get around this very long page efficiently. Each of the five steps is fully explained and illustrated in an example speech outline. There's a printable MMS speech outline document for your own use too!

Page quick links

• Step overview
• Step 1 - Attention
• Step 2 - Need
• Step 3 - Satisfaction
• Step 4 - Visualization
• Step 5 - Action
• Download blank outline template

More persuasive speech resources

About Monroe's Motivated Sequence

The pattern, or steps, of the sequence mirror those identified as being the normal thinking processes that occur whenever a person is confronted by a problem.

Because the steps are perceived as reasonable and logical using them prepares and motivates an audience to respond positively to the speaker's message.

The sequence is named after Dr  Alan H Monroe who, after graduating from Northwestern University in 1924, joined the staff at Purdue University (USA) as an Instructor in English. Two years later he became Instructor in Public Speaking and was subsequently promoted to Assistant Professor and head of the speech section of the English department. He retired from the role in 1963.  

 Overview of Monroe's 5 step motivation sequence

In developing your persuasive speech outline you will follow these 5 steps:

• Attention Grab the audience's attention
• Need Establish there is a problem (need) demanding their attention
• Satisfaction Outline a solution to the problem
• Visualization Show the audience how they will benefit from your solution
• Action Provide the impetus and means to act

Monroe's five steps in more detail

Now let's examine those steps more closely.

To make the process easier to follow I've prepared a simple example speech illustrating each step and the transitions between them.  That's the text in the green boxes. 

As you read start thinking about your audience and your topic.  Jot any ideas down for later use.

About this sample speech - topic, purpose and audience

The subject  is fear of public speaking.

The specific purpose of the speech is  to persuade and encourage people in the audience to take a course to overcome their fear of public speaking. 

The central idea   of the speech is that the ability to speak in public opens doors to many opportunities.

The audience is  drawn from the local community. They range in age from late teens to forties plus.

The 5 steps of Monroe's motivation sequence 

Getting attention - step 1.

This step is your introductory "listen up" call. To make it effective it needs to grab the audience. It could be any of the following:

• a startling statement
• a rhetorical question
• a quotation
• a funny story
• a dramatic story
• a photograph or other visual aid

Put yourself in the position of your audience when deciding how to hook and hold their attention. Why should they listen to you?  How does what you have to say benefit them? Is it relevant to them? How?

Step one - attention 

Do you know the real costs of public speaking fear?

The price is high.

Research reveals that a person with public speaking fear is 10% less likely to graduate from college, is likely to receive 10% less in wages and is 15% less likely to take on management or leadership positions.

Who pays? You. Me. Us. Anybody who allows fear to govern their decision making. We pay by sacrificing our potential selves, putting our dreams away and settling for less.

Establishing credibility

As well as getting their attention you also need to establish your credibility or right to talk on the subject. Your audience needs to know that they can believe what you're telling them. If they feel they can trust your expertise and experience they will be much more likely to follow your lead. 

Credibility statement

That’s a question I asked myself a long time ago. As a teacher with many years of experience I saw far too many students who would do anything they could to avoid public speaking. To answer it I researched.

Then I used those answers to devise public speaking programs that were effective and fun.

Transition - the link from step 1 to step 2

Can you imagine the positive impact feeling OK about speaking up would have? On individuals? On families? On our community?

E stablish the need - step 2

This step develops the need for change. Now that you have your audience's attention you will clearly show them what the problem is and the extent of it.

To be effective use:

• examples to illustrate how it impacts on them - their happiness, future, health, family, neighborhood...
• statistics - facts, figures, graphs, diagrams... Remember to cite your sources and remember too that some are more credible than others. You need recognized sources to give your speech the credibility you want.
• expert witness testimony - the more authoritative, the better

Your goal at the conclusion of this step is to have your audience eager to hear your solution. They agree with you that there is a problem and want the answer.

Step two – Need

A.  According to frequently cited statistics 75%   of people suffer from some degree of glossophobia - fear of speaking in public. Source:    Hamilton, C. (2008) [2005]. Communicating for Results, a Guide for Business and the Professions (eighth edition)

• At the extreme upper end of this very large group are the people who would literally run a mile rather than speak. For example, they will not apply for promotions if the new position means giving presentations. They will not give a speech at a special family occasion - a wedding, birthday or funeral.  Public speaking makes them ill, literally. There maybe quite a few of you here, so you’ll know exactly what I mean.
• At the other end of the scale are the people who have one or two butterflies fluttering around – enough to make them register they’re a little nervous about speaking but it’s nothing to worry about. There’s likely not so many of you here. If you have come along, it’s probably to support someone who needs it! Thank you.
• The majority of us are somewhere in the middle where it’s neither all fine nor all bad. Some days are OK. We manage. And some days it’s definitely not OK. We just hang in there by the skin of our chattering teeth.

B. Bad public speaking experiences often lead to more of the same. History repeats.

• We focus on the criticism we received and interpret it as a criticism of ourselves. Our speech is bad therefore I am bad. This makes a shaky platform to build public speaking skills and confidence on.
• When given a presentation to prepare we procrastinate because we don’t feel confident or competent. That means we don’t put the work in which in turn leads to another bad experience. It becomes a vicious circle.
• When we feel ashamed about ourselves we often close off. We don’t ask for help and it becomes easier to expect less of ourselves and our lives.
•  Here's those stats again. According to Franklin Schneier, MD, s omeone with public speaking fear is likely to receive 10% less in wages, be 10% more likely to drop out of college and be 15% less likely to apply for leadership or management roles.

C. Begins in youth.

• “The fear of public speaking is more common in younger patients as compared to older ones and may be more prevalent in females as compared to males,” says Jeffrey R. Strawn, MD, FAACAP, associate professor of psychiatry and pediatrics and director of the Anxiety Disorders Research Program in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of Cincinnati.
• More than 75% of people experience their first symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder which often includes fear of public speaking during their childhood or early teenage years - American Psychiatric Association. (2014). Understanding Mental Disorders
• Let’s conduct a quick informal survey to test that– raise your hand if any anxiety you feel about public speaking began when you were young.

Transition - the link between step 2 and step 3

However there is a way to break this pattern of anxiety. It can be stopped, and everyone who wants to can learn to speak in public confidently.

S atisfy the need - step 3

Now you outline your answer or solution and show the audience how it will work.

To do this well:

• outline your solution succinctly
• demonstrate how it meets the problem
• use examples to show how effective it is
• support with facts, figures, graphs, diagrams, statistics, testimony...
• if there is known opposition to your solution, acknowledge and counteract showing how your plan overturns it

The ideal outcome of this step is the audience nodding and saying to themselves: " Yes. This is possible, practical and sensible."   Your answer satisfies them. It gives them  "satisfaction".

