This course offers practical guidance on improving public speaking skills, especially in high-stakes or critical situations. Drawing from over 40 years of tradition at MIT, the talk introduces heuristic rules and actionable techniques to help speakers engage audiences effectively.

Participants will learn how to start presentations with impact, use time and place strategically, and employ visual aids such as boards, props, and slides to enhance communication. The course covers how to inform audiences by promising value, inspiring interest, and guiding their thinking. It also addresses persuasion techniques relevant to oral exams, job talks, and professional settings.

Finally, the course emphasizes strong conclusions with memorable final slides, effective closing words, appropriate humor, and expressions of gratitude. By the end, learners will be equipped with practical tools to speak confidently and clearly in a variety of important speaking situations.