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Memorable 2-Minute Speeches: How to Write & Deliver (With Examples)

Hrideep barot.

  • Public Speaking , Speech Topics , Speech Writing

Giving 2-minute speech

Giving memorable 2-minute speeches are tricker than giving 2-minute speeches. 

Speeches are an effective way to share your understanding, opinion, or perspective on a topic. It doesn’t matter if your speech is for 2 minutes, 10 minutes, or 50 minutes, the main essence of any speech is to reach the audience .

2-minute speeches are quite effective if presented in a well-structured manner. In fact, giving 2-minute speeches can also help you improve your public speaking skills. And that is the reason why schools ask the students to give 2-minute speeches for every assignment!

Now we understand you might have tons of questions when it comes to 2-minute speeches, but fret not, we’ve got you covered. Read till the end of the blog to get a more comprehensive idea about 2-minute speeches. 

Also, check out our video here if you want a very short glimpse of the article:

Is a 2-minute speech too short?

2-minute speeches come under the category of short speeches. So ideally 2 minute speeches are short speeches . But when we say is it too short? Then the answer will be subjective. 

For instance, If you are to present your research findings then a 2-minute speech would not do justice to years of your work. But at the same time if you are giving a self-introduction then 2 minute speeches are more than enough!

How long is a 2-minute speech?

To understand how long 2-minute speeches should be, you need to understand your pace of speaking which is the number of words spoken per minute.   An average person usually speaks about 130-150 words per minute . So for 2-minute speeches, 260-300 words should be sufficient. 

When it comes to the number of pages for a 2-minute speech, then your speech can be half to one page long . It all depends on the font size that you use!

Similarly, the number of sentences that would make up a 2-minute speech can vary depending on the font size that you use or your handwriting.

Writing 2-minute speeches

1. choose a topic.

The very first step in writing your speech is to know what you want to talk about, which is your topic !

You can either come up with the topic yourself or you can search for a broad topic on the internet and then narrow it down as per your liking. 

So if for example, you are writing a 2-minute speech on unity as strength , you may want to focus on a particular instance wherein unity shown by people worked as their strength and helped them achieve a goal, like a freedom struggle.  

2. Decide on your takeaway

 If you are wondering what takeaways are, then they are your answer to the question “why are you presenting this particular topic to the audience?”

For some the answer could be, to educate, give another perspective on a widely studied topic, or even awaken the audience to take action . 

In 2 minute speeches, the clock ticks faster so you should ideally focus on only 1 takeaway . 

Once you have figured out why you want to present the topic to your audience or listeners, you can then move to the next stage of research. 

3. Research for your speech

When you begin researching for 2 minutes speeches, you don’t have to get into tons of details . The idea is to give the audience enough information to understand your topic within a short time.

For starters, you can browse your topic on Google , YouTube , Instagram , and other social media channels. You might also want to research some facts or statistics related to your topic as it increases the credibility of your speech.

4. Structure your speech

There are 3 things to be kept in mind while structuring your speech. They are ethos, pathos, and logos. 

Ethos means credibility . It is concerned with giving the audience a reason to believe in you. So, if your speech is about the impact of gaming on violent behavior, mentioning that you are a psychologist would add credibility to your speech. 

Pathos is related to emotions . The idea is to connect with the listeners through emotions. And the easiest way to do that is through stories !

In the example above, you can share a story of a client who developed violent behavior patterns after spending a considerable amount of time on gaming and how they are doing now.

Logos means logic . Adding logical elements like facts, statistics, and quotes by famous personalities helps drive your main idea forward in a more rational sense. 

Again, taking the example of the impact of gaming on violent behavior, logos could include a sentence like:

School shootings have increased from 11 in 2009 to 93 in 2021. It is a staggering number and when you take a deeper look into it, you’ll find that a considerable number of these shooters were addicted to gaming.

Editing is something we believe is a very crucial part of giving a memorable 2-minute speech. Why?

Because 2-minute speeches aren’t only about what you say but also about what you choose not to say. 

Editing also helps you focus on your topic more clearly rather than drifting or diversifying your topic.

Delivering 2-minute Speeches

1. establish your takeaway.

Since you had already decided on your takeaway while writing the speech, you are well aware of it. But does your audience have any idea yet? No!

While they might infer why you are presenting the particular topic after listening to your speech, you cannot leave it to that. 

Establish your takeaway right at the beginning of your speech , so that the audience also understands what they can expect from your speech. 

2. How to begin a 2 minute Speech (Simple beginning)

This might come as a shocker, especially because we are always told to begin with a Bang! 

For 2-minute speeches, if you end up spending a lot of your time on the beginning, you will have to shorten the main content of your speech. 

Starting in a simple and direct manner suits best in such cases. 

A few ways in which you can begin your 2-minute speeches are given below:

If you are to introduce yourself, you can begin simply by saying your name. “Good afternoon everyone, I am Xyz
”

You can also use ethos, pathos, and logos to begin your 2-minute speeches. 

“Mumbai is known for 2 things gateway of India and potholes. Being someone who has lost a close friend of mine due to the careless work done towards these potholes , I’m here to address the issue we so conveniently drive over”
“About a year ago, in this very month of July, it was raining heavily in Mumbai. I remember this because there happened to be a friend of mine who was supposed to meet me for a meeting, we had that day, but he didn’t make it. The reason? Heavily flooded roads covered with potholes that he couldn’t see. A tragic accident or a convenient murder?”
“In 2018, Mumbai alone witnessed 522 accidents caused by potholes”

3. Emphasize

Repeating or rather stressing certain words gives rhythm to your speech. It also helps in easy learning and increases the chance of easy recall among the audience. 

4. How to End a 2 Minute Speech

When it comes to 2-minute speeches, your conclusion or closing lines are very important. The reason is that your audience will mostly remember the last part of your speech better than the rest . 

Make sure to restate the takeaway and main crux of your speech . You can also end your speech by quoting some famous personalities . In many speeches, the speaker asks the audience to take action or to think about a question that they leave the audience with. 

So, we now know how your phone helps you socialize but keeps you away from the same people physically. We have been living in this virtual world for quite some time now. The least you can do is to keep your technology aside especially when you are with people you care about. An hour without your phone won’t hurt, will it?

Impromptu 2-minute speeches

Impromptu speeches are ones where you are given the topic on the spot with little to no time to prepare for the speech. In such cases, you barely have any time to go about carrying out thorough research and structuring your speech. 

Rather you can keep a few frameworks in your mind and then structure the speech accordingly on the spot. This is the most convenient way of delivering effective impromptu 2-minute speeches. 

A few frameworks that you can use for your 2-minute impromptu speeches are:

1. PREP model

PREP stands for Point, Reason, Example, and Point . This essentially means that you begin by talking about something, then give a reason that justifies that point. You then follow it with an example to back your point and end by repeating the point to reach your audience in a structured manner.

2. WWW model 

No, WWW doesn’t stand for World Wide Web. Rather it means answering 3 questions, 

  • Who are you?
  • What do you do?
  • Where are you going from here?

WWW works best when you have to give an impromptu introduction of yourself . 

An example of using the WWW model to introduce yourself is given below. 

Hello everyone, I am Arsh M, a fashion designer, and advocate of sustainability. During my college years, I was astonished by the amount of cloth waste produced each day. Upon researching, I realized that the fashion industry happens to be one of the biggest polluters in the world. This motivated me to work towards bringing more sustainable styling choices for everyone. That is when I began my venture in Sustainaesthetic. We are a completely sustainable and animal cruelty-free brand that aims to provide you with diverse sustainable styling options at a very affordable rate so that saving the planet doesn’t hurt your pockets!

3. Pointer Format

As the name suggests, the pointer format involves dividing your content into 3-5 points . This will make it easier for you to talk about each point for a couple of seconds before moving to the next. At the same time, it sounds very structured and may be easy to recall. 

An example of a pointer format is a speech given the by CEO of Pepsico Indra Nooyi . 

Famous 2-minute speeches

1. indra nooyi.

The speech given by Pepsico’s CEO is well-written and spoken . She begins by appreciating India, her home country, and then moves on to briefly talk about her 3 life lessons. Diving her speech into such crisp segments with an introduction, 3 pointers and finally, a conclusion, makes the speech very comprehensive and structured . 

2. Denzel Washington

The speech given by Denzel Washington is one of the most motivating speeches of all time . It is because of the way he calmly delivers the speech by taking required pauses to stress the important lines. 

2-minute speeches from movies

Speeches in movies usually bring out the emotion of awe, inspiration, or sympathy . We will look at two such 2-minute inspirational speeches from movies.

1. Any Given Sunday 

The scene on any given day is worth noting for its storytelling approach . Al Pacino begins his speech with brutal honesty when he says “ We are in hell gentlemen.” 

He then goes on to talk about how the game is very similar to everyone’s life and emphasizes being at the right place at the right time. 

“One second early or one second late, you miss a catch,” he says. In the latter half of his speech, he increases his voice as if trying to reach his player’s very core, in an attempt to motivate them to do their level best in the game.

2. Coach Carter 

This speech scene of Coach Carter is unlike other traditional scenes where the coach inspires his students. Rather, one of the students gives a very short speech that moves not only his teammates but also his teacher. 

It can also be counted as a very effective thank you speech!

Monologues happen to be yet another powerful tool used in 2-minute speeches from movies. Monologues are long dialogues given by a single character. Let’s take a look at some of the most striking monologues given in movies

2-minute dramatic monologue for male

When it comes to dramatic monologues for males, the dialogue is often very inspiring or tries to instill the right amount of motivation among the team players or the soldiers. Let us take a look at 2 such dramatic monologues given by male characters in movies that had an amazing impact on their audience.

1. V for Vendetta

V for vendetta isn’t only an amazing movie, but this monologue by V is out of the ordinary. In the scene, V introduces himself to a woman whom he had just saved. 

He uses alliteration by introducing himself with words that start with V. Check out the exact dialogue to get a clearer idea about the monologue.

V oila! In v iew, a humble v audevillian v eteran is cast v icariously as both v ictim and v illain by the v icissitudes of fate. This v isage, no mere v eneer of v anity, is a v estige of v ox populi, now v acant, v anished. However, this v alorous v isitation of a bygone v exation stands v ivified and had v owed to v anquish these v enal and v irulent v ermin v anguarding v ice and v ouchsafing the v iolently v icarious and v iolation of v olition
. You may call me V.

2. Wolf of Wallstreet

Who hasn’t heard of this amazing movie, wolf of wall street? One thing that we will observe when it comes to this movie is that the main lead had amazing public speaking skills . He had the power to persuade his listeners and encourage them to chip in at their level best for the growth of the organization. 

In one such speech, he talks about how he isn’t leaving them and that he is here to stay. 

The use of dramatic suspense followed by his change in tone and voice is something worth noting.

2-minute dramatic monologue for female

When it comes to dramatic monologues given by female characters in movies, 2 of these scenes come into our minds. The scenes are both beautifully written and executed by the actors.

1. Devil Wears Prada

In the movie Devil Wears Prada, the monologue is given by Meryl Streep who plays the role of Miranda Priestly. The speech is worth noting as she dramatically explains how even a small difference between two pieces of clothing to a lay person is a big difference for the fashion moguls as it is their opportunity to create millions!

Her passion for the industry is quite evident from the 2-minute speech. Further, the way her character picks up the pace when she talks about the reality of the fashion industry brings out her annoyance at the assistant and acts as a way of showing authority through words.

The movie 300 features a small scene where the queen requests the councilmen to send more men to war, to help not only her husband but also all the others who are already a part of it. 

We see the use of ethos in the speech when the queen says the following statement:

I come to you as a mother. I come to you as a wife. I come to you as a spartan woman.

Examples of 2-minute speeches

If you are looking for some examples for your next 2-minute speech or 2-minute speeches to memorize, check out the ones given below!

How to introduce yourself in 2 minutes?

When you have to introduce yourself in 2-minutes, it is better to follow a simple structure of past, and present. 

An example of introducing yourself as a fresher for a job interview has been given below

Good afternoon, I am Arya Rose. I recently graduated from ABC college, majoring in Analytics. Growing up I had always found immense interest in math and had also won Olympiads at the school level. During my under graduation, I had taken up a course in tools for Data Analysis which made me realize my inclination toward analytics. It also encouraged me to pursue my major in the field of analytics. 

Being an active member of my college, I made sure to participate in and represent my college across various events and intercollegiate festivals. I also had the chance to be a part of Hackin which is ABC’s elite Hackathon team. With the Team, we stood 2nd at Hackified, a hackathon organized by QPR college.  

I was further able to put my theoretical knowledge to use by interning with this amazing organization called ANAlysis. The internship spanned over 3 months and I was able to gain an in-depth understanding of software like R and Python. 

I now look forward to gaining more practical experience in the field by working and growing with your esteemed organization. 

2 minute thank you speech

There are a few things that you must keep in your mind while you are giving a thank you speech. 

  • Acknowledge the people around you
  • Thank them 
  • Introduce yourself or why you are giving this speech. 
  • Individually thank every person required.
  • Add some inspiring or heartfelt closing marks

An example of a 2-minute thank you speech for an event is given below. 

I’d like to first thank every one of you present here, for joining us to make this event an absolute success. To those of you who might not know, I am Shiya M, the editor of the XYZ club and the coordinator of this amazing open mic event “Mehar.” Mehar means blessing in Punjabi, and there is a reason behind it.

On my very first day at XYZ, I was stunned to see the company ritual. Before leaving we were to recall one blessing that we received that day from our colleagues. As unusual as it felt, it was beyond measure one of the most beautiful rituals I had come across. You see in this fast-moving world, we tend to focus a lot on our busy schedule for the things we don’t have. And in all that chaos, we forget to take a look at the n number of blessings showered our way.

So, we wanted to provide a platform where you could do that, even if it was for a couple of hours. 

I’d like to thank Ms. T, founder of XYZ, and her immense support and encouragement throughout, Arya and Daven for working closely with all the participants and audience members, ensuring that all your needs were met. I’d also like to thank Mr. Ajay for the technical support provided to him and how can we not thank Jay for being our lead guitarist, tuning in the vibe of this small room as per each participant’s requirement, Jay thank you!

Thank you to all the participants for presenting such beautifully written pieces, we enjoyed them all. A great round of applause for our participants!

Last, I’d like to thank our dear audience for being patient and for motivating all our speakers today you have been the most amazing audience we have ever seen!

Thank you again all of you, it was a great pleasure interacting with every one of you. 

meher rakhi!

Humorous 2-minute speeches

If you are trying to understand how to add humor to your speech and make it more fun as well as casual, check out the 2-minute speech example given below.