Step three - Satisfaction 

A. Come along to an introductory course

• It's free, led by experienced teachers and especially designed for people with a history of being nervous about speaking in public.
• Once a week for 4 weeks you'll have 2 hours of practical public speaking training and practice.
• You'll learn tips and tricks to manage your anxiety, to give varying types of presentations, to effectively structure a speech, and to confidently deliver a speech.

B. When people overcome fear of public speaking there are so many things they can do:

• Complete their college education and go on to further study if they wanted to
• Apply for the positions they know would give them greater work satisfaction
• Speak up when they need to about issues concerning themselves, their family and their community
• Inspire others to follow their example

C. Exchanging public speaking fear for confidence will help people to:

• Communicate more effectively
• Listen more carefully to others
• Understand the power of the spoken word and what it can achieve

Transition - the link between step 3 and step 4

Can you imagine the positive impact that would have on people’s lives? Maybe yours?

S ee the future - step 4

In this step the audience "experiences" the solution. They see (feel, hear, taste...) what will happen if they do as you are suggesting contrasted against what will happen if they don't do as you are suggesting.

This step relies on your use of vivid imagery to portray the outcome of their action, or inaction. They see and feel the pleasure, or pain, in their imagination. To bring it home to your audience the pictures you provide, the stories you tell, need to be relevant and believable.

What you want folk thinking as you conclude this step is:  "I can see that this would be good for me."

Step four - Visualization

A. Imagine what society would be like if everyone took full advantage of the educational opportunities that best fitted their interests and abilities. How would that feel?

• There would be much less personal dissatisfaction and social unrest caused by people working in positions that do not pay very well or extend their skills and well being. That would be much more healthy: physically, emotionally and mentally, for everybody. You could ask for a raise! Apply for that job you always wanted! Give a presentation! Toast your bride!
• It would generate a ripple effect. People who speak up confidently and competently encourage others to do likewise. People would feel empowered – free to become the best of themselves - shoulders back, head up, standing tall, looking the world straight in the eye!

B. What disadvantages could there possibly be?

• Perhaps it could uncomfortable for those who have got used to assuming the right to talk for others without consultation. Is that really a bad thing?
• Perhaps it could lead to robust conversations where there are differing opinions over issues?  Again, is that a bad thing? It could be an opportunity to polish debating skills.
• There are no real disadvantages! Overcoming public speaking fear is good for everyone. A win-win.

Transition - the link from step 4 to step 5

Let’s do more than imagine speaking in public freely and competently. Let’s take the steps towards making it happen.

T ake action - step 5

In this last step you present your call to action.

The call to action can be embedded in any combination of the following:

• a challenge or appeal
• a personal statement of intent

To be effective the action step must be readily doable and executed as soon as possible. Make it as easy as you can for your audience. If you want them to sign up for something, have the forms available. If you wish them to lodge a personal protest in writing to your local government have stock letters and envelopes ready. In other words do the leg work for them!

Action steps that are delayed even for 48 hours are less likely to be acted on. We're human - life goes on. Other things intervene and the initial urgency is lost.

Step five – Action

  A. (Summary) Apparently 3/4 of us – 75%, are nervous about public speaking – often the result of a bad experience when were young. That has a direct impact on our adult lives. If we allow it to continue it is likely we will be paid less, fall out of college without graduating and settle for less-challenging jobs. In short – live a lesser life. However it doesn’t have to be like that. We could choose to change. We could become our bigger and best selves.

  B. (Call to Immediate Action)

We could, in the famous words of Susan Jeffers, "Feel the fear and do it anyway!"

I’ve got enrollment forms here for that free introductory public speaking course. That’s four two hour sessions over the next four weeks using tried, tested and proven methods of teaching with experienced instructors. You’ll learn how to prepare and deliver speeches. And you'll swap fear for confidence and competence while having fun!

C. (Memorable Close) Who knows what magic may happen once you speak up!

There are 15 places available. Make one of them yours.

Sources/references 

• Rosemary Black. (2018, June 4)  Glossophobia (Fear of Public Speaking): Are You Glossophobic?     Retrieved from  https://www.psycom.net/glossophobia-fear-of-public-speaking  
• Franklin Schneier. (2005) Social Anxiety Disorder. Retrieved from:  http://www.columbia.edu/itc/hs/medical/psychmed2/3_2005/Schneier-SocialAnxietyDisorderBW.pdf
• Author and date of publication unknown.  Social Anxiety Disorder. Retrieved from:  http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/conditions/social-anxiety-disorder
• Doug Staneart. (2018, March). Podcast 29 - How to Scare the Gooey Out of a Nervous Public Speaker. Retrieved from:  https://www.fearlesspresentations.com/how-to-scare-the-gooey-out-of-a-new-public-speaker/  

F itting the standard speech format

If you are wondering how these 5 steps of Monroe's Motivated Sequence fit into the standard 3 part speech format , they go like this:

• Step 1 ( Attention ) forms the Introduction.
• Steps 2,  3 and 4 ( Need,   Satisfaction and Visualization ) form the Body.
• Step 5 ( Action ) is the Conclusion.

Download a persuasive speech outline template

And now download printable blank ready-to-complete Monroe's Motivated Sequence  persuasive speech outline template . You'll find the entire 5 step process laid out clearly, ready for you to fill in the gaps.

A sample persuasive speech

Want to read a  persuasive speech example ?

This example speech ("After they're gone") follows the sequence outlined on this page.

Before you click through to it you should know the topic is somber; the impact of suicide on family and friends. I wrote it to persuade those in need to seek and accept help and to raise awareness of the issues around suicide.

Persuasive speech topics

Maybe you haven't found the persuasive speech topic you want yet? Check these pages:

- 100 great  persuasive speech ideas  

- 50  good persuasive speech topics

-  205 fun persuasive speech topics

- 309 'easy' persuasive speech topics

-  310 persuasive speech topics for college

- 108 feminist persuasive speech topics

Communication coach Alex Lyon explains

If you'd like more on Monroe's Motivated Sequence  here's a great video with excellent examples from communication coach Alex Lyons. 

And lastly, here's the links to those campaigns I mentioned at the top of the page: The Heart Truth ,  National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW)  and STOMP Out Bullying .

speaking out loud 

Subscribe for  FREE weekly alerts about what's new For more see  speaking out loud  

Top 10 popular pages

• Welcome speech
• Demonstration speech topics
• Impromptu speech topic cards
• Thank you quotes
• Impromptu public speaking topics
• Farewell speeches
• Phrases for welcome speeches
• Student council speeches
• Free sample eulogies

From fear to fun in 28 ways

A complete one stop resource to scuttle fear in the best of all possible ways - with laughter.

