An effective introduction to a speech involves three main elements: the introductory statement (or hook); supporting statements; and a thesis statement. All of these are essential parts of an introduction, and none of them should be neglected. However, the thesis statement is probably the most important part overall. Your thesis statement prepares your audience for all that is to follow later in your speech. It introduces your main point that you are trying to prove. Just about every part of your speech should relate to your thesis statement in some way. Therefore, it is crucial that it be well developed and presented in your introduction.

Your conclusion should reiterate your thesis statement. Therefore, the introduction does indeed tie into the conclusion. Your conclusion is your opportunity to remind your audience of your main points and thesis. It should briefly summarize what it is that you are attempting to prove along with the supporting evidence that you have already explained in greater detail in the body of your speech. All this should point back to your thesis statement, which you should mention again. This brings your speech full-circle and, if done correctly, should make for a compelling argument that is easy for your audience to follow.

The introduction to a speech has three critical parts: you must gain the attention and interest of your audience, you must tell your audience the primary goal of your speech, and you must give a preview of the points that will support your chief argument.

Before you tell your audience why you’re giving your speech and how your argument will be supported, you must get their attention and interest. There’s little point in giving a speech to an uninterested, inattentive audience.

To captivate your audience, you could do many things: You could tell a quick poignant story related to the thesis of your speech. You could recite a powerful quote connected to the topic of your speech. You could even employ a visual aid, like a picture or a short video clip.

Now that you have the attention and interest of your audience, it’s time to tell them what your speech will primarily be about. Don’t try and be clever or coy. Use direct language. You don’t want them to be confused. When giving a preview of your main points, use clear language as well.

As for the conclusion, the conclusion should mirror the introduction. The conclusion is your way of reminding the audience of what they just heard and learned. You shouldn’t present any new information in your conclusion. Your conclusion isn’t the place to launch another argument or bring in a new point. Restate your central point, and reiterate your supporting claims.