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How to Speak Concisely and Clearly?

How to Speak Concisely and Clearly?

22/11/2020

The famous Latin saying "Non multum sed multa" literally means "not much but many." These words define the quality of oratorical speech: to speak briefly but meaningfully. The essence lies in constructiveness and clarity, which make speech more accessible to people and therefore more effective in terms of audience impact.

There is a pattern in public speaking – the more words, the less understanding. If you have good command of the topic, then your oratorical speech consists of clear and concrete expressions. That is, those conclusions you reached in the process of studying the topic. Sometimes they can be voiced to check whether you've missed any point.

First rule: study your topic and think aloud

Deep knowledge of the topic is the foundation of any successful speech. When you understand well the subject you're talking about, you can express yourself clearly and concretely. Thinking aloud helps check the logic of your thoughts and identify gaps in argumentation.

Practice voicing your conclusions. This will help you formulate key ideas in understandable form and make sure you're not missing important points.

Second rule: set time limits

In training sessions, I often set time frames for speeches. When a person knows they have a time limit, they will try to fit within it and say the most important things. Train like this regularly, and it will develop in you the habit of speaking briefly and clearly.

Time constraints force concentration on the most important things. They help filter out unnecessary details and focus on key messages. This is especially useful in business communication, where time is often limited.

Third rule: create a final thesis

Whatever you write: essays, diary entries, letters, social media posts – always follow the rule of final summary or thesis. Summarize what you described at length or briefly in one sentence. This thesis is your result, toward achieving which you worked.

The final thesis helps crystallize your thought and gives listeners a clear understanding of the main message. It serves as a kind of summary of everything said.

Refine professional skills, deepen knowledge, gain experience. This will be your training for public speeches or business negotiations. Over time, the three rules will become your habits. They will create in your memory short and understandable expressions that you use in live speech.

For the saying "Non multum sed multa" to become close and natural to you, use three tips: study your topics and think aloud, set time limits, write final theses and summaries. Let each of your words gain value and benefit for those who hear it.