Useful pages

• Search this site
• About me & Contact
• Free e-course
• Privacy policy

©Copyright 2006-24 www.write-out-loud.com

Designed and built by Clickstream Designs

An Impressive Persuasive Speech Outline: Examples & Guide

Eating a delicacy, watching a good movie, and proving a point to an audience are the three things that make life seem better. Today, you’ll deal with the last one. You’re about to become a professional at public speaking and attention grabbing. Here, you can learn how to write a persuasive speech outline and see great examples.

But first… what is a persuasive speech, after all?

A persuasive speech is a speech that convinces people of certain ideas, values, and beliefs. As its specific purpose is proving a point, it relies on one successful format. You’ll see it here in our persuasive speech outline examples prepared by our experts.

• 🖊️ Make the Creative Process Flow
• ✍🏻 The Components of Ideal Writing
• ✔️ Check This Unique Template
• 🔮 Check 50 Persuasive Speech Topics!
• 📙 Read a Masterpiece of Writing!

1. 🖊️ Persuasive Speech Outline Format: Make the Creative Process Flow

Custom-writing.org prepared this guide on how to develop a perfect persuasive speech outline for you:

• Pick a certain problematic issue you’d like to talk about;
• Think of an unusual way to introduce it to the audience;
• Use an approach grip the readers’ attention;
• Structure your argument to make it a logical sequence;
• Follow the traditional intro – arguments – discussion – conclusion outline;
• Use your imagination and creativity!

2. ✍🏻 The Components of Ideal Writing

Hush! You’re about to learn a secret:

There IS a perfect formula for a format for persuasive speech outline!

Check this:

• The Introduction Section:
• Attention-Getter;
• Taking by Storm;
• Building Bonds of Trust.
• The Speech Body: 1st Paragraph:
• The Case in Point;
• The Evidence;
• The Supportive Ideas;
• The Case for the Changes.
• Reasoning #1:
• Reasoning #2:
• The Case for the Changes;
• Reasoning #3:
• The Conclusion

With such an outline, you’ll get a persuasive speech a student can only dream of! All in all, your persuasive speech outline should look the following way:

3. ✔️ Check This Unique Template

Do you want to create the perfect outline for your speech? Follow these tips:

• Think of an unusual and controversial issue;
• Develop your own idea of the issue in question;
• Give credit to opposite opinions;
• Structure an argument on the issue;
• Remember about the AIDA principle;
• Offer a unique solution and draw a conclusion.

That’ll take care of your speech.

All in all, your persuasive speech should answer the question whether something should or should not take place and why.

4. 🔮 Check 50 Persuasive Speech Topics!

Do you know the secret formula of perfect persuasive speeches?

Perfect wording + perfect logics + speech topics + sense of humor = perfect persuasive speech.

You won’t have problems with the sense of humor, that’s quite clear.

What you need though, is a couple of good persuasive speech ideas.

So, read these Top 50 Best Topics for Writing an Unbelievable Persuasive Speech :

• 2012 : why there was no catastrophe coming.
• Being an individual while also remaining part of the group: the mechanics of social behavior .
• Should parents control their children’s online pastimes? The threat of ‘adult’ content.
• Alien life forms: further search for extraterrestrial intelligence should be encouraged.
• Paranormal phenomena: a piece of evidence worth trusting or another make-believe?
• Explain why marijuana should be legal.
• The reasons why minimum wage should be increased in the US.
• Describe the reasons to raise taxes on high-fat food.
• It is necessary to abolish the death penalty.
• Explain why bullies should be expelled from school .
• Explain why the government must revise gun control legislation.
• Give reasons to use animals for research purposes.
• Student-athletes should be paid for participating in sports.
• Clarify your reasons for prohibiting young children from playing tackle football.
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee should be taught in schools .
• Elucidate the necessity to make abortion a part of the national healthcare plan.
• The reasons why people should be forbidden to sell their body organs .
• Testing medicines on animals should be strictly prohibited.
• Scare them straight: juvenile delinquency should be dealt with quickly and harshly.
• Explain why it is necessary to teach evolution in schools.
• Arranged marriages are less happy than marriages based on love.
• It’s a good idea to ban American football for being too dangerous.
• The grounds to prohibit the use of cell phones in public places .
• Give the reasons to allow animal transplantation.
• Why online dating must not be considered real dating.
• Canceling grades in schools will bust students’ motivation to study.
• Explain the reasons people should not send expeditions to Mars.
• It is necessary to forbid clear-cutting in rainforests.
• The criminal justice system should try juveniles as adults for serious crimes.
• Why smoking in public places should be made illegal.
• Advocate the necessity to lower TOEFL scores for university admission.
• Celebrities should be positive role models .
• Why tattoos should be considered art.
• Explain why illegal immigrants should have full access to social services.
• Why biometric security should be a primary focus of modern companies.
• The reasons to prohibit the use of cell phones while driving .
• Cameras in public places are necessary for the security of citizens.
• Mandatory job drug tests will increase productivity and improve the working environment.
• Why puppy mills should be outlawed.
• Mandatory overtime has a negative effect on nursing performance and must be prohibited.
• Screen time for children must be strictly limited.
• Give the reasons why higher education should be free.
• The reasons why tobacco products and cigarettes should be banned.
• Explain why the government should revise laws protecting animal welfare .
• Human cloning should be illegal.
• Elucidate the reasons why same-sex marriage should be legal.
• The government should make big corporations participate in crime-prevention programs.
• Explain why vaccination for children should be mandatory.
• It’s impossible to make any immoral behavior illegal .
• Remote work should become a norm.

These persuasive topics will definitely get you an excellent grade! What’s more, they’ll help you create your own topics for persuasive speech!

5. 📙 Read a Masterpiece of Writing!

It’s time to see some examples of persuasive speech writing. Write as professionals do!

A Persuasive Speech on Family Values

In the modern world, the importance of family values has been downshifted by the need to build a career. Busy with climbing up the career ladder, people forget about the essence of the family. And everyone who has ever heard their parents saying, “Not now, darling, Daddy’s busy,” or saw their mothers working late after they went to bed knows how big the problem is.

It is obvious that career development and promotion have become the essence of modern people’s lives. Unfortunately, according to the statistics, in most cases relatives suffer. As reports say (Smith 2011, p. 111), in 60% of the cases, working parents know very little about their children’s social life.

It cannot be argued, however, that a stable career and salary are not the crucial elements of modern life. Without a stable source of money and a career, one is most likely to feel insecure; moreover, the family can suffer financially. Hence, it is obvious that the career must not be forgotten either.

Therefore, it can be suggested that a balance between these two aspects of everyday life must be maintained. According to Johnson (2000, p. 98), 10% of families manage to both lead a happy family life and succeed in their work. Hence, a specific plan is required to remain both a good employee and a good parent.

