# What is an impromptu speech? Definition and example topics

An impromptu speech is a short talk you give with little or no preparation, often with only seconds or a minute to think. Common examples are being asked to say a few words at a dinner, answering a surprise question in a meeting, or speaking on a topic drawn from a hat in class or at a speaking club.

By the Speaking Coach team at Sodhera Intelligence. Updated 2026-10-22. Source: https://www.orecci.com/speaking-coach/glossary/impromptu-speech/

## Definition

"Impromptu" means done without planning. An impromptu speech usually lasts one to three minutes, and the speaker learns the topic just before speaking. In speech classes and speaking clubs it is a set exercise; in daily life it is any moment someone says "Can you say a few words?"

## How it compares

| Type | Preparation | Delivery |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Impromptu | Seconds to a minute | No notes |
| [Extemporaneous](/speaking-coach/glossary/extemporaneous-speech/) | Planned and rehearsed | Brief notes, words chosen live |
| Manuscript | Fully written | Read word for word |
| Memorised | Fully written | Recited from memory |

## Example topics

These are examples of the kind of prompt you might get, useful for practice.

**Class or speaking club**

- The best advice you ignored
- A small habit that improves your day
- Should phones be banned in classrooms?
- A place you would go back to tomorrow
- Something you changed your mind about
- The most useful thing you learned outside school

**Work**

- Give us a quick update on your project
- Say a few words for a colleague who is leaving
- What should we stop doing as a team?
- Introduce yourself to the new starters
- What did you take away from the conference?

**Social**

- A toast for the host at dinner
- Say something for the birthday person
- How do you two know the couple?
- Welcome everyone to the barbecue

A simple shape that works for almost any of these is point, reason, example, point: the [PREP method](/speaking-coach/glossary/prep-method/). For step-by-step technique, see [how to give an impromptu speech](/speaking-coach/guides/how-to-give-an-impromptu-speech/).

## Questions people ask

### How long is an impromptu speech?

Usually one to three minutes. In class exercises the time limit is set in advance; at events, under two minutes is safest.

### Can you use notes in an impromptu speech?

Sometimes you get a few seconds to jot two or three words. Mostly you speak without notes.

### What is the difference between impromptu and extemporaneous?

Impromptu has little or no preparation. Extemporaneous is prepared and rehearsed but spoken from notes rather than a script.

### How do I practise impromptu speaking?

Pick a random topic, give yourself 30 seconds to think, speak for one minute, and repeat daily with new topics.

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