Three basic recipes for a speech

For the engineer in a hurry to acquire speaking skill, this paper offers a tested route through preparation to platform performance. It identifies the role of the speech in the technical context, provides plan-ahead notes and a choice of three sets of simplified guidelines for speech organization, and compares the needs and rewards of the self-contained speech, the technical society talk, and the presentation. Finishing, polishing, and rehearsing are discussed, with emphasis on oral-versus-written words and the use of humor. The reader is directed to a friendly, supportive environment for speaking practice. Final delivery is treated, with tips on establishing audience rapport.