Among the possible solutions for the situation, splitting responsibilities can do the trick. When scheduling their lives, parents can spend more time with their children and each other. Moreover, work efficiency will increase when following an established plan.

That’s what they call a speech example! Now you’re fully equipped to create the persuasive speech of the decade – so start the writing process!

You might also be interested in:

• Easy Steps to More Persuasive Essays
• Best Sports Persuasive Speech Topics
• Best Easy Persuasive Speech Topics
• Persuasive Speech Outline: The Recipe for a Successful Outcome
• Funny Persuasive Speech Topics: Best Ideas
• Racial Profiling Essay: Argumentative & Persuasive Writing
• Share to Facebook
• Share to LinkedIn
• Share to email

A library research paper is an academic writing project that summarizes the information on a specific topic taken from primary and secondary sources. According to the University of Michigan Library, you can complete your library research project in a few simple steps: In this article, the Custom-writing.org team has gathered...

Do you need to write a research analysis paper but have no idea how to do that? Then you’re in the right place. While completing this type of assignment, your key aim is to critically analyze a research article. An article from a serious scientific journal would be a good...

You might be wondering about how to write a conclusion paragraph for a research paper. It may seem like your readers should understand your main arguments by the end, so there is no need for it. However, there are several aspects that prove the importance of a conclusion section in...

American Antiquity is a professional quarterly journal, which contains various papers on the American archeology. It is incredibly popular among archeologists and the students majoring in history. The organization adopted the rules of The Society for American Archaeology (SAA) citation style. As a result: The journal includes numerous references that...

The most tedious and time-consuming part of any school or college written assignment is the bibliography. Sometimes, it can even be challenging! For example, if you’re confused by the variety of citation styles. That is why Custom-Writing experts prepared a brief guide about creating a perfect bibliography for a project....

An appendix is the part of the paper that contains supplementary material. The information from an appendix in paper writing is not essential. If the readers ignore this part, they still have to get the paper’s idea. Appendices help the readers to understand the research better. They might be useful...

Writing an abstract is one of the skills you need to master to succeed in your studies. An abstract is a summary of an academic text. It contains information about the aims and the outcomes of the research. The primary purpose of an abstract is to help readers understand what...

So you have to write a literature review. You find your favorite novel and then start analyzing it. This is how it’s usually done, right? It’s not. You have to learn the elements of literature review and how to deal with them.

Looking for relevant sources of information for your research is already a tiring process, but when you also need to pay attention to their credibility, it becomes almost impossible! However, it’s still a quite critical aspect to pay attention to. Using unreliable sites like Wikipedia, even if it’s a two-page...

Only two words, but you already feel a chill down your spine. A research paper is no joke. It’s a super detailed piece of academic writing where you analyze a chosen issue in-depth. The main aim of such torture is to show how knowledgeable you are and that your opinion...

A research proposal is a text that suggests a topic or research problem, justifies the need to study it, and describes the ways and methods of conducting the study. Scholars usually write proposals to get funding for their research. In their turn, students might have to do that to get...

It’s longer than your Bachelor’s thesis. It’s more stressful. It’s more important. And you have no clue how to write it. We understand that a lot comes with the responsibility of creating a Master’s thesis from scratch. But no need to stress out; you can get all the help you...

How to write a persuasive speech: Outline and tips for success

Discover powerful tips and techniques for impactful communication, backed by real-life examples, to elevate your speaking skills.

Bharti Jain

Problem solving

Table of contents

In the corporate world, the ability to deliver a persuasive speech is key to making impactful presentations, winning over clients, and leading teams effectively. This comprehensive guide is designed to equip professionals with advanced strategies and insights for crafting persuasive speeches that elevate their presentations. By incorporating practical examples, real-world applications, and innovative tools, this guide will help you not only understand the theory behind persuasive speaking but also apply it effectively in your professional life.

What is a persuasive speech?

A persuasive speech is a carefully crafted presentation aimed at convincing the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action. Unlike informative speeches, which merely present facts, persuasive speeches blend logical arguments, emotional appeals, and credible evidence to influence the audience's beliefs and behaviors.

Imagine you're presenting a new marketing strategy to your team. You must not only explain the strategy but also convince them of its effectiveness. By sharing stories of how other companies successfully implemented similar strategies and achieved impressive results, you can create a compelling narrative that persuades your team to buy into your vision.

For example , consider how Steve Jobs introduced the iPhone in 2007. He didn't just talk about the technical specs; he painted a vivid picture of how the device would fit into everyday life, solving problems we didn't even know we had and creating a deep emotional connection with the audience. That's persuasive speaking at its finest.

What is the purpose of a persuasive speech?

The primary purpose of a persuasive speech is to influence the audience's attitudes, beliefs, or actions. In a corporate setting, this might involve:

• Convincing stakeholders to invest in a new initiative.
• Persuading clients to choose your company's product or service.
• Motivating employees to adopt new procedures or technologies.
• Encouraging teams to strive for higher performance standards.

For instance , a marketing director might use a persuasive speech to advocate for a shift to a digital-first marketing strategy, highlighting the benefits of increased reach, better targeting, and higher ROI compared to traditional methods.

How to write a persuasive speech that creates impact?

Writing an effective persuasive speech requires a strategic approach. Here are the steps to follow:

Understand your audience

To persuade effectively, it’s crucial to know who you’re speaking to. Research your audience 's values, concerns, and interests. Are they conservative or risk-takers? Do they prioritize innovation or stability? Understanding these nuances allows you to tailor your message to address their specific needs and expectations. For example , if you're addressing a board of directors concerned about budget constraints, emphasize cost-effectiveness and ROI in your arguments. Mention specific savings, potential profit increases, or cost-benefit analyses. Engaging with the audience's core concerns directly can make your speech more compelling and relevant.

Choose a compelling topic

Selecting a topic that resonates with your audience and offers clear, tangible benefits is crucial. A dull topic can quickly disengage your audience, undermining your entire presentation. To avoid this, focus on creating interesting and relevant topics. One effective strategy is to pose a question directly related to your audience's current challenges or goals. For example , instead of a generic topic like "Improving Workplace Efficiency," try something more engaging like "What Strategies Can Double Our Team's Efficiency in Six Months?" This approach piques interest and sets a clear, relatable goal.

Another tip is to link your topic to recent trends or industry developments. Audiences are more likely to pay attention to content that feels current and relevant to their professional landscape. For instance, with the growing emphasis on remote work, a topic such as "Maximizing Team Productivity in a Remote Work Environment" can be highly engaging. By focusing on these strategies, you can ensure your topic captures interest, addresses pressing issues, and motivates your audience to engage deeply with your presentation.

