Speaking and writing use many of the same skills. Effective speakers, like effective writers, identify their purpose, audience, and context. They project themselves as informed and reasonable, establish common ground with listeners, and use specific, memorable language and effective techniques to capture their audience’s attention.

In many college classes, you’ll be assigned to give an oral presentation. The more comfortable you become speaking in different settings, the easier it will be when you give a formal presentation.

You can practice your speaking skills by contributing to class discussions, responding to the comments of fellow students, and playing an active role in team-based learning. In all such settings, you have the opportunity to inform and persuade others with a mix of good thinking, strong evidence, and appropriate language.

Speaking with a sense of purpose, audience, and context

Preparing a presentation

Delivering the presentation

Being an audience member

Remixing a paper for a presentation