Research, then write: Spend an afternoon in the local library (or business library) to widen your range of knowledge on the subject. Using relevant statistics or studies strengthens the force of your argument. Avoid reciting too many numbers, though. You don't want to numb the brains of your audience.

2torial #0694: Learn2 Write a Speech (Continued) Write anything on the topic   That's right: anything. Don't sit down to write the speech--just set down on paper some thoughts and feelings on the general subject of the speech. Don't worry about posterity and popularity, just let it flow. This is an especially good step for those with writer's block. If you have trouble getting into the spirit, try it in a form of a letter. Write your Aunt Nancy in New Iberia about the speech you're going to give, and describe what you plan to say.   During the early stages of your writing, beware of the impulse to overedit, or rather, to edit yourself to a standstill. You don't have to forge the whole speech right now. Just sketch it out. Step 3