2-minute humorous speech by bridesmaid

“Hello everyone, first of all, I’d like to begin quite humbly by thanking everyone present for gathering here to celebrate the union of this beautiful couple Jess and Jim. 

Now if you know jess, you know me. Because I pretty much tag along with her everywhere. Just like those lice in your hair, can’t leave her alone!

At 5, I had taken up responsibility. It was to protect this absolutely beautiful soul. But as we grew up, it turned out that she was the one who protected me. What the turn tables!

Jess, I’m grateful every day to have such an amazing sister like you in my life who motivates me to do better and talk to “decent” guys..pst they are just not my type!

You’ve been my mom at times, waiting at the door every time I’d get late which makes me wonder if mom outsourced her strictness to you? And if yes, why not me? I was the broke kid!

 I’m going to miss those small things you know? How you told me it was chocolate powder when it was coffee, how I never won a game I played with you because you never played it fair, and oh how you never missed complimenting my outfit when I was wearing your clothes!

But seriously, I’m going to miss you tons. I hope you get your fairytale happily ever after! To Jess and Jim!

if you have been asking yourself which topic is best for a 2-minute speech? what are some good topics to speak on? or what should I do for my school speech?

Here is a list of various topics you can choose from!

Common topics for 2-minute speeches

  • Environment
  • Domestic Violence
  • Women’s Day
  • Teachers’ Day
  • Importance of Cleanliness

2-minute speech topics for students

  • Failure: A blessing in disguise
  • The best attitude to have is gratitude
  • Is there value in homework?
  • Impact of technology on mental health
  • The authenticity of online degrees
  • The future is sustainability
  • Social media detox
  • Blended learning and its benefits
  • Residential programs and their benefits
  • New education policy
  • Value of time
  • Importance of education
  • Discipline and its importance.
  • 2-minute speech on any freedom fighter
  • Ban on school uniforms

2-minute speech topics for adults

  • Work-life balance for remote employees
  • Fields that can turn completely virtual
  • Slow living: beyond the hustle
  • Impact of diet on mental health
  • Unhealthy patterns that cost you in your 40s
  • Advice to an 18-year-old
  • How colors affect people
  • Consistency over motivation
  • Future of automobile
  • Metaverse: the new shopping hub
  • The power of fake news
  • Ban on animal testing
  • Adopt, don’t shop!
  • Social media diet fads or eating disorders?
  • Can money buy happiness?

Final words

2-minute speeches are short, crisp speeches that help in conveying your ideas or opinions to the people effectively. As the time is short, focusing too much on the opening lines or in-depth research will steal your time. Instead, focus on a takeaway and chip in extra efforts to give a memorable conclusion.

At the end of the day, there are no strict rules that you must follow for 2-minute speeches, and hence you are open to writing it and delivering it the way that suits best for you.

Hrideep Barot

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How to Write a Two Minute Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Have you ever been asked to give a two-minute speech and found yourself struggling to come up with the perfect words? Writing a speech, even a short one, can be a daunting task. It requires careful planning, research, and structure to convey your message effectively. But don't worry, we've got you covered. In this step-by-step guide, we'll take you through the process of crafting a concise and impactful two-minute speech.

Understanding the Purpose of a Two Minute Speech

Before we dive into the writing process, it's essential to understand the purpose of a two-minute speech. As the name suggests, a two-minute speech is a brief talk that typically conveys a specific message or idea. It may be delivered on various occasions, such as a business pitch, a wedding toast, or a school presentation.

Two-minute speeches have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it's not hard to see why. In today's fast-paced world, people have shorter attention spans, and it can be challenging to keep an audience engaged for an extended period. A two-minute speech allows you to deliver your message quickly and efficiently, without losing your audience's attention.

The Importance of Brevity

One of the critical features of a two-minute speech is brevity. Given the limited time frame, you need to convey your message succinctly and powerfully. Clarity, conciseness, and impactfulness are more important than impressing your audience with fancy words or complex arguments.

It's crucial to remember that brevity doesn't mean sacrificing substance. You still need to have a clear message and supporting points to make your speech effective. However, you must prioritize your ideas and present them in a way that is easy for your audience to understand and remember.

Common Occasions for Two-Minute Speeches

There are numerous occasions when a two-minute speech may be required. These include:

  • Job interviews: A two-minute speech can be an effective way to introduce yourself and highlight your qualifications for a job.
  • Entrepreneurship pitches: If you're looking to secure funding for a new business venture, a two-minute pitch can be an excellent way to make a quick impression on potential investors.
  • Wedding toasts: A heartfelt two-minute speech can be a beautiful way to honor the newlyweds and celebrate their love.
  • Funeral eulogies: A two-minute speech can be a powerful way to pay tribute to a loved one who has passed away.
  • Conference presentations: Two-minute speeches are becoming increasingly popular at conferences as a way for presenters to deliver quick, impactful messages.
  • School or college assignments: Two-minute speeches can be an effective way for students to practice public speaking and showcase their knowledge on a particular topic.
  • Political campaigns: Two-minute speeches are often used by politicians during debates and other public appearances to convey their message quickly and effectively.

Whether you're delivering a two-minute speech at a job interview, a wedding, or a conference, remember that brevity and impactfulness are key. With careful planning and practice, you can deliver a powerful message that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Planning Your Two Minute Speech

Now that you understand the critical features of a two-minute speech let's move on to the first step in the writing process, planning.

Identifying Your Main Message

The first step in planning your speech is identifying your primary message. What is it that you want to convey to your audience? Is it a call to action, an informative idea or a persuasive pitch? Once you determine your primary message, you will be able to craft the rest of your speech around it.

Researching Your Topic

After identifying your primary message, you will need to conduct research on your topic to support your arguments and convey credibility. You can use various sources, including books, articles, websites and interviews to gather information. Ensure that you only use reliable and verified sources to avoid any inaccuracies in your speech.

Knowing Your Audience

The last step in planning your speech is knowing your audience. Who will be listening to your speech, and what are their needs and expectations? Tailoring your speech to your audience will help you connect better with them and convey your message more effectively.

Structuring Your Two Minute Speech

With the planning phase complete, it's time to move on to the structure of your speech. A well-structured speech will ensure that your message is conveyed effectively, and your audience stays engaged throughout the two minutes.

Crafting a Strong Introduction

Your introduction is the most critical part of your speech. It should be attention-grabbing, informative, and set the tone for the rest of your talk. Start with a quote, anecdote, or a shocking statistic to capture your audience's attention, and then proceed to introduce your primary message.

Organizing Your Key Points

To keep your speech organized, begin by outlining your primary message and then break it down into three key points. Ensure each point supports your primary message and flows coherently into the next point. Use examples, stories, or data to illustrate your points and keep your audience engaged throughout.

Developing a Memorable Conclusion

Just as your introduction is essential, so is your conclusion. It should leave a lasting impression on your audience, summarize your main points and restate your primary message. You can end with a call to action or a powerful quote that resonates with your message and inspires your audience to act.

Writing Tips for a Two Minute Speech

Writing a great two-minute speech requires more than just outlining and structuring your talk. Here are some additional writing tips to help make your speech memorable and impactful.

Using Clear and Concise Language

When writing a two-minute speech, it's essential to use straightforward language that your audience can understand. Avoid complex vocabulary and jargon that may confuse or alienate your listeners.

Incorporating Storytelling Techniques

Using personal anecdotes, real-life examples, or case studies can help illustrate your key points and make your speech more relatable to your audience. It can also add a humanistic touch to your speech and make it more memorable in the long run.

Balancing Facts and Emotions

Lastly, it's essential to balance your use of facts and emotions. While facts help support your arguments and add credibility, emotions help connect with your audience and make your speech more impactful. A balanced approach to facts and emotions is crucial for a great two-minute speech.

ChatGPT Prompt for Writing a Two Minute Speech

Use the following prompt in an AI chatbot . Below each prompt, be sure to provide additional details about your situation. These could be scratch notes, what you'd like to say or anything else that guides the AI model to write a certain way.

Compose a speech that is two minutes in length, ensuring that it is well-crafted, comprehensive, and of the highest quality possible.

[ADD ADDITIONAL CONTEXT. CAN USE BULLET POINTS.]

In conclusion, writing a two-minute speech requires careful planning, research, and structure. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be able to craft a concise, impactful talk that resonates with your audience and conveys your message effectively. Remember to keep it simple, use storytelling techniques and maintain a balance between facts and emotions. With practice, you'll be able to deliver great two-minute speeches that leave a lasting impression on your audience.

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Last week I sat in the audience at the annual Project Glimmer fundraising luncheon, proudly watching three powerful young women deliver powerful personal perspectives on Saying 'Yes', Dreaming Big, and Taking Back their Voice.

This was a really big deal and a really big moment. It was the first time the audience could hear directly from these girls and the way Project Glimmer supported them throughout their teen and tween years — they had finally turned 18.

When Chrissy Shea , CEO of Project Glimmer, approached me to support the girls with their speeches, she knew what she was doing. She has been orchestrating these events for more than a decade and knows that every minute counts. Each girl was given two minutes to share her story.

Two minutes is not a lot of time. Every word — every syllable — matters.

The speeches were spectacular — they were the highlight of the event. They told the story of each girl and they told the story of Project Glimmer. They accomplished a full metric ton of impact in a mere 120 seconds.

If you've ever struggled to write a high-impact speech with just 120 seconds to make yourself and your message memorable, it's easier to achieve than you think.

The audience reaction and the girls' satisfaction inspired me to share with others my approach to writing a 2-minute speech and setting your client up for success (which can also be applied to 5-minute and even 20 minute speeches, with slight variations).

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Step 1. Ask questions and listen.

Every speech-writing engagement begins with deep inquiry and deep listening. In just 45 minutes, I usually have all I need to write a 2-minute speech. (Longer speeches may take some back and forth as we dive deeper into stories.) This is always my favorite part of the process. I feel like I'm panning for gold, shirt-sleeves rolled up, senses dialed high as I'm on high alert for that glint of truth that we'll hang the entire speech around. It's not always in the story being shared — in fact, I quite often find it in the silence or hesitation or discarded thought bubble.

I operate intuitively, feeling for truth in my body — I am feeling what it's like to be the audience as I listen to my client in those first 45 minutes. I'm listening and I'm watching for all those places where the words, the story, and the person become a quantum experience — where they are more than the sum of their parts.

I usually find the hook in the first 15 minutes, and I use the rest of the time gently digging around it — like an archaeologist unearthing a fossil — to bring it to life.

Step 2. Cluster themes and squint.

I record and transcribe our discovery sessions. Recording allows me to stay present and in my body, listening and feeling, instead of stressing out about capturing the specific words and phrases and details.

Once I have the transcript, I start looking for the bones. I get rid of all the fluff and tangential stuff and I start looking for patterns in the content itself: repeated words and phrases are a pattern, the story of a from-to expansion is a pattern, the story of a repeated cycle is a pattern.

(By the way, pattern-recognition is one of my superpowers. It's even in my Human Design, which I use as a tool to amplify my gifts and better serve my clients. Follow this link to begin working with yours. )

After stripping out the inessential, I now have the hook and the bones, and I squint. (My business partner, Tara Tallman Sollman , taught me this one.) Squinting helps you see the forest through the trees.

I now have my storytelling "architecture" and can begin the actual writing.

Step 3. Write for voice and rhythm.

I often feel like a method actor throughout my speech-writing process. In the first step, I physically embody the audience, imagining and sensing their experience and what they want or need to hear and feel. In this step, I now embody the speaker.

I imagine I am them at the podium and I sit in their life experience and aura. I also know their Human Design (I bring this into my client work so that I can better serve) — their energy type, the places in their definition that they most identify with, their profile lines. I also know where they may feel vulnerable so I can help them navigate and provide tender, even "surgical" support in a way that it lands in their emotional and physical self.

The most important part of writing for my client's voice is to remove myself from the mix — I must become my client, but in an elevated form for the main stage.

It's an emotional and energetic balancing act to be:

– relatable, but not colloquial

– aspirational, but not pretentious

– informational, but not boring

Getting the voice right is a giant step in getting the rhythm right — the tools of rhetoric and language are deeply intertwined.

Step 4. Read it out loud and trim for time.

Okay, this is arguably the most painful part of the process. It often means letting go of precious words and turns of phrase, but it's also where the ultimate pay-off is.

I have no idea why it is that a speech read in silence and a speech spoken out loud are so very different. What sounds fine to your mind while scanning the page can sound overwhelmingly formal, fussy, and dull when spoken out loud. It never ceases to amaze me.

I always always always do this step with the client — this is where we begin transferring ownership, honing and trimming together.

I bring to them the fleshed-out architecture, eyeballing it for length (so we're not tasked with turning a novel into a sound-bite). I start this session by reading out loud the entire speech and pointing out areas that felt powerful and natural to me and areas that felt forced. When I do this, I am helping them understand my language as a guide, but I'm also helping them see what resonates for me as the audience member again.

During this stage we're both in the Google Doc highlighting, cutting, transforming, and editing — it's a moment of real collaboration and co-creation at its best.

By the end of the session, we do a read-through and time it. Anything between 1:50 and 2:10 is good for me — we'll fine-tune it in the final coaching session for delivery.

The client now has their Google Doc. I no longer touch it (unless they ask). It is theirs to play with word choice and emphasis — they're now tasked to "make it their own" where there may be places that don't feel 100% authentic.

Step 5. Listen, nuance, and amplify.

This is the phase I love most. Even though we've only spent 2-3 brief sessions together, we've built so much trust and intimacy in our little world of words and stories. I get to see the results of their trust-fall with me.

I have my client read their speech to me as if they were delivering it, and I time it. I listen for emphasis and tone and "connection" to the content, and I take notes about words I want to emphasize, places I want to speed up or slow down, opportunities to pause. I am noting all the ways I want my client to hold this space and own this moment. I want them to step into their power and magnetism, because I know that's what the audience hungers for.

After annotating the delivery, we get a clean recording that I send in an audio file so they can listen over and over, imprinting their voice in their minds to aid them in memorization. (It's infinitely more powerful and magnetic when delivering a speech from memory, but it takes a lot more time to get there. If you have the time and runway to memorize and rehearse, I can't recommend this enough.)

Whether you're writing a 2-minute, 5-minute, or 20-minute speech, the best speeches are always anchored in a story. A nugget of truth about you that is accessible and relatable to others in the form of a universal truth, and a way of sharing it that brings to life multiple dimensions of our collective human experience.

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The 50 Best 2-Minute Speech Topics

how to write 2 minute speech

It might seem daunting to come up with a speech topic, let alone a two-minute speech topic that can both engage and inform your audience. With the right topic, however, you can make a powerful impact in the short amount of time that you have. Here is a list of the 50 best two minute speech topics to get you started.

