Preparing yourself: how to write a thesis statement for a speech


An important part of any speech includes the main idea or thesis statement; this is what you are working to prove to your audience. Understanding this portion of the speech can make a difference in how you write your speech from start to finish. In most cases it is a matter of understanding your audience, their expectations, and providing useful information based on personal knowledge of the topic. The following points are areas to consider when preparing yourself to write a thesis statement for a speech.

  • Understand the significance of your thesis. Think about the role your thesis will play when you make your speech. This is what is stated toward the beginning of your speech and it makes the groundwork for what will follow.
  • Your speech should cover a main point; meaning, you should know which points to cover in your speech. The thesis is your main idea or purpose, but your other talking points will provide supporting information for the main idea. As you develop your speech your additional talking points should help you understand the overall message you want to deliver to your audience.
  • Your thesis is what sets the tone for your speech. It acts as a roadmap to the conclusion behind your main purpose. You can visualize yourself talking to your audience, but as you do this, think about how you will present your information. You want listeners to know about your main idea in a significant way. This will require having supporting information in order that will lead the audience to an informed conclusion based on what you have learned.
  • Consider all sides of your thesis or main point. Part of your speech may include reviewing multiple sides of your thesis. This is what brings depth and credibility to your presentation. It helps engage listeners and help them relate to your content.
  • Seek sample thesis statements related to your subject matter. Samples can help you organize your ideas into a cohesive thesis statement. You gain insight on how to use your ideas and what elements are necessary for your thesis based on subject matter.
  • Think about the type of statement you are creating and how it relates to what you want your audience to know. There are different types of thesis statements to consider such as those that feature a cause, call for action, or evaluate and compare a concept.

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11 2016

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