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Record professional videos with our teleprompter app

Make yourself look and sound professional on screen by using our online teleprompter app. It works straight from your web browser. Record yourself using your video camera while you read your script and make it look like you’ve memorized your lines! Our online teleprompter software lets you paste your script so you can read the scrolling text at the speed you’re comfortable in.

Copy and paste or type your script and start recording! Watch the words automatically scroll across your screen. Our software works just like the glass lens teleprompters you see on TV. It’s perfect for recording speeches, explainer videos, and business messages.

How to use the teleprompter:

Choose Layout

Pick whether you record your webcam (with audio) or audio only.

Type or paste your text

Click ‘Teleprompter’ in the bottom right corner, and copy-paste or type up the text for your recording

Press the red button!

Hit that red ‘Record’ button and watch the text auto-scroll as your voice (and webcam if you selected that option) is recorded. Change the speed of the scrolling text, change the size, and get recording!

Watch this to learn more about our online teleprompter:

Adjustable on-screen autocue

You can adjust the speed of the scrolling text in real-time to perfectly match your speech. Simply press the ‘+’ and ‘-’ buttons to make the text scroll faster or slower. Read from the teleprompter as if you were in front of the TV cameras in front of a live audience! VEED’s teleprompter is a great way to practice or even record professional speeches. Use our software as a cue card!

Telly prompt with adjustable text settings

You can choose the font size that is easiest for you to read. Increase the size of your text if sitting far from the camera. You can pre-prepare your autoscrolling ‘cue cards’ - simply copy and paste plain text into our teleprompter app and start recording. You can record your video (or audio only). Record your speeches while maintaining direct eye contact with the camera!

Add subtitles, edit your video, and more!

Our teleprompter features an intuitive, modern design that will allow you to record your videos while reading our script in real-time. Simply paste in your text, hit record, and when you’re finished, you can click ‘Edit’ to add subtitles to your video, add headings using our text tool , and more!

Frequently Asked Questions

A teleprompter is an electronic device that shows scrolling text - it allows the person reading the speech or script to maintain consistent and accurate speech while keeping eye contact with the audience (whether live, or through a camera). It’s a super useful tool for tv presenters, politicians at live events (eg. democratic or republican national conventions), and anyone who wants to record a scripted video.

Teleprompting equipment can be expensive. But with VEED it’s completely free. You can use your desktop, laptop, even your mobile device, as a teleprompter. You can also use the in-built camera to record yourself reading the script. Pretty neat, huh?

With VEED your computer (whether PC or apple mac) is instantly transformed into a teleprompter and video recording suite. Simply copy and paste your script into the online teleprompter app, and away you go! It’s that easy. Start practicing and recording instantly - right in your web browser, with VEED.

Yep. Just go to veed.io/teleprompter-app and you can use our autocue web app for free! Just enter your script and watch it scroll across the screen - you can even record the video/audio at the same time. Works with PC or mac, or even on your phone!

Simple - take a step back! By standing further away from the teleprompter, the movement of your eyes across the screen will be much less noticeable. Or, if you’re using the teleprompter in a small space, then simply reduce the size of the text (so there are more words on each line). You can do this online for free, using VEED: veed.io/teleprompter

Discover more:

• Script Timer

What they say about VEED

Veed is a great piece of browser software with the best team I've ever seen. Veed allows for subtitling, editing, effect/text encoding, and many more advanced features that other editors just can't compete with. The free version is wonderful, but the Pro version is beyond perfect. Keep in mind that this a browser editor we're talking about and the level of quality that Veed allows is stunning and a complete game changer at worst.

I love using VEED as the speech to subtitles transcription is the most accurate I've seen on the market. It has enabled me to edit my videos in just a few minutes and bring my video content to the next level

Laura Haleydt - Brand Marketing Manager, Carlsberg Importers

The Best & Most Easy to Use Simple Video Editing Software! I had tried tons of other online editors on the market and been disappointed. With VEED I haven't experienced any issues with the videos I create on there. It has everything I need in one place such as the progress bar for my 1-minute clips, auto transcriptions for all my video content, and custom fonts for consistency in my visual branding.

Diana B - Social Media Strategist, Self Employed

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Presentation Guru

Do you read from a script should you.

Is your presentation a document to be read or an experience to be shared? The answer should be clear, but for the nervous presenter that leaves an uncomfortable quandary. What is the best way to deliver it so that your audience can fully connect with you and your message? Will using a script help you or hinder you? In this article,  Sims Wyeth  looks at both the pros and cons to guide you to reach your own conclusion for your own situation.

When it’s time to stand up in front of a group of people and make your best effort to persuade them to see things your way, the pressure is undeniably ON.

It’s only natural to want to feel in control, and having a neatly typed script in front of you – one that clearly states every point you need to make in the precise order you want to make it – certainly seems appealing.

But is it the best way to go? Many will tell you, “No”; they will tell you that your best bet is to internalize the message so your delivery will seem more natural and spontaneous.

But I’ve seen both approaches work well…and fail miserably. Written scripts that are read can be electrifying, and presentations that are internalized can be deadly. Preparation, sensitivity to the audience, and delivery will carry the day in almost all cases.

Let’s review:

Positives about Reading a Script

• Your ideas are laid out clearly – in black and white – so that you can deliver your complete message with carefully crafted words. This is highly important in situations such as The State of the Union Address, when what you say will be part of the historical record, or when there is a great need to be precise, such as thanking a long list of dignitaries in the audience.
• Reading a script makes you feel more secure because you know you won’t go blank. You can always look down at your text and carry on.
• Reading a script minimizes your rehearsal time. The real work is done when the script is finished. Yes, you do have to practice reading it aloud, but if you are familiar with the contents of the pages, your rehearsal may be relatively quick and easy.
• Reading a script makes you appear to be prepared, intelligent, and maybe even academic. After all, at many academic conferences, scholars are invited to read.  I am told such conferences are rarely riveting entertainment.

Negatives about reading a script

• You’re reading written prose, so you will sound formal and more distant. We don’t speak in complete sentences, and the rhythm of formal prose is very different from the cadences of spontaneous speech. Actors train for years to be able to make written scripts sound “real” or conversational. Few people outside of the theater have this ability. Reagan had it, but he was an actor.
• Your ability to maintain eye contact with your listeners is limited. This means it’s harder for you to convey a sense of conviction and belief. As a result, you may try to manipulate your voice to indicate conviction, which may add to your problems of inauthenticity .
• When you read a script, it is also difficult for you to read your audience. After all, your eyes are on the page to ensure that you don’t flub your lines. Therefore, if you lose your audience, or offend them in some way, it’s harder for you to make adjustments. Making adjustments is the meat of being in dialogue with an audience.
• With a script, the audience does not get to see you thinking on your feet, performing under pressure, and demonstrating your best qualities of leadership.
• When you read a script, you will probably stand behind a lectern. You are well-protected from the audience by the lectern itself, and by the wall of words that you plan to recite to them.
• You, therefore, have difficulty creating a sense of intimacy with your audience, and audiences crave intimacy with speakers. They want to know who you really are. They don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.