Structure your speech

A well-organized speech helps maintain clarity and keeps the audience engaged. Start with a hook that grabs attention – a startling statistic, a thought-provoking question, or a relevant anecdote. Your introduction should set the stage and introduce your main argument. The body of your speech should present your main points systematically, each backed by supporting evidence such as data, examples, and expert opinions. Use transitions to guide your audience from one point to the next smoothly. Conclude with a strong call to action, summarizing your main points and emphasizing what your audience wants to do or believe. A clear, logical structure ensures your message is easily understood and memorable.

Use credible evidence

Credible evidence is the backbone of a persuasive speech. Support your arguments with data, case studies, and expert opinions. For instance, citing a study that shows how companies with strong diversity policies outperform their peers can strengthen your argument for implementing such policies. Use concrete numbers and reputable sources to add weight to your claims. Quoting industry leaders, presenting statistical analyses, or referencing well-documented case studies can make your arguments more convincing. For example , you might say, "According to a McKinsey study, companies in the top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity are 35% more likely to have financial returns above their respective national industry medians."

Appeal to emotions

Connecting with your audience on an emotional level can significantly enhance the impact of your speech. Use storytelling and relatable examples to humanize your message. Share a personal anecdote or a success story that highlights the positive impact of your proposal. For example , if you’re advocating for a new health program, tell a story about an employee who benefited from a similar initiative, focusing on how their improved health led to better job performance and personal well-being. Emotions like hope, fear, happiness, and anger can motivate people to act more than facts and figures alone. By tapping into these emotions, you can create a deeper connection with your audience and drive them to action.

Techniques for an effective persuasive speech

To enhance your persuasive speaking skills, master the following techniques:

• Ethos: Establish your credibility by demonstrating your expertise and trustworthiness. Mention your experience in the field or reference reputable sources. Think about how Oprah Winfrey commands authority simply by sharing her personal experiences and the lessons she’s learned.
• Pathos: Appeal to the audience's emotions by using vivid language, personal stories, and evocative imagery. For instance, share a touching story about an employee whose life was improved by the company’s wellness program.
• Logos: Use logical reasoning and factual evidence to support your arguments. Present clear statistics, logical reasoning, and structured points to make a compelling case. If you’re talking about productivity tools, you might include data showing how similar companies saw a 30% increase in efficiency.

• Repetition: Reinforce your key messages by repeating them throughout your speech. This helps ensure that your main points are remembered. Remember Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech? The repeated phrase "I have a dream" etched the message into history.
• Storytelling: Use stories to illustrate your points and make them more relatable. For example , a story about a team that overcame a major challenge by adopting a new workflow can be very persuasive.

Persuasive speaking tips

Enhancing your public speaking skills can significantly impact the effectiveness of your presentations. Here are some advanced tips to take your speaking to the next level:

Practice extensively

Rehearse your speech multiple times to ensure a smooth delivery. Focus on transitions between sections to make your speech flow naturally. Recording yourself can be particularly helpful; review the footage to identify areas where you can improve your tone, pace, and body language. Consider practicing in front of a small, supportive audience who can provide constructive feedback. The more you practice, the more confident you will become, reducing the likelihood of stumbling over words or losing your train of thought during the actual presentation.

Use rhetorical questions

Keeping your audience engaged is crucial for maintaining their interest and persuading them effectively. Use rhetorical questions to prompt thinking and involvement. For instance, starting with a question like, "Have you ever wondered why some teams consistently outperform others?" can grab attention and set the stage for your argument. Incorporate interactive elements such as polls, quizzes, or brief discussions to make your presentation more dynamic. Maintaining direct eye contact with different sections of the audience helps establish a connection and keeps them focused on your message.

Stay positive and confident

Your attitude can significantly influence your audience’s reception of your message. Maintain a positive tone throughout your speech, which can be infectious and help build rapport. Confidence is equally important; it demonstrates that you believe in your message. If you appear unsure or hesitant, your audience may doubt your credibility. Use positive language and assertive statements to convey conviction and enthusiasm about your topic.

Be clear and concise

Clarity and brevity are essential in a persuasive speech. Avoid jargon and overly complex language that might confuse your audience. Instead, use straightforward language to convey your points clearly and concisely. This approach ensures that your message is easily understood and remembered. Focus on key points and avoid unnecessary details that might dilute your message. Each sentence should serve a purpose and drive your argument forward.

Handle objections skillfully

Anticipating and addressing potential objections is crucial for maintaining credibility and strengthening your argument. Think about possible counterarguments your audience might have and prepare thoughtful responses. For example , if you anticipate concerns about the cost of a new initiative, address them directly: "I understand the worry about initial costs, but let me show you how this investment pays for itself in just one year." Handling objections shows that you have thoroughly considered different perspectives and are prepared to defend your position.

Persuasive speech outline

Creating a detailed outline is essential for organizing your thoughts and ensuring a coherent flow. Here’s a comprehensive outline template for a persuasive speech:

A) Introduction

• Attention getter: Start with a compelling hook to capture the audience’s attention. This could be a surprising fact, a powerful quote, or a provocative question. For example , "What if I told you that by changing just one aspect of our workflow, we could increase our productivity by 30%?"
• Thesis statement: Clearly state your main argument or the purpose of your speech. "Implementing a flexible work-from-home policy will enhance our team’s productivity and job satisfaction."
• Preview: Briefly outline the main points you will cover. "Today, I will explain why flexible work policies are beneficial, how they improve productivity, and the steps we can take to implement them effectively."

Main point 1: Benefits of flexible work policies

• ‍ Data on productivity improvements: "Studies show that remote workers are 35-40% more productive than their in-office counterparts." ‍
• Case study: "For example , XYZ Corp saw a 20% increase in project completion rates after adopting a flexible work policy."

Main point 2: Enhancing job satisfaction

• ‍ Work-life balance: "Employees with flexible schedules report higher job satisfaction and lower stress levels." ‍
• Testimonials: "Sarah, our senior developer, says she feels more balanced and productive working from home."

Main point 3: Steps to implement flexible work policies ‍

• ‍ Outline necessary steps: "We need to establish clear guidelines, invest in remote collaboration tools, and provide training for effective remote work." ‍
• Highlight resources: "Tools like Slack, Zoom, and Asana can facilitate seamless remote collaboration."

C) Conclusion

• Summary: Recap the main points of your speech. "Flexible work policies can boost productivity, enhance job satisfaction, and be implemented effectively with the right tools and guidelines."
• ‍ Call to action: Encourage your audience to take specific steps. "Let’s pilot a flexible work program in one department and evaluate the results over the next six months."
• ‍ Closing statement: End with a memorable remark. "By embracing flexibility, we can create a more productive, satisfied, and engaged workforce."

