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The type of informative speech you prepare is determined by the situation, your specific purpose, and the information needs of the audience. Although the type may vary, there are common guidelines competent speakers apply when preparing informative presentations.

Three-time U.S. Memory champion Nelson Dellis uses his expertise to keep audiences captivated during his speeches as he raises awareness about Alzheimer’s.² Speaking onstage to a Chicago Ideas Week audience, Dellis demonstrated a technique for memorization known as the method of loci, which relies on the brain’s ability to recall information that has been mentally linked to familiar locations. He asked the audience to memorize a list of 10 random words and phrases, including “rest” and “mango-par-bat,” and then guided them on an imaginary journey around different locations on the stage, where each word or phrase was associated with a particular point. He then asked them to recite the list of random words and phrases from the beginning—which they did, without a hitch. Dellis revealed that each word or phrase on the list corresponded with a phonetic sound for the names of the 10 highest mountains in the world. Through a combination of imaginative storytelling and everyday language, Dellis was able to hold the attention of his audience and keep them involved as he demonstrated a useful memory technique and increased their awareness of the challenges of Alzheimer’s.

² Adapted from Dellis (2014).

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As you inform listeners about your topic, be sure they stay attentive and engaged. Chapter 14 describes ways to do this, such as using appropriate humor and integrating presentation aids. Additionally, following the guidelines discussed in this section will keep your listeners engaged and help them remember your message for years to come.