What is an extemporaneous speech? Definition and example
An extemporaneous speech is prepared and rehearsed but not memorised: you know your structure and key points, and you speak from brief notes, choosing the exact words as you go. It differs from an impromptu speech, which has little or no preparation, and from a manuscript speech, which is read word for word.
Definition
Extemporaneous delivery sits between reading a script and making it up on the spot. You plan the order of your points, prepare your examples, and rehearse several times, but you never fix the sentences. Each time you give it, the wording is slightly different. Most good presentations, lectures and conference talks are delivered this way.
The four ways to deliver a speech
| Style | Preparation | What you hold | Sounds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impromptu | Little or none | Nothing | Natural, can wander |
| Extemporaneous | Planned and rehearsed | Brief notes | Natural and organised |
| Manuscript | Fully written | Full script | Precise, can sound read |
| Memorised | Fully written | Nothing | Polished, risky if you blank |
Example note card
Example: notes for a 5-minute class talk on why the town should keep its library open late. Made-up details.
- Open: my sister's exam week, library closed at 6
- Point 1: who uses it after 6 (students, shift workers)
- Point 2: cost: 2 staff × 3 hours, about £180 a week from the events budget
- Point 3: what other towns did (Riverton pilot)
- Close: sign the petition at the front desk
Five lines, key words only. You'd rehearse until each line reliably triggers the right 45 to 60 seconds of talk. For more on notes, see speaker notes and should you memorize a speech or use notes?
How to prepare one
- Outline your opening, three points and close.
- Talk through it out loud from the outline, without writing sentences.
- Cut the outline to key words on one card or a few slides.
- Rehearse three to five times; let the wording change.
- Memorise only your first and last lines.
Questions people ask
Is extemporaneous the same as impromptu?
No, though people sometimes use them interchangeably. Impromptu has no preparation; extemporaneous is well prepared but not scripted.
Why do speech teachers prefer extemporaneous delivery?
It keeps you organised while letting you look at the audience and adjust to them, which reading a script doesn't.
How many notes should I use?
As few as you need to remember the order: often one card or one line per slide.
What is "extemp" in speech and debate?
A competitive event where speakers get a current-events question and a limited preparation time, then speak from minimal notes.