Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance is known as the 5P principle. Just writing a speech does not make you prepared.

When I had to give a presentation at university on futuristic space flight. I spent hours researching my topic. I knew the topic extremely well. However I spent virtually no time at all practicing the presentation. The result a bad presentation.

Preparation consists of Writing out your speech. The very best speakers never read there speeches, but the very best speakers always write their speeches. Knowing exactly what you want to say it extremely important. Have your speech written out as if you are going to present it and have the speech summarized with all of the major points.

Give your speech out loud when practicing. The spoken word and the written word are very different. Just because it looks good written down does not mean it will sound good to an audience.

Saying a speech out loud after writing it has 2 main benefits 1. It helps you remember your speech 2. Give you the opportunity to improve your speech after hearing it

Imagine you are giving your speech to an audience. What you say makes up a small part of your presentation. When you stand up and speak as if you are giving your speech to an audience helps to. 1) To give good gestures 2). When to pause at the appropriate time 3). Re-enforce what your are saying with the right pitch, pace and power

Receive feedback. Before giving your speech in a formal situation present it to 1. a friend 2. a family member 3 or a colleague Ask them for honest feedback. This will help you make corrections to your speech before you make a formal presentation

Remember that your speech will improve every time you practice it.