Caleb S.
Caleb S.

Types of Speeches: The Ultimate Guide for Your Next Presentation

9 min read

Published on: Apr 8, 2022

Last updated on: Mar 25, 2024

Types of Speeches

In today's world, effective communication skills are vital to succeed in any field. One such crucial aspect of communication is delivering speeches. 

From persuading an audience to inspiring them, speeches play a significant role in conveying messages and ideas. However, different types of speeches require different approaches, structures, and styles. 

In this blog, we will explore the different types of speeches, their purpose, and the techniques used to make them effective. By the end of this blog, you will have a better understanding of how to tailor your speeches to different audiences and situations. 

So, let's dive in and discover the fascinating world of speeches!

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4 Types of Speeches According to Purpose

The main purpose of the speech is to educate, entertain, and inform the audience members. When you are asked to deliver a speech, you should know its main goal. 

Four different types of speeches according to purpose are:

Informative Speech

An informative speech is a common type of speech that educates and provides meaningful information to the audience. Its main purpose is to simplify complex theories into simpler ideas and convey information accurately. 

The main purpose of an informative speech is to:

  • Explain a specific subject
  • Provide interesting information to the audience
  • Increase the audience's understanding of a topic

Unlike other types of speeches, informative speeches don't rely on emotions but instead use facts and statistics to convey their message. In addition, it's important not to use visual aids or demonstrations during your speech.

Here are some examples of informative speeches:

  • A presentation on the history and culture of a foreign country
  • A lecture on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle
  • An explanation of the scientific process behind a new discovery
  • A talk on the importance of recycling and reducing waste

Persuasive Speech

In a persuasive speech, the debater tries to prove their point of view and persuade the audience to agree with them. 

The main purpose of a persuasive speech is to convince your audience. It's important to remember that simply writing a great speech isn't enough. You will need to be able to persuade your audience that your point of view is the right one.

A great example of a persuasive speech is TEDx Talks. During these events, speakers share their ideas and try to convince people to see things from their perspective. With a persuasive speech, you can improve your convincing skills and become a more effective communicator.

Here are some key points to keep in mind when crafting your persuasive speech:

  • Clearly state your point of view
  • Provide strong evidence to support your arguments
  • Address any counterarguments and provide a rebuttal
  • Use persuasive language and techniques to sway your audience

Expert Tip

Follow this link to find some inspiring persuasive speech topics and ideas!


Entertainment Speech

Are you looking to inject some fun and humor into your speech? Then an entertainment speech is just what you need! This type of public speaking is all about amusing your audience while still delivering a message.

The main purpose of an entertainment speech is to make your audience laugh and have a good time. This type of speech is less formal and is often delivered at events such as weddings, awards ceremonies, and school competitions.

Here are some key tips to keep in mind when crafting your entertainment speech:

  • Use humor to engage your audience and make them laugh
  • Keep your speech lighthearted and fun
  • Use storytelling techniques to entertain your audience
  • Incorporate props or visual aids to add to the entertainment value

Here are some examples of entertainment speeches:

  • The quirky habits of famous celebrities
  • The secret language of internet memes
  • The power of laughter yoga: finding joy through hilarious exercises

Demonstrative Speech

The demonstrative speech allows you to demonstrate how something works or how to perform a specific task. In this type of speech, you can use visual aids along with the information provided.

The main purpose of a demonstrative speech is to teach your audience how to do something with the help of visual aids. This type of speech is great for explaining complex processes or demonstrating how something works.

Here are some key tips to keep in mind when crafting your demonstrative speech:

  • Choose a topic that you are knowledgeable about
  • Break down the process into clear, easy-to-follow steps
  • Use visual aids such as diagrams or props to help illustrate your points
  • Allow time for questions and answers to ensure your audience fully understands the process

Below are some demonstrative speech examples

  • How to tie a classic Windsor knot
  • The art of crafting homemade candles
  • Mastering the perfect cup of coffee at home
  • DIY flower arrangements: creating stunning centerpieces

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Types of Speeches According to Delivery

Every debater has a different style of debate and tone of voice. A good speech takes time and effort to make it perfect. 

With the help of speech, you will easily improve your critical thinking skills and know-how to speak in public with confidence.  

Here are different types of speeches according to delivery:

Impromptu Speeches

Impromptu speeches are delivered without prior planning or preparation. These speeches require you to speak spontaneously in front of the audience, making them a unique challenge. 

These speeches can improve your ability to communicate under pressure and help you become a more confident speaker.

An example of an impromptu speech could be giving an unexpected toast at a dinner party. 

Expert Tip

Check out our impromptu speech topics blog to get plenty of ideas!


