Which Method of Speech Delivery is More Effective: Notes or Memorization?

Among Toastmasters and other groups, the debate over whether speakers should use notes or deliver speeches from memory has been ongoing. This article explores the effectiveness of each method and provides insights based on personal experience.

Negative Points of Memorization

For speakers who aim to deliver their speeches without notes, it requires a significant amount of time and effort. Initially, I started by writing all my speeches and creating an outline. The process was initially stressful and required a lot of practice to deliver the speeches successfully without referring to notes. It took several years of consistent practice before I felt confident enough to speak without notes.

One of the drawbacks of delivering a speech without notes is the need for constant eye contact with the audience. Without notes, a speaker can maintain consistent eye contact, which enhances engagement and connection with the audience. However, the necessity of referring to notes occasionally can disrupt this continuity. Additionally, relying purely on memory can lead to forgetting key points unless the speaker has rehearsed extensively and delivered the speech multiple times. In some instances, I experienced forgetting main points, but the audience was unaware of it because of thorough preparation.

Benefits of Speaking Without Notes

Speaking without notes has several advantages. For instance, experienced speakers often find it easier to connect with their audience and improvise when necessary. Professional speakers, for example, often spend approximately one hour for each minute of the speech, ensuring thorough preparation and delivery. Moreover, if a speaker has the opportunity to deliver the speech multiple times, such as for different audiences or occasions, they can continuously improve their performance. This practice allows for a polished and confident delivery.

When Notes are Necessary

While speaking without notes offers many benefits, there are situations where notes are an absolute necessity. This is especially true in governmental or official contexts where precise wording is crucial. For instance, government leaders delivering speeches must prepare meticulously in advance to convey their words and meanings accurately.

In emotionally charged situations such as funeral services, where the delivery of the speech carries significant emotional weight, preparing and writing out the speech in full is essential. I have received positive feedback on my speeches delivered in these contexts, often being commended as the best speaker in such services. Additionally, in cases where copies of the speech need to be distributed to others, such as when a public figure is delivering a speech, writing the speech in full is important to ensure consistency and provide a reliable record.

Personal Experience: Delivering a Moving Speech

One of the most poignant experiences I had was delivering a speech on my first wife’s death anniversary. She belonged to a Buddhist organization that practiced chanting from a scroll to achieve good karma and solve problems. My friend had advised her not to lose hope and to believe in a better outcome. Unfortunately, she didn’t get better, and she did not reveal her true feelings to her children.

At the speech, I aimed to provide her children closure they did not have before. I crafted a speech that was a combination of my own experiences, beliefs, and emotions. The preparation for this speech was intensive, and I wrote it out in full to ensure that I could deliver it with the right tone and emotional content. The audience appreciated the sincerity of my speech, and it was well-received, providing the closure my wife’s children needed.

Overall, while both methods of speech delivery have their advantages and drawbacks, it is important for speakers to consider their specific situation and audience when deciding whether to use notes or memorize their speech. Whether it's the meticulous preparation of a government official or the personal impact of a memorial service, the choice of method can significantly influence the effectiveness and reception of the speech.