Examples of persuasive speech

Example 1: persuading a team to adopt a new strategy.

Introduction: "Imagine doubling our productivity without working extra hours. Sounds impossible? Let me show you how it’s within our reach."

Thesis: "Adopting agile methodology will revolutionize our workflow and boost productivity."

Preview: "Today, I'll explain what agile methodology is, why it’s beneficial, and how we can implement it effectively."

Body: Agile is a flexible and iterative approach to project management that emphasizes collaboration, customer feedback, and small, rapid releases. For instance, companies like Spotify and Google have successfully used agile to enhance their operations. Spotify’s agile transformation led to a 40% increase in productivity and a significant reduction in product development cycles.

The benefits of agile include increased flexibility and responsiveness to changes. Agile allows teams to adapt quickly to market shifts and customer feedback, which is crucial in today’s fast-paced business environment. For example , Spotify’s agile approach enabled it to quickly adapt to user feedback and continuously improve its music recommendation algorithms, keeping users engaged and satisfied.

We can start by forming a small pilot team to implement agile in our team. This team will undergo agile training and begin working on a project using agile principles. We will track their progress and gather feedback to refine our approach before scaling it across the organization.

Conclusion: Let’s begin with a pilot team to test agile methodology. Together, we can transform our productivity and reach new heights.

Example 2: Motivating employees to boost productivity

Introduction: "Did you know that just a 5% increase in productivity can lead to a 20% increase in profits?"

Thesis: "By implementing a few strategic changes, we can significantly enhance our productivity."

Preview: "I'll cover proven strategies, the benefits of increased productivity, and how we can achieve this together."

Body: Effective time management techniques, like the Pomodoro Technique, can increase focus and reduce burnout. The Pomodoro Technique involves working in focused intervals of 25 minutes followed by short breaks. This method helps maintain high levels of concentration and prevents burnout. For example , employees at ABC Company reported a 25% increase in productivity after adopting this technique.

The benefits of increased productivity include improved job satisfaction and morale. Happier employees are 12% more productive, according to a study by the University of Warwick. By creating a positive work environment and recognizing employees’ efforts, we can boost their morale and productivity.

To boost productivity, we can introduce tools such as task management software. Tools like Trello and Asana help teams organize their tasks, set priorities, and collaborate more effectively. For instance, using Trello, teams can streamline their workflow and improve collaboration, leading to faster project completion and higher quality outcomes.

Conclusion: Let’s commit to these changes and track our progress. Together, we can achieve exceptional results and thrive as a team.

1. How can I make my persuasive speech more engaging?

Engage your audience by using storytelling, rhetorical questions, and interactive elements such as polls or Q&A sessions. For instance, start with a relatable story or ask questions that prompt the audience to think deeply about the topic.

2. What are some common mistakes to avoid when speaking persuasively?

Avoid overloading your speech with too much information, ignoring the audience's needs, and failing to practice your delivery. Instead, focus on clear, concise points supported by strong evidence. Practice your speech multiple times to ensure smooth delivery.

3. How do I handle counterarguments in a persuasive speech?

Acknowledge counterarguments respectfully and use evidence to refute them. This shows that you have considered different perspectives and strengthens your position. For example , if addressing concerns about cost, present data showing long-term savings.

4. What is the role of body language in persuasive speaking?

Body language enhances your message by conveying confidence and enthusiasm. Use gestures, maintain eye contact, and ensure your posture is open and engaging. For instance, standing tall and using open hand gestures can make you appear more credible and approachable.

5. How important is the conclusion in a persuasive speech?

The conclusion is critical as it reinforces your message and leaves a lasting impression. Summarize your main points and end with a strong call to action. For example , "To ensure our success, let's implement these changes immediately and monitor our progress."

6. Can humor be used in a persuasive speech?

Yes, humor can be an effective tool to engage the audience and make your speech memorable. However, ensure that it is appropriate for the context and audience. For instance, a light-hearted joke about a common workplace scenario can break the ice and make the audience more receptive.

Using Prezent to enhance your persuasive presentations

In addition to mastering the art of persuasive speech, leveraging technology can enhance your presentation's effectiveness. Prezent, the smartest AI tool for creating presentations, offers advanced features that can help you effortlessly craft visually compelling and highly effective slides.

• ‍ Structured storytelling : Prezent's Story Builder feature allows users to access over 1,000 expert-curated storylines. This helps in organizing speeches in a logical and compelling manner, ensuring that the narrative flows smoothly and keeps the audience engaged. Structured storytelling is crucial for persuading an audience as it helps to clearly articulate the problem, the solution, and the desired action​.
• ‍ Personalized content generation : The Auto Generator feature uses ASTRID AI to create hyper-personalized content based on the specific audience and context. By tailoring the speech to the audience's preferences and needs, speakers can make their message more relatable and impactful. Personalization is key in persuasive speeches as it addresses the unique concerns and interests of the audience, making the message more compelling.
• ‍ Visual support : Effective visual aids can significantly enhance a speech's persuasiveness. Prezent’s Slide Library offers over 35,000 slides in brand-approved designs , allowing speakers to include compelling visuals that support their points. Visual aids can help clarify complex ideas, emphasize key points, and keep the audience engaged.

• ‍ Best practices examples : Prezent provides access to a vast library of best practice examples for business communication. These examples can serve as templates or inspiration for crafting persuasive arguments and delivering them effectively. Learning from proven strategies can help speakers enhance their own persuasive techniques.
• ‍ Interactive learning modules : To improve the delivery of persuasive speeches, Prezent offers gamified learning modules that cover essential skills such as problem-solving, visual storytelling, and presentation delivery. Continuous learning and skill enhancement ensure that speakers can refine their techniques and become more effective in persuading their audience.​

For a more in-depth understanding of how to use Prezent effectively, consider exploring by signing up for a 14-day free trial or booking a demo with our experts . This combination of persuasive speaking skills and advanced presentation tools will ensure that your message is not only heard but also remembered.

More zenpedia articles

Brand Style Guide 2025: Create a consistent brand identity to ensure sustainability

5 Effects of ineffective communication in the workplace and strategies to enhance productivity 

The importance of business communication and 7 strategies to streamline the communication process

Get the latest from Prezent community

Join thousands of subscribers who receive our best practices on communication, storytelling, presentation design, and more. New tips weekly. (No spam, we promise!)

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

How to Craft a Masterful Outline of Speech

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.

I’m sure you have all seen at least one captivating Ted Talk online. One thing you probably noticed is how smoothly it went. I can assure you that every public speaker has done their homework and put together an outline of speech before presenting it in front of an audience. This wouldn’t be possible without some preparation beforehand.

