How to practise a presentation or speech.
Straight off the bat, there are probably two things you already think you know about public speaking:
You need to practise, practise, practise and…
If you’re nervous, just imagine your audience naked.
Let’s bin the second one. It’s nonsense.
But the first? Absolutely spot on.
Here’s the truth: how you practise is just as important as the fact you do it.
Yes, everyone knows you should rehearse—but hardly anyone tells you how.
So let’s break it down. Here's what’s Good, Better, and Best when it comes to practice.
Good
You run through it once. Maybe the night before.
You’re in your bedroom. No distractions.
You film your speech on your phone. You cringe. You watch it back anyway.
Better
You rehearse it 2–3 times and iron out any wrinkles.
You actually stand up and deliver it.
You do it in front of a trusted colleague who’ll give you honest feedback (not just ‘Yeah, it was great!’).
Best
Ten full run-throughs. Yes, ten. Minimum.
In the actual room where you’ll present, if possible.
In front of 2–3 no-nonsense colleagues who’ll call out the fluff.
What about using a script?
Great question. There’s no one-size-fits-all. But here are your three go-to options:
Option 1: Write a full script. Learn it word for word.
Risk: You may not sound as natural.
Benefit: You eliminate the risk of drifting.
Option 2: Write it out fully, then condense it into bullet points.
Risk: You might forget a point or two.
Benefit: More natural delivery with enough structure to stay on track.
Option 3: Just jot down key points and speak around them.
Risk: You might drift or go off on tangents.
Benefit: Maximum flow and flexibility.
What’s best? Whatever works for you.
The key is not winging it.
Practise properly, whatever format you choose.
Bottom line: You rise or fall to the level of your preparation.
And now you know how to practise properly.
Over to you.
Hate public speaking? Let’s fix that.
If you want to start your journey to banish your fear of public speaking and presenting, improve your confidence, and boost your career prospects, then check out the online masterclass here at Better Public Speaking.