Positives of Internalizing a Message

• Without a script, you are free to wander away from the lectern, move into the crowd, engage in dialogue with members of the audience, move over to your PowerPoint screen and point something out, or perch on a chair or a table and be entirely informal.
• You look more accessible as a person. Your listeners are more attentive because you are actually speaking from the heart (or from memory). Or they are attentive because they expect the unexpected: they are not sure what you’re going to say next. To them, you may appear to be improvising.
• You can maintain eye contact constantly. You can watch the faces of your listeners and respond to what you see. You are not constrained by a text, and therefore your speech or presentation approximates dialogue. Your presentation is more like an interactive lecture than a formal address, and we know from research that an interactive audience is more easily persuaded than an audience that is not asked to participate.
• The audience sees you thinking on your feet, and therefore you display qualities of character that require courage and confidence.
• Internalizing a message means that, while the words will change slightly every time you deliver the message, the core content will not. In fact, you will find new and better ways to say what you mean if you give the talk multiple times.
• The danger of going blank, or losing your train of thought, gives you an electrical charge that is gripping for the audience. Your energy level is high which ignites the curiosity and attention of your listeners.

Negatives of Internalizing a Message

• It is hard work. It takes time to rehearse aloud early and often so that your talk is planted in your memory.
• You run the risk of going blank, losing your place, and suffering the embarrassment of total melt down. Nevertheless, if you rehearse enough, this will not happen to you.

For what it’s worth, in my experience written scripts in business are a liability. We expect our experts to be able to talk about their area of expertise without the aid of a text.

And business leaders, although they may not be experts in all aspects of the business, need to convey their leadership expertise by creating a bond with their listeners by getting away from a text, and into the ears and eyes – hearts and minds – of those they lead and seek to influence.

If you’re not ready to throw away your script altogether, read what Amy Wolff thinks about using notes when you present .

• Latest Posts

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• The Secret Weapon of the Most Successful Speakers - 22nd August 2017
• What Should I Do With My Hands? - 18th July 2017
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• Do You Read from a Script? Should You? - 20th April 2017
• 16 Ways to Make Your Case at Meetings - 7th February 2017

Oliver Hauss

11th December 2018 at 1:27 pm

One of the worst experiences I had was co-organizing a scientific company symposium where as I understand, one speaker, a medical professor, had to cancel his own attendance at short notice and instead sent an assistant, equipped with his annotated script – which the assistant duly recited in as soporific a tone as was humanly possible. Having had, due to all my tasks at the symposium, a mere 4h of sleep, I was really struggling not to fall asleep standing…

Given that the script was not written by the actual speaker, it didn’t represent his usual way of expressing himself, and that lack of authenticity stacked on the general sterility of a script was the death knell for the presentation.

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How to Read From a Script During Digital Presentations — Without Making It Obvious

In a LinkedIn post, Timo Elliott of SAP shared his tips on how to write and master a script for a screen-to-screen event.

With most meetings taking place digitally, attendees get an up-close look at presenters — meaning that it’s more obvious than ever when presenters on the other side of the screen are reading from a script. According to Timo Elliott, vice president, global innovation evangelist for SAP, there are a couple of ways to tackle this “new normal” challenge.

A tried-and-true method for remembering lines during live events is reading from a teleprompter — something that can be recreated in the comfort of speakers’ homes. In a LinkedIn post , Elliott suggested apps like PromptSmart Pro and the Mac Teleprompter. If speakers opt to go this route, Elliott advised reading the script aloud “a gazillion times” before filming it, even if the words will still be readily available during the presentation. Teleprompter apps can stall and make speakers lose their place, Elliott noted, which isn’t ideal for speakers who are overly reliant on seeing the full script during their presentation.

Timo Elliott

“You’ll save time and correct as you go,” he wrote. “If you find yourself struggling over a passage, it’s probably a sign that it should be rewritten to be more natural.” Elliott noted that scripts should be written in a “spoken voice” to avoid sections that feel too stilted or formal, especially in a digital presentation format that can already feel less natural to attendees.

To limit eye movement that gives away the fact that the speaker is reading, Elliott suggested sitting or standing farther away from the camera or using a longer camera zoom. Not only does this make reading less noticeable, but it also allows the speaker to frame their arms and hands in a natural way that will help them underline their points with simple gestures and emote to the audience.

If the speaker must sit near their computer camera, such as for a meeting hosted on Zoom, WebEx, or Microsoft Teams — one way to avoid unnecessary eye movement in closer quarters is to slow down the teleprompter speed. The Democracy Labs , an online hub for ongoing innovations in local, state, and national government, created the BigStage Teleprompter online app that can fit in the same screen window as any virtual platform. Speakers can position the teleprompter to a comfortable spot on their screen, choose the font size, color, and scroll rate, and press “pause” to answer questions, according to the organization.

If that’s too much going on in one small screen for some speakers, they can also opt to use a second screen, like a tablet or cellphone, situated just above and behind the main laptop camera, according to Baltimore-based video production company Freedom Digital Media . Speakers can use the teleprompter on their second screen, ensuring that their eye-line meets up to the camera. The video production company suggested setting up a cell phone one foot away, a tablet three feet away, and a computer monitor or television five feet away from the camera

Of course, following a teleprompter isn’t for everyone — in fact, Elliott wrote that if speakers can’t figure out a teleprompter setup that works well for them, it’s best to not use one at all. “Instead, either just use it for bullet points, or use an old technique from reading from paper scripts,” he wrote.

If using this method, instead of trying to read sentences in full, Elliott suggested reading ahead “in order to get the first few words of the sentence into your mind.” Speakers should look directly at the camera as they recite the first half of the sentence. They can then look at their paper or teleprompter again to read ahead while finishing the second half of the sentence.

“Go slowly,” Elliott wrote, “and don’t be afraid of ‘confident pauses.’”

Casey Gale is associate editor at Convene.

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5 Free Teleprompter Apps to Read Scripts While Shooting Videos or Hosting Webinars

Want to make your speeches seem impromptu? Record videos and read scripts with these free teleprompter apps next time.

From the President of the USA to Jeff Bezos, successful people use teleprompters to give speeches that seem impromptu. You can use the same trick to remember your lines with these free teleprompter apps.

We seem to be spending so much time talking to cameras these days, whether it's for a little shoot for our social media or a presentation in a Zoom meeting. Instead of remembering your speeches or writing little flashcards, use a teleprompter.

As the text scrolls next to your camera, it will seem like you're talking to the audience while you have the comfort of simply reading so that you don't forget any lines. Here are some of the best teleprompter tools you can use.

1. Teleprompter Mirror

Teleprompter Mirror is a fantastic web-based online teleprompter app that works entirely in your browser, on computers, or phones. It's one of those excellent no-signup web apps that you can start using immediately but is nonetheless packed with features.