An outline done right can do wonders for organizing your speech, and public speaking teachers often stress the importance of this organization tool. A rough outline can help you come up with more main points and sub-points for your arguments. It will help you brainstorm ideas. Some people use index cards with keywords or brief phrases from their speech outline to help them accurately deliver their speech.

The outline functions as a visual aid, too. Some people with photographic memory can use the outline as supporting material and ensure they do not forget crucial elements of their speech. Logically ordering your speech points can also smoothen your speechwriting process.

The speech outline is one of the most critical elements to have. Simply put, it has two main functions: it’s a point of reference and an organizational tool. Our guide will help you understand how an outline is used, the structure of an outline, and the different types, so you can create the most helpful outline for you.

In this article:

Preparation Outline

Speaking outline, the big picture, type of speech, call to action, speech outline structure, coordination, parallelism, transitions, speech outline types.

The preparation outline is your first draft. It includes the bare bones of your speech, and it’s often referred to as a working/rough/practice outline. You will write the main points of your speech, the supporting points, organized logically, and the other various components, such as attention getter and so on (we expand on the parts of a speech outline further in the article).

The preparation outline is used to help put your thoughts on paper and arrange your material. It is also the place where you should pay attention to your arguments. Are they convincing or lacking evidence? You might need to rearrange some parts to make your speech flows better. Don’t be afraid of removing parts of your preparation outline if they don’t make sense.

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

The preparation outline is then transformed into a speaking outline. Even though your preparation outline should include full sentences, don’t forget your it is not an essay. Try not to get carried away with writing, and use it to get your textual arguments in order.

The speaking outline is your reference point. Unlike the preparation outline, this one is more concise includes keywords to serve as quick reminders during your speech. These short phrases should briefly encapsulate your main points, conclusion, introduction, and an attention grabber. Unlike the first outline, which uses long sentences and breakdowns of your textual arguments, the speaking outline could easily fit on cue cards and help prepare for your speech.

You shouldn’t solely rely on index cards, however, as you may come across as unprepared in the eyes of the audience. Most speakers use them to prepare for their speech and simply refer to them when they get stuck. Make sure to check the instructor’s requirements to see if you’re allowed index cards during your speech.

Things to Consider Before Outlining Your Speech

Before you get into arranging your outline, it’s essential to think about the big picture. Before you begin, consider three things: think about the speaker, the subject, and the audience. Here is more detail about each element:

Speaker – Why are you discussing the topic at hand? Why does this subject matter to you? Do you have any significant insights on the topic? Do you have any expertise or qualifications that can help convince the audience of the legitimacy of your words?

Subject – Are you covering a controversial topic? How do you think your audience will react to it? Are you going to make some interesting points? Try to predict the audience’s reaction s you can be more prepared for your speech.

Audience – What do you know about your audience? Are they all from a particular age group? Are they qualified in the same area you are? Are they familiar with your work? Has the audience paid to listen to your speech?

Try to take a step back and look at the big picture. You might find some exciting takeaways when doing that.

Think about the purpose of your speech. Are you there to convince the audience to do something? Or is your goal to inform the audience of some less-known facts? Generally speaking, there are two common categories of speech, and yours most likely falls under one of them:

Informative speech – the primary purpose of the informative speech is to educate the audience on a subject. The goal is to have the audience learn something and leave your speech with a better understanding of a specific subject. We have an in-depth article about informative speech outline with examples here .

Persuasive speech – a persuasive speech aims to convince the audience to do something or change their opinion on a topic. It is similar to a sales pitch and combines credibility, logic, and emotion to help convince the listener. We have in-depth article about persuasive speech outline here .

Before you start outlining your speech, make sure you have chosen your preferred type, as the outlines vary depending on your speech category.

The title is highly underestimated when making a speech outline. Logically we think that we don’t need one. Since we are more or less presenting the speech verbatim, we are not exactly going to stand in front of an audience quoting our speech title. But we might still need one. A title helps summarize your main goal. It holds the central idea behind your speech. You will have no trouble writing a title once you are sure what message you are trying to deliver.

What is the central idea of your speech? Is there e certain question you are aiming to answer? Determine the essential message behind your speech. Try to sum it up in a single sentence. Try to explain your message simply, without overcomplicating it.

Use your central message as a reference point throughout your speech. When you get stuck, write up your main points and supporting arguments, and always ask yourself, do they support the key message? If not, they might be redundant.

In order to make a captivating speech and maintain the audience’s attention, you need to think about the relevance of your message. You should always put the audience first, so now that you have your key message prepared, list the reasons why the audience should care about your message. Is it relevant to them somehow?

Think of at least one reason why the speech should matter to your audience. For example, if you’re writing a persuasive speech about texting and driving, the audience would find it relevant because it concerns their safety. If you can’t think of a relevant reason why the listeners should care about your speech, reconsider your message.

You have probably heard about hooks before when you used this technique to begin your essays. The hook is the attention-getter, and it is paramount to your speech. It’s the first sentence your audience will hear and usually determines whether or not your audience would listen to the rest of your speech. There are many clever ways to start your talk and ensure you’re being heard:

• Ask the audience a rhetorical question.
• Start with a joke.
• Tell a short personal story.
• Recite a quote.
• Prompt the audience members to do something.

Speaking of encouraging the audience to do something, this brings us to our next point.

When presenting a persuasive speech, you’ll most likely need a call to action. The most convincing speeches prompt the audience to make some kind of action. You can ask them to raise a hand if they have done something (drink more than 5 cups of coffee a day). Alternatively, you can ask them to scan a QR code to reveal some useful information on the topic at hand. These small steps will move the audience in the right direction.

Now that you have prepared thoroughly, you can formulate your speech outline. Get familiar with the main points of your speech. You can find examples and references below, explaining each topic. Remember that all the various elements of your speech will make an organizational pattern supporting your central thesis (key message). An organized speech has main points, typically between 2 and 5, and any supporting material is put in your outline as a sub-point.

A Roman numeral numbers every main point, while subpoints are listed with capital letters. The hierarchal order that follows is Arabic numerals and, finally, lowercase letters. For further subordination, speak to your tutor or the person in charge of your public speaking project.

Here is the basic speech outline, including an introduction, body, and conclusion. For planning purposes, each section is explained to understand the textual arrangements best. Examples are given later in the text.

Every basic speech outline includes an introduction. This is your speech opening, and it needs to be robust and captivating. It is critical to prepare a compelling introduction. An introduction has 3-5 parts, depending on the length of your speech.