  • The Importance of Setting Boundaries
  • Discrimination in the Workplace
  • Self-Care and Stress Management for Mental Well-Being 
  • If I Could Live the Life of My Dog for a Day
  • The Benefits of Positive Self-Talk 
  • Different Challenges of Being a Leader 
  • The Benefits of Diversity in the Workplace 
  • Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Education 
  • What The Pandemic Did To Me
  • The Benefits of Investing in Yourself 
  • Role of Social Connections in Mental Health 
  • The Role of Technology in Modern Society
  • The Challenges of Climate Change 
  • How to Become an Expert at Anything
  • Benefits of Volunteering and Community Service
  • Work From Home Shenanigans
  • History and Significance of a Particular Holiday or Event
  • The Benefits of Reading 
  • The Importance of Building Strong Relationships
  • The Power of Forgiveness
  • Importance of Having a Good Work Ethic
  • The Benefits of a Good Night’s Sleep
  • Benefits of a Healthy Social Life
  • The Power of Books 
  • The Art of Public Speaking 
  • Value of Education
  • The Challenges of Living in a Digital World
  • The Benefits of Having an Unusual Hobby
  • Achieving Success Through Creative Thinking
  • Cultivating a Growth Mindset
  • The Power of Letting Go of the Past
  • Value of Taking Time for Yourself
  • The Art of Making Friends
  • The Importance of Choosing Happiness
  • Benefits of Living a Simple Life
  • Joys of Pursuing a Dream
  • The Value of Learning Every Day
  • Why It’s Okay to Make Mistakes
  • Disconnect to Connect
  • Role of Humor in Life
  • How to Deal With Stress 
  • Why Learning A Second Language Is A Great Idea
  • Benefits of a Strong Support System in Times of Hardship
  • Importance of Forgiveness and How It Can Improve Relationships
  • Dangers of Distracted Driving
  • The Importance of Setting Clear Goals and Objectives
  • Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Our Lives
  • Benefits of Being a Good Listener and How It Can Improve Your Relationships and Communication Skills
  • How to Stay Confident in the Face of Criticism or Negativity
  • The Link Between Body Language and Confidence

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the 50 Best 2 Minute Speech Topics provide a wide range of ideas to help anyone craft a great speech. With a variety of topics to choose from, there is something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a humorous topic or something more serious. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that will engage your audience and leave them with something to think about.

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Simplify, Multiply, and Thrive!

Two-minute Impromptu Speeches (Examples for Self-Study)

These two-minute impromptu speeches show how well a person can grab a surprise topic and talk about it clearly and confidently in just a short time. It’s like seeing someone catch a curveball effortlessly.

This isn’t just about being a smooth talker, though. It’s about being ready, being clear, and making sense even when you’re surprised.

What are impromptu speeches?

Impromptu speeches are like on-the-spot talks. You don’t get time to plan or rehearse. Imagine being asked to speak about something without any warning. That’s what an impromptu speech is. It’s all about thinking and speaking right then and there.

Why are they important? Have you ever been put on the spot and asked to share your thoughts? It happens a lot in life – in school, work, or even with friends. Learning impromptu speaking helps you handle these moments.

It boosts your confidence and lets you share ideas quickly. With practice, you can handle surprise questions or topics with ease and look good doing it!

What can studying short impromptu speeches teach us? By looking at short impromptu speech examples, there’s a lot to learn. These examples show us how to get to the point fast. They teach us how to organize our thoughts quickly.

You’ll notice how some start with a story or a fact to grab attention. Studying these helps you speak better when caught off guard and keeps listeners interested even if you’ve only got a short time to talk.

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100+ 2 Minute Speech Topics For Students [Updated]

2 minute speech topics for students

  • Post author By admin
  • February 23, 2024
  • No Comments on 100+ 2 Minute Speech Topics For Students [Updated]

Public speaking can be a daunting task for many students. Whether it’s presenting in front of a classroom or speaking at an event, the thought of standing up and delivering a speech can make even the most confident individuals feel nervous. However, mastering the art of public speaking is an invaluable skill that can benefit students in various aspects of their lives. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of 2 minute speech topics for students and provide a comprehensive guide to help them excel in this endeavor.

Table of Contents

Importance of 2-Minute Speeches

Time management is crucial in today’s fast-paced world, and learning how to effectively communicate ideas within a short time frame is a valuable skill. 2-minute speeches challenge students to condense their thoughts and ideas into a concise format, teaching them the importance of prioritizing information and delivering it efficiently. 

Additionally, shorter speeches help students develop their attention-span, as they must find creative ways to engage their audience and convey their message effectively in a limited amount of time.

Moreover, regular practice with short speeches can significantly improve students’ overall public speaking abilities, boosting their confidence and communication skills.

How to Select 2 Minute Speech Topics For Students?

Selecting 2-minute speech topics for students can be a thoughtful process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the perfect topic:

  • Identify Interests: Encourage students to consider their interests, hobbies, or areas of expertise. Topics they’re passionate about are more likely to engage both them and their audience.
  • Relevance: Choose topics that are relevant to the audience’s interests, current events, or issues that affect their lives. This ensures the speech resonates with the listeners.
  • Audience Consideration: Consider the audience’s demographics and preferences. Select topics that are appropriate and interesting to the specific audience you’ll be addressing.
  • Clarity and Depth: Opt for topics that can be explored within a 2-minute timeframe. Ensure the topic is narrow enough to cover adequately but broad enough to provide depth and insight.
  • Impactful and Thought-Provoking: Select topics that have the potential to evoke emotions, spark discussions, or inspire action. Thought-provoking topics encourage critical thinking and engagement from the audience.
  • Personal Connection: Encourage students to choose topics that they have a personal connection to or experiences with. Sharing personal anecdotes or insights can make the speech more authentic and relatable.
  • Diversity: Promote diversity in topic selection. Encourage students to explore a range of subjects, including social issues, science and technology, arts and culture, environment, education, and more.
  • Relevance to Learning Objectives: Align the topic selection with the learning objectives or goals of the assignment or curriculum. Ensure that the chosen topics allow students to demonstrate their understanding and skills effectively.
  • Originality: Encourage creativity and originality in topic selection. Encourage students to think outside the box and explore unique or less-discussed subjects to capture the audience’s attention.
  • Practice and Feedback: After selecting a topic, encourage students to practice delivering their speech and seek feedback from peers or mentors. This helps refine the content and delivery for maximum impact.

By following these guidelines, students can select 2-minute speech topics that are engaging, relevant, and impactful, allowing them to effectively communicate their ideas and connect with their audience.

100+ 2 Minute Speech Topics For Students

  • The Importance of Kindness in Daily Life
  • Benefits of Regular Exercise
  • Overcoming Adversity: Lessons Learned
  • Impact of Social Media on Relationships
  • Environmental Conservation: Small Actions, Big Impact
  • The Power of Positivity
  • Exploring Cultural Diversity
  • Importance of Time Management for Students
  • My Role Model and Why They Inspire Me
  • Breaking Stereotypes: Embracing Individuality
  • The Influence of Music on Mood
  • The Art of Effective Communication
  • Benefits of Volunteering in the Community
  • Overcoming Fear of Failure
  • Cyberbullying: Recognizing and Preventing It
  • The Beauty of Diversity in Nature
  • Healthy Eating Habits for a Balanced Life
  • Importance of Mental Health Awareness
  • Pursuing Your Passions: Finding Fulfillment
  • The Impact of Technology on Education
  • Respecting Differences: Embracing Inclusion
  • Tips for Effective Study Techniques
  • Importance of Setting Goals
  • Coping with Stress in High School
  • Benefits of Learning a Second Language
  • The Power of a Smile
  • Exploring Career Options: Finding Your Path
  • Benefits of Outdoor Activities for Physical Health
  • Overcoming Procrastination: Getting Things Done
  • Building Resilience in Challenging Times
  • The Role of Education in Shaping Society
  • Importance of Financial Literacy for Teens
  • Developing Leadership Skills in Student Life
  • Impact of Positive Role Models on Youth
  • The Value of Friendship in Adolescence
  • Environmental Sustainability: Individual Responsibility
  • Overcoming Peer Pressure: Making Smart Choices
  • The Joy of Reading: Unlocking Imagination
  • Recognizing and Appreciating Teachers
  • The Power of Empathy in Building Relationships
  • Benefits of Mindfulness and Meditation
  • Navigating Social Media: Staying Safe Online
  • Exploring Career Opportunities in STEM Fields
  • Overcoming Self-Doubt: Believing in Yourself
  • The Importance of Cultural Awareness
  • Tips for Effective Public Speaking
  • Benefits of Adopting a Pet
  • The Impact of Positive Affirmations on Self-Confidence
  • Digital Citizenship: Responsible Online Behavior
  • Celebrating Diversity in Friendship
  • Importance of Sleep for Academic Success
  • Overcoming Challenges Through Perseverance
  • The Power of Gratitude in Daily Life
  • Benefits of Teamwork in Achieving Goals
  • The Role of Family in Shaping Values
  • Exploring Creativity Through Art and Music
  • The Significance of Volunteer Work in Society
  • Developing Critical Thinking Skills
  • Tips for Effective Time Management
  • Overcoming Obstacles: Turning Failure into Success
  • The Impact of Social Media Influencers
  • Cultivating a Growth Mindset
  • The Importance of Recycling for a Sustainable Future
  • Benefits of Positive Affirmations for Mental Health
  • The Role of Technology in Environmental Conservation
  • Exploring Different Learning Styles
  • Overcoming Test Anxiety: Strategies for Success
  • Benefits of Participating in Sports
  • The Power of Positive Self-Talk
  • Importance of Respecting Others’ Opinions
  • Strategies for Conflict Resolution
  • The Impact of Role Models on Career Choices
  • Exploring Cultural Traditions and Celebrations
  • Overcoming Negative Body Image: Embracing Self-Acceptance
  • The Benefits of Traveling and Cultural Exchange
  • The Influence of Peer Groups on Behavior
  • Building Confidence Through Public Speaking
  • Importance of Setting Boundaries in Relationships
  • The Role of Nutrition in Mental Health
  • Benefits of Journaling for Personal Growth
  • The Impact of Social Media on Body Image
  • Strategies for Overcoming Procrastination
  • The Power of Resilience in Adversity
  • Tips for Effective Conflict Resolution
  • Benefits of Positive Affirmations for Self-Esteem
  • Exploring Different Career Paths
  • Overcoming Shyness: Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
  • The Importance of Self-Care Practices
  • Benefits of Outdoor Education Programs
  • The Role of Empathy in Building Stronger Communities
  • Strategies for Building Healthy Relationships
  • Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Recognizing Your Worth
  • The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
  • Benefits of Learning from Failure
  • The Power of Visualization in Goal Setting
  • Strategies for Overcoming Perfectionism
  • Importance of Seeking Help for Mental Health Issues
  • The Role of Resilience in Academic Success
  • Benefits of Adopting a Growth Mindset
  • The Impact of Positive Role Models on Self-Confidence
  • Strategies for Overcoming Test Anxiety
  • Benefits of Practicing Gratitude Daily
  • The Power of Positive Thinking in Achieving Goals
  • Tips for Building Resilience in Challenging Times
  • Importance of Building a Support Network for Mental Health.

Ways To Structure 2 Minutes Speech

Structuring a 2-minute speech effectively is essential to ensure that your message is clear, concise, and engaging. Here are several ways to structure a 2-minute speech:

Introduction (10-15 seconds)

  • Start with a hook or attention-grabber to capture the audience’s interest.
  • Introduce yourself and briefly preview the topic you’ll be discussing.
  • State the main purpose or thesis of your speech.

Main Points (45-60 seconds)

  • Organize your speech into two or three main points that support your thesis.
  • Dedicate roughly equal time to each main point.
  • Provide supporting evidence, examples, or anecdotes for each point to reinforce your arguments.
  • Use transitions to smoothly move from one point to the next, maintaining the flow of your speech.

Conclusion (15-20 seconds)

  • Summarize the main points you’ve discussed, reinforcing your thesis.
  • End with a strong closing statement or call to action that leaves a lasting impression on the audience.
  • Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion; instead, focus on reinforcing key takeaways.

Optional: Opening Story or Quote (10-15 seconds)

  • Begin your speech with a relevant story, anecdote, or quote that sets the tone for your topic.
  • Ensure that the opening relates directly to the main points you’ll be discussing and serves to engage the audience from the start.

Optional: Visual Aid or Prop (if applicable)

  • If appropriate for your topic, consider using a visual aid or prop to enhance your speech.
  • Keep visual aids simple and relevant, using them to complement your verbal message rather than distract from it.

Optional: Audience Interaction (if applicable)

  • Engage the audience by asking a rhetorical question, prompting them to reflect on their own experiences, or inviting them to participate in a brief activity related to your topic.
  • Be mindful of time constraints and ensure that any audience interaction enhances rather than detracts from the overall structure of your speech.

Remember to practice your speech multiple times to ensure that you can deliver it comfortably within the 2-minute timeframe. Focus on clarity, coherence, and confidence in your delivery, and be prepared to adapt if you find that certain sections of your speech are taking longer than anticipated. 

With careful planning and rehearsal, you can structure a compelling and effective 2-minute speech that effectively conveys your message to the audience.

Mastering the art of 2 minute speeches is a valuable skill that can benefit students in various aspects of their lives. By learning how to effectively communicate ideas within a short timeframe, students can improve their time management, attention span, and overall public speaking abilities.

By choosing the right 2 minute speech topics for students, structuring their speech effectively, and delivering it with confidence, students can excel in this endeavor and become successful communicators.

So, embrace opportunities for public speaking, practice regularly, and watch as your confidence and communication skills soar.

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28+ Easy English 2-Minute Speech Topics For Students

A concise 2-minute speech should begin with a compelling introduction that states your topic’s relevance and importance while briefly introducing yourself. Allocate about a minute for two clear and well-structured main points supported by relevant examples or evidence. Utilize transitions to smoothly guide your audience through these points, ensuring a logical flow. Conclude by summarizing your main ideas, underlining their significance, and leaving the audience with a memorable closing thought or call to action. Practising with a timer and refining your delivery will help you maintain confidence and coherence within the time limit.

how to write 2 minute speech

Easy English 2-minute Speech Topics for Students (30 Topic Ideas)

Here are some 2-minute speech topics suitable for students; they are easy to prepare, and we have included sample speeches for the most.

