The hallmark of a great speech is when the audience actually takes action in their life based on what the speaker says. Therefore, it's better to develop a speech that focuses on the end result you want the audience to experience, rather starting with the opening story you want to tell. Build a better speech by starting from the end and work to the front. The following list of 10 questions will help you create an outline for a presentation that keeps your material focused and memorable. Start with the first question and work your way down the list in order.

1. What specific action do you want the audience to take after your speech that you know will help generate a positive result in their lives?

2. What story or example can you tell at the end of your speech that will inspire the audience to take action and follow your recommendations?

3. What step can you ask the audience to take that applies the solution of your message? (If the audience likes your solution, they'll think, "What can I go do about it?")

4. What hurdles might prevent the audience from employing your solution? Provide an answer for each hurdle or misconception. (Remove the mental walls that may prevent action.)

5. What is the solution to the problem that you will raise at the beginning of your speech?

6. What are 3 - 4 examples you can share that describe how various groups in the audience are struggling with the problem? (Your goal is to make people feel the frustration, create tension, and build a desire for your solution.)

7. What examples from your own life can you share that show how you've personally wrestled with the problem? (This step helps build credibility with your audience.)

8. What major problem is your audience facing that you can help them overcome? (You need to define why your speech is necessary.)

9. What is the main point for your message that ties everything together and makes your speech easy for the audience to remember?

10. What visual objects or interesting images could you show from the stage to keep your audience engaged and help your main point stick in their mind?

By working backwards to construct a speech, you can build a presentation that leads your audience into life-change. When people experience the power of your message, they are more likely to respond by providing referrals and spreading word-of-mouth.