• Attention getter – Capture the audience’s attention.
• Thesis statement – Your key message is introduced here with a couple of short sentences.
• Motivation – Explain how this speech will be relevant to the audience
• Qualifications – Explain to the audience why you are qualified to discuss this topic
• Transition – Smoothly transition the audience to the next part of your speech

The body is an integral part of any basic speech. Here you can develop your thesis in detail. The body holds the bulk of the information you will be presenting in front of an audience. It is important to do plenty of research on your speech topic. Gather content you might need during your talk. are you going to need any visual aids? Perhaps make some charts of your statistics. Or, if you’re going for a humorous approach, some memes on the topic can get the audience laughing and hungry to hear more on the topic. Aim for a sheet full of ideas. It’s worth noting that too much information doesn’t mean better speech. Once you have gathered all your engaging material, subtract some supporting material that you feel isn’t genuinely helping your presentation. You shouldn’t try to talk about everything. Instead, choose what is most important and focus on making it relevant and believable by adding sub-points:

• First subpoint (Give some support to the reason above)
• Sufficiently supported statements (Provide more factual arguments to support the above statements)
• Sufficiently supported statements
• Second subpoint (Structured like the one above, with its supporting point listed below)
• Sufficiently supported statements (…)
• More points, following the above guidelines
• Transitional statement
• First subpoint (Supporting the main point)
• Continue organizing your outline this way.
• First subpoint (supporting the main point)
• Continue your outline as shown above.

The grand finale of your speech is where you must tie together all previous elements in a clear and solid point.

• Summary – Here, all your main ideas and points will connect together and formulate a convincing conclusion. You can provide short examples of why the listeners should agree with your proposed thesis:
• Call to action – give the audience members a suggestion, something they can do to support what they have learned. Or instead, think of a unique or memorable ending to your speech.
• Closure – Bring the speech to an end by thanking the audience for their time.
• Bibliography – in some cases, you might get asked for your bibliography of references. If you’re using many statements, quotes, or statistics from various sources, remember to collect them throughout your research.

Let’s help you visualize these instructions and see how these elements correspond by looking at an example.

Topic: Hypoalergenic Cats

Specific Purpose: To debunk the myth of hypoallergenic cats.

Thesis: Despite there being breeds of cats known as “hypoallergenic”, no cat breed is guaranteed to relieve you of your allergy symptoms.

Preview: I will talk about the misconceptions behind cat allergies and explain how they work.

Here is an example of the structure of a Body:

• People are allergic to a protein called FEL D1.
• The protein is contained in the cat’s saliva.
• The saliva is being transferred to the cat’s fur during their cleaning process.
• This fur is spread around your house in the form of dander.
• People are not allergic to a cat’s fur, just the protein.
• This means you could be allergic to some cats, not all of them.
• Get a check-up and find out if there are any medications you can take to ease your allergy symptoms.
• Vacuum regularly around your house to reduce cat hair and dander spreading.
• Swap your drapes with blinds and carpets with hardwood floors. That way, less fur will stick to your furniture.
• Buy HEPA air filters for every room.
• Clean out their litterbox more often.
• No cat is hypoallergenic.
• All cats make the protein FEL D1.
• Some breeds are known to produce less FEL D1, but there is no guarantee you won’t be allergic to them.
• Even the “naked” cat breeds such as Sphynx, Donskoy, Bambino, etc., produce FEL D1.
• Buying “hypoallergenic cats” only creates a bigger rehoming problem.
• Many cat breeders like to use the myth of hypoallergenic cats to sell expensive cat breeds.
• Once people realize the cat isn’t hypoallergenic, they can no longer keep it.
• The cat is either thrown out, put in a shelter, or resold, creating tons of stress for the animal or potentially resulting in its death.

Now that you know the structure of a speech, you are almost ready to start writing it. By all means, if this has inspired you, grab a sheet of paper and write down the ideas that come to mind. But before you start putting your outline on paper, double-check you are familiar with the rules of outlining a speech.

Rules in Outlining

Speech outlines follow a specific set of rules. Going by these rules will only help you polish the particular details that make your speech stand out. To double-check that your speech makes sense, go through your outline and give it another read to check for coherence. Here are some characteristics you should pay attention to:

Think of your outline as a staircase – your final draft should have subordinate points diagonally placed beneath your main points. They should all interlink and reference one another.

Looking at the example from the section above, points A. and B. explain what determines a cat allergy and what doesn’t. Points 1-3 give information on why the protein affects people and debunks the myth that people are allergic to cat hair . Points 1-3 are called subordination of point, just like  A., B., and C. are to main point III. Your overall organizational pattern should not only include Roman numerals, points, and thesis statements. It should be cohesive and coordinated. 

Another important part of speech writing is parallelism. It is the concept of beginning sentences similarly whenever possible, using similar grammar. Pay attention to our example once again. Note section II and the subordinate points of main point B. – all points start with a verb: “Get,” “Vacuum”, “Swap,” “Clean.” This type of structure adds clarity to your speaking and shows you have really paid attention to your full-sentence outline. Don’t worry about sounding boring – parallelism helps you sound acute!

Another essential part of your speech outline is division. The concept is simple – when you’re trying to make one point, you should also try to expand it. If your point is convincing enough, it will have plenty of meaningful information that you can lengthen in sections A. and B. Similarly. You can use a supporting point for sub-points A. and B. to help expand them, and so on. Remember you’re doing this only to support your main thesis statement. If your sub-points aren’t doing that, you might be waffling on and confusing your audience.

A clever way to connect your main points is by using transitional statements. In most cases, speakers use these sentences to glue together two distinctive (yet connected) ideas. That way, the audience is prepared that something else is being discussed. You have used transitional sentences in essay writing. Maybe these words will ring a bell: “next”, “also”, “moreover”, “firstly”. These words and phrases will greatly improve your writing skills and, eventually, your entire speech.

There is another way you can integrate a transition into your speech – by using non-verbal transitions. Adding brief pauses or moving around the stage grabs the audience’s attention and helps them understand some other concept is being introduced. Most extemporaneous speakers take it to another level by stepping out of the podium or raising or lowering their voice rate. These can all be signals to your audience that a transition is taking place.

A third way to include transitions into your speech outline is to make internal summaries. To write an internal summary, summarize what has already been said in a brief sentence or two. For example:

So far, we have explored why n cat can be hypoallergenic. But does that mean you can be less allergic to some cats?

We have hinted at the next point in our speech with this question. We could also use  a summary to build on an issue we are currently expanding:

Now that you understand how cat allergies work, let’s see if there is a way to share your life with a cat despite being allergic.

How to Write an Outline for a Persuasive Speech, with Examples

30+ Controversial Opinions That Will Get You Thinking

1 thought on “How to Craft a Masterful Outline of Speech”

just fyi, most of you guys links are no longer vailed

Leave a Comment

I accept the Privacy Policy

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities

Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi.

© 2024 My Speech Class