by 
Public speaking is the one of the largest areas where people procrastinate. You put off your speech until the last minute and scramble in the end to write something. It’s not ideal to write a speech at the last minute but there are ways to help solve the problem in a pinch. In the end, having some preparation is better than none at all.
Follow these 6 steps to write a speech at the last minute.
1. First, eliminate all distractions.
Do whatever you can to delegate any ongoing work. Next, put aside a specific set of time where you will close the door to your office and work uninterrupted.
2. Cut the expected time you are supposed to speak in half
When you are short on time, quality matters more than quantity. Just create enough material for half the time allotted.
3. Decide on one key message
In one sentence, write down the main point you want your audience to remember.
4. Use an easy and basic structure
A. Overview and your main point
B. Point 1 and an example
C. Point 2 and an example
D. Point 3 and an example
E. Summarize, reiterate your main point, call to action
5. Keep you slides simple
If you need slides, one simple sentence per slide is enough
6. Practice
Say what you’ve written out loud a few times. Trust yourself that the words will come to you when you give your speech.
In the future, take more time to write your speech but just know that you can sometimes get away with writing it at the last minute. Of course, you can take these steps and use them for any amount of speech preparation ahead of time.
Need help with your next speech? Email me: eddie@ricespeechwriting.com