Copy and paste your text into the main window to begin. You can adjust the font size, the scrolling speed, the margin, and the text and background colors. If you've got it set up exactly how you want it, save the script file to use it later. It couldn't be simpler.

Teleprompter Mirror also has a sister site, Voice Activated Teleprompter . This works with Chrome on desktop and mobile, as it listens to what you speak and moves the script forward accordingly. In our test, it worked well enough for amateurs, but there are better apps for this. That said, this one doesn't require any signups nor has any trial restrictions, so what have you got to lose in giving it a shot?

You can also use Teleprompter Mirror on a screen with any professional rig too, as it features vertical flip and horizontal flip. With professional rigs, you need to flip the text to mirror it on a screen over the camera.

2. SpeakFlow

For voice-activated teleprompters that scroll the text based on what you read, SpeakFlow is another excellent online teleprompter, and even has a few professional-level features. The free web app works in your browser, so you can use it on any device after registering.

SpeakFlow has two modes: Flow mode to scroll as you speak each word and Auto mode to scroll at a preset pace. It picked up our voice with unerring accuracy, in multiple accents. You can also add instructions and stage directions by wrapping words in brackets. The teleprompter won't wait for you to say such bracketed words in Flow Mode.

That said, there are some restrictions in the free version. Any serious video-maker might want to go for the premium version, which includes additional features like remote control (where someone else can scroll the text for you from another synced device), mirrored text, bookmarking, and version control.

3. Speechway

Teleprompter apps on phones are a little different. Sure, they can be used as standalone prompters next to a dedicated camera, but often, you'll be using the front camera of the phone itself for a video call or to shoot your selfie video for social media. Apps like Speechway overlay a teleprompter on the screen while you're doing that.

Speechway has three modes: classic, camera, and widget. The classic mode turns your phone into a dedicated teleprompter rig to be used with a camera. Camera mode uses the camera within the app, while widget mode overlays your script as a widget on any app for live-streaming or recording.

The widget mode is the most interesting one. You can adjust the widget's position and size anywhere on the screen (keeping it closer to the camera is better, as you look as if you're talking into the camera). Adjust the speed and size of the text freely, and go through all the various options to customize it. Adjusting opacity, font style, and font color are premium options.

The scripts themselves are easy to make, especially since you can import files from Google Docs or any TXT or DOC file on your Android. Speechway lets you turn your script into "pages" for easier breaks, add cue points (like bookmarks), and save the script to reuse for later. The app works fantastically well and can even be controlled with Bluetooth keyboards or other third-party accessories.

Download: Speechway for Android (Free, in-app purchases available)

4. Video Teleprompter

Unlike Android, you can't get widgets overlaid on any third-party app using a camera on an iPhone or iPad, so you'll need a video recorder app with a teleprompter. There are plenty of paid options, but the lite version of Video Teleprompter is good enough for most people.

The text box automatically orients itself next to the camera in both portrait and landscape mode. Unfortunately, you can't import scripts, but copy-paste works perfectly, and you can add cue points. Video Teleprompter also has a countdown timer before starting the video, which is a small but crucial feature to make more professional-looking videos.

One big turn-off with the free version is that it adds a watermark to all videos; you'll need to upgrade to Pro ($16.99 one-time purchase) for watermark-free videos, script importing, keyboard and Apple Watch control, and rich text export.

Importantly, Video Teleprompter does the basics well. Your videos look good, the audio sounds excellent, and it always seems like you're looking at the camera. That's what matters most.

Download: Video Teleprompter for iPhone or iPad (Free, premium version available)

5. PromptSmart

PromptSmart is the of the best teleprompter apps when it comes to voice recognition technology. The teleprompter works by scrolling down along with your voice. When you pause midway, the app replicates it by pausing the scroll-down and then resuming again when you start speaking.

The tool works on both Windows and Mac and offers Android and iOS apps. A few other features that caught our attention include:

• A free, in-built word process to type out and edit your scripts.
• VoiceTrack scrolling supports four languages: English, Spanish, German, Russian, and French.
• Control your presentation from the web browser (for the web app version).
• Cloud sync features let you sync your script from the web to your PromptSmart mobile apps.

It offers a 'lite' version, which gives you a free version for Android and iOS versions. And although PromptSmart doesn’t offer a free version for it's full features, it gives you a 7-day free trial that lets you use all of them from its different paid tiers. If you like the app, you can then buy the Starter or Team pack, which will cost you about $99.99/year and $199.99/year, respectively.

Download: PromptSmart for Android or iOS (Free trial, premium version available)

6. How to Make a DIY Teleprompter for Free or Less Than $5

If you use a dedicated camera to shoot your videos, then you can buy a teleprompter kit for $100 or make your own DIY kit for free by upscaling old items. It's surprisingly simple. Here's what you'll need:

• An old photo frame with a glass cover
• A file folder
• Electrical tape
• Protractor or ruler
• Wire hanger or Binder Clips or almost anything you have lying around

The process is to get the glass cover out of the frame, cut a hole in one side of the folder, and stick the glass there with electrical tape. Then, open up the folder so that the glass is at a 45-degree angle. Set it in place using the hanger, clips, or get creative with any material you have that ensures the folder stays in place at that angle.

That's it; you have a simple teleprompter ready to go. You can watch Roger Hansen's video above to see clear instructions for the whole process in action, or this improvised teleprompter by Joanna Gryzewska that can change angles. A quick search on the web will show you several other ways to make a DIY teleprompter, as it's one of the best tried-and-tested DIY camera hacks.

Learn to Write for a Teleprompter

These apps and tutorials will get you ready to use a teleprompter, but don't forget the most important part: the script. Writing a script for a teleprompter is different from writing a document.

There are several tips to keep in mind, such as writing words instead of numbers; for example, ten thousand instead of 10,000 so that you don't accidentally read it as one thousand in the heat of live recording. Practice and rehearse until you find a pace and diction that works for you. It'll help you tailor all future scripts to your style.

Online Teleprompter

Join more than 10 million happy video makers

Free online teleprompter.

Keep your eyes on the camera as you read your script on the screen from the Teleprompter online. No one can tell! Organize your thoughts, avoid rambling and sound like the expert you are,

Join  10 million video makers using the leading teleprompter platform. Available for free as a computer teleprompter or laptop teleprompter on any web browser, no need to download- it's all online. On the go? Use the mobile teleprompter app for Android, iPhone and iPad

Use the Teleprompter for speeches and to record videos. Practice using the Teleprompter with the read-only button. Live stream with Teleprompter for a flawless presentation while your script scrolls. Always look your best with teleprompter beauty filters. Adjust scroll speed, text size and starting point to read at your natural pace with ease.

