Table Topics made Simple

Thanks to Liz for this article

Why are so many Toastmasters terrified of Table Topics?

Perhaps it’s because they do not see it as an impromptu “mini speech”. Whilst you cannot be prepared for the actual topic, you can follow simple some guidelines.

One method of presenting a Table Topic is to use P R E P.

That is – POINT, REASON, EXAMPLES, POINT.

P – Make a point. If the topic was “who do you think is a great achiever? You would open the Table Topic by stating who you would call a great achiever.

R – Give the reason/reasons you have made that point. Why this person in your opinion deserves that title, or explain who the person is if not as well know.

E – Give an example (or two) – what did this person do – what have they achieved, and how.

P – End by reiterating your point in summary format. For example – that is why I feel XYZ stands out as a great achiever.

This method also gives you an Opening, Body and Conclusion, so is indeed a “mini speech”.

Another approach could be chronological format, that is PAST PRESENT & FUTURE.

On the same Table Topic you could answer:

When I was young, I admired and looked up to XYZ (expand as to why) (PAST)

But as I have matured, I find my heros are everyday people who have achieved great things (expand with some names and achievements) (PRESENT)

I imagine in the future, my heros will change again, because I will have a different perspective of what is a great achiever (FUTURE).

So, maybe next time you are offered the opportunity to participate in Table Topics, try using one of these methods to put your ideas into a format that will be less terrifying.