1. Identify Key Points and Purpose:
* Start with the end in mind: What's the single most important message you want your audience to take away?
* Focus on the core: What are the 2-3 essential points that support your main message?
2. Eliminate Unnecessary Information:
* Cut out tangents: Remove any stories, anecdotes, or examples that don't directly contribute to your core points.
* Condense introductions and conclusions: Make them brief and impactful.
* Avoid repetition: If you've said something once, don't repeat it in a different way.
3. Streamline Your Language:
* Choose concise words: Instead of saying "in order to," use "to."
* Replace phrases with single words: "At this point in time" becomes "now."
* Cut out filler words: "Like," "um," and "you know" add unnecessary length.
4. Reorganize for Impact:
* Prioritize your strongest points: Put them first, making your speech start strong.
* Build a logical flow: Use transitions to connect your remaining points seamlessly.
* Create a clear structure: This helps the audience follow your train of thought.
5. Practice and Time Yourself:
* Cut, cut, cut: As you practice, continue to shorten your speech until you're within your time limit.
* Time it accurately: Use a timer to make sure you're on track.
Tips for Specific Situations:
* Academic speeches: Focus on research, evidence, and analysis. Cut out personal opinions and anecdotes.
* Business presentations: Highlight key data, solutions, and calls to action.
* Motivational talks: Keep it positive, emotional, and action-oriented.
Remember:
* Quality over quantity: A shorter, impactful speech is better than a longer, rambling one.
* Don't be afraid to sacrifice: Sometimes, you have to let go of a favorite story or anecdote for the sake of brevity.
* Get feedback: Ask someone to listen to your shortened speech and provide their honest opinion.