  • The Power of Kindness: Discuss how small acts of kindness can significantly impact individuals and the community. Here is an example: The Power of Kindness
  • The Power of Self-Compassion : The power of self-compassion lies in its ability to transform setbacks into opportunities for growth, fostering resilience, kindness, and a deeper connection with oneself and others. The Power of Self-Compassion
  • The Benefits of Reading: Highlight the advantages of reading regularly, from expanding vocabulary to fostering creativity. Here is an example: The Benefits of Reading
  • Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone: Talk about how failures can be valuable learning experiences and growth opportunities. Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone
  • Cyberbullying Awareness : Raise awareness about the adverse effects of cyberbullying and encourage online kindness.
  • The Importance of Recycling: Explain why recycling is crucial for the environment and how students can contribute. Importance of Recycling
  • Overcoming Stage Fright: Share strategies for managing stage fright and public speaking anxiety. Remove Stage Fear
  • The Impact of Social Media on Relationships: Discuss how social media affects friendships, family relationships, and personal interactions.
  • Balancing Academics and Extracurricular Activities: Offer tips for maintaining a healthy balance between schoolwork and extracurricular pursuits.
  • Discovering Your Passion: Encourage students to explore their interests and find their passions outside of academics.
  • The Role of Students in Environmental Conservation: Inspire students to protect the environment through active actions actively.
  • Building Healthy Study Habits: Provide practical advice on effective study habits and time management for academic success. Healthy Study Habits
  • Promoting Mental Health Awareness: Discuss the importance of addressing mental health issues and reducing stigma.
  • The Significance of Volunteering: Talk about the benefits of volunteering for personal growth and community betterment. The Significance of Volunteering
  • Media Literacy in the Digital Age: Educate students about critical thinking when consuming online information and media.
  • Exploring Cultural Diversity: Celebrate the richness of cultural diversity and the importance of embracing different perspectives.
  • Healthy Eating for Students: Share tips for making nutritious food choices and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
  • Setting SMART Goals: Teach students how to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals.
  • The Impact of Music on Mood: Discuss how music can influence emotions and provide stress relief for students.
  • The Importance of Time Management: Explain why managing time efficiently is essential for academic success and well-being.
  • The Influence of Role Models: Highlight the positive impact of role models on shaping students’ aspirations and behaviour.
  • Ethical Considerations in AI: Discuss the ethical challenges and considerations surrounding the development and use of artificial intelligence, including issues related to bias, privacy, and accountability.
  • Impact of AI on Employment: Explore the potential impact of AI on the job market, discussing both the potential for job displacement and the creation of new opportunities.
  • Applications of AI in Healthcare: Highlight the various ways artificial intelligence is used in the healthcare industry, from diagnostics to personalized medicine.
  • AI and Climate Change: Discuss how AI technologies can address environmental challenges, such as climate change, through improved resource management, energy efficiency, and monitoring.
  • The Role of AI in Education: Explore how AI transforms education through personalized learning, adaptive assessments, and intelligent tutoring systems.
  • AI and Creativity: Challenge the notion that AI is purely analytical and explore how it can enhance and contribute to creative art, music, and literature processes.
  • The Future of AI: Discuss emerging trends and technologies in AI, such as quantum computing, explainable AI, and the potential for superintelligent systems.
  • AI and Cybersecurity : Explore the role of AI in enhancing cybersecurity measures, from threat detection to proactive defence strategies.
  • AI in Autonomous Vehicles: Highlight the advancements in AI that contribute to the development of autonomous vehicles and discuss the potential benefits and challenges.
  • Bias in AI: Delve into the issue of bias in AI algorithms, discussing how biases can emerge and the efforts to address and mitigate them.

More Easy English Speech Topics For Students from various categories

These topics are suitable for 1-minute / 2-minute, or even 5-minute speeches.

  • 21 English Speech Ideas on Personal Development
  • 21 English speech ideas based on Climate Change and Environmental Conservation
  • 21 English Speech Ideas on Equality and Social Justice
  • 21 English Speech Ideas Based on Global Health
  • 21 English Speech Ideas on Mental Health Awareness
  • 21 English Speech Ideas on Social Media and Society
  • 21 English Speech Ideas from Technology and its Impact

Remember to check our Checklist for your speech preparation and Overcome stage fright (12 practical ideas)

To discover current and relevant topic ideas, it’s beneficial to stay updated with news sources and media outlets, engage with discussions on social media platforms and online communities, explore academic journals and publications in your field, listen to podcasts and watch YouTube channels focused on emerging trends, attend conferences and events for cutting-edge insights, utilize tools like Google Trends to identify popular subjects, consider local and global issues, and seek input from peers and professors for research gaps and debates. Ensuring the credibility of your sources and considering a range of perspectives will help you select a timely and engaging topic that aligns with your interests and audience expectations.

Which topic is best for a 2-minute speech?

When preparing a 2-minute speech, selecting a topic that interests you and appeals to your listeners is most important. Consider the occasion and your audience to ensure your speech is appropriate for the event. To deliver your message effectively within the time limit, keep your speech concise, focused, and engaging. Remember that the purpose of a 2-minute speech is to convey your message clearly and effectively.

Is a 2 minute speech good?

A 2-minute speech is effective for various occasions, such as introductions, presentations or short talks.

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  • Aug 12, 2022

How to Master the Two-Minute Speech in English

Updated: Aug 16, 2022

how to write 2 minute speech

Two-minute speeches are fun. Two-minute speeches are challenging (especially when you have to do it in English as a second or foreign language). In fact, this amount of time is used in many speaking tasks.

It’s recommended that when you go to a job interview, you shouldn’t talk for more than two minutes at a time. Any speech longer than two minutes may lose the listener’s attention. This tip is mentioned in the book What Color is Your Parachute . You can check it out if you'd like.

In Toastmasters International meetings, table topics are often used for impromptu speeches. The maximum amount of time is often 2 minutes. Eduling Speak also has these table topics for you to practice in pairs.

In IELTS Speaking Part 2, test takers are asked to talk for 1-2 minutes. They will be stopped at 2 minutes. Eduling Speak currently has 100 prompts for you to practice in pairs.

How can you master this type of speech?

Eduling is adding many two-minute speeches for IELTS Speaking Part 2 and more to the Eduling Speak app for you to listen to. (Stay tuned for the next version of the app). We collect speeches from speakers and English learners from around the world and help you to practice listening to these speeches, understand the structure of each speech, and learn some interesting vocabulary and sentence structures from the speech. By doing so, not only will you be better prepared for the IELTS Speaking Interview and the IELTS exam, you will also learn new language and grammar. You may also compete in our weekly Eduling Speak Contest to have a chance to win a $5 prize a week and have the speech included in the app.

After working on many speeches for IELTS Speaking Part 2, we have noticed a few strategies that our speakers use to organize and showcase the complexity of their vocabulary and grammar. We’d like to share these with you. Try one or two strategies at a time and notice if you make progress.

Strategy 1: Giving a speech is like writing an essay

One speaker consistently structures his speech like an essay by having an introduction, body, and conclusion. For example, when asked to talk about a difficult skill he learned, he starts by saying:

There are a lot of difficult skills that we have to learn in life.

This serves as an introduction to the topic of “difficult skills.”

Then he adds another sentence to answer the question in the prompt.

One difficult skill that I found especially challenging was setting up a WordPress blog.

Now, you may notice that the second sentence is fairly complex because it has:

A relative clause: that I found especially challenging

A gerund clause: setting up a WordPress blog

After he addresses all parts of the prompt, he concludes by saying:

You know, there are many skills that are challenging, but when we put in some time, a lot of effort, and have the motivation to do it, we really can accomplish a lot of things.

As you can see, he brings his speech back to the topic of learning difficult skills by commenting on what it takes to learn them. This sounds like a last sentence that you may have in an essay to relate your topic to a bigger issue in society.

Other examples of his longer introductions include:

There are some people in the world who are very elderly and who are very special. One person I want to tell you about is my grandmother.

I have always loved traveling, but not all trips go exactly as I plan them. One trip in particular happened not so long ago at the beginning of the global Covid pandemic.

Strategy 2: Think of at least three reasons to answer the “why” question

In response to the question of why she admires her favorite artist, one speaker mentions three main reasons with a clear signal of each reason.

The first reason is her remarkable talent.

Perhaps the most special thing that people remember her by is her super high notes.

In addition to her talent, I also admire her strong heart.

Of course, mentioning the reasons only will not be enough, so you should think of ideas to explain each reason also.

In another speech, when the speaker explains why Coffee on Catinat Street is her favorite song, she lists four reasons. If you'd like to listen to that speech, here's the link to her YouTube video .

It’s about one of my favorite activities: drinking coffee.

I like the song because of the lyrics.

It is a little sad, and for some reason, Vietnamese people really like sad songs, and I’m one of them.

I think the last reason is that it is about the concept of the slow passage of time.

Strategy 3: Talk about the past, present, future

Many IELTS Part 2 prompts already ask you to talk about the past, but even when it doesn’t ask you to talk about the past, you may try to include your personal experience in the past. In addition, you may also refer to the future when you’re close to the end of the speech.

For example, when talking about his dream home, one speaker briefly mentions his experience living close to ocean in the past as a reason why he would like to live in a house at the beach.

When I was young, I lived in Japan for a while, and we were about 10 minutes from the beach. It was so nice to walk to the ocean and feel the wind from the ocean.

When talking about his grandmother, he also mentions some childhood memories.

In fact, when I was a child, I remember a number of times where she did things for my parents, such as make the curtains to go over the windows or cover the couch when it was starting to wear out.

Some speakers end their speech by mentioning to the future with the examples below.

Someday, in the future, I will plan another trip and look forward to that great visit to the little country of Taiwan.

In the future, I hope that I can get even better at developing this WordPress blog and who knows, perhaps, I’ll also even be able to monetize it, put some ads and sell some products and things like that. That would be a lot of fun. That would be a new challenge for me in the future.

I hope to go to more events like this.

I’m looking forward to growing together as a family, learning new skills with her, such as playing the piano, and traveling to places together.

Try one or more of these strategies and submit a speech to Eduling HERE if you'd like to practice and contribute to our app. To download the Eduling Speak app, click HERE .

More information about Eduling:

www.eduling.org

www.facebook.com/edulingusa

www.facebook.com/groups/eduling

www.instagram.com/edulingusa

  • Eduling Speak

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2-Minute Presentation: How to Prepare a Two Minute Speech on Time

Last updated on May 31st, 2023

You might be in a hurry to deliver a two minute presentation or speech, or you might want to prepare a short speech to give as closing remarks at an event. Whatever the case might be, there are several ways by which you can prepare a two-minute speech on time.

1. Write Down Notes or the Full Text on Your Speech

Some people like to use some notes scribbled on a paper to remember the key aspects of the speech, whereas others like to memorize a speech or read it from a paper or teleprompter. Then there are some people who are simply good at delivering a speech without the need of notes or written text. Whichever type of presenter you may be, you would want to know how much time it takes for you to complete your speech. This is why you can write down your notes or the complete text of the speech and read it out to estimate the time.

2. Use a Timer to Calculate the Time

To estimate the time, you can use a timer. If you’re using PowerPoint slides, you can use a number of add-ins and built-in features to time your slides. Here is a list of PowerPoint timers that you can use for this purpose. Knowing how much time it takes you to deliver your speech will help you ensure that you don’t exceed the allocated time, as well as better outline the content that would be most suitable for your audience.

3. Estimate your Words per Minute using a Words to Minutes Tool

You might want to estimate the WPM (Words Per Minute) for your speech and presentation. Some people like to speak slowly to be clear, whereas others might find it more appropriate to be a little quick in delivering their speech. You can estimate the WPM to understand your ability to deliver a speech in terms of the number of words you use each minute. There is also a free handy free tools that helps you convert speech to minutes online . Using this WPM calculator you can estimate things such as how many words is a 3 minute speech, how long to read a speech might it take you or how many words to pages are you using. This can make your time well spent, then you can use a speech calculator or words to minute tool to calculate the number of words per minute.

WPM Calculator example showing the Words to Minute tool.

Alternatively, you can use our article series in which we present an estimate of how many slides to include for a specific presentation length, for example how many slides for a 30 minute presentation in PowerPoint.

4. Add or Remove Content

If your speech is too long or too short, you can add or remove content, as well as use shorter versions of certain explanations to ensure you don’t exceed the time allocated for your speech. For example, in case you wish to give an example of determination and perseverance, you can mention a famous personality that the audience can relate to rather than using a lengthy explanation as to how the aforementioned can lead to success. Similarly, using abbreviations that the audience is acquainted with can help reduce your WPM and help you explain more details in a short period of time.

5. Practice Your Expressions & Body Language

Once you have your speech ready and you have estimated the time it takes to deliver it, you should refine the way you speak to leave a lasting impression on your audience. You can also use a mirror and try to relax and smile to deliver your speech. Practicing with your body language and expressions will help you make your speech more powerful. However, you don’t always need to smile, as some parts of your speech might require showing resolve, whereas other bits might require a more gentle approach. You can practice your expressions to find the right mix.

Practice Expressions and body language for delivering a presentation

The above mentioned tips should help you prepare your speech on time, be it a two minute speech or something much longer. If you have a good tip that our readers can benefit from, share your experience with us by leaving a comment.

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How to write a speech that your audience remembers

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Elevate your communication skills

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Whether in a work meeting or at an investor panel, you might give a speech at some point. And no matter how excited you are about the opportunity, the experience can be nerve-wracking . 

But feeling butterflies doesn’t mean you can’t give a great speech. With the proper preparation and a clear outline, apprehensive public speakers and natural wordsmiths alike can write and present a compelling message. Here’s how to write a good speech you’ll be proud to deliver.

What is good speech writing?

Good speech writing is the art of crafting words and ideas into a compelling, coherent, and memorable message that resonates with the audience. Here are some key elements of great speech writing:

  • It begins with clearly understanding the speech's purpose and the audience it seeks to engage. 
  • A well-written speech clearly conveys its central message, ensuring that the audience understands and retains the key points. 
  • It is structured thoughtfully, with a captivating opening, a well-organized body, and a conclusion that reinforces the main message. 
  • Good speech writing embraces the power of engaging content, weaving in stories, examples, and relatable anecdotes to connect with the audience on both intellectual and emotional levels. 

Ultimately, it is the combination of these elements, along with the authenticity and delivery of the speaker , that transforms words on a page into a powerful and impactful spoken narrative.

What makes a good speech?

A great speech includes several key qualities, but three fundamental elements make a speech truly effective:

Clarity and purpose

Remembering the audience, cohesive structure.

While other important factors make a speech a home run, these three elements are essential for writing an effective speech.

