Organizing Main Points
Chronological Pattern
Organize your main points in a time sequence
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
What occurs first
What occurs second
What occurs third
What occurs fourth
What occurs fifth
Spatial Pattern
Organize main points according to the way in which they relate to each
other in physical space – top to bottom, left to right, north to south, inside to
outside, and so on
Example: How to inspect a used car before deciding to buy it:
(Divides a car into space-related sections)
I.
II.
III.
Inspect the condition of the body of the car
Inspect the condition of the motor
Inspect the condition of the interior
Causal Pattern
Organize main points in a cause-and-effect relationship
I.
II.
Cause
Effect
Or
Lucas, Stephen. (1995). The Art of Public Speaking (5th ed.). NY: McGraw-Hill.
UNCG University Speaking Center, (336)256-1346, speakingcenter.uncg.edu
2 of 2
I.
II.
Effect
Cause
Problem-Solution Pattern
Problem-Solution Pattern
Much used (simplistic) organization of persuasive speeches.
I.
II.
Problem
Solution
Topical Pattern
Organize your body into components or categories, using logic and
common sense as your guides. This pattern is not a formless bag into
which anything can be dumped.
Example:
Having a garden can enhance one’s enjoyment of life:
I.
II.
Gardening can reduce stress by providing exercise and fresh air
Gardening can provide an inexpensive source of fresh and nutritious
vegetables, fruits, and herbs
Lucas, Stephen. (1995). The Art of Public Speaking (5th ed.). NY: McGraw-Hill.
UNCG University Speaking Center, (336)256-1346, speakingcenter.uncg.edu