What is extemporaneous speaking?
Extemporaneous speaking · noun phrase
Extemporaneous speaking is the presentation of a carefully planned and rehearsed speech, using brief notes and spoken in a conversational manner.
Extemporaneous is the style used in the great majority of public speaking situations (Saylor). You know your points cold, but choose the exact words in the moment, which keeps you natural and lets you adapt to the room.
How it compares
| Method | What it is | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Impromptu | A short message without advance preparation | None |
| Extemporaneous | A planned, rehearsed speech from brief notes, in a conversational manner | Planned and rehearsed |
| Manuscript | The word-for-word reading of a written message | Fully written |
| Memorized | The rote recitation of a written message committed to memory | Fully written and memorized |
Definitions: Stand Up, Speak Out (Saylor Academy).
Examples
A wedding toast given from three bullet points, a manager's update from a short list, a class presentation from note cards: all extemporaneous.
Questions readers ask
Is extemporaneous the same as impromptu?
No. Impromptu has no advance preparation at all. Extemporaneous is planned and rehearsed, but the exact wording stays flexible (Saylor).
Why do teachers recommend it?
It is the style most speeches call for (Saylor). You stay accurate without sounding read, and you can adapt to the audience as you go.
Practice speaking from points
A random prompt, 60 seconds, no script: a quick extemporaneous rep.
Practise out loud for freeFree on iPhone and Android
Sources
- Four Methods of Delivery, in Stand Up, Speak Out: The Practice and Ethics of Public Speaking, Saylor Academy open textbook