The main elements of a good speech

The main elements of a speech typically include:

  • Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for your speech and grabs the audience's attention. It should include a hook or attention-grabbing opening, introduce the topic, and provide an overview of what will be covered.
  • Opening/captivating statement: This is a strong statement that immediately engages the audience and creates curiosity about the speech topics.
  • Thesis statement/central idea: The thesis statement or central idea is a concise statement that summarizes the main point or argument of your speech. It serves as a roadmap for the audience to understand what your speech is about.
  • Body: The body of the speech is where you elaborate on your main points or arguments. Each point is typically supported by evidence, examples, statistics, or anecdotes. The body should be organized logically and coherently, with smooth transitions between the main points.
  • Supporting evidence: This includes facts, data, research findings, expert opinions, or personal stories that support and strengthen your main points. Well-chosen and credible evidence enhances the persuasive power of your speech.
  • Transitions: Transitions are phrases or statements that connect different parts of your speech, guiding the audience from one idea to the next. Effective transitions signal the shifts in topics or ideas and help maintain a smooth flow throughout the speech.
  • Counterarguments and rebuttals (if applicable): If your speech involves addressing opposing viewpoints or counterarguments, you should acknowledge and address them. Presenting counterarguments makes your speech more persuasive and demonstrates critical thinking.
  • Conclusion: The conclusion is the final part of your speech and should bring your message to a satisfying close. Summarize your main points, restate your thesis statement, and leave the audience with a memorable closing thought or call to action.
  • Closing statement: This is the final statement that leaves a lasting impression and reinforces the main message of your speech. It can be a call to action, a thought-provoking question, a powerful quote, or a memorable anecdote.
  • Delivery and presentation: How you deliver your speech is also an essential element to consider. Pay attention to your tone, body language, eye contact , voice modulation, and timing. Practice and rehearse your speech, and try using the 7-38-55 rule to ensure confident and effective delivery.

While the order and emphasis of these elements may vary depending on the type of speech and audience, these elements provide a framework for organizing and delivering a successful speech.

Man-holding-microphone-at-panel-while-talking--how-to-give-a-speech

How to structure a good speech

You know what message you want to transmit, who you’re delivering it to, and even how you want to say it. But you need to know how to start, develop, and close a speech before writing it. 

Think of a speech like an essay. It should have an introduction, conclusion, and body sections in between. This places ideas in a logical order that the audience can better understand and follow them. Learning how to make a speech with an outline gives your storytelling the scaffolding it needs to get its point across.

Here’s a general speech structure to guide your writing process:

  • Explanation 1
  • Explanation 2
  • Explanation 3

How to write a compelling speech opener

Some research shows that engaged audiences pay attention for only 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Other estimates are even lower, citing that people stop listening intently in fewer than 10 minutes . If you make a good first impression at the beginning of your speech, you have a better chance of interesting your audience through the middle when attention spans fade. 

Implementing the INTRO model can help grab and keep your audience’s attention as soon as you start speaking. This acronym stands for interest, need, timing, roadmap, and objectives, and it represents the key points you should hit in an opening. 

Here’s what to include for each of these points: 

  • Interest : Introduce yourself or your topic concisely and speak with confidence . Write a compelling opening statement using relevant data or an anecdote that the audience can relate to.
  • Needs : The audience is listening to you because they have something to learn. If you’re pitching a new app idea to a panel of investors, those potential partners want to discover more about your product and what they can earn from it. Read the room and gently remind them of the purpose of your speech. 
  • Timing : When appropriate, let your audience know how long you’ll speak. This lets listeners set expectations and keep tabs on their own attention span. If a weary audience member knows you’ll talk for 40 minutes, they can better manage their energy as that time goes on. 
  • Routemap : Give a brief overview of the three main points you’ll cover in your speech. If an audience member’s attention starts to drop off and they miss a few sentences, they can more easily get their bearings if they know the general outline of the presentation.
  • Objectives : Tell the audience what you hope to achieve, encouraging them to listen to the end for the payout. 

Writing the middle of a speech

The body of your speech is the most information-dense section. Facts, visual aids, PowerPoints — all this information meets an audience with a waning attention span. Sticking to the speech structure gives your message focus and keeps you from going off track, making everything you say as useful as possible.

Limit the middle of your speech to three points, and support them with no more than three explanations. Following this model organizes your thoughts and prevents you from offering more information than the audience can retain. 

Using this section of the speech to make your presentation interactive can add interest and engage your audience. Try including a video or demonstration to break the monotony. A quick poll or survey also keeps the audience on their toes. 

Wrapping the speech up

To you, restating your points at the end can feel repetitive and dull. You’ve practiced countless times and heard it all before. But repetition aids memory and learning , helping your audience retain what you’ve told them. Use your speech’s conclusion to summarize the main points with a few short sentences.

Try to end on a memorable note, like posing a motivational quote or a thoughtful question the audience can contemplate once they leave. In proposal or pitch-style speeches, consider landing on a call to action (CTA) that invites your audience to take the next step.

People-clapping-after-coworker-gave-a-speech-how-to-give-a-speech

How to write a good speech

If public speaking gives you the jitters, you’re not alone. Roughly 80% of the population feels nervous before giving a speech, and another 10% percent experiences intense anxiety and sometimes even panic. 

The fear of failure can cause procrastination and can cause you to put off your speechwriting process until the last minute. Finding the right words takes time and preparation, and if you’re already feeling nervous, starting from a blank page might seem even harder.

But putting in the effort despite your stress is worth it. Presenting a speech you worked hard on fosters authenticity and connects you to the subject matter, which can help your audience understand your points better. Human connection is all about honesty and vulnerability, and if you want to connect to the people you’re speaking to, they should see that in you.

1. Identify your objectives and target audience

Before diving into the writing process, find healthy coping strategies to help you stop worrying . Then you can define your speech’s purpose, think about your target audience, and start identifying your objectives. Here are some questions to ask yourself and ground your thinking : 

  • What purpose do I want my speech to achieve? 
  • What would it mean to me if I achieved the speech’s purpose?
  • What audience am I writing for? 
  • What do I know about my audience? 
  • What values do I want to transmit? 
  • If the audience remembers one take-home message, what should it be? 
  • What do I want my audience to feel, think, or do after I finish speaking? 
  • What parts of my message could be confusing and require further explanation?

2. Know your audience

Understanding your audience is crucial for tailoring your speech effectively. Consider the demographics of your audience, their interests, and their expectations. For instance, if you're addressing a group of healthcare professionals, you'll want to use medical terminology and data that resonate with them. Conversely, if your audience is a group of young students, you'd adjust your content to be more relatable to their experiences and interests. 

3. Choose a clear message

Your message should be the central idea that you want your audience to take away from your speech. Let's say you're giving a speech on climate change. Your clear message might be something like, "Individual actions can make a significant impact on mitigating climate change." Throughout your speech, all your points and examples should support this central message, reinforcing it for your audience.

4. Structure your speech

Organizing your speech properly keeps your audience engaged and helps them follow your ideas. The introduction should grab your audience's attention and introduce the topic. For example, if you're discussing space exploration, you could start with a fascinating fact about a recent space mission. In the body, you'd present your main points logically, such as the history of space exploration, its scientific significance, and future prospects. Finally, in the conclusion, you'd summarize your key points and reiterate the importance of space exploration in advancing human knowledge.

5. Use engaging content for clarity

Engaging content includes stories, anecdotes, statistics, and examples that illustrate your main points. For instance, if you're giving a speech about the importance of reading, you might share a personal story about how a particular book changed your perspective. You could also include statistics on the benefits of reading, such as improved cognitive abilities and empathy.

6. Maintain clarity and simplicity

It's essential to communicate your ideas clearly. Avoid using overly technical jargon or complex language that might confuse your audience. For example, if you're discussing a medical breakthrough with a non-medical audience, explain complex terms in simple, understandable language.

7. Practice and rehearse

Practice is key to delivering a great speech. Rehearse multiple times to refine your delivery, timing, and tone. Consider using a mirror or recording yourself to observe your body language and gestures. For instance, if you're giving a motivational speech, practice your gestures and expressions to convey enthusiasm and confidence.

8. Consider nonverbal communication

Your body language, tone of voice, and gestures should align with your message . If you're delivering a speech on leadership, maintain strong eye contact to convey authority and connection with your audience. A steady pace and varied tone can also enhance your speech's impact.

9. Engage your audience

Engaging your audience keeps them interested and attentive. Encourage interaction by asking thought-provoking questions or sharing relatable anecdotes. If you're giving a speech on teamwork, ask the audience to recall a time when teamwork led to a successful outcome, fostering engagement and connection.

10. Prepare for Q&A

Anticipate potential questions or objections your audience might have and prepare concise, well-informed responses. If you're delivering a speech on a controversial topic, such as healthcare reform, be ready to address common concerns, like the impact on healthcare costs or access to services, during the Q&A session.

By following these steps and incorporating examples that align with your specific speech topic and purpose, you can craft and deliver a compelling and impactful speech that resonates with your audience.

Woman-at-home-doing-research-in-her-laptop-how-to-give-a-speech

Tools for writing a great speech

There are several helpful tools available for speechwriting, both technological and communication-related. Here are a few examples:

  • Word processing software: Tools like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or other word processors provide a user-friendly environment for writing and editing speeches. They offer features like spell-checking, grammar correction, formatting options, and easy revision tracking.
  • Presentation software: Software such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides is useful when creating visual aids to accompany your speech. These tools allow you to create engaging slideshows with text, images, charts, and videos to enhance your presentation.
  • Speechwriting Templates: Online platforms or software offer pre-designed templates specifically for speechwriting. These templates provide guidance on structuring your speech and may include prompts for different sections like introductions, main points, and conclusions.
  • Rhetorical devices and figures of speech: Rhetorical tools such as metaphors, similes, alliteration, and parallelism can add impact and persuasion to your speech. Resources like books, websites, or academic papers detailing various rhetorical devices can help you incorporate them effectively.
  • Speechwriting apps: Mobile apps designed specifically for speechwriting can be helpful in organizing your thoughts, creating outlines, and composing a speech. These apps often provide features like voice recording, note-taking, and virtual prompts to keep you on track.
  • Grammar and style checkers: Online tools or plugins like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor help improve the clarity and readability of your speech by checking for grammar, spelling, and style errors. They provide suggestions for sentence structure, word choice, and overall tone.
  • Thesaurus and dictionary: Online or offline resources such as thesauruses and dictionaries help expand your vocabulary and find alternative words or phrases to express your ideas more effectively. They can also clarify meanings or provide context for unfamiliar terms.
  • Online speechwriting communities: Joining online forums or communities focused on speechwriting can be beneficial for getting feedback, sharing ideas, and learning from experienced speechwriters. It's an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and improve your public speaking skills through collaboration.

Remember, while these tools can assist in the speechwriting process, it's essential to use them thoughtfully and adapt them to your specific needs and style. The most important aspect of speechwriting remains the creativity, authenticity, and connection with your audience that you bring to your speech.

Man-holding-microphone-while-speaking-in-public-how-to-give-a-speech

5 tips for writing a speech

Behind every great speech is an excellent idea and a speaker who refined it. But a successful speech is about more than the initial words on the page, and there are a few more things you can do to help it land.

Here are five more tips for writing and practicing your speech:

1. Structure first, write second

If you start the writing process before organizing your thoughts, you may have to re-order, cut, and scrap the sentences you worked hard on. Save yourself some time by using a speech structure, like the one above, to order your talking points first. This can also help you identify unclear points or moments that disrupt your flow.

2. Do your homework

Data strengthens your argument with a scientific edge. Research your topic with an eye for attention-grabbing statistics, or look for findings you can use to support each point. If you’re pitching a product or service, pull information from company metrics that demonstrate past or potential successes. 

Audience members will likely have questions, so learn all talking points inside and out. If you tell investors that your product will provide 12% returns, for example, come prepared with projections that support that statement.

3. Sound like yourself

Memorable speakers have distinct voices. Think of Martin Luther King Jr’s urgent, inspiring timbre or Oprah’s empathetic, personal tone . Establish your voice — one that aligns with your personality and values — and stick with it. If you’re a motivational speaker, keep your tone upbeat to inspire your audience . If you’re the CEO of a startup, try sounding assured but approachable. 

4. Practice

As you practice a speech, you become more confident , gain a better handle on the material, and learn the outline so well that unexpected questions are less likely to trip you up. Practice in front of a colleague or friend for honest feedback about what you could change, and speak in front of the mirror to tweak your nonverbal communication and body language .

5. Remember to breathe

When you’re stressed, you breathe more rapidly . It can be challenging to talk normally when you can’t regulate your breath. Before your presentation, try some mindful breathing exercises so that when the day comes, you already have strategies that will calm you down and remain present . This can also help you control your voice and avoid speaking too quickly.

How to ghostwrite a great speech for someone else

Ghostwriting a speech requires a unique set of skills, as you're essentially writing a piece that will be delivered by someone else. Here are some tips on how to effectively ghostwrite a speech:

  • Understand the speaker's voice and style : Begin by thoroughly understanding the speaker's personality, speaking style, and preferences. This includes their tone, humor, and any personal anecdotes they may want to include.
  • Interview the speaker : Have a detailed conversation with the speaker to gather information about their speech's purpose, target audience, key messages, and any specific points they want to emphasize. Ask for personal stories or examples they may want to include.
  • Research thoroughly : Research the topic to ensure you have a strong foundation of knowledge. This helps you craft a well-informed and credible speech.
  • Create an outline : Develop a clear outline that includes the introduction, main points, supporting evidence, and a conclusion. Share this outline with the speaker for their input and approval.
  • Write in the speaker's voice : While crafting the speech, maintain the speaker's voice and style. Use language and phrasing that feel natural to them. If they have a particular way of expressing ideas, incorporate that into the speech.
  • Craft a captivating opening : Begin the speech with a compelling opening that grabs the audience's attention. This could be a relevant quote, an interesting fact, a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking question.
  • Organize content logically : Ensure the speech flows logically, with each point building on the previous one. Use transitions to guide the audience from one idea to the next smoothly.
  • Incorporate engaging stories and examples : Include anecdotes, stories, and real-life examples that illustrate key points and make the speech relatable and memorable.
  • Edit and revise : Edit the speech carefully for clarity, grammar, and coherence. Ensure the speech is the right length and aligns with the speaker's time constraints.
  • Seek feedback : Share drafts of the speech with the speaker for their feedback and revisions. They may have specific changes or additions they'd like to make.
  • Practice delivery : If possible, work with the speaker on their delivery. Practice the speech together, allowing the speaker to become familiar with the content and your writing style.
  • Maintain confidentiality : As a ghostwriter, it's essential to respect the confidentiality and anonymity of the work. Do not disclose that you wrote the speech unless you have the speaker's permission to do so.
  • Be flexible : Be open to making changes and revisions as per the speaker's preferences. Your goal is to make them look good and effectively convey their message.
  • Meet deadlines : Stick to agreed-upon deadlines for drafts and revisions. Punctuality and reliability are essential in ghostwriting.
  • Provide support : Support the speaker during their preparation and rehearsal process. This can include helping with cue cards, speech notes, or any other materials they need.