No need to memorize lines, always know what to say next. It's like having a personal news teleprompter. Just without the cost

Video Tutorial

Follow these steps to read from the online teleprompter:

• Enter your video script Copy-paste or enter your script (at least 50 characters) into the text box of the autocue teleprompter tool.
• Choose Reading Speed Choose your words per minute. The time duration of your speech will appear, allowing you to make sure you are on target with your timing. Launch the teleprompter by clicking on the green button.
• Size, Speed and Place Adjust text size, speed and the starting point (scroll position) so that the settings suit you. You can always pause the Teleprompter by clicking the space bar to adjust these later.
• Ready to Read? Hit the red "record" button to start the teleprompter. Use the space button if you need to pause or adjust setting. Congrats! Awkward pauses and rambling are now a thing of the past.

Resize text on the teleprompter screen

Make your text easy on the eyes, and simple to follow by choosing the optimal text size for you. Use the slider to make the text larger or smaller until you hit your sweet spot.Stop squinting, dropping note cards, and losing your train of thought. Look straight at the camera and connect with your audience. Boom. You've leveled up your presentation game. ‍Tell your story, connect with people, build connections, and see your business grow.

Adjust script scroller on teleprompter screen

Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. We all have some bloopers and need to pause or take a breather. That's ok. Stop the teleprompter with the space button. When you're ready to start over, simply adjust the scroll position back to where you stopped.Don't lose your train of thought or forget what to say ever again. It's all written down and ready for you to read.

Customize reading speed on teleprompter website

Are you a fast talker? Or maybe sometimes you lag in your words? The teleprompter will ensure that you are talking at a pace that is appropriate for your audience. Slow the teleprompter down or speed it up based on your needs by entering your desired words per minute (WPM)Not sure what your natural words per minute is? Head over to an online speech speed test to figure it out. Choose your reading speed, and the teleprompter will scroll according to your preference. The teleprompter keeps you on pace, speaking clearly, and feeling confident.‍‍

Script Reader

Were you asked to record a 5 minute video but are worried about going overtime? Use the Teleprompter tool to figure out just how long your video will be.Enter your text, choose the words per minute and see exactly how long it will take to read your script on camera.Say Goodbye to worrying about the timing of your video. Say Hello to getting your message across. It's that easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Simply register for free to BIGVU! Once you are logged you can use the Teleprompter while recording.

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Public Speaking 101: Should You Read from a Script or Not?

April 5, 2018 / Articles presentation tips, public speaking, public speaking tips, scripts

There are four ways to deliver a speech: reciting it from memory , learning it by heart, using notes for reference, and reading it from a script word for word. The method you should use will depend on the type of speaking engagement and the personal circumstances you find yourself in.

Memorizing your speech is rarely a good idea because the artificiality of it makes your delivery sound stilted. You may risk sounding monotonous when the natural inflection of your voice disappears. Also, it’s not a guarantee that you’ll deliver a seamless presentation because your focus is shifted from getting the message across to getting the words right.

Learning your speech by heart and trying to wing it without notes can work. However, it can be risky because when you lose your train of thought, you’ll have nothing to rely on to get you back on track. The best method is to use notes because at least you have something to fall back on when you lose your footing. It can also help you transition from one idea to the next.

While learning all this is good, we’re not really here to talk about the three ways of delivering a presentation. Instead, we’re here to understand the fourth: reading directly from a script . Script reading is a practice that is highly discouraged, unless you’re a person of politics who needs to deliver a speech exactly as it’s written. If you’re a student delivering a report or a business executive making a pitch, there’s no excuse for you to read from your notes at all. This is a basic public speaking convention that you should know by default.

Why Reading from a Script Is Discouraged

You may be tempted to bring a script to your next public speaking gig and read it word for word. It’s luring because you don’t have to memorize or learn your speech by heart anymore. Everything you have to say is literally in your hands. It makes you feel secure because, in theory, you can’t lose your train of thought. It’s effortless preparation-wise. So, if it’s so reassuring, why do professionals advise against it? There are plenty of reasons, and we’ll explain three of them:

• A written speech rarely translates to an oral discussion. We don’t speak the same way as we write. Words that are written for the eye (i.e. grammatical, syntactic, generally well-structured) don’t always sound well to the ears. If you want to sound conversational , you need to write the same way as you talk.
• A script shifts attention from the audience. Reading from a script requires you to look at your notes, and this shifts your gaze away from the audience and limits your interaction with them. As a result, your delivery loses the personal touch it needs. You’re basically just standing there aloof, with your audience feeling left out. They feel like they’re listening to a monologue rather than taking part in a dialogue in which their opinions matter.
• Your words and actions are measured and limited. A script limits both your words and actions. You’re not free to use whatever manner of delivery you like because you’re corralled into the four edges of your cheat sheet. Aside from this, reading from a script can add a physical barrier between you and the audience: a lectern. This barrier will only fortify the walls you’ve built, ultimately resulting to a disconnect.

Planning for the Inevitable: Tips When Reading Your Speech

Without a doubt, no matter how many times you’re warned, you’ll always find an excuse to deviate from what’s recommended. So, to help you minimize the repercussions of reading from a script during a public speaking engagement, here are four tips for you to apply:

1. Employ the scoop-and-speak technique

For this to work, you need to print your notes in large font and have them written on the top portion of a document so that your eyes don’t have to stray down too far. Every time you pause, look at your notes, and before reciting what you’ve scooped, look at the audience again. Eye contact is crucial in public speaking. When reading from your notes, you don’t have to keep it a secret and act surreptitiously. Just chill out and act natural.

2. Draft a dialogue, not a declaration

Even if you’re reading from a script, you should try to not look like it. When drafting your speech, make sure to use common conversational words that sound natural when spoken. Use informal language; otherwise, you’ll just sound foreign and distant. Be mindful of the natural cadences and rhythms of spontaneous speech, and make sure to apply them throughout your presentation. To improve your vocal variety, you can adjust your facial gestures to match your words.

3. Don’t use your slide deck as a script

Your PowerPoint presentation is not a script, so don’t treat it as such. Instead, make separate notes that you can use as guide. You can also use the Notes feature in PowerPoint. It has a Presenter’s View that can let you see your notes for a selected slide without the audience seeing them. Just make sure to practice using your script beforehand so that you won’t get lost in the middle of the presentation.

4. Mind the structuring of your text

Break long blocks of text by using headings, subheadings, line breaks, and pauses. Use signals to help you break down the text and cue you as to where to begin and end, or what to stress and blend. You can even add instructional annotations along the margins to make everything crystal clear.

When you’re in a pickle and you have no choice but to read from a script, follow the tips above. However, in any other situation, try to explore other ways of delivering your presentation. Don’t limit yourself to the four edges of a page. Instead, allow your mind to roam free without straying too far from your core message. This is, after all, what being an effective public speaker means.

