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You can be an effective visual aid, particularly if your topic calls for an explanation of an action. Consider Zoya, a student who loved rock climbing and gave a presentation on the sport’s basics. During her speech, she covered some of the most common climbing moves and provided tips for taking lessons and finding the best beginner climbing spots. To illustrate her points, Zoya wore the clothes, special shoes, and equipment (harness, belay device, carabiners) that she used while climbing. Through her attire, she served as a visual aid.

In addition to wearing clothing or other apparel or equipment related to your topic, you can also be a visual aid by demonstrating or acting out an aspect of your speech topic. Shenille, a college sophomore in a speech class, prepared an informative presentation about three styles of African dance. She described them and then demonstrated each one by dancing briefly before the audience.