Central Idea in Speech: 7 Things to Remember

Central idea in speech public speaking checklist including 7 important speech writing tips for reinforcing the central message in speech topics.

1. The secret of succesfull public speaking and speech writing is using one central idea or message. You can talk about many speech topics, but always refer back to - reinforce - that theme or a thesis. It's the only way the audience will remember your message. So, what is the central idea of speech?

2. Capture that speech idea in one full sentence. It should be a single and - very important - declarative sentence. Make sure that you make a specific statement. What do you want the audience to do, know or remember in the first place?

3. Develop your central speech idea in a clear public speaking speech outline that contains your supporting points. There are different kinds of public speaking outlines. Here are the ones who are used by students and members of Toastmasters International:

Chronological - The main points are arranged in a process or a expository central idea in speech sequence.

Topical - The central idea of speech is categorized in a pattern the audience will recognize.

Spatial - You relate the main points in a logical way, helpful for developing extemporaneous speech topics.

Cause and Effect - State the cause and effects of your speech topics.

Problem Solution - State and prove there is a problem and offer a solution.

4. In the introduction you:

• Grab the attention with a smashing oneliner.
• State the central idea of speech.
• Preview your perspectives - the main points.

• Does each point has one single and clear speech idea?
• Does each point reiterate your statement?
• Does each point remind the audience of the central idea of the speech?
• Does each point forecast the next main point?

• examples, testimonies, statistics or cases
• new information or views
• practical and personal experiences
• common grounds the audience will recognize

• Summarize the speech topic ideas in the main points in other words.
• Circle back to your introduction.
• Connect the needs and interests of the audience with the central idea in speech.