How do you deliver a one-minute impromptu speech on a topic given on the spot?

In one line

An impromptu speech is a short talk given with little or no preparation, and a simple structure like PREP helps you speak clearly within one minute.

Explained simply

Your friend suddenly says 'Give a toast at my birthday!' You have 10 seconds to think. If you have a ready-made pattern in your head, you will sound organised instead of panicked.

Technically, an impromptu speech is an unrehearsed monologue on a topic given on the spot. It tests fluency, quick thinking, organisation and confidence. The MU speaking module includes one-minute impromptu speeches.

How it works

1. Use the few seconds wisely: decide your stand or main point and one example.
2. PREP structure: Point (state your view), Reason (why), Example (a fact, story or experience), Point (restate to conclude).
3. Alternative: opening line, two or three short points, conclusion.
4. Open strongly: a question, a quote or a short fact.
5. Speak at a steady pace; pause instead of using fillers.
6. Keep eye contact and an upright posture; use natural gestures.
7. End on time with a clear closing line and 'Thank you'.

Quick example

Topic: 'Mobile phones in classrooms.' Point: 'I believe phones should be allowed in classrooms, but only for learning.' Reason: 'They give instant access to information, simulations and coding tools.' Example: 'In our physics lab, a free simulation app helped me understand interference better than the textbook diagram.' Point: 'So, with clear rules, phones can be a teacher's ally, not a distraction. Thank you.' This takes about 45 to 55 seconds.

Common mistakes

• Starting with 'Um, so, I don't know much about this topic...', which kills confidence.
• Giving many points without any example, or one long story with no point.
• Overshooting the time or stopping abruptly without a conclusion.

How MU asks it

Mainly practised and assessed in lab and oral exams. In theory it can appear as 'What is an impromptu speech? Give tips to deliver it effectively' (3 to 5 marks). Define it, explain the PREP structure with a short example, and list delivery tips.