Spin a topic, take thirty seconds to think, then speak for one, two or three minutes. The prompts are societal and general professional topics, the kind of thing any professional can have a view on without specialist knowledge.
Your topic
Spin a topic to begin.
Ready
Timer ready
Structure with PREP
Use this if you want a shape for the answer. Skip it if you already have one.
- Point. State your view in one sentence.
- Reason. Give the main reason you hold it.
- Example. One concrete example, not three.
- Point. Restate the view and stop.
There is a longer guide to the PREP method.
The point is not a perfect speech. It is to practise opening clearly, making one point, and stopping when the time is up. Use it on your own. There is no sign-up and nothing is collected.
How to use it
- Pick All, Societal, or Professional.
- Spin a topic.
- Optionally take 30 seconds to choose an angle. One sentence is enough.
- Start the timer and speak until it ends. Sit or stand as you will on the day.
- Spin again. Two or three rounds in a sitting is enough.
If you want a structure, use PREP: Point, Reason, Example, Point. There is a longer guide to the PREP method.
Frequently asked questions
Who is this for?
Anyone who has to speak without a script: meetings, interviews, panels, or a talk you have not finished writing. It is also useful if you freeze when someone asks an unexpected question.
How long should I speak?
One minute is enough to practise a clear opening and a close. Two minutes is the usual length for an impromptu answer. Three minutes is for when you want to add a second example. Start with one minute if you have not practised out loud recently.
Do I need to prepare?
No. That is the point. Take the 30-second think time if you want one angle before you start. Do not write a script.
Can I use this with a colleague?
Yes. One person spins, the other speaks. Swap. The person listening should only interrupt if the speaker has gone quiet, not to debate the topic.
Next step
If you have a talk, a panel, or a high-stakes meeting coming up, practice on random topics will not replace rehearsal of the actual thing. That is what public speaking coaching is for.