
Have you ever felt your heart race or your palms get sweaty before standing up to speak in front of your class? You aren't alone! In fact, the fear of public speaking is one of the most common challenges people face. However, being able to speak clearly and confidently is a "superpower" that helps you share your stories, lead teams, and succeed in school. Whether you are giving a book report or a graduation speech, understanding the importance of public speaking skills will give you a head start in life. In this guide, we will explore practical public speaking tips for beginners and strategies to help you turn those "butterflies" into energy.
Before we look at how to do it, we must understand why it matters. The importance of public speaking skills goes beyond just getting a good grade in English class.
Boosts Confidence: Every time you speak in public, you become braver in everyday life.
Leadership Skills: Leaders are almost always good speakers. They know how to explain their vision to others.
Better Communication: It helps you organise your thoughts so people understand exactly what you mean.
Persuasion: It gives you the power to convince people to support a cause you care about, like protecting the environment.
Read More - How to Encourage My Child to Speak English Confidently in Public
The secret that great speakers won't tell you is that they still get nervous! The difference is they know how to overcome fear of public speaking by using these simple tricks:
Know Your Material: If you know your topic inside out, you won't worry about forgetting your lines.
Visualisation: Close your eyes and imagine yourself giving a great speech and everyone clapping. It sounds simple, but it works!
The "Power Pose": Before you go on stage, stand tall like a superhero for two minutes. This lowers stress and makes you feel bolder.
Breathe Deeply: Take three slow, deep breaths into your belly. This tells your brain that you are safe and calm.
If you are just starting, don't worry about being perfect. Focus on these three core areas to build a strong foundation.
Don't just talk at people; talk to them. Look at different people in the room (make eye contact) and smile. If the room is big, look at the foreheads of people in the back row—it looks like eye contact to them!
Your body speaks before you do. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and keep your hands out of your pockets. Use your hands to emphasise points, but don't fidget with your hair or clothes.
Beginners often speak too fast because they are nervous. Remember to pause. A pause after a big idea gives your audience time to think about what you just said.
Public Speaking Techniques and Strategies
To move from "good" to "great," you can use professional public speaking techniques and strategies used by famous orators.
|
Technique |
How to Use It |
Effect on Audience |
|
The Rule of Three |
Group your ideas into threes (e.g., "Small, Medium, Large"). |
Makes information easier to remember. |
|
Vocal Variety |
Change your volume and speed. Don't be "monotone." |
Keeps the audience excited and awake. |
|
Storytelling |
Start with a personal story or a "What if?" |
Connects with people's emotions. |
|
The Hook |
Open with a surprising fact or a question. |
Grabs attention in the first 10 seconds. |
Read More - Public Speaking Skills for School Students
You don't need a stage to practice. Here is how to improve public speaking skills during your normal routine:
Read Aloud: Spend 5 minutes a day reading a book out loud with lots of expression.
Record Yourself: Use a phone to record a 1-minute talk and watch it. Notice if you say "um" or "uh" too much.
Talk to the Mirror: Practice your hand gestures and facial expressions in front of a mirror.
Join a Club: Look for debate clubs or "Toastmasters" groups in your school or community.
Is your child hesitant to speak English or unsure about using correct sentences? This can affect their confidence and academic growth. CuriousJr English Online Classes help children learn English in an easy, structured, and enjoyable way.
The course includes simple grammar lessons, clear pronunciation practice, vocabulary building, and basic writing skills. Live interactive sessions allow children to speak regularly with trained mentors. Fun activities such as games, storytelling, and creative writing keep learning exciting and meaningful. Parents also receive regular progress updates.
With level-based learning tailored to each child’s pace, CuriousJr helps build strong English foundations and lasting confidence. Book a demo class today.