Remember that successful ghostwriting is about capturing the essence of the speaker while delivering a well-structured and engaging speech. Collaboration, communication, and adaptability are key to achieving this.

Give your best speech yet

Learn how to make a speech that’ll hold an audience’s attention by structuring your thoughts and practicing frequently. Put the effort into writing and preparing your content, and aim to improve your breathing, eye contact , and body language as you practice. The more you work on your speech, the more confident you’ll become.

The energy you invest in writing an effective speech will help your audience remember and connect to every concept. Remember: some life-changing philosophies have come from good speeches, so give your words a chance to resonate with others. You might even change their thinking.

Elizabeth Perry

Content Marketing Manager, ACC

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

“How To” Speech Topics, Ideas & Examples

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Amanda Green was born in a small town in the west of Scotland, where everyone knows everyone. I joined the Toastmasters 15 years ago, and I served in nearly every office in the club since then. I love helping others gain confidence and skills they can apply in every day life.

Want to speak in front of an audience but are terrified of freezing or being boring? I know the feeling. If you’ve ever had to give a “how-to” speech, you know that it can be incredibly intimidating. It also entails coming up with how-to speech ideas and creative examples.

After all, how will they finish listening if the audience isn’t hooked by what you’re saying right away? To help ease your worries (and inspire those ideas!), here’s everything you need on “how-to” speeches: topics, samples & potential pitfalls — so read ahead!

Writing a How-to Speech

how to write 2 minute speech

The speaker needs to consider several important factors when preparing to give a how-to speech. The how-to speech should identify the problem that needs to be resolved, explain how the problem can be fixed with a step-by-step approach, and list any potential obstacles the audience may face.

It is also important for speakers to choose how-to speech topics that are of interest or relevance to their target audience. This will ensure maximum engagement and retention throughout the speech.

How-to Speech Ideas That Are Funny

When it comes to funny “how-to” speeches, the possibilities are endless! Whether talking about how to make a perfect paper airplane or how to be the life of the party, humor can enhance your presentation and help keep your audience engaged.

Try using puns, silly props, or even anecdotes that provide insight into the process while still making people laugh. The goal is to not only impart valuable knowledge but also entertain your listener.

With some creativity, you can develop a humorous speech that achieves a comedic effect and explains its topic.

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Interesting How-to Topics

When asked to present a speech, many people immediately search for the most interesting ideas for a how-to speech. From tidying up after the biggest mess to baking a delicious cake, speeches about how to do something can be informative and entertaining.

While it may seem challenging to come up with fresh ideas, an infinite number of topics could be used. Some great suggestions include teaching viewers how to create a simple budget plan , explaining plant-based diets and their benefits, explaining how to instruct others effectively, or even how to ace an interview.

No matter what topic you go with, remember that the important thing is to be passionate and provide audiences with detailed instructions. When done correctly, choosing an interesting “how-to” topic for your speech will surely have your audience applauding in no time!

Choosing a Demonstration Speech Topic

Choosing a demonstration speech topic may seem daunting, but it can be simple and enjoyable with the right guidance. Identifying the topics appropriate for a demonstration speech is the first step in navigating this process.

Demonstration topics should be grounded in facts and provide pertinent knowledge about your expertise or interest. They should also focus on something that can be demonstrated in a tangible way, such as making a craft or performing an experiment.

  • Your Interests

Choosing engaging good how-to speech topics based on one’s interests can be daunting yet rewarding. Taking the time to reflect on potential topics and thinking carefully about what topics truly interest you is fundamental to assembling a captivating presentation.

As such, it is paramount to begin by reflecting upon your hobbies and leisure activity ideas that you find most intriguing, as well as any activities or tasks you feel passionate about sharing with others.

Additionally, curating ideas from other media sources, such as newspaper articles or magazines, helps provide further insight into new and novel subjects or angles that can motivate your research process.

Only through this deliberate effort to understand our interests and apply them creatively towards developing a worthwhile “how-to” speech topic can we find the contentment of presenting a presentation with which listeners will engage.

  • Who the Speech Is For

Choosing a “how-to” speech topic is critical in delivering an effective presentation. When selecting your topic, it’s important to keep the audience in mind.

Decide who your speech is for and make sure it is relevant to their interests. Select something specific that can benefit them or be beneficial in a general sense. Choose something the audience wants to learn about and that you are comfortable presenting. This will ensure your presentation skills are on display, as well as your knowledge about the topic.

Ensure your topic has enough depth for you to use additional research as support. This will strengthen the content of your presentation and demonstrate personal effort.

Ultimately, with careful consideration of who your speech is addressed to, you can craft a “how-to” topic that adds value both for yourself and your audience.

  • The Setting of the Speech

Choosing a “how-to” speech topic based on the setting of the speech is an important step in preparing for an effective presentation.

It is essential to consider the purpose of the speech, the audience’s interests and needs, and any limitations or restrictions that may be present to construct an appropriate topic and choose relevant information to include.

Anticipating questions or topics of interest related to the audience is helpful when selecting a relevant topic.

  • The Time You’ve Got to Prepare the Speech

Deciding on a “how-to” speech topic can be daunting. But the task becomes much more manageable, considering how much time you have to prepare for the presentation. Start by narrowing down the possibilities based on how much time you have.

If you have more time to prepare, opt for something more challenging. If you have only a short amount of time, choose a simpler topic.

Once you have determined the complexity level and estimated preparation time, consider your interests to find a topic that is both engaging to yourself and hopefully your audience.

As with any speech or presentation, researching and practicing before the actual event will greatly benefit your delivery and engagement with your audience.

Although finalizing a speech topic for a “how-to” presentation can be stressful, understanding constraints and utilizing interests will help make this process easier.

  • The Time You’ve Got to Give the Speech

When selecting a “how-to” speech topic, the amount of time you have to give the presentation should be considered. It is wise to carefully analyze the time frame constraints of the assignment and assess which topics can be thoroughly explored in the allocated duration.

Attempting to cover too much material within a limited timeframe may lead to rushed communication and limit your opportunity to expand on the subject matter. Instead, select a focus that allows space for further discussion but remains concise enough to explore properly within your allotted time.

It is also advantageous to choose a topic that naturally interests you. This will heighten enthusiasm and engagement throughout your presentation, thus helping create an impactful delivery. Doing so will ensure you stay on track and avoid exceeding the assigned timeframe.

  • The Guidelines for Assessment

When choosing a “how-to” speech topic, it is important to ensure that the topic meets all of the guidelines for assessment. It is a good idea to consider current and relevant topics, informative, interesting, and new, demonstrating the speaker’s understanding of their subject matter.

Choosing a topic with an appropriate difficulty level can help ensure that your speech will be comprehensive and engaging for your audience.

Demonstrative Speech Topics

how to write 2 minute speech

Selecting topics for speeches comes down to choosing something you both know and can present effectively. As you brainstorm possible show-and-tell ideas, narrow the topics until you arrive at one that is interesting to you and your audience and fulfills all criteria needed for an effective demonstration presentation.

Once you’ve chosen a successful topic, preparing the speech will become much simpler, allowing you to demonstrate confidently and successfully.

Here are some easy demonstrative speech ideas for how-to.

Animals/Pets

Giving a speech to educate an audience about how to care for animals/pets can be an enriching experience.

It is important to research and thoroughly understand the topic to provide the audience with accurate and applicable information. This will entail researching different animal species and their specific characteristics, needs, and behaviors.

Moreover, ample time must be allocated for preparation so all aspects of proper pet-keeping can be explained clearly and confidently.

Topics ideas could range from a persuasive speech on how to pick the best breed to an informative speech on pet health. 

Gardens/Yards

Talking about creating and maintaining a garden or a yard requires proper preparation to ensure that the information relayed is accurate and beneficial. Researching various gardening elements beforehand will provide a strong base for discerning audiences to build on.

Be sure to present topics such as plant selection, design ideas, pest prevention, watering methods, and other environmental factors in an organized fashion that is easy for your listeners to follow.

Offering clear instructions throughout the speech with examples showing the steps in action can help ensure that your audience walks away feeling confident about their newly acquired knowledge.

Topics could cover how to identify poisonous plants, how to get rid of garden pests, how to make an indoor herb garden, and even how to make garden art. 

To give an effective “how-to” speech about crafts, the speaker should start by introducing themselves and properly framing the topic. They should provide a brief overview of what the audience will learn in their presentation and then begin with the most basic information, slowly building up to more complex concepts.

Crafting often has visual aid speech topics. At every stage of presenting, visuals should be provided for illustration. Visuals could range from diagrams or step-by-step photographs showing how a craft is made to video or actual physical models.

Once all of this information has been presented, the speaker should summarize the key points covered and allow time for questions from the audience before concluding their presentation.

Games/Sports

Giving a “how-to” speech about games/sports is an excellent way to share knowledge and teach important concepts. It requires the speaker to do comprehensive research and prepare in advance.

To give an effective “how-to” speech, start by introducing the game/sport accurately and make sure to tailor the presentation for your specific audience. Additionally, focus on one topic at a time, explain each step with vivid examples, and use visuals like charts or diagrams if possible.

Once you have covered all steps necessary for playing the game/sport, end the speech concisely and provide resources that can be used after the presentation.

Topics here could range from how to perfect your golf swing to even how to teach basketball.

Food And More

Delivering a successful “how-to” speech about food and drinks requires careful preparation. First, it is important to do research on the topic so that you have an understanding of the background information.

Once this has been accomplished, the next step should be to focus on a specific field within the topic and craft your presentation around this selected focus. Be sure to collect illustrations, charts, or photographs relevant to your chosen material, as these visual elements can make all the difference in bringing your words to life.

How to Structure a How-to Speech

Structuring a “how-to” speech can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Firstly, you should brainstorm the steps needed to accomplish your desired outcome with as much detail as possible. Secondly, organize the steps in chronological order.

This will give the rhythm of your speech a natural flow. Then, begin by introducing yourself and the topic by providing background information on why it is important.

Following completion of the step-by-step instructions, summarize what was just explained and explain why it matters in general terms. Finally, address any foreseeable issues and offer solutions to avoid them.

How-to Speech Template

A “how-to” speech template is an effective method to prepare a speech. This is especially useful when speaking on topics that may be largely unfamiliar to the audience, as it provides a straightforward structure for organizing the material.

The basic format of this type of speech involves:

  • Introducing the topic.
  • Describing the purpose and benefits of knowing more about it.
  • Decomposing the subject matter into easily digestible sections.
  • Concluding with a summary and reflection on what has been covered.

Additionally, including visual aids and personal anecdotes can further add interest and clarity to speeches, helping ensure everyone remains engaged throughout the presentation. Use this blank demonstration speech outline to craft your own any time!

To Sum It Up

Giving a great how-to speech is mostly about choosing the right topic. As how-to speeches often require visuals such as PowerPoint slides and handouts, these should be reviewed pre-speech to guarantee smooth delivery during the presentation itself. Speaking confidently and clearly while allowing time for questions and feedback is also essential in delivering an effective how-to speech.

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How to Add Length to a Speech

Last Updated: January 26, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lynn Kirkham and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano . Lynn Kirkham is a Professional Public Speaker and Founder of Yes You Can Speak, a San Francisco Bay Area-based public speaking educational business empowering thousands of professionals to take command of whatever stage they've been given - from job interviews, boardroom talks to TEDx and large conference platforms. Lynn was chosen as the official TEDx Berkeley speaker coach for the last four years and has worked with executives at Google, Facebook, Intuit, Genentech, Intel, VMware, and others. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 15,928 times.

When you’re giving a speech, it often feels like it happened in a flash—so what do you do if you need to slow things down? Adding length to a speech is something many speakers and presenters have to do, and, thankfully, they’ve provided quite a few tips. In this article, we’ll share with you the best tricks to make any presentation longer.

Things You Should Know

  • Prioritize speaking slowly and clearly, and state your key points multiple times throughout your speech.
  • Add length by including stories, examples, facts, and quotes in your speech to back up your main points.
  • Use a visual aid like a powerpoint or a handout to add time and audience engagement.

Speak slowly and clearly.

Enunciate your words so the audience can understand you.

  • Try not to sacrifice enthusiasm for speed. [1] X Trustworthy Source American Psychological Association Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists Go to source You can still be ecstatic and passionate while speaking clearly.

Repeat your important points.

Emphasize your key points to keep the audience engaged.

  • Although repetition is good, try to avoid repeating things back to back. This could tire out your audience.
  • Key ideas and themes are great words and phrases to recap throughout.
  • An excellent example of repetition is Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s I Have a Dream , where he reiterates the famous lines, “ I have a dream that my four little children will
 I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia
 I have a dream today!”

Pause for dramatic effect.

Add a couple of seconds with a calculated breath or pause.

  • Think of your speech as a performance. If it were a play or movie, where would you see a dramatic pause?
  • Count out your pause in your head or tap your finger at your side.
  • Emphasize your pause by saying something like, “Now, think about that.”
  • Mark in your speech where you’d like to pause dramatically. This will help you while practicing and can be a physical reminder during your speech if you're using cue cards.

Add an extra story or example to your speech.

Give your speech length by having more to talk about.

  • Write your story out on paper outside of your speech to flesh it out. [4] X Research source
  • The story or example doesn’t have to be personal. It could be a metaphor, allegory, or even a reiteration of a well-known tale.
  • Make your story extra dynamic by tapping into the feelings and senses of the moment. What was the weather like? Was there air blowing into the open window? Make your story as descriptive as you can so it sounds rich and interesting.

Use facts and quotes in your speech.

Read off meaningful quotes and statistics for extra time and credibility.

  • If you’re directly quoting someone else, say “quote” before stating the quote and “unquote” after the quote’s final word.

Connect with the audience during your speech.

Speaking to your audience can inspire you to keep talking.

  • Ask members of the audience to raise their hands if they’ve done X, Y, or Z.
  • Toss in an energizing stretch break or audience-participation activity during the middle of your speech (this is great for a younger audience).
  • Practice audience connection techniques in front of friends or family to test what works best for your speech.

Sync a slide presentation to your speech.

Using mixed media can add energy and vibrancy to your speech.

  • Make sure to practice with your slideshow before presenting your speech, noting when you need to click over to another slide.
  • Try to avoid reading directly from the slides. Your speech should already explain what’s on the screen. [7] X Research source

Play a video during your speech.

Inserting a video clip gives you a talking break while adding on minutes.

  • Pick a video that has something to do with your speech. You want the video to add to your speech, not take away from it.
  • Place your video at a point in your presentation where it’s natural. For example, don’t stop in the middle of a story to show the video version of what you’re describing. Play the video before or after you’ve said something important.

Walk around while giving your speech.

