How to Write a Good Speech

A good speech can touch people’s hearts. It can sway opinions and bring them to tears of joy. No matter what the focus of your speech, certain techniques can help you write a powerful piece that will reach your audience and allow you to accomplish your oratory goals.
Decide on a length
Before the first word is etched on your paper or computer, you need to decide the length of your speech. An otherwise great speech will not be so if it is woefully long or dreadfully short. Consider any parameters that you have been given on the speech. It should be long enough to cover the points but not so long as to lose people’s attention. Take duration into account throughout the writing of the speech.
Make an outline of the points that you want to covey
All speeches are meant to say something. At the end of the day, what is important is that these points make it through to the audience. It is helpful to write out a list of the different line items that you wish to include. Go into detail, including every item. Highlight anything to which you wish to give particular emphasis. Also come up with a logical order. You can also write out items that you would like to include if you have the time.
Consider starting with a story
You want a powerful opening for the speech. One way to engage the audience immediately is to start right into some sort of story. For instance, if you are giving a speech as a best man at a wedding, then you may want to talk about something very poignant that the groom did. If you are talking at a charity event about disadvantaged children, then you can give a story about a particular child. You want to touch them. A quote is another great way to do this.
Delve into your points
Now you want to start talking about the different points of your speech. Where possible include evidence to support your assertions. For instance, if you are talking about the levels of poverty, give staggering statistics that will make people say “Wow.” Instead of just saying that the groom is a caring individual, talk about how he volunteers every week.
You want to get through every point but do not belabor the points. Every word in the speech should have a meaning. Do not overly explain things, but make sure you say enough for them to understand. You can highlight or otherwise mark points that you want to be more emphatic while speaking.
Make sure that the speech flows well. It should blend from one point to another. Once you are done, try to find a fitting ending for everything. You may be able to come up with a quote or a sentence that summarizes what you have said.
The words behind a speech can make a true difference in what is portrayed to the audience. Once you have written the first draft of your speech, you are far from done. Read through the speech and correct any typographical errors. You should say it out loud to yourself and to someone else if possible to make sure that it sounds well and that the words are portrayed exactly as they are written. If you will be taking notes, make sure that they are very legible and allow you to smoothly read the speech. With one last practice, you will be ready to share your words with your audience.