Public Speaking Introduction

Public speaking, or the act of performing a speech in front of a live audience, is an integral part of scientific communication.

This course gives you a reliable model for preparing and delivering effective presentations. In business, in school, and in public life, we are often called upon to “make a few comments.” Often, people tasked with such speeches become flummoxed. They might not know what to talk about, or ramble without making a point, or simply be confusing to listen to. This course is designed to help you shine where others falter.

Public speaking has two main components: content (what you say) and delivery (how you say it). The content of your talk determines how impactful your talk can be, and your delivery determines how impactful your talk actually is.
In order to become an engaging speaker, it is necessary to practice what you want to say and how you are going to say it.

Skills

We have broken down public speaking skills into verbal and nonverbal communication, and tips on how to practice more efficiently.

• Verbal – Speaking clearly, loudly, and in an engaging fashion can make or break a presentation. This article goes into more detail on how to use your voice effectively.
• Nonverbal – Standing in front of an audience can be nerve-wracking! This article addresses how you can use nonverbal cues like eye contact and body language to convey confidence and a strong stage presence.
• How to practice effectively – Practicing is an essential part of preparing for a presentation that often gets overlooked because we run out of time. This article will help you identify areas you want to improve and guide you through the process of practicing.
• The day of your presentation – You have enough to remember before your presentation! To help take off some of the stress, we’ve put together a short list of tips to help you be at your best.