As you begin to prepare for your first speech, you may experience some nervousness about speaking in front of an audience. If so, you’re not alone. Although the claim that people fear public speaking more than death may be an urban legend, almost everyone—from college students to the public at large—feels nervous about speaking before an audience.9 The symptoms of speech anxiety—the worry or fear that some people experience before giving a talk (also called stage fright)—can take a wide variety of forms. Some people experience the stereotypical sensation of “butterflies in the stomach,” as well as sweaty palms and a dry mouth. Others endure nausea, hyperventilation, and downright panic.

A little nervousness actually can be a good thing when you’re giving a speech: it helps focus your attention. But in its extreme form, speech anxiety can prevent you from speaking clearly or keeping your train of thought while delivering your presentation. Although speech anxiety is quite common, you can learn to manage it. As one seasoned public speaker put it, “You may not be able to get rid of the butterflies, but you can at least get them flying in formation.” You are already taking an important first step by participating in a public speaking course. Research indicates that students in such classes become more self-assured and experience less apprehension about speaking as the term progresses.10

The following strategies can help you combat speech anxiety and build confidence in your public speaking skills.