Three Parts of a Speech
A speech traditionally has three parts: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. The classic summary is “tell them what you are going to say, say it, then tell them what you said.”
Questions you may have include:
- What are the three parts?
- What does each part do?
- Why does this structure work?
Introduction
The introduction grabs attention, introduces the topic and purpose, and previews what is to come, so the audience knows where the speech is headed.
Body
The body delivers the main points, each supported with examples, facts, or stories, arranged in a logical order with clear transitions between them. This is where the real content lives.
Conclusion
The conclusion summarizes the main points, reinforces the central message, and ends memorably — often with a final thought or a call to action.
Why it works
Because listeners cannot go back, previewing, delivering, and then reviewing the message helps them follow and remember it.
Summary
A speech’s three parts are the introduction (attention, topic, preview), the body (main points with support, logically ordered), and the conclusion (summary, reinforcement, memorable close). Previewing, telling, and reviewing helps listeners follow and remember the message.