This document provides a structure for impromptu speeches with 6 key elements: an attention getting device like a story to open, explaining why the audience should care, stating the central thesis in one sentence, previewing the main points, using main points with one-word transitions to explain why the thesis is true, and closing with a final statement. It also gives a 5-step "recipe" for constructing an impromptu speech by first outlining the central thesis, why the audience should care, main points and evidence, opening and close, and then preview and review of main points with transitions.

1. On the Spot! Impromptu Speaking 101
Patrick Barton - Speech Professor - Lone Star College-Cyfair
Email: Patrick.S.Barton(S)lonestar.edu - Phone: 281-290-3473
Structure Breakdown
Attention Getting Device (AGD) » > Tell a story
What's In It For Me (WIIFM) Statement » > Why should the audience care?
Thesis » > A single, simple sentence that sums up your entire speech
Preview of Main Points (POMP) » > Summarize what you're going to talk about
Main Point » >
Simple, short, full sentence summarizing
Answers the question "Why is my thesis true?"
After creating the sentence, create a one-word tag for transitioning
• Transitions » > moves you between main points
• Review of Main Points (ROMP) » > Summarizes what you talked about
Closer > » A finishing line that closes off your speech
Impromptu Recipe
1. First your thesis
2. Second your WIIFM
3. Third your Main Points and Supporting Material
4. Fourth your AGD and Closer
5. Fifth your POMP/ROMP/Transitions
6. Finally, put it back in order!