- DTP Success Team
DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam Outline
Updated: Mar 16
Do you need to pass the DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam?
If so, you'll want to ensure you know the exam's format, content, and speech preparation.
While some content areas may be more accessible, ensuring you are familiar with all the material that will be covered is essential.
The following is an overview of the content areas covered on the examination and the approximate percentage of the test devoted to each.
Table of Contents
1. Public Speaking Fundamentals: Ethical, Social, and Theoretical Considerations

This exam section will cover free speech, listening, cultural variation in communication, and gender and communication.
DSST Principles of Public Speaking Trivia Question #180
2. Audience Analysis, Adaptation, and Impact

This exam section will focus on your ability to analyze your audience and adapt your message accordingly.
You will also be tested on your knowledge of how to effectively use nonverbal communication and manage anxiety before giving a speech.
Analyzing the audience before, during, and after the speech to better understand their needs and how they respond to the speech.
3. Speech Topics and Purposes

This exam section will test your ability to develop appropriate topics for various purposes and your knowledge of narrowing down a topic.
Creating a list of potential speech topics for various goals is essential to public speaking.
Choosing an appropriate topic based on the speech's occasion, audience, and purpose.
4. Structure and Organization

Examples of techniques include introducing and structuring introductions, bodies, and conclusions.
Research, Evidence, and Visual Aids.
Citing sources, using primary and secondary sources, evaluating evidence, developing visual aids, and ethical considerations in research are all topics covered in this exam section.
5. Delivery

This exam section will test your ability to deliver a speech effectively.
Vocal variety.
Body language and other delivery techniques.
Review and Assessment.
DSST Principles of Public Speaking Trivia Question #388
6. Content

Recognizing and utilizing argument, reasoning, and evidence are examples.
The ability to use persuasive techniques will also be tested.
7. Research and References

References
Materials
Sources in speech preparation
8. Verbal Language and Method

Use language that would be acceptable in a public address.
The ability to use proper grammar, punctuation, and mechanics is essential.
9. Speech Delivery

Articulation
Voice
Pronunciation
Body Language
Media
10. Conclusion
In conclusion, these are the main content areas covered in the DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam.
It would help if you used this article only as a general outline.
Enroll in our Public Speaking course to help you study for the exam and brush up on the material most likely covered in your exam.
Best of luck!
11. Student Resources
12. References
DSST Principles of Public Speaking Fact Sheet