Dlugan, Andrew. “How to Make Reading a Speech Not Like Reading a Speech.” Six Minutes. December 7, 2011. sixminutes.dlugan.com/reading-your-speech

Marshall, Lisa B. “Read, Memorize, or Use Notes.” Quick and Dirty Tips. September 23, 2010. www.quickanddirtytips.com/business-career/public-speaking/read-memorize-or-use-notes

Matthews, Alan. “Pros and Cons of Using a Script When Speaking.” Alan Matthews Training. May 13, 2015. alanmatthewstraining.com/2015/05/pros-and-cons-of-using-a-script-when-speaking

Wyeth, Sims. “Do You Read from a Script? Should You” Presentation Guru. April 20, 2017. www.presentation-guru.com/do-you-read-from-a-script-should-you

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• Nov 17, 2021

How to use a teleprompter with zoom

Updated: Jan 30, 2022

Is there a teleprompter for zoom?

Yes! The virtual teleprompter app for Zoom meetings is intuitive and easy to use. The Virtual Teleprompter helps you read a script while looking into the camera. The app will automatically scroll through your text during the zoom meeting which allows you to focus on the audience engagement and eye contact.

Prerequisites :

The Zoom application

Download the Virtual Teleprompter app

Setup the Teleprompter app so you can read notes while on Zoom

Open the Virtual Teleprompter app from the start menu.

2. Click the green " Proceed " button in the top left corner.

3. Copy and Paste your speech or notes. Note : this might be in MS Word, MS PowerPoint or notepad.

4. Press the green " Start " button in the top left corner and position the virtual teleprompter app on top of the Zoom Meeting.

How to read a script while looking into the camera

5. Elevate your webcam and screen so they are at eye level.

6. Position the teleprompter application on top of your Zoom meeting so you have a nice transparent overlay. Be careful not to place the teleprompter on top of the Zoom meeting controls so you can easily access the mute button, webcam on/off button, screenshare etc.

7. You can start or pause the scrolling text by pressing Enter on your keyboard or left click on the text.

8. You can adjust the speed of the scrolling text by using the keyboard UP and Down arrows .

9. You can adjust the font size, font color, transparency and also adjust several advanced features for right to left languages,

The benefits of using your laptop as a teleprompter on Zoom

You can speak naturally.

You can speak more naturally with a teleprompter than you can with physical notes because you can glance at the camera or group of people in front of you instead of looking down at your notes. Maintaining eye contact helps bring a sense of connection back to virtual meetings. Your head will gradually move from left to right as you read from the screen, allowing you to speak evenly to everyone in the Zoom meeting. In addition, a teleprompter solves another prevalent issue. When reading from notes, you must frequently look up in order to engage with the Zoom audience and appear more genuine. However, you are more likely to lose your position and say unwanted phrases or halt awkwardly if you do so. When you read from a screen instead, you are able to stay on track with your speech while still connecting with your audience.

Teleprompters allow for more precise wording

You can keep better precision than if you read from notes or try to remember what to say off the top of your head since you can read your script without losing your position. This advantage could be crucial in situations when the precision of your statements is critical. Legal and budget presentations, for example, frequently necessitate precision.

You can concentrate on your nonverbal communication.

Nonverbal clues are frequently just as essential as what you say out loud in Zoom meetings. You may focus more of your attention on exhibiting the correct non-verbal clues to make your speech as impactful as possible when you know what you’re going to say and don’t have to worry about forgetting it. Furthermore, without notes, your hands are free to emphasise key points in your Zoom presentation.

Your Professionalism Will Grow

It is critical to appear professional when speaking persuasively on Zoom. Without scribbled notes or awkward pauses to distract your audience, you can exude professionalism and confidence, emphasising your expertise. Your audience will trust you more if you appear well-dressed and confident in yourself.

Teleprompters Help You Save Time

You can spend less time memorising your speech if you use this technology. That time could be better spent improving other aspects of your performance.

You Have More Control Over Your Image

The right speed is required to set the tone of your speech and ensure that your audience understands you. You can use the ability to modify the speed of your script to set a pace that is appropriate for your presentation. You can also better control your pauses and intensity in your speech. If you need to make a long presentation, a teleprompter may be the ideal tool to help you provide your finest performance. Because of the new affordable applications, you may now access an easy-to-use teleprompter that can help you moderate your voice and better engage with your audience.

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How to Read a Script on Zoom Without a Teleprompter

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you needed to deliver a presentation on Zoom , but you didn’t have a teleprompter to guide you through the script?

The struggle is real, and we understand the mix of emotions – from uncertainty to determination – that comes with it.

As someone who’s navigated the dynamic landscape of online marketing for over 15 years, I want to show you exactly how to read a script naturally without a teleprompter.

Quick Summary: How to Read a Script on Zoom Without a Teleprompter:

• Familiarize with Content: Understand the script thoroughly.
• Break Down the Script: Divide it into manageable sections.
• Create Visual Cues: Use mental cues for emphasis.
• Practice Techniques: Rehearse by reading aloud and refining.
• Use Technology as a Guide: Utilize a second screen or device for reference.

Should You Use a Teleprompter With Zoom? Pros and Cons

Here’s a table chart summarizing the pros and cons of using a teleprompter to read a script with Zoom:

How to Read a Script ‘Naturally’ Without a Teleprompter (During a Zoom Presentation)

Is it possible to not use the teleprompter at all? Well, it is.

Use these 7 tips to read a script naturally without a teleprompter during Zoom presentations:

1. Familiarity with the Content

Before the presentation, ensure you thoroughly understand the script’s content. Just like crafting content for marketing campaigns, comprehending your material enables you to present confidently and naturally.

Think of it as knowing your target audience’s pain points – the better you understand, the more effectively you can address them.

2. Break Down the Script

Divide the script into digestible sections. This strategy parallels how you break down complex marketing strategies into manageable steps.

This approach helps you focus on one part at a time, aiding in a smooth and natural delivery that resonates with your audience.

3. Create Visual Cues

Incorporate visual cues within the script. This mirrors using visuals in online marketing to engage your audience.

For instance, when discussing a key point, imagine you’re highlighting it in bold or with an attention-grabbing image.

This mental connection enhances your emphasis, capturing your audience’s attention.

4. Practice Techniques

Just as you’ve refined your marketing techniques through practice, rehearsing your script is crucial. Read it aloud, fine-tuning your delivery.

Practice also strengthens your familiarity with the content, enabling you to read more naturally and respond confidently to questions.

5. Use Technology Wisely

Utilize a second screen or device as a discreet prompt. This mirrors leveraging tools in marketing campaigns for efficiency.

Having the script within your natural line of sight helps maintain eye contact with your Zoom audience while still having a reference point.

6. Eye Contact and Engagement

Maintain eye contact with your virtual audience. Recall the engaging visuals and compelling copy you’ve employed in marketing materials.

Similarly, sustained eye contact establishes a connection, conveying authenticity and engaging your viewers as if they were clicking on your captivating content.

7. Embrace Personal Touch

Infuse personal anecdotes or experiences into your script.

Just like you’ve personalized marketing campaigns to resonate with individuals, adding a personal touch to your script adds depth.

Sharing relevant stories creates an emotional connection, making your presentation memorable and relatable.