Extemporaneous Speeches

Extemporaneous speeches are commonly used in educational, business, and political settings. This type of speech requires some preparation and practice but allows the speaker to be more spontaneous in their delivery.

The purpose of an extemporaneous speech is to provide a well-planned, but not fully scripted, message to the audience. 

An example of an extemporaneous speech could be a business presentation. It may be partially scripted but allows for improvisation and audience interaction. 

Manuscript Speeches

Manuscript speeches are speeches where the speaker reads every word from a pre-written script. This type of speech is useful when exact repetition of words is required, such as in legal or political settings.

However, reading a manuscript word for word can make the speech less engaging, and the audience may lose interest quickly. It's important for the speaker to find ways to make the speech more interactive and engaging.

Here are some famous manuscript speech examples:

Memorized Speeches

A memorized speech is when a speaker delivers their message without any notes. This type of speech is commonly used in office meetings and presentations.

The purpose of a memorized speech is to demonstrate the speaker's knowledge and expertise on a topic.

For example, a CEO may deliver a memorized speech at a company conference to share important news with their employees.

Expert Tip

Read our blog to get a wealth of motivational speech topics and ideas!


Types of Speeches According to Occasion

Occasional speeches are typically brief and focused. There are several types of speeches that fall into this category, including:

Speeches of Introduction

Speeches of introduction are short speeches delivered by the host to introduce another speaker. The purpose is to set the tone for the speaker's presentation and to capture the audience's attention. 

A good example of this is an award ceremony where the host introduces the presenter who will present the awards. The introduction should be brief but informative and provide context about the speaker's background and topic.

Speeches of Presentation

Speeches of presentation are given to present awards or honors to someone. The purpose is to acknowledge and celebrate the recipient's achievements.

For example, a presentation speech can be given at a graduation ceremony to award diplomas to students who have completed their studies.

Speeches of Acceptance

The acceptance speech is the perfect complement to a presenting speech. The person who gives the acceptance speech is awarded a reward or honor. 

A speech of acceptance usually consists of three parts: 

  • Express gratitude to the award or honorees.
  • Express gratitude to those who assisted you in achieving your goal
  • Place the medal or honor in context. 

First and foremost, you should express gratitude to those who have bestowed the award to you, as well as those who may have voted for you. 

Second, you should acknowledge people who assisted you in receiving the medal of distinction. Nobody does anything in life on their own. We all have family and friends who support and assist us in achieving our goals in life, and an acceptance speech is an excellent opportunity to thank them. 

Finally, consider the significance of the award. Explain why the award means so much to you to the individuals listening to your speech. If you are aware that you are nominated for an award, your chances of winning are excellent. 

Prepare an acceptance speech ahead of time to prevent any mistakes. Being thankful, cordial, and short is an excellent rule to remember.

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Speeches of Dedication

Dedication speech is the fourth type of special occasion speech. For example, when a new store opens, a new office is finished, and so on, a dedication speech is delivered. 

When drafting a dedication speech, begin by describing your involvement in the dedication. If the dedication is for a new or pre-existing structure, you should explain the significance. 

  • Toasts

A toast is a type of speech used to thank, congratulate, or commemorate someone. Toasts might be given to congratulate someone on a new job or their upcoming wedding. You can also toast someone to express your gratitude for something they've done. 

  • Roasts

A roast is a unique speech in that it is intended to laud and lightly ridicule the person being honored simultaneously. Roasts are usually served at the end of a banquet to commemorate someone's life achievements. 

In conclusion, we have explored the different types of speeches that you may be called upon to prepare and deliver. Whether it is a motivational speech, debate speech, or oratorical speech, we have provided essential tips to help you succeed. 

Remember that each type of speech requires a unique approach, and it is important to give yourself enough time to prepare. Don't forget to try our useful essay writer AI, made for college students who want to enhance their public speaking skills. 

Still, struggling to choose the right type of speech for your occasion or to craft a compelling one? Don't hesitate to reach out to CollegeEssay.org for professional assistance. 

Our essay writing service is trusted by thousands of professionals and college students worldwide. Contact us today and say 'write my essay' to get the help you need to succeed!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of speech styles?

The different types of speech styles are: 

  • Formal style 
  • Frozen style 
  • Casual style 
  • Consultative style 
Caleb S.

WRITTEN BY

Caleb S. (Literature, Marketing)

Caleb S. has extensive experience in writing and holds a Masters from Oxford University. He takes great satisfaction in helping students exceed their academic goals. Caleb always puts the needs of his clients first and is dedicated to providing quality service.

Caleb S. has extensive experience in writing and holds a Masters from Oxford University. He takes great satisfaction in helping students exceed their academic goals. Caleb always puts the needs of his clients first and is dedicated to providing quality service.

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