Have you ever attended a talk where the speaker’s words seemed like they were in a foreign language, even though you were sure it was an English presentation? You probably couldn’t understand what the speaker was saying, and this is how many in the audience feel when a speaker isn’t well-articulated. However, articulation is a skill that can be learned. Before we dive into speech exercises that can help improve articulation, let’s first explore why being well-articulated is so important.
Why it is important to articulate your words well when giving a speech
Project Confidence
Being well-articulated can make you appear more confident and well-prepared. When a speaker communicates clearly, the audience tends to trust them more, as they seem knowledgeable and in control. Therefore, articulating your words effectively helps you build credibility and makes it easier to convince your audience.
Stand out from other speakers
Articulation is often overlooked by many speakers. However, if you can deliver a speech that is clear and easy to understand, your audience will follow along with ease. When your message is more comprehensible than that of others, it allows you to stand out. Ultimately, articulation plays a significant role in effective public speaking.
Speech exercises to improve articulation
How to improve speech articulation
Speech exercises are incredibly effective for improving articulation. With consistent practice, you will see significant improvement over time. Now, let’s take a closer look at some practical exercises that can help refine your speech.
Speech Exercises #1: Tongue Twisters
Tongue twisters consist of phrases made up of similar-sounding words that are difficult to pronounce quickly and accurately. However, they are excellent for strengthening the muscles in your tongue and ensuring the proper articulation of syllables.
To get the most out of tongue twisters, start by reading them slowly, focusing on articulating each word clearly. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase your speed while maintaining clarity.
Here are a few examples of tongue twisters to help you get started:
Try this:
Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.
A peck of pickled peppers Peter Piper picked.
If Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers,
Where's the peck of pickled peppers Peter Piper picked?
Try this:
Betty bought a bit of butter.
But the butter Betty bought was bitter.
So Betty bought a better butter,
And it was better than the butter Betty bought before.
Try this:
Silly Sally swiftly shooed seven silly sheep.
The seven silly sheep Silly Sally shooed
Shilly-shallied south.
These sheep shouldn't sleep in a shack;
Sheep should sleep in a shed.
Still looking for something more than the tongue twisters above? Try reading Fox in Socks by Dr. Seuss out loud, slowly at first.
Speech Exercises #2: Tongue Circling
Another useful exercise would be to use your tongue and create circles with it. The main goal of this exercise is to help strengthen the muscles in your tongue, making it easier for you to articulate your words properly.
This exercise requires you to first take the tip of your tongue and place in between your upper lip and upper teeth. Next, use your tongue to make a circle all the way inside your mouth. Do it 4 times in a clockwise direction and 4 times in an anti-clock wise direction. After that stick your tongue out and say “Ah”.
While you are doing this exercise, make sure to do it slowly with a consistent pace.
Speech Exercises #3: Practice Speaking in front of a Mirror
Another effective speech exercise you can try to improve your articulation is practicing speaking in front of a mirror.
The main goal of this exercise is to help you identify the words you struggle to articulate by observing your mouth movements and listening to the sounds you produce. By doing so, you can become more aware of areas that need improvement.
To perform this exercise, tell a short story in front of a mirror without referring to any materials. Speak slowly so you can observe how your mouth moves and the sounds you produce.
Let’s take this sentence as an example. “One day, Amy was going to the supermarket to get some groceries.” When you say the word going, notice how your lip purse and retract. If not done correctly, you will sound different.
Once you have identified the words that you struggle to articulate, the next step is to find someone who can pronounce them correctly. Observe their mouth movements in front of a mirror and learn from their technique. By doing this, you can improve your own articulation by mimicking their movements.
The above are different exercises that help to improve your articulation. Coupled with practices, you are on your way to becoming a well-articulated speaker.
Interested to improve other areas of your voice? Refer to other useful articles here:
Avoid these negative body language gestures in presentation
Using appropriate tone of voice
Project your voice and speak louder
Memorize a speech fast and without notes
About Speak Sell Succeed
Speak Sell Succeed teaches public speaking, presentation and communication skills to working adults in Singapore. Every course is taught in person by our founder, Iwan Yang, at our centre in Tanjong Pagar. Iwan has more than ten years of speaking and training experience and has personally trained more than 3,000 people.
Clear speech is one of the things we work on in our Presentation Skills & Public Speaking course, along with your body, face and voice. You practise in front of the class and Iwan gives you feedback, so you can hear where your words are getting lost.
Eligible Singapore Citizens can use SkillsFuture Credit for our courses, and NTUC members can claim UTAP. See upcoming course dates or message us on WhatsApp if you would like help choosing.
Frequently asked questions
What is articulation in public speaking?
Articulation is how clearly you form your words: each sound, each syllable and the endings of words. Good articulation means the audience understands you without having to work at it.
How can I improve my articulation quickly?
Slow down, open your mouth a little wider and finish the ends of your words. Practise tongue twisters slowly first, then build up speed while keeping every word clear.
Do tongue twisters really help?
Yes, as a warm-up. They train your tongue and lips to move precisely. They work best when you say them slowly and clearly before trying them fast.
Why do people mumble when they present?
Usually because of nerves, speaking too fast or not opening the mouth enough. Slowing down and pausing between points makes the biggest difference.
