How to Write a Persuasive Speech

How to Write a Persuasive Speech — A Detailed Guide for Beginners

Are you required to write a persuasive speech, but have no idea where to start?

Many students struggle with writing a speech that does not read awkwardly. To help you out, this guide has everything you need to know about writing persuasively.

What is a Persuasive Speech? The Simple Definition

The persuasive speech definition is quite simple — a speech intended to convince the audience about a given subject. To write a good speech, you must practice a lot. The points in this guide will help you get started.

A persuasive speech does not merely inform the audience on a subject. As you write, avoid spending time on the background story because it does not help you achieve the goal. Do not write a speech merely to complain about something. If you have identified a problem, persuade your audience to do something about it.

How to Write a Good Persuasive Speech in 3 Steps

Generally, persuasive speech guidelines dictate that you must use facts, write clearly, and convincingly. However, there is much more to consider if you want to write a good persuasive speech.

Write the Way You Talk

Bear in mind that a speech is meant to be spoken. Do not write it the way you would an essay or research paper. Once you are done writing, read the speech aloud, and hear the words. If there is any awkward wording that will confuse the speaker, simplify them.

Narrate a Story

Unless you want to bore your audience to death, tell them an interesting story. A good speech is about more than a compilation of facts and figures. Start with a relatable introduction, substantive body, and wholesome conclusion. Carry your audience with you from the introduction to the end of your persuasive speech.

Authenticity Is Key

As you write, know that your audience wants to hear something authentic. Think about the moment and what might be on your audience’s mind. Consider something you are passionate about and write something that feels true. Writing an authentic persuasive speech begins with choosing a topic you are passionate about.

Tips for Writing a Persuasive Speech from the Experts

Some persuasive speech tips will help you write with ease. Persuading an audience is an art. You cannot write an ordinary speech. Because people have opinions, changing their minds is not an easy task. However, if you write strategically, you will convince the audience to see things from your point of view.

Know the Difference between Persuasion and Confrontation

A persuasive speech is not meant to be confrontational. Although you need an “argument” to prove as you write, do not take it in the literal sense. Use logic to convince your audience of your beliefs without demeaning theirs. Check that your tone and choice of words do not leave a confrontational impression on your audience.

Keep the Statistics Simple

Numbers are great for proving points. They are even better when you back them up with references to credible sources. However, your audience might get confused if you write a speech with too many complicated statistics. Keep your statistics simple, and use them sparingly.

Three Points Are Plenty

The standard persuasive speech structure calls for three points. Your argument should be structured in this way to keep it simple and avoid overwhelming your audience. Do your research, settle on 3 major points you would like to make and write. Do not lose your audience while trying to give too many explanations.

How to Start a Persuasive Speech from Scratch

Build credibility from the first sentence you write. If your audience perceives you as an authority in a specific subject, they will pay more attention.

How can you build credibility from the minute you start your speech?

Below are some ways:

• Start with a relatable example;
• Use verified statistics that are simple yet relevant;
• Ask engaging questions that will make the audience think.

Whichever strategy you choose to start with, have your audience in mind. Know their preferences, and try to appeal to them. Be conscious of age, gender, and other societal constructs that may influence how your audience perceives your message.

How to End a Persuasive Speech Properly

Do not write a persuasive speech just for the sake of it. Know that there is a difference between speaking and saying something meaningful.

So, as you write the end of your essay you must ask yourself — have you provided valuable insights?

End your persuasive speech with a strong summary. It will restate all the main points you have made in the speech. Avoid sounding repetitive, so use different wording to emphasize your points. Using a slightly different language will help your audience rethink your argument.

Persuasive Speech Outline Explained

An outline is a great tool for organizing your thoughts before you write a persuasive speech. The initial outline has all the major sections you intend to write. Think of your outline as a skeleton that bodies your entire argument. Flesh out the main points with details based on your research.

A common misconception is that you have to have all the content ready as you write an outline. It is okay to figure things out as you go. That is the purpose of the outline. Think of it as an outlet for all the ideas you have, before you refine the essay.

Persuasive Speech Structure Explained

The standard persuasive speech format has 3 sections:

• Introduction — reels the audience in with interesting information;
• Body paragraphs — carry three main points that prove your argument;
• Conclusion — sums up the information presented in the speech.

This structure is important to follow because it keeps your essay simple. Bear in mind that speeches are meant to be read aloud, so making it too long is a bad idea.

Persuasive Speech Introduction Explained

The introduction of your persuasive essay must be compelling. Your audience will use it to decide whether to pay attention to what you have to say. Offer a hook that captures their attention.

The following are good hooks to use:

• Statistics
• Startling statements
• Rhetorical questions
• Relatable experiences

Other than reeling in your audience, the introduction should define the topic. It should hint at how you intend to solve the problem you claim exists. Write a well-worded thesis statement that serves this purpose.

Persuasive Speech Body Explained

The body of your persuasive speech is divided into paragraphs. Each paragraph should have a topic sentence, evidence, explanatory sentences, and a concluding statement. Although each paragraph should have an independent idea, they should all transition smoothly. When you read the body aloud, it should flow logically and present comprehensive information.

Persuasive Speech Conclusion Explained

The conclusion of your persuasive speech should reiterate the body without sounding repetitive. Achieving this is not easy — there are only so many ways you can say the same thing. So, try using different wording to describe your argument.

Finally, leave your audience with something to think about. A rhetoric question that is related to your topic would be appropriate.

Final Take

Writing a persuasive speech is about more than stringing words together. You have to write your argument convincingly while sticking to a specific structure.

If you are having a hard time righting your persuasive speech, do not hesitate to reach out to us for help.

Our professional writers are one phone call away!