Index Cards
- Opt for 5-inch by 7-inch cards.
- Type or print legibly using large block letters - it's embarrassing when you can't read your notes!
- Underline key words to add emphasis, but don't write a script. This is an outline.
- Practice with your notecards out loud.
- If you don't have a lectern, use sheets of 8 1/2-inch by 11-inch paper and staple them to colored construction paper to match your attire. The cards will blend in with your clothes, giving you a more finished look.
Manuscripts
Manuscripts are difficult to master, but are sometimes necessary. Speakers think it's easier to have every word written down, but a manuscript simply serve as a crutch. With a manuscript, speakers often lose their place, sound canned, and sacrifice eye contact with the audience. Here's how to make the manuscript work for you:
- Organize carefully and number each page in the upper righthand corner.
- Make it reader-friendly. Leave a lot of white space and use a large font.
- Keep it lose. Don't staple your manuscript or you will be noisily flipping pages.
- Mark it up. Use slashes to indicate pauses - one for a short pause, two for a more dramatic pause.
- Make margin notes.
- Use strong eye contact.
- Rehearse.
To learn more about using notes and manuscripts, read chapter 9, Setting the Stage, Knockout Presentations.
