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  • DTP Success Team

DSST Principles of Public Speaking Study Guide

Updated: Aug 18



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

  2. Audience Analysis, Adaptation, and Impact

  3. Speech Topics and Purposes

  4. Structure and Organization

  5. Delivery

  6. Content

  7. Research and References

  8. Verbal Language and Method

  9. Speech Delivery

  10. Conclusion

  11. Student Resources

  12. References


1. Public Speaking Fundamentals: Ethical, Social, and Theoretical Considerations


DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam Outline. Public Speaking Fundamentals: Ethical, Social, and Theoretical Considerations 9%-12%.
Public Speaking Fundamentals: Ethical, Social, and Theoretical Considerations (9% - 12%)

  • In this section of the exam, we will delve into various topics such as free speech, listening skills, cultural differences in communication, and how gender affects communication.



DSST Principles of Public Speaking Trivia Question #180



2. Audience Analysis, Adaptation, and Impact


DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam Outline. Audience Analysis, Adaptation, and Impact 15% to 18%.
Audience Analysis, Adaptation, and Impact (15% - 18%)

  • In this section of the exam, you will be evaluated based on your proficiency in analyzing your audience and tailoring your message to suit their needs.


  • 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


DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam Outline. Speech Topics and Purposes 9%-12%.
Speech Topics and Purposes (9% - 12%)

  • In this exam section, your skills in generating suitable topics for different purposes and your comprehension of how to narrow down a topic will be evaluated.


  • When it comes to public speaking, it's crucial to have a list of potential speech topics that align with your goals.


  • When preparing a speech, it is important to select a suitable topic that takes into consideration the occasion, audience, and purpose of the speech.


4. Structure and Organization


DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam Outline. Structure and Organization 17%-20%.
Structure and Organization (17% - 20%)

  • Techniques for effective writing consist of methods for organizing and presenting information, such as creating clear introductions, well-structured bodies, and strong conclusions.


  • When preparing for a presentation, it is important to have reliable research, solid evidence, and effective visual aids to support your message.


  • 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


DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam Outline. Delivery 18%-21%.
Delivery (18% - 21%)

  • In this section of the exam, you will be evaluated on your proficiency in delivering a speech with effectiveness.


  • Vocal variety. The importance of using different tones and inflections while speaking.


  • Body language and other delivery techniques.


  • Review and Assessment.



DSST Principles of Public Speaking Trivia Question #388



6. Content


DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam Outline. Content (17% -20%).
Content (17% -20%)

  • Examples include recognizing and utilizing argument, reasoning, and evidence.


  • Your proficiency in persuasive techniques will also be evaluated.


7. Research and References


DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam Outline. Research and References 11%-15%.
Research and References (11% - 15%)

  • References


  • Materials


  • Sources in speech preparation


8. Verbal Language and Method


DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam Outline. Verbal Language and Method 9%-12%.
Verbal Language and Method (9% - 12%)

  • Please use language that is appropriate for a public address.


  • It is crucial to possess the skill of utilizing appropriate grammar, punctuation, and mechanics.


9. Speech Delivery


DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam Outline. Speech Delivery 10-13%.
Speech Delivery (10% - 13%)

  • Articulation


  • Voice


  • Pronunciation


  • Body Language


  • Media


10. Conclusion


To sum up, the DSST Principles of Public Speaking Exam covers various content areas that are crucial to understanding.


To enhance your preparation and gain a better understanding of the exam material, consider enrolling in our Public Speaking course.


It will help you study effectively and cover the topics that are most likely to be included in the exam.


Best of luck!


11. Student Resources


12. References


DSST Principles of Public Speaking Fact Sheet

DSST Principles of Public Speaking Fact Sheet
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Download PDF โ€ข 486KB

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