How to Record a Presentation with Zoom (Step-by-Step Guide)

Here’s a summary of how to make a presentation with Zoom:

• Step #1 – Plan Your Content: Determine your presentation’s purpose, main points, and supporting materials.
• Step #2 – Prepare Slides: Create visually engaging slides using tools like PowerPoint or Google Slides.
• Step #3 – Set Up Zoom Meeting: Schedule a Zoom meeting and generate the meeting link.
• Step #4 – Test Audio and Video: Ensure your microphone and camera are working properly before the presentation.
• Step #5 – Join the Meeting: Click on the provided meeting link to join the Zoom session.
• Step #6 – Share Screen: Click “Share Screen” to display your presentation slides.
• Step #7 – Navigate Slides: Use the screen-sharing controls to move through your slides as you present.
• Step #8 – Engage Audience: Encourage interaction through chat, polls, or Q&A features.
• Step #9 – Maintain Eye Contact: Look at the camera while presenting to establish a connection with your audience.
• Step #10 – Conclude and Q&A: Summarize key points and open the floor for questions.
• End the Meeting: Thank your audience and end the Zoom session.

Why Use a Teleprompter to Read Script During Zoom Presentation

All things being equal, using a Teleprompter might work perfectly for some users. Here are some of the major reasons to try it Zoom teleprompter:

1. Precise Script Delivery

Just as you’ve crafted meticulously worded marketing copy, a teleprompter ensures precise script delivery.

This tool guarantees you stay on track, conveying your message with clarity and accuracy. Imagine it as the digital equivalent of your carefully curated content, eliminating the chance of stumbling over words.

2. Reduced Memorization Stress

In online marketing, strategizing complex campaigns requires meticulous planning. Similarly, a teleprompter relieves the stress of memorization.

You can focus on conveying the script’s essence rather than worrying about forgetting lines. This leaves you more energy to engage your Zoom audience effectively.

3. Easier for Lengthy Text

You understand the art of organizing and presenting extensive information coherently. With a teleprompter, you can efficiently manage lengthy scripts.

Just as you’ve structured comprehensive marketing strategies, the teleprompter assists in delivering elaborate content without overwhelming you or your Zoom viewers.

4. Ensures Full Content Coverage

Imagine a teleprompter as your safety net, much like the backup plans you’ve devised for marketing campaigns. It ensures you cover the entirety of your script, preventing important points from being missed.

This completeness mirrors your approach to delivering comprehensive marketing messages.

5. Speeds up Presentation

In the fast-paced world of online marketing, speed matters. Similarly, a teleprompter aids in a swift presentation.

You can maintain the flow without pauses, engaging your Zoom audience efficiently.

This efficiency aligns with your experience in delivering impactful marketing messages succinctly.

Free Teleprompter for Zoom Presentations

You don’t have to pay a dime to use a teleprompter, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Here’s a list of 5 free teleprompters that will suit you:

i). Teleprompt.me

Teleprompt.me is a simple yet powerful web-based teleprompter solution.

It works seamlessly with Zoom presentations by allowing you to load your script directly from a URL or upload a text file.

Its straightforward interface and adjustable scrolling speed make it ideal for keeping your script in sync with your pace during a Zoom presentation.

ii). Teleprompter for Video

Available as a mobile app for both iOS and Android, Teleprompter for Video is a versatile option. Its integration with Zoom allows you to mirror the teleprompter text on your device while presenting on Zoom.

This ensures you maintain eye contact with your virtual audience while having your script conveniently displayed.

iii). Parrot Teleprompter

Parrot Teleprompter offers a blend of simplicity and functionality. It comes with a smartphone app that syncs with a small teleprompter accessory.

This compact setup attaches to your camera, letting you maintain a natural gaze while presenting on Zoom. Its user-friendly interface and hardware integration make it a reliable choice.

iv). OpenLP

While primarily designed for church presentations, OpenLP can also serve as an effective teleprompter tool for Zoom presentations.

It’s open-source software compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Its text display features and customization options offer a unique approach, making it adaptable for various presentation scenarios.

v). CuePrompter

CuePrompter is a browser-based teleprompter that works well with Zoom presentations. It’s user-friendly and doesn’t require any installation.

You can paste your script into the website and adjust the font size, color, and scrolling speed. Its simplicity and compatibility make it a handy choice for impromptu Zoom presentations.

Why Use a Teleprompter? Case Studies and Examples

Here are some case studies that might help you rethink your dislike (or hate) for a teleprompter:

1. TEDx Talks: Enhancing Speaker Confidence

A TEDx event invited a renowned public speaker to deliver a powerful talk on a complex subject. The speaker, despite being experienced, wanted to ensure flawless delivery of intricate details.

They used a teleprompter discreetly positioned near the camera.

This allowed them to maintain direct eye contact with the virtual audience while seamlessly following the script. The result was a confident, engaging presentation that left a lasting impact.

2. Marketing Agency Webinar: Maintaining Professionalism

A marketing agency conducted a webinar to showcase its strategies for social media success. The presenters used a teleprompter to ensure a polished and professional delivery.

By doing so, they avoided the pitfalls of stumbling over words or going off-track.

This not only projected expertise but also built trust among attendees, aligning with the agency’s commitment to delivering effective marketing solutions.

3. Educational Institution: Consistency in Online Classes

An educational institution transitioned to online classes due to the pandemic.

Teachers were concerned about maintaining the same level of engagement and consistency in virtual sessions.

They integrated teleprompters into their setup, allowing them to seamlessly deliver lessons while maintaining a natural flow. This approach ensured that students received information without disruptions, much like delivering cohesive educational content in online resources.

4. Sales Team Pitch: Captivating Client Attention

A sales team was tasked with presenting a critical pitch to a potential client via Zoom. They wanted to ensure a captivating presentation that held the client’s attention throughout.

By using a teleprompter, the team could maintain an engaging pace, preventing any awkward pauses.

This reinforced the team’s professionalism and attention to detail, reflecting their commitment to providing top-notch solutions, similar to crafting compelling sales campaigns.

Mastering Your Zoom Presentations

Mastering script reading on Zoom without a teleprompter empowers you to connect authentically, engage emotionally, and resonate deeply with your virtual audience.

Just as you’ve paved the way for effective content creation, you can now guide your Zoom presentations with confidence, making each interaction a memorable experience.

Your expertise spans beyond marketing – it’s the art of genuine connection that truly sets you apart.

• Skip to main content

10 Simple Ways to Make Your Speech Easy to Read (for Presenting AND Practicing!)!

by Jezra on September 18, 2017

If You’re Reading Your Speech, Make that Easy!

• Because you’re practicing   a talk , and because
• You’ve got better things to do with your time than memorize a speech that you’ll only give once!

I make that argument in Public Speaking Tip 51: I f You’re Reading from Notes When You Deliver a Speech, Read with Pride; Don’t Hide! . The post is one of my 100 Top Public Speaking Tips , and it’s worth checking out (along with the other 99).

