How to write your first TEDx Talk

*DanRam is SIX-Time TEDx speaker passionate about helping people achieve their dreams through actionable strategies guided by his motto Start Now Start Simple

If you are ready to start preparing the script for your first TEDx Talk I want to support you by giving you a blueprint to write an impactful speech.

The first stage of creating your TEDx talk is picking your topic. When considering your subject matter, pick a topic that IGNITES you and that you know backwards and forwards. If you can organize an information rich speech delivered with compelling emotions and authenticity you will have created a memorable talk.

The TEDx Speaker guide presents 3 questions that you should consider and answer honestly when brainstorming your subject:

• Is my idea new?
• Is it interesting?
• Is it factual and realistic

An idea that is both new and interesting usually exists at the unique intersection of YOU and the innovative approach you have to a specific subject. What is your groundbreaking spin on a particular topic? Have you tested this theory and is it factual? Presenting a well thought out thesis, whose ideas you have revised from conversations with respected professionals, will give your theme the greatest chance of being selected.

There are 3 main sections to your TEDx Talk

• The Introduction
• The body
• The conclusion

Once you have settled on your thesis you are ready to start drafting your TEDx talk. In the introduction steer clear of putting the entire focus on yourself but make your opening audience centric. While it will be tempting to open with definitions and statistics to give weight to your argument, find a more creative way to begin that is both concise and engaging. If your delivery is centered around the reasons WHY your audience should care about your topic you will be on the right track to keeping their attention.

The body of your talk should provide ample support for your argument. Create a list of evidence that you might use in your talk and brainstorm ways to persuasively present these proofs. Having a healthy balance of empirical and anecdotal evidence will keep you from overwhelming your audience with too much information. Try to avoid excessive use of industry jargon so that your talk is accessible to a broad audience. Showing that you are aware of any contradictions, controversies, or counter-arguments to your thesis will satisfy any doubts the audience might have about your idea.

The conclusion of your TEDx talk should be both hopeful and compelling. In a winsome tone remind the audience WHY your topic is important. Avoid ending with language that is transactional but rather empower and equip your listeners to take action or make a necessary change.

To help you lay a solid foundation for your FIRST TEDx talk I’ve created a worksheet to help you kickstart the creative process. As a six-time TEDx speaker I can attest to the momentum you can gain from mentorship and I would love to help you reach your dream of speaking on the TEDx stage.

Download your FREE guide now to create a compelling TEDx talk

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Dan Ram ignites the stage as an in-person event and virtual event MC/ Moderator & Speaker at over 100 events a year. He has shared the stage with international luminaries including President Barack Obama, Sir Richard Branson, Reid Hoffman, Nico Rosberg, and Grammy-winning artists and celebrities. He has also been recognized as a Top 40 under 40 leader 2020 as well as a Top 100 Yale Alumni in Technology 2021. He has dedicated 2023 to providing resources and coaching 500 international dreamers who are dedicated to launching new initiatives.  His passion is to inspire people with his motto ‘Start Now Start Simple’ in building a future we all want to live in. If you you are launching something new this year join #The500Club to receive resources and coaching from Dan!