Which step is suggested for improving your speech by focusing on material?

Knowing your material is crucial for delivering an effective and confident speech. When you have a thorough understanding of the subject you are presenting, it allows you to speak more naturally and fluidly, which can foster a stronger connection with your audience. Being well-prepared also helps to reduce anxiety, as familiarity with the content means you are less likely to forget key points or stumble over information during your delivery.

Furthermore, when you know your material well, you can anticipate questions or comments from the audience and respond appropriately, enhancing the overall engagement and interaction during your speech. This foundational step sets the stage for incorporating other elements, like practicing with an audience or using visual aids, but it must be prioritized first to ensure a solid grasp of what you are talking about.