Impromptu Speech is a limited or no preparation speech in which the speaker is given a few minutes to prepare a short speech on a randomly drawn topic. The speaker usually picks a random topic from an envelope or box. Sometimes, he or she draws three topics, chooses one, and then returns the other two. Each speech should be a fresh, unique, and original presentation which is developed from the chosen topic and prepared on the spot.
Benefits of Impromptu Speech
- Speaks with little or without notice
- Improves oral expression of thought
- Develops confidence in public speaking
- Thinks quickly on one’s feet
- Develops communication and improvisation skills
Impromptu Speech Techniques
- Give yourself time to prepare.
- Decide what your one message will be.
- Feel confident and start strong.
- Deliver slowly with clear transitions.
- Maintain eye contact and focus.
- Don’t memorize, throw in ‘off-the-cuff’ remarks.
- Don’t ramble, stay on topic.
- Don’t apologize.
Sources of Impromptu Speech Content
- Personal experiences
- Your opinions
- Current events
- Facts and figures
- Famous personalities
- Humor
- Previous speaker’s remarks
Patterns of Impromptu Speech Delivery
- PREP: Point, Reason, Example, Point
- PPF: Past, Present, Future
- AIDA: Attention, Interest, Desire, Action
- CC: Compare, Contrast
- CER: Cause, Effect, Remedy
- BER: Before the event, the Event, the Result (also, Before and After)
- GBI: Good (Pros), Bad (Cons), Indifferent
- 5Ws+1H: Who, What, When, Where, Why, How
Table Topics for Impromptu Speech
Table topics are exercises in impromptu speaking where speakers respond to questions with unrehearsed mini speeches. The speaker picks a random topic or is given a question to answer. The speaker may be given 1-2 minutes to prepare or no time all. The speaker starts speaking for 1-2 minutes and doesn’t stop, till time is up. The speaker stands in front of the audience and answers questions from them. Table topics sessions are often limited to a specific theme.
Table Topics Speaking Tips
- When you first hear the topic, smile.
- Don’t start speaking as soon as you are called.
- Decide immediately if you are for or against the topic.
- Strong delivery and gestures can make a difference.
- When your mind goes blank, smile—then repeat the topic or your last point.
- Speak slowly, giving you more time to think.
- Your response doesn’t have to be accurate or even truthful.
- Look for a word in the question or topic. Relate this word to a book you read, a TV show, a movie, the daily news, your studies, you work, or your hobbies.
- Expound about your having no idea how to answer the given question.
Impromptu Speech Outline
- Introduction (Opening)
- Restate the question or topic.
- Give or make up a quote.
- Use humor.
- Body
- Choose a pattern of development.
- Use the power of three
- Conclusion (Ending)
- Restate the question or topic.
- Restate the opening quote.
- Repeat the same humor.
- Don’t introduce new material.
You may also check a list of sample impromptu speech questions here. You may also read our Comprehensive Presentation (Nonverbals) Tips.