But if you already  know  that you’re going to be reading your speech from notes—either for practice, or at the podium—you don’t need to be persuaded.

Instead, use these proven formatting tips to make your script easy to read.

How to Make a Script Easy to Read (from the Stage or in Your Living Room)

Reading your speech shouldn’t be a struggle, and it shouldn’t require concentration.

These tips will help you  glance at the page  in your hands, see what’s there, and share it with your audience.

Doesn’t that sound better than struggling with your text?

1. Use a LARGE font (14 pt. minimum; 15 pt. minimum if you’re older or have weak eyesight)

2. Leave LOTS of white space on your page (the more words are crammed onto each page of your script, the more trouble you’ll have keeping your place).

3. Make each paragraph SHORT—ideally, just one sentence long—so you’re not tempted to race through it. Putting each new thought on its own line encourages you to slow down and think about one idea at a time, rather than speeding up to get through a paragraph of text.

4. Leave a blank line between statements  (again, so that you can easily see where you are in the script).

5. Make each PAGE short. Before printing, set your bottom margin to 5″ or more , so that you’re only reading from the top half or third of each page. This is particularly helpful if you’re reading your script in a virtual presentation; you won’t have to look too far down to read everything on a page, so you can maintain better eye contact with your camera (i.e., your audience).

6. Number your pages with large numbers (I use a 24-pt font). If you drop your script, you can put the pages back in order without effort.

7. Don’t staple pages together, and don’t print two-sided ; those things make your script very hard to handle.

8. Use a yellow highlighter to highlight words or phrases you want to be SURE you don’t miss.

9. Look at the end of every script page. If the point you’re discussing continues onto the next page, put a large star in the lower right-hand corner (I use a purple felt-tipped pen for this). This mark reminds you to  not let your energy down   when you reach the bottom of the page, but rather to stay focused and continue your discussion, as if there was no page break in the middle of your point.

And most of all,

10. When you’re reading from a script,  hold it in front of you , just below the level where it’s obvious to your audience (it’s OK if they see a little white, but you don’t want your script to block your face).

Why Not Just Use Bullet Points?

Unless you’re an expert presenter, or very familiar with your speech (meaning, you’ve  practiced it a lot!! ), bullet points can be the worst of both worlds , giving you either too much information or not enough:

• Very terse (short, abbreviated) bullet points mean that you have to figure out exactly what to say. This is not the right use of your energy! (The right use of your energy is connecting with your audience .)
• “Bullet points” that are actually full sentences send a mixed message: Are you supposed to be reading your speech (the full sentences), or improvising (the bullet points)?

There is  a legitimate use for bullet points in a speech for which you don’t need full scripting — and that’s to remind you of what topics you want to cover , in what order. Here’s an example:

*subway story *key message must get you closer to your goal *ask for raise *visit my store *just want you to know *key message must get you closer to your goal *resolve subway story

I know what this means, so I could speak to it at length without any more information. But if you need more than a few bullets to give your talk, at least part of your script should probably be written out and formatted for easy reading .

Do PowerPoint “Presenter Notes” Make Reading Your Speech Easier?

No, they do the opposite.

Presenter notes:

• Keep you tied to your computer during a presentation (with paper in hand, you can walk and talk);
• Have to be scrolled, which is an awkward thing to do while you’re speaking; and
• Only show you  a single slide’s worth  of scripting at a time, so you never know what’s coming next.

Fortunately, these are easy problems to solve.

If you’ve written your speech in PowerPoint’s (or Keynote’s) “presenter notes” feature, copy and paste each slide’s notes into a Word (or Pages) document.

Then follow the tips above to format in a way that will make reading your speech easy .

Now you can enjoy sharing your ideas instead of using your energy to wrestle with a less-than-optimal script!

You May Also Want to Read...

• Public Speaking Tip 51: If You're Reading from Notes When You Deliver a Speech, Read with Pride; Don't Hide!
• Public Speaking Tip 4: Writing "Rules" Aren't for Public Speaking
• The Instant Speech Lets You Create A Full-Length Presentation in an Hour

The Couch Manager

Prepare for the future of work. Learn how to manage virtual and hybrid teams more effectively.

How to present while reading notes (without appearing like you’re reading and by looking straight at the camera)

In the video above, I share how I use a teleprompter to read notes off my screen while looking straight at the camera and without appearing like I’m reading them. This helps when I need to present to a live audience or when I need to record a course

Products I use in the video

Teleprompter : Little Prompter

Teleprompter App (iPhone and Android) : PromptSmart Pro

USB Camera : Logitech c920

Ring Light : Eicaus Ring Light with Stand

Backdrop : Cowboystudio 10×12 ft Muslin Backdrop

*Some of the links above are aff links

Learn More + Questions

If you’d like to know how to read notes using PowerPoint without worrying about looking straight ahead at the camera, I wrote another short post that shows you how. Click here to check it out .

If you have any questions, feel free to send me a quick email at hassan @ thecouchmanager dot com

About The Couch Manager

My name is Hassan Osman. I write short books and I teach short courses for busy managers. I also run a free weekly newsletter called AI for Leaders that helps business leaders prepare for the future of work.

How To Read Script While Presenting PowerPoint on Zoom

When preparing for a Zoom presentation, you can prepare a script to help with the presentation.

With Zoom, you can screen share your PowerPoint presentation for others to follow along during the presentation as you read your script to elaborate on the slides you are sharing.

A script helps create a smooth presentation by highlighting the points and areas to focus on during the Zoom presentation.

When you have your written script, install a virtual teleprompter on your desktop. Open the teleprompter and paste the script. Read through to ensure you have the correct script, then open your Zoom app. Position the teleprompter at the top of the window and avoid covering the Zoom navigation buttons. When you start your Zoom meeting, screen share your PowerPoint slides with the teleprompter displaying the script at the top for you to read through it.

Today’s post explains how to read a script in a Zoom presentation. We will cover the steps for using a teleprompter, where you can read the script as you present your slides on Zoom. Read on!

Can You Read a Script During a Zoom Presentation?

Frequently asked questions.

When you have a Zoom meeting and need to present, having a way to read a script goes the extra mile to boost your confidence and create a smooth Zoom presentation.

However, the Zoom app doesn’t have a feature to let users add a script to assist during the presentation.

Your best option is to use a teleprompter , an application that allows placing a script on top of another screen.

With the teleprompter, you can add your script to it and place it on top of your Zoom window, such that you can scroll while reading the script during your Zoom presentation.

When you maintain eye contact while reading, others won’t realize you are using a script.

PowerPoint is a Microsoft tool for creating slides for a presentation. When you have your PowerPoint slides, you can use them during a Zoom presentation.

Moreover, you can write a script to act as the speaker’s voice for the presentation.

You can find different teleprompter apps online, each with its features, and it’s a matter of what you want to achieve from the teleprompter app.

Here’s how to read a script when presenting on Zoom.

