Speaking Frameworks
Speaking toolkit
Speaking Frameworks
Eight simple shapes for any answer, so you never have to start from nothing. Pick one, fill it in, and keep talking. Every example uses the same topic, food, so you can see how one subject changes with each shape.
Choose a shape
Each framework gives you a structure and a few phrases to lean on.
The One Thing
Pick one clear idea and expand it slightly. Don't search for more.
Say
- The one thing about X is…
Example
The one thing about food is that it brings people together. Every culture has meals that create connection. That's what makes it powerful.
Three Reasons
Give three reasons, one after another, so your answer feels complete.
Say
- Three reasons X matters
- Three reasons why X is a good / bad idea
- Three reasons why X is misunderstood
Example
There are three reasons food matters. First, it fuels your body. Second, it affects your mood. Third, it shapes culture.
Two Types / Two Sides
Split the topic into two sides, then end with your opinion.
Say
- On the one hand… on the other hand… I think…
- Some people say… others argue… I believe…
- There are two types of X
Example
There are two types of food: food you eat for survival and food you eat for pleasure. One is about nutrition. The other is about experience.
Three Steps
Turn the topic into a simple process with a beginning, middle and end.
Say
- There are three steps to…
- First… then… finally…
Example
There are three steps to enjoying good food. Choose quality ingredients. Cook it properly. Share it with others.
Past, Present, Future
Organise your answer across time to create a natural structure.
Say
- In the past…
- Today…
- In the future…
Example
In the past, food was about survival. Today, it's about convenience and variety. In the future, it might be more plant-based or lab-grown.
Personal Angle
Anchor the topic to your own experience to make it natural.
Say
- In my opinion…
- From my experience…
- I remember when…
- Personally…
Example
For me, food means comfort. It reminds me of family meals and specific memories.
Problem → Solution
Identify one issue and immediately offer a response.
Say
- The problem with X is…
- The solution is…
Example
The problem with modern food is that it's often processed. The solution is cooking more at home and choosing whole ingredients.
Comparison
Use a simple metaphor to explain the idea quickly.
Say
- X is like…
- It's similar to…
- You could compare it to…
- Think of it as…
- In many ways, it's like…
Example
Food is like fuel for a car. If you use low-quality fuel, performance drops.
If you're completely stuck
Three backup ideas
When no framework comes to mind, try one of these to get started.
Just define it
Explain what the thing actually means in simple terms.
ExampleFood is basically anything we eat to give our bodies energy and nutrients.
Just give an example
Move from abstract to concrete.
ExampleFor example, think about a family Sunday dinner where everyone sits together and talks…
Or better yet, tell a story
Maybe you already have a relevant anecdote or story to tell. If not, create one on the spot.
TryI remember the first time I…