What is a 'speech outline'?

A speech outline serves as a structured plan that organizes the main points and supporting evidence of a speech. This organization is crucial as it helps the speaker clearly convey their message to the audience. An effective outline typically includes an introduction, body, and conclusion, with specific details that break down each point, making it easier to follow along during the actual speech delivery.

The outline essentially acts as a roadmap for the speaker, ensuring that all relevant information is covered logically and coherently. This structure aids in keeping the speech focused and aids the audience’s understanding of the progression of ideas.

In contrast, the other answer choices do not accurately represent the purpose of a speech outline. A list of unrelated topics lacks the necessary organization and coherence needed in a speech context. An informal script might provide some content for delivery but does not offer the same structured support as an outline. A collection of visual aids, while helpful for engagement, does not encompass the textual organization of ideas that an outline provides.