Writing and Preparing for a Speech (Tim Ferriss’ System)

The Tim Ferris technique for preparing a speech. For those aware of the concept, you may spot a resemblance to the snowflake method (previously), as typically used for writing novels.

There are also some non-structural tips in the article (i.e. “No one should misunderstand you. Everything you say should be clear”.)

Organise the speech using the “rule of thirds” (no content at this stage, tailor the timings to your desired speech length):
- 2-minute introduction.
- Three 10-minute segments.
- 2-minute close.
Create the content for the three central segments. For each 10-minute segment:
- Decide what the main takeaway or usable action is for the audience.
- Explain this using the PEP or EPE format (E = Example or case study. P = Point, illustrating the concept, offering actionable next steps).
- Use 2–3 of these per 10-minute segment.
Create the introduction:
- Preferably start with a story.
- Explain that you’ll introduce three concepts that will help the audience do “X”, where “X” is whatever the overarching theme of the presentation is.
Rehearse:
- Rehearse the sections separately.
- Time yourself.
- After each rehearsal write down any one-liners or wording that you like.
- Do not memorise the speech verbatim.
- Do remember the starting and closing 2–3 sentences for each portion (introduction, the three central segments).
Create and rehearse the conclusion.
Rehearse the entire speech:
- Rehearse until you recite the speech perfectly at least once.
- Accept that you’ll forget at least 10% of your memorised lines.
- Continue to review notes to ensure you are hitting the important points.
Sleep.

So, the final speech will be structured like this:

Lone Gunman