Moving or pacing can help you think and draw out the presentation.

Time your speech while you practice and present.

Ease nerves by effectively pacing yourself before and during the speech.

  • Practice your speech using different rhythms and pauses, and note what helps you stretch the time without awkward pauses.

Give the audience a handout during your speech.

Stall for time by offering a tangible and reliable reference.

  • Try to walk and talk while you do this, so there isn’t an awkward silence drawing out the time.
  • Hand out your resource during a lull in your speech or towards the end before a Q&A.

Take questions from the audience.

Give listeners a chance to encourage you to say more.

  • Aim for leaving about 15 minutes at the end of your presentation for questions.
  • Try bringing up your key points again if no one has any questions right away.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

Give a Thank You Speech

  • ↑ https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/02/tips-speaking
  • ↑ https://mannerofspeaking.org/2019/11/12/pauses-in-a-speech-why-when-and-how/
  • ↑ https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/316145
  • ↑ https://www.fau.edu/honors/undergraduate-research/documents/general-guidelines.pdf
  • ↑ https://hbr.org/2013/06/how-to-give-a-killer-presentation
  • ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2018/07/26/12-public-speaking-tips-to-make-your-speech-more-impactful/

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2 Minute Self Introduction Speech

2 Minute Self Introduction Speech Examples

What will you do if you were told to stand in front of a lot of people or a small group of people, whom you do not know and say something? Like say, a speech ? Does the idea scare you or excite you? How will you react if you are told to tell everyone about yourself in 2 minutes? Can you do it? Can you stand up in front of the class to simply talk about yourself? Is this scary or exciting?   Trust me you are not alone in this predicament . Any student or professional can relate to this . But before you start to panic on how you are going to do this, I got a deal for you . This may help solve your problem. Check this out. 4+ 2 Minute self-introduction speech examples in PDF.

13+ 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech Examples

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Self Introduction For First Day At Work Sample

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1. 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech Template

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2. 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech for Students

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3. 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech for School Students

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4. 2 Minute Self-Introduction Speech Evaluation Form

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Defining Introductions

Introduction is an act of making acquaintances with someone. An act of getting to know a person through means of talking. To meet someone new and tell them about you. A way of telling someone about you through presenting general details. Giving an overview by introducing yourself to a stranger or someone you just met.

Defining Speech

Speech is a formal or informal discussion between two or more people. It is an affirmation of a person’s ideas. The way of expressing one’s opinions in a formal or informal way. It is the act of talking. Speaking out what you believe.

Defining Self Introductions

Defining self and introduction into two, we get: Self a person, one’s own self. An individual. Introduction is an act of getting to know a person. Put them both together, we get Self Introduction is an act of telling the other person of one’s own self.

Things to Look Out For

Listed below are things to look out for when making a good self-introduction speech . Often than not, people tend to take these for granted. These are also as important as making the speech itself. So here are some few things to look out for. 

  • Think – Think what you want to say in your self introduction speech . What do you want people to know about you in 2 minutes? Think of the information you wish to share. Are they too personal or general for the public? 
  • Voice – Make sure you can be heard from the back. Also do not make your voice too loud or too soft, rather make it clear and consistent. Your voice will let people know more about you. Meaning, how you speak will explain to people about who you are and how you talk to others.
  • Posture – Do not slouch when you are making a speech. Show your audience that you are confident and happy to be there. Your posture will also be another thing they will notice. If you slouch when making a speech, people will believe you are not interested in introducing yourself or interested in talking to them. 
  • Eye contact – Often taken for granted. Eye contact helps when you are making a speech. It makes the person or the people you are speaking to feel welcomed. It makes them feel that you are really happy to get to know them and vice versa.

Tips on How to Make a Good Self-Introduction Speech

  • General and Short – within a two minute self-introduction speech, you need not tell them your whole life story. Keep it general and short. State your name, your age if you are comfortable, and your course if you are a student and your future goals. The same goes for professionals at work. Keep it short. Two minutes is long enough if you only have a few things to share.
  • Pacing – Within the two minutes , do not rush. Do not lag either. Talk normally. Do not talk too fast that your audience or the person you are talking to will not understand. Nor do not talk too slow or they will lose interest.
  • Breathe – One reason as to why people get nervous when doing a self-introduction speech is that they often hold their breaths. Just breathe. This can help you get less afraid and more comfortable. Anyone who suffers from stage fright even when it’s simply making a self-introduction can understand this. Just breathe. It’s okay.
  • Smile – When making your self-introduction, don’t forget to smile. This is a good way of drawing attention to yourself and to make people feel easy.

What other things may I add to a self-introduction speech besides my name?

If you are a student, you may also state your age (if you wish), your course, your hobbies and your career goals after you graduate. If you are already working, you may even add your hobbies.

How do I fit my whole self-introduction in two minutes?

Just talk about the basics. What information do you want to say about yourself? This is not a life story, merely a getting to know you. Your audience will lose interest if you talk about your whole life story. So avoid that at all costs.

Why is it so important to introduce yourself?

Introducing yourself to people is important because this is a good way of meeting new people. This is a good way of knowing new and potential friends. It is also a good way of seeing if anyone is interested in making acquaintance with you.

With all that being said, we cannot avoid doing a self-introduction wherever we go. Whether we are students or professionals or even simply getting to know someone in a party or any type of event that involves people. This can be scary sometimes especially if we get tongue tied, but with the simple tips listed above, you need not worry anymore. Now that you are familiar with how to make a good self-introduction speech in under two minutes, it would be so easy that it comes natural to you.

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My Self Introduction

5 Examples of 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech

Usman Ali

Whether you’re at an interview, networking event, or sitting down with your family at the dinner table, there are times when you’ll need to give a short introduction of yourself and what you do.

Knowing how to write one of these short speeches can help boost your confidence and put you on equal footing with your audience from the very beginning of your speech.

This article will provide several examples of 2 minute self introduction speeches for you to analyze and learn from.

How to draft 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech Examples?

Before preparing for the speech, you must consider a few essential things.

1. Start with a greeting followed by your first and last name.

A simple and effective way to introduce yourself is by using a greeting and your first and last name.

For example, you can use the following format:

Hello, my name is [first name]. I am [last name] from [city]. I have been working in [industry] for [number of years]. I am passionate about [topic], so I love sharing what I know with others.

Now that you have drafted your introduction speech, it’s time to practice!

2. Mention your current situation, location, or surroundings.

Mention your current situation, location, or surroundings. This will help you connect with the audience, which may be listening to the speech for the first time.

Be specific about the company and product you work for.

Use an example from your own experience, if possible. For example, suppose you describe a new product your team has developed. In that case, you could talk about how it has helped improve customer satisfaction at your company.

If you have worked on an unsuccessful project, provide an example of why it did not succeed. This will show that you understand failure and can provide solutions to prevent similar problems in future projects.

3. State the purpose of your speech.

State the purpose of your speech. This is the essential part of your introduction. It should be short and to the point. The audience needs to know where you are going with this speech, so state your main subject and explain why you chose that subject by explaining what it means.

For example:

I will talk about “Self-acceptance” tonight because I have struggled with this in my life and want to help others who are going through the same thing.

4. Give a brief description of yourself.

You can start by telling us about yourself or even your interests, hobbies, and passions. It will help us get to know you better, and we will feel more comfortable around you. The best thing about this type of introduction is that you can tailor it according to the audience that you are facing.

If there are many people in the room, you can focus on one person and discuss them in detail. You can say something like, “My name is John Doe, I am from X country,” etc., and then go on with your story.

5. Conclude your speech with a call for action or request for feedback.

Conclude your speech with a call for action or request for feedback. To impact, you need to get the audience’s attention. You can do this by concluding your presentation with something that will motivate the audience and make them feel they have been given something valuable. The most effective way to do this is to finish with a request for feedback from the audience.

This technique aims to get people involved in the process of giving feedback and making decisions about their futures. You want them to feel as if they are being heard, so they will want to give you their thoughts on what you have said.

Takeaway:  Good introductions can make all the difference, and it’s easy to do them well.

  • 3 Best Self Introduction Template to Introduce Yourself
  • 10+ Self Introduction Speech Examples to Introduce Yourself

2 Minute Self Introduction Speech Examples

Hello, I am [name], and I’m here to talk about how we can make this world a better place. I am a recent graduate of [university] with a degree in [subject]. I want to help people like myself who are just starting in their careers and need some guidance. My goal is to provide individuals with the tools they need to succeed in their careers by connecting them with like-minded people who can provide them with the guidance they need.

I have been working for [company name] for over five years. I have worked my way up from interning at [company name] to being a full-time employee, where I currently work as an account manager. I love what we do here because it allows me to help others improve their lives by providing them access to products that help them live happier lives.

You can find me playing volleyball or sitting down for long hours watching movies on Netflix in my free time!

Hi, I’m [name], and I’m a writer. I write about things that make me happy, things that make me think, and things that make me laugh.

I create content for a wide range of digital platforms—including this website—to help people discover the things that improve their lives.

I’ve been writing for over ten years, and I’ve learned so much about what makes people tick. It’s helped me find my voice as a writer and has given me unique opportunities to collaborate with individuals who share my passion for storytelling.

One of my favorite ways to spend time is communicating with other people online through chat rooms or social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter. The connection between us is instant, and it feels like we are having a conversation even when we aren’t speaking directly to each other. It feels intimate somehow—like we’re sharing secrets or sharing our deepest thoughts with someone else who cares enough about us to listen closely enough.

Good morning mam/sir. It’s my pleasure to introduce myself. Well, I’m Rehana born and raised in Anantapur. I have done my schooling in Little flower Montessori English Medium High School with 77%, then I did my plus 12 from S.S.B.N junior college with 77.7% and now I’m pursuing my final year B.tech from Anantha Lakshmi Institute of Technology and Sciences Anantapur with an aggregate of 78.33% My strengths are my attitude that I like to take on challenges that I CAN do, and my way of thinking that I take both success and failure in a balanced manner. I don’t like to say weakness but I like to say scope for improvement that is I won’t leave any ask in completely, I believe in myself and my hard work and I want perfection in everything. My short-term goal is I want such a platform where I can grow my career along with the organization’s growth like yours. My Long term goal is I want to be one of the reasons for the success of the organization and I want to see your organization as a benchmark to other organizations. My ethic is “I never neglect an opportunity for my improvement”. That’s all about me sir
.thank you for giving me such a wonderful opportunity.

“Good day. My name is Ellen Davis.

I am 20 years old. I took some time off after high school to figure out what job path I wanted to take, as I was indecisive at the time. I’ve had a few jobs over the year and have given references from a couple of them.

I’ve decided that I want to work with animals and have applied to ______ College to study to become a veterinary nurse. In the meanwhile, I’d like to get started studying the practical side of the job, which is why I was thrilled to see you had an opening for a veterinary assistant.

I realize it will be difficult job, and I don’t have much experience in this industry, but you won’t be disappointed if you take a risk on me.

The Verdict: 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech Examples

As you can see, writing a self introduction speech can be very simple and quick. Just take your time to prepare, write, and then practice until you feel confident enough.

how to write 2 minute speech

Hi, I a Usmaan Ali, a content writer. I’ve always been passionate about writing and blogging. I hope you enjoy my blog posts as much as I enjoy writing it!

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Introducing Speech Time Calculate

Estimate how many minutes your speeches, presentations, and voice-over scripts will take based on your words per minute rate!

How To Speech Time Calculate Using This Tool?

If you have a certain number of words or a piece of text you want to time, you can either type in the word count or paste the text into the provided area. This tool will then calculate how long it would take to read that text out loud.

The talk time estimate is calculated using the average speaking speed of adults, which is determined to be 183 words per minute based on scientific studies. If you’re interested in how long it would take to read silently, it’s estimated at 238 words per minute ( This data is also backed by research )

You can adjust the slider to change the words per minute value, which will affect the talk time estimate. However, the silent reading time estimate remains fixed at 238 words per minute.

For ease of use, we’ve also provided reference points for slow, average, and fast reading rates below the slider.

To begin anew, simply click the ‘clear text’ button to erase the content and restore the slider back to its original setting of 183.

Who is This Words to Minutes Converter Tool For?

If you are a student wondering how long is my essay or you’ve been tasked with writing a speech and need to know how many words to aim for and how many minutes will it take to deliver or perhaps you are a podcaster, just starting out, who wants the ability to easily synchronize music and spoken word without having to painstakingly calculate seconds between them, then this Speech Time Calculate is precisely for you!

From now on, instead of spending long hours in front of the computer trying to figure out how many seconds it takes for one phrase or section of dialogue to end and another to begin, you can let our innovative tool do all the work and convert your text to time quickly and accurately. With this powerful tool at your disposal, whether you’re giving a TED talk or just need to nail a business presentation, your life will become a little bit easier.

So keep reading to learn more about what this fantastic words to minutes converter has in store for public speakers, aspiring students, and professional radio producers alike!

Whether you want to read the text silently or speak aloud, you can use this tool as both:

  • Reading time calculator
  • Talk time calculator

Explanation of the Reading Time

Reading time refers to the duration it takes for an average person to read a written text silently while still comprehending its content. Based on an extensive analysis of 190 studies that involved 18,573 participants , research conducted by Marc Brysbaert in 2019 suggests that the typical silent reading speed for an adult individual is approximately 238 words per minute .

To convert word count to read time for a specific text, you can do so by dividing the total word count of the text by this established value of 238. Here is the mathematical equation for determining the duration of reading time in minutes:

Reading Time = Total Word Count / 238

Explanation of the Speech Time

Speech time refers to the duration it takes for an average person to read a text out loud. Based on data from 77 studies involving 5,965 people , it’s been found that most adults read aloud at a speed of approximately 183 words per minute ( research conducted by Marc Brysbaert in 2019 ). To figure out how long it will take to read a specific piece of text aloud, you can divide the total number of words in the text by this average rate of 183 words per minute.

Of course, it’s important to note that talk time can vary depending on factors such as clarity of speech, pauses for emphasis, and use of visual aids. However, using this tool for converting the number of words to minutes can still provide a helpful guideline for planning and practicing your presentation. By having a better understanding of speech rates, you can ensure that your message is delivered effectively and efficiently.

Benefits of Using a Speech Time Calculate

Time management in presentations.

Effective time management during presentations is crucial to ensure the audience remains engaged and the information is accurately conveyed. This is where our words to speaking time converter comes in handy. By using this tool, presenters can easily determine how many words they need to include in their presentation to stay within the allotted time frame.

Not only does it help with time management, but it also ensures that the pacing of the presentation is consistent, making it easier for the audience to follow. With the use of this presentation time calculator, presenters can confidently deliver their presentations without the worry of running over time or rushing through it.

