Public Speaking (COMM 110) Informative Speech Outline, Signposts, and Transitions Study Guide
University of Maryland
Public Speaking (COMM 110) | Study Guide

Overview
A Public Speaking study guide for building an informative speech with a clear purpose statement, logical main points, and smooth transitions.

Key topics
•specific purpose and thesis
•three-point outline structure
•signposts and transitions
•source credibility and citations
•delivery plan and timing

Suggested study tasks
•turn a broad topic into a specific purpose and thesis
•draft 3 main points with parallel wording
•write transitions that preview and review points
•add two credible sources with oral citations
•create a 60-second speaking outline from the full outline

Common pitfalls
•including persuasion language in an informative speech
•using main points that overlap or repeat
•reading a full script instead of a speaking outline
•forgetting oral citations
•running out of time due to too much detail