Out of all the fears in the world, public speaking is found in the top five. Some folks even think that it is scarier than dying. Since speaking in public can be so intimidating, it is a good idea to prepare ahead of time by implementing some ideas. Keep reading and learn how you can conquer the fear of speaking in public.

Utilize a timer when you are preparing to give a speech. This way, you’ll be able to edit it if need be. If it’s too short, try finding more information to add to it. Also, never rush through your speech.

Your audience will not remain attentive unless you work to keep them listening. Therefore, you must be very clear and to the point if you want to engage them. You really are performing, so you need to put lots of effort into it.

The key to a good speech is preparation. Know what you’re going to say. Do research to support your statements if necessary. Write down what you want to say. Practice until you know the speech by heart. Solid preparation gives you confidence for the speech itself.

Try using a timer to time the length of your speech. You can then edit your speech so it does not extend past the time allowed. If your speech needs to be longer, research the subject for more information to add. Finally, do not rush when giving your speech.

Know as much about your material as possible. It is useful to know all the facts, figures and a few jokes or stories relating to your topic, whether your speech is memorized or not. You can include theme if you think your audience is receptive. Draw on your general knowledge in the Q&A session following your presentation.

When preparing to speak in public, make sure to memorize your words well in advance. Once you are able to give your speech without looking at your notes, you can start to perfect your delivery. Also, you can change the speech when you are on stage if you want.

After you have memorized the broad strokes of your speech, practice often. Speaking it out loud often will allow you to make tweaks as you see the need. In addition, practice breathing and controlling the pace of the speech. You will need to leave pauses for interruptions by the audience. If you can, try to practice using the podium and other equipment you’ll be using when you make the real speech.

Practice your speech repeatedly. Repeated practice sessions can help you make key adjustments. Consider your pace and breathing. Leave time for interruptions like laughter and applause. If you can, go over your speech where you will be delivering it.

Be aware of who your audience really is. If you can, try to learn who will be listening to you. Then, greet them as they enter the room. This will give the event a more personal atmosphere.

Know the audience. If you can, learn who the individuals are who are expected to attend. Prior to the speech, even say hello to some of them at the door. The crowd will feel more friendly if you have a level of familiarity with at least some of the people.

Concentrating on story telling is an effective path towards better public speaking. Before speaking to the audience it is important that your speech is outlined. Make sure that your story has discernible chapters, like beginning, a middle and an end. If your story is one that is modeled after a true story, you will be both natural and believable.

Get to know your surroundings before your speech. Find out if there is a microphone. Get a good feel for the room’s acoustics however you can. Figure out what you want to do with your visual aids. Get an idea of how much range of eye contact you need to make.

You should know about the room you are speaking in. Find out how far your voice goes in the room without amplification. Get a better feel by using equipment. Utilize visual presentations to help your content reach the audience. Figure out how much eye contact should be made.

Keep your speech moving right along even though you realize you skipped over a section. By stopping in the middle of your speech to go back to the missed sentence, you may blow the whole thing. Also, people will notice it more if you backtrack.

Use deep breathing techniques to assuage your anxiety with regard to public speaking. Taking some deep breaths and then exhaling all the way before giving a speech can reduce nerves. Breathe in for four seconds and then breathe out. Repeat six times, and you will feel much calmer.

Many people are more scared to speak in public than they are of dying. However, you can overcome your fears of speaking before groups. Use the tips you’ve just been given, and you will become an effective and confident public speaker.

Practicing happens to be the best method to learn what you’re going to say. A good way to practice your speech and critique your mannerisms is by looking into a mirror as you’re talking. However, doing a practice run for family or friends is ideal, as they will be able to critique you well.