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When each of the main points is a subtopic or category of the speech topic, try the topical pattern of arrangement (also called categorical pattern). Consider an informative speech about choosing Chicago as a place to establish a career. You plan to emphasize three reasons for choosing Chicago: the strong economic climate of the city, its cultural variety, and its accessible public transportation. Since these three points are of relatively equal importance, they can be arranged in any order without affecting one another or the speech purpose negatively. For example:
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THESIS STATEMENT:
MAIN POINTS: |
Chicago is an excellent place to establish a career.
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This is not to say that, when using a topical arrangement, you should arrange the main points without careful consideration. Any number of considerations can factor in your ordering of points, not least of which should be the audience’s most immediate needs and interests.
Find Freedom with the Topical Pattern
Topical arrangements give you the greatest freedom to structure main points according to the way you wish to present your topic. You can approach a topic by dividing it into two or more categories, for example. You can lead with your strongest evidence or leave your most compelling points until you near the conclusion. If your topic does not call out for one of the other patterns described in this chapter, be sure to experiment with the topical pattern.