Estimated speech time for public speaking

Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, especially when you have too little or too much information to fill your time slot. You wonder only if there were an accurate public speaking time calculator available so that you could be able to allocate the appropriate amount of time to each section of your presentation, ensuring that you cover all the necessary points without rushing or going over time.

Effective pacing is key in ensuring your message is delivered with clarity and impact.

Most public speakers target an average of 130-150 words per minute for their spoken content, meaning you should aim to limit your speaking time to roughly one minute per 130-150 words. While this may take some practice to achieve, the end result is a confident, well-timed delivery that keeps your audience engaged from start to finish.

Remember, in public speaking, less is often more—take your time to breathe and emphasize key points. Your audience will appreciate your thoughtful and measured approach. For that, you can use this tool and adjust your words to speech time.

Accurate estimations for audiobooks and podcasts

As more and more people turn to audiobooks and podcasts for their entertainment and information needs, accurate estimations of listening time have become more important than ever. After all, there’s nothing worse than settling in for a quick listen only to find yourself trapped in a story that goes on for hours longer than you anticipated.

That’s why it’s great to see publishers and podcast producers taking estimated reading time seriously, providing listeners with the information they need to choose the right content for their schedule. Whether you’re looking for a quick listen on your daily commute or a lengthy distraction for a lazy Sunday afternoon, accurate estimations using this words to speak time calculator make it easier than ever to find the perfect content.

Some Popular Speech Times

how many words in a 2 minute speech

Almost 300 words

how many words in a 3 minute speech

Almost 450 words

how many words in a 4 minute speech

Almost 600 words

how many words in a 15 minute speech

Almost 2250 words

The speech time is calculated taking 150 words per minute as reference value

Common conversions (average speed)

How long does it take to read 500 words?

3.8 minutes

How long does it take to read 750 words?

5.8 minutes

How long does it take to read 1000 words?

7.7 minutes

How long does it take to read 1200 words?

9.2 minutes

How long does it take to read 1500 words?

11.5 minutes

How long does it take to read 1800 words?

13.8 minutes

How long does it take to read 2000 words?

15.4 minutes

How long does it take to read 3000 words?

23.1 minutes

As the world becomes more fast-paced, time is a precious commodity. Determining how long your script will take to read, whether for a presentation or a video, can make a significant difference in engaging and retaining your audience’s attention.

That’s where our Words to Time Converter comes in handy. It’s a valuable tool for anyone working in various professions, from broadcast journalists to teachers to executives. No matter the industry, time is of the essence, and knowing how long your speech or presentation will take is crucial for effective communication.

Do you wonder how long it takes to deliver your speech?

This website helps you convert the number of words into the time it takes to deliver your speech, online and for free. This tool is useful when preparing a speech or a presentation. The number of minutes you will take is dependent on the number of words and your speed of speech, or reading speed.

Note: This calculator provides an indication only.

Enter details below

The overview below provides an indication of the minutes for a speech (based on an average reading speed of 130 words per minute):

  • Words in a 1 minute speech 130 words
  • Words in a 2 minute speech 260 words
  • Words in a 3 minute speech 390 words
  • Words in a 4 minute speech 520 words
  • Words in a 5 minute speech 650 words
  • Words in a 10 minute speech 1300 words
  • Words in a 15 minute speech 1950 words
  • Words in a 20 minute speech 2600 words
  • How long does a 500 word speech take? 3.8 minutes
  • How long does a 1000 word speech take? 7.7 minutes
  • How long does a 1250 word speech take? 9.6 minutes
  • How long does a 1500 word speech take? 11.5 minutes
  • How long does a 1750 word speech take? 13.5 minutes
  • How long does a 2000 word speech take? 15.4 minutes
  • How long does a 2500 word speech take? 19.2 minutes
  • How long does a 5000 word speech take? 38.5 minutes

A trick to reduce stress? Spend 20 seconds a day doing this easy practice

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Eli Susman was a fairly experienced meditator when he attended a month-long retreat at Plum Village, a Buddhist monastery in Southern France in 2017.

The UC Berkeley PhD candidate in clinical science had been on other retreats where participants spent most of their time meditating. So he was surprised when he saw that the daily Plum Village retreat schedule included only 30 minutes of formal seated meditation a day.

Midway through the retreat he decided to extend one of his sessions, sitting beneath a tree for three hours. Later, he ran into a monk named Brother Treasure and told him about his practice. The monk’s response was not what he expected.

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“Three hours?” Susman remembers Brother Treasure telling him with a smile. “How about three breaths? That’s all it takes to step into the present moment.”

The words stuck with Susman. It led him to wonder whether an abbreviated practice that takes no more than a few breaths can make a difference in someone’s life.

Seven years later, he and his colleagues at Berkeley’s Golden Bear Sleep and Mood Research Clinic have evidence that it might. Earlier this year they published a paper online in the journal Behaviour Research and Therapy that describes how a simple 20-second self-compassion “micropractice” lowered stress levels and improved the mental health of undergraduate volunteers who did it every day for a month.

“Two of the biggest barriers people have for developing a meditation habit is having the time to do it and developing the habit of doing it regularly,” Susman said. “Micropactices are like tiny training sessions that are based on the most potent parts of therapeutic practices.”

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Below, Susman describes the practice he developed for the study and explains how anyone can use it to try to feel better in less than one minute a day.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for length and clarity.

How do you describe the 20-second self-compassion micropractice that you studied?

The instructions we gave were to close your eyes and call to mind something about yourself that has been bothering you and making you feel unworthy, unloved or not enough and notice what arises in the body.

Then we asked people to send kindness and warmth to themselves by placing one hand over the heart and another over the belly with the energy of giving themselves a hug and notice what arises in the body now.

Next, we invited them to ask themselves, “How can I be a friend to myself in this moment?”

Finally we told them to open their eyes when they were ready.

And doing this for 20 seconds a day really made a difference in the lives of study participants?

Yes, but it only worked for people who practiced it regularly. In our study we looked at the subset of people who practiced daily and at the whole sample of people who were given the instruction.

More frequent practice was associated with greater increase in self-compassion and a greater reduction in stress and mental health problems like symptoms of depression or anxiety compared to a control group.

What are some ways that people can send kindness and warmth to themselves?

The key phrase we used in the study was “How can I be a friend to myself in this moment?” What we meant by that is imagine you were seeing a friend or your younger self in a similar situation and you were being really caring to that friend. What would you tell them to do? How would you ask them to be?

how to write 2 minute speech

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You can also imagine yourself receiving unconditional love from someone like a mentor, a parent or a close friend. How would they relate to you in this moment of suffering? Is there a way you can give that same compassion to yourself?

Does it matter where people do this practice?

We didn’t look at that, but that’s a great question.

Why is it helpful for people to touch their stomach and chest while doing the exercise?

There has been so much work on touch and how beneficial it can be for people to receive touch, but it had not been looked at as a standalone intervention for emotional well-being in terms of people offering self-compassionate touch to themselves. I was interested in the synergy between thinking self-compassionate thoughts and doing this embodied form of self-compassionate touch. It offers two potential ways of regulating yourself.

I should also say that we told participants they could choose other forms of touch like stroking yourself on the cheeks or giving yourself a hug. What’s most important is that the method of touch supports you in feeling compassionately toward yourself.

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I was surprised that the majority of students who participated in the study said they were too busy to do this 20-second practice everyday. What’s that about?

I was just joking with a friend about this, and she said that when people are stressed they can get wrapped up in feeling like they can’t take 20 seconds to pause. It might be more a mind-set than a reality, but there is more work to be done on how to help people feel like those 20 seconds are going to make a difference in their lives. We wash our hands for 20 seconds. We brush our teeth for two minutes. Why not take 20 seconds to do this?

Do you have any advice on how people can make this practice a habit?

It can be helpful to choose a cue. You can practice after morning coffee in the living room or whenever you’re feeling stressed if you can get yourself to do it then. The more specific you are in describing your cue and developing your plan the more likely you are to develop the practice into a habit.

Does this research suggest there is no reason to do a longer practice?

Most of the participants in our study were novice meditators or people who had never meditated before, so we don’t know how this would look with people who have a really dedicated meditation practice or are very experienced with meditation. Rigorous research is needed for whether shorter practices have advantages over longer practices, and for whom those advantages may be most pronounced.

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Also, just like brushing teeth is not a replacement for going to the dentist, this micropractice should not be a replacement for therapy or more intensive mental health care.

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At the start of each month, get a roundup of upcoming plant-related activities and events in Southern California, along with links to tips and articles you may have missed.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

how to write 2 minute speech

Deborah Netburn covers faith, spirituality and joy for the Los Angeles Times. She started at The Times in 2006 and has worked across a wide range of sections including entertainment, home and garden, national news, technology and science.

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Mexicali, Mexico-June 7, 2023-This test strip show that the heroin that was used is positive for fentanyl. (A La Sala worker laid a fentanyl test strip on it. A red line soon appeared.) Most all drugs are now laced with fentanyl. A man injects heroin laced with fentanyl at a safe house in Mexicali. Most all of the heroin and meth drugs in Mexicali have traces of fentanyl, leading to a high death rate amongst addicts. Even if they wanted to avoid fentanyl, it would be impossible. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

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  1. Memorable 2-Minute Speeches: How to Write & Deliver (With Examples)

    So for 2-minute speeches, 260-300 words should be sufficient. When it comes to the number of pages for a 2-minute speech, then your speech can be half to one page long. It all depends on the font size that you use! Similarly, the number of sentences that would make up a 2-minute speech can vary depending on the font size that you use or your ...

  2. How to Write a Two Minute Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Writing a great two-minute speech requires more than just outlining and structuring your talk. Here are some additional writing tips to help make your speech memorable and impactful. Using Clear and Concise Language. When writing a two-minute speech, it's essential to use straightforward language that your audience can understand. Avoid complex ...

  3. How to write a 2-minute speech.

    Subscribe. Step 1. Ask questions and listen. Every speech-writing engagement begins with deep inquiry and deep listening. In just 45 minutes, I usually have all I need to write a 2-minute speech. (Longer speeches may take some back and forth as we dive deeper into stories.)

  4. 2 MINUTE SPEECHES: How to write & deliver an impactful short speech

    How to Write 2 Minute Speech in English or any other language?Being a short speech, a 2 minute speech can be pressed on you at any point. You might be asked ...

  5. The 50 Best 2-Minute Speech Topics

    Here is a list of the 50 best two minute speech topics to get you started. The Importance of Setting Boundaries. Discrimination in the Workplace. Self-Care and Stress Management for Mental Well-Being. If I Could Live the Life of My Dog for a Day.

  6. Two-minute Impromptu Speeches: Topics, Patterns & Examples

    These two-minute impromptu speeches show how well a person can grab a surprise topic and talk about it clearly and confidently in just a short time. It's like seeing someone catch a curveball effortlessly. This isn't just about being a smooth talker, though. It's about being ready, being clear, and making sense even when you're surprised.

  7. How to write a 2-minute speech.

    Step 1. Ask questions and listen. Every speech-writing engagement begins with deep inquiry and deep listening. In just 45 minutes, I usually have all I need to write a 2-minute speech. (Longer ...

  8. Good 2-Minute Speech Topics for Students

    2 Minute Speech Topics: 4 Illustrations. Speech: Cons of the War in Iraq. Main Point I. Too many American troops and Iraqi civilians are killed. Time to build up the country with the help of the locals. II. The final cost of the combats are sky high and we are not able to collect those billions of dollars back.

  9. 100+ 2 Minute Speech Topics For Students [Updated]

    Selecting 2-minute speech topics for students can be a thoughtful process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you choose the perfect topic: Identify Interests: Encourage students to consider their interests, hobbies, or areas of expertise. Topics they're passionate about are more likely to engage both them and their audience.

  10. 28+ Easy English 2-Minute Speech Topics For Students

    Here are some 2-minute speech topics suitable for students; they are easy to prepare, and we have included sample speeches for the most. The Power of Kindness: Discuss how small acts of kindness can significantly impact individuals and the community. Here is an example: The Power of Kindness. The Power of Self-Compassion: The power of self ...

  11. How to Master the Two-Minute Speech in English

    Strategy 3: Talk about the past, present, future. Many IELTS Part 2 prompts already ask you to talk about the past, but even when it doesn't ask you to talk about the past, you may try to include your personal experience in the past. In addition, you may also refer to the future when you're close to the end of the speech.

  12. 2-Minute Presentation: How to Prepare a Two Minute Speech on Time

    Whatever the case might be, there are several ways by which you can prepare a two-minute speech on time. 1. Write Down Notes or the Full Text on Your Speech. Some people like to use some notes scribbled on a paper to remember the key aspects of the speech, whereas others like to memorize a speech or read it from a paper or teleprompter.

  13. How to Write a Good Speech: 10 Steps and Tips

    Consider using a mirror or recording yourself to observe your body language and gestures. For instance, if you're giving a motivational speech, practice your gestures and expressions to convey enthusiasm and confidence. 8. Consider nonverbal communication.

  14. How to Write a Speech Introducing Yourself: 15 Steps

    Download Article. 1. Make an outline of your speech. Start by making a skeletal draft of your main points. Strip the speech down to its bare bones to determine what is most important to say, and in what order you should deliver those facts. This is the basic structure which you will build your speech around.

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    A "how-to" speech template is an effective method to prepare a speech. This is especially useful when speaking on topics that may be largely unfamiliar to the audience, as it provides a straightforward structure for organizing the material. The basic format of this type of speech involves: Introducing the topic.

  16. How to Make a Speech Longer: 12 Easy Ways

    Inserting a video clip gives you a talking break while adding on minutes. Many speakers and presenters add length to their speeches by using multimedia. A 2- to 5-minute video will keep the clock ticking and further engage the audience. [8] Pick a video that has something to do with your speech.

  17. 2 Minute Self Introduction Speech

    General and Short - within a two minute self-introduction speech, you need not tell them your whole life story. Keep it general and short. State your name, your age if you are comfortable, and your course if you are a student and your future goals. The same goes for professionals at work. Keep it short.

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  20. Speech Time Calculator

    To convert word count to read time for a specific text, you can do so by dividing the total word count of the text by this established value of 238. Here is the mathematical equation for determining the duration of reading time in minutes: Reading Time = Total Word Count / 238. Explanation of the Speech Time. Speech time refers to the duration ...

  21. Convert Words to Minutes

    Words in a 2 minute speech 260 words. Words in a 3 minute speech 390 words. Words in a 4 minute speech 520 words. Words in a 5 minute speech 650 words. Words in a 10 minute speech 1300 words. Words in a 15 minute speech 1950 words. Words in a 20 minute speech 2600 words. How long does a 500 word speech take? 3.8 minutes.

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