How to Write an Informative Speech

How to Create a Speech Your Audience Cares About

So, you've been tasked with creating an informative speech. How do you do that? Just follow these step-by-step instructions.

Step 1: Analyze Your Audience

Before you begin writing your speech, you should analyze the audience of that speech.  After all, every effective speech is crafted with it's real audience in mind.  When you tailor your speech to your real audience, you give yourself the best opportunity to meet your specific purpose - your goal for your audience.  When analyzing your audience, ask yourself these questions:

  • Who will hear/see my message?  
  • What are their backgrounds?  
  • What do they have in common?  
  • Where are their areas of difference?  
  • What do they already know about my topic?
  • What new information might they find useful?
  • How can I connect my speech to my audience members' real lives?

To Read:

The answers to these questions will help you write a speech that has maximum positive impact.  For even more techniques about connecting to your real audience, read the article "Common Speaker Pitfalls" by Craig Valentine in Toastmasters Magazine.