• Search for a virtual teleprompter app online and download and install it.
• Open the installed application on your desktop.
• Prepare your script or open the already-written script.
• Copy the script for your presentation and paste it on the teleprompter window.
• Ensure you have the correct and relevant script for the presentation.
• Open the Zoom app on your desktop and log in to your account.
• Position the teleprompter window on your Zoom screen without covering the navigation buttons.
• Test the teleprompter to verify that you can scroll the entire script.
• Start the Zoom meeting and open the PowerPoint that you want to share.
• Tap on the “Share Screen” icon from the meeting controls.
• Choose your monitor and click the “Share” button.
• Select the PowerPoint window and start the screen share.
• Start the presentation while reading the script with your PowerPoint shared and the teleprompter window well positioned at the top.

Once you complete the presentation, end the screen share and meeting, then close the teleprompter window. You’ve successfully managed to read a script while presenting PowerPoint on Zoom.

Reading a script while presenting PowerPoint on Zoom requires you to have a teleprompter application that you can position at the top of your Zoom window to scroll through when presenting.

We’ve covered the steps to follow when you want to present PowerPoint on Zoom while reading a script.

A script acts as the speaker’s note. Depending on the type of meeting you are joining on Zoom, it can be right or wrong to use a script during the presentation. However, if you place the script at the top and keep the webcam at eye level, nobody will notice you are using a script.

You must have a teleprompter app that will contain the script. We’ve detailed the steps to follow in this post.

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How To Deliver A Great Presentation From A Script

This is the third post in a six-part series focusing on the various methods of delivering a presentation, including talking from a script , using a script with “holes, ” speaking from notes , using a teleprompter , and memorizing your talk . In her book Hearing Gesture: How Our Hands Help Us Think , University of Chicago psychology professor Susan Goldin-Meadow writes, “When we manipulate a cognitive task and make it more difficult, gesture increases, suggesting that one factor that causes gesturing is cognitive effort.”

With that context, it’s easy to understand why speakers who use a more extemporaneous style often appear to have more energy — they’re thinking of their word choices in the moment — and why so many presenters who speak from a script come across as flat. If scripted speakers don’t have to think about the words they’re about to say, their brains don’t have to work as hard — and their delivery is often listless and disconnected as a result.

I’ll often ask a client who delivers a practice talk with a full script to do it again, but with a “tough love” twist: I take their script away. Their second versions are usually better — and often include interesting information they omitted the first time. It turns out that when they’re not restrained by a tight script, they are freer to think and communicate in the spoken language they typically would.

That exercise offers an important clue: If you plan to write a script, don’t write it right away. Instead, speak your main thoughts into a recorder. Try to be as natural as you would if you were discussing your topic over lunch with a friend. Aim not for linguistic perfection, but for conversational engagement. Then, when you write your speech, use the best moments captured on the tape recorder, which should contain less formal language than you would have had if you had simply started to type.

That exercise won’t yield a complete script — you’ll have to supplement what you captured on the recorder — but it will help drive the tone of your entire talk.

That step helps answer a critical question I often pose: Why is this a speech that requires my presence, not a document intended to be read by audience members on their own?

Even scripts written in that (relatively) free-flowing style can sound stilted when delivered verbatim. To make sure you’re truly delivering your words and not merely reading them, think in advance about the tone you want each portion of your talk to convey. For instance:

Your description of the problems your industry faces should sound different than your summary of the innovations that can solve them. Your touching anecdote about an ailing parent should be delivered with a different tone than when revealing your company’s new hiring policy.

Those points are obvious, I know—but I’ve heard hundreds of speakers deliver the brilliant and the banal with no discernible difference in tone.

To help strike the right tone, mark your script with delivery instructions. Those notes-to-self, marked clearly on the script in bold, italics, or within parentheses, can be reminders about your preferred pace within a given section, moments to pause, volume changes, and tone shifts (such as from analytical to personal or pessimistic to hopeful). Some of our clients also add mini pep talks to themselves in the margins: “I got this!” “It’s okay to enjoy this!” “Say this like I mean it—I do!”

Eye contact is a particular challenge when reading from a script. In my experience most speakers believe they’re locking eyes with audience members far more than they actually are.

The “see-stop-say” method, described by speechwriter James C. Humes in Speak Like Churchill, Stand Like Lincoln , can help minimize that problem. That approach — used by Winston Churchill and Ronald Reagan, among others — instructs speakers to look down at their next line in silence, look back up, and deliver the line only while making eye contact with a member of the audience (repeat that formula throughout your entire talk).

The key to making this approach work is to remain silent while glancing down at your script. That said, while see-stop-say instructs speakers never to say anything while their eyes are on the page, I’ve found that guidance to be impractical and difficult for most speakers. My advice is somewhat less rigid: practice the technique, be conscious of your amount of audience gaze time, and work to improve it.

In order to take in your next line with only a quick glance, you’ll need to keep your sentences short. That’s a good thing, as spoken language tends to consist of shorter sentences (or “thought units”) than written ones. As the American essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson once said:

“An orator or author is never successful until he has learned to make his words smaller than his ideas.”

If you must use less familiar terms or acronyms, be sure to define them before moving on. Even if most members of your audience would understand a degree of complexity, a few might not—and terms and acronyms that aren’t immediately understood can increase processing time for some audience members and distract them from hearing your subsequent points.

Finally, a few practical considerations:

• Avoid “orphaned” sentences that begin at the end of one page and continue onto the next.
• Number your pages.
• Use a larger-than-usual font size.
• Keep your pages single-sided.
• Clip your pages together rather than stapling them.

In certain cases, you might also ask the meeting organizer about the lighting in the room and on the lectern. I’ve had more than one client tell me they’ve been derailed by a terrific speech that they were unable to read due to low stage lighting during a more formal evening event.

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Stop Scripting Your Speeches

• Joel Schwartzberg

Anyone can read a script. Leaders champion their ideas.

While a speaker’s primary goal is to engage and inspire, many communicators are inclined to write out their speeches because they mistakenly believe their goal is  to be perceived as a fantastic speaker or writer . This mindset has nothing to do with getting your point across or doing your job and sends you down a path of performance (“I want to impress you”), not presentation (“I want to convince you”). Writing a full speech is a process that excludes the audience, whereas delivering a speech with limited notes involves and incorporates the audience into the experience. This concept is critical, because humans are more apt to give attention to speakers who seem to, or actually do, demonstrate a sincere interest in them. Speaking spontaneously, with authentic conviction and awareness, signals that you have  something to say  — a point you feel so strongly about that you’re willing to express it personally and out loud. Anyone can read a script. Leaders champion their ideas.

“Don’t worry,” a coaching client once told me shortly after I saw her rehearse her presentation. “I’ll have it completely written and memorized by next week!”

• JS Joel Schwartzberg oversees executive communications for a major national nonprofit, is a professional presentation coach, and is the author of Get to the Point! Sharpen Your Message and Make Your Words Matter and The Language of Leadership: How to Engage and Inspire Your Team . You can find him on LinkedIn and X. TheJoelTruth

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