As the introduction sets the stage, your conclusion seals the deal. The question, “How do you end a speech?” is an essential query that each presenter or speaker must ask, given the final words’ impact and weight on your audience.
Since your final words eventually have a lasting effect, you must make a striking thought to the people. Your speech’s ending is your last opportunity to reiterate the fundamental idea, inspire the listeners, motivate a group to take action, change an individual’s perspective, or make a final impression on them.
If you are still wondering how to end a speech that can appease your audience, then be worry-free because this guide can help you. Read this article to learn how to end a maid of honor speech, a graduation speech, and more because it contains the best tips and examples.
Why is a Conclusion Important?
The audience is more likely not to forget the latest thing a speaker said due to the “Recency Effect” in learning. Hence, the conclusion of a speech serves as a signal to the audience that it is nearing the end, helping them recall the entire topic’s essential points.
You can’t just suddenly stop speaking in front of your listeners because that will disappoint and confuse them. It is best to ensure they are left satisfied and knowledgeable about your speeches by closing them smoothly.
Additionally, it is vital always to link your conclusion back to your introduction. The most effective way to do this method is through going back to your attention grabber or “hook.”
At the end of your speech, it is where most of your audience’s lasting impression of everything you have said will form. Thus, if you ask how to end a speech, use its conclusion to secure the necessary components in your listeners’ minds.
You might confuse, disappoint, or even leave the audience unconvinced without a satisfactory conclusion. With these thoughts, we can tell that it has a two-fold purpose: to signal the speech’s end and reinforce the speaker’s message to the people.
The Key Elements of a Good Conclusion
When contemplating how to end a speech, remember that your introduction is the appetizer, while your conclusion is its dessert. Conclusions must round off the topic and make a strong impression on people’s minds.
To create a conclusion that will satisfy and sum up all the vital information from your speech, consider these three key elements:
1. Reiterate the main idea
What is the central idea of your message? That is a secure place to start your conclusion.
Above all, you have directed each part of your speech to support your topic, subject, or information. To start your conclusion, by all means, reiterate your speech’s main idea.
Of course, making it different and fresh to the listeners would be best. You do not want to repeat it verbatim, making the audience feel like you are just redoing things.
Somewhat loosen it up as you prepare to remind your audience why they would be well-provided to adopt your viewpoint or follow your suggestion.
2. Summarize three primary points
Another vital element to answer your question on how to end a speech is summarizing. For your overall summary, getting three main points is a good benchmark.
You do not have to restate each argument or claim because you can eventually pick three that you think are the most remarkable. In regards to your main idea, do not be dry and monotonous.
Avoid merely repeating three points; show your audience how those points strengthened your claim or speech. Draw them together into a single special force, supplementing weight to your primary idea.
3. Close on a high note
Leave your audience pleased and satisfied but also wanting more. When you are closing your conclusion, consider ending it with a capturing, thought-provoking concept.
You may want to raise a rhetorical question or state a notable quote from your research. From time to time, good quotations serve as illustrations, stating what we want to mention with a bit of confidence and style.
Another method to add some “food for thought” to your speech’s conclusion is to connect your primary idea to a more in-depth scenario. Also, note that your speech’s closing line needs extra effort.
The portion acts as your last opportunity to make it stick, so never introduce new information in your ending. Additional information can confuse your listeners and take them away from the essential features of a conclusion, which are:
- Restatement of your primary idea
- Summary of three main points
- Remarkable closing line
What are the Considerations on How to End a Speech?
When you imagine how to end a speech or presentation, there are several things to consider when it comes to their close, which include:
- Is your ending engaging?
- Does your conclusion restate your message?
- Have you identified the next step you want your listeners to take clearly?
Too often, speakers or presenters believe that people will infer what they should act next. The reality or truth is that even the most talented speaker can benefit from setting off a clear call to action to their audience.
When it is particular, uncomplicated to perform, and aligns with the audience’s concerns, needs, and wants, they are more likely to take upon your persuasion, especially if you are making a persuasive speech.
Always consider that an impactful ending encourages, empowers, and motivates people. See the best tips in the next part to learn how to end a speech.
What are some Good Ways to End a Speech?
A study shows that when they need to recall information, they best remember the beginning and the end. Therefore, impacting your speech’s closing is essential because people will mostly think of that part.
Here are seven different ways to choose and make an unforgettable ending for your audience if you still doubt how to end a speech most appealingly.
1. The Summary Close
This method on how to end a speech is about the most direct, specific, and straightforward one on the list. The history of how to end a speech or presentation also refers to this as a “recap” close.
If you end your speech with a summary, clarify your most significant idea and convey to the listeners that it is what you want them to take. However, that does not imply that your summary close is not engaging.
2. The Surprise Close
Several of the best movie endings of all time were surprising conclusions, outright shockers, and wicked twists. Why do you think they are so memorable?
It is because the viewers or the audience did not expect that ending. When we experience something we did not anticipate, it turns out that our brains are more active.
In other cases, we might have also expected a different or another scenario for the conclusion. Hence, we become notably accustomed to what occurs when a pattern breaks.
Closing a speech with a hint of surprise at its ending is like signaling your audience to listen to you.
3. The Illustrative Close
Another method to close your speech is to do it in this way. The artistry in an illustrative close comes from your skill to correct the following:
- case study
- fable
- first or third-person anecdote
- apocryphal
It can also refer to another storytelling device representing your illustration of the primary points you created during your speech. Many speakers use this manner at the start and end of their talks.
4. The Forward-looking Close
This method of closing a speech is a better option if you discuss suggestions for future trends that could bear your topic. To help your audience visualize what you desire to accomplish, make a vibrant and vivid picture of it because it is essential.
For example, you are a financial consultant talking to a crowd 15 years away from retirement. During your speech, share your company’s approach to investment or a portfolio of your products.
5. The Backward-looking Close
Besides the forward-looking close, there is also a backward-looking close. This way, you move away from the future and go into the past instead.
Let’s say you are wondering how to end a maid of honor speech as the bride’s sister and has spent so many years and memories with her. During your message, you can recall those moments. Then, from those past happenings, close your speech by wishing her a happy future with her husband.
6. The Metaphor Close
You might feel like you are drowning in options regarding how to end a speech. However, if you carefully look at your topic or subject and what you must convey, you will eventually find it easy as pie.
Welcome to the metaphor close. Yes, I just used some metaphors in the earlier part. Perhaps you had noticed them already before I pointed it out.
Metaphors are figures of speech that indirectly compare two figuratively similar things but are distinct. You do not take it in a literal sense that you are drowning in options, but you can feel that way.
If you still don’t know how to end a graduation speech, this method may be one of your best options.
7. The Provocative Close
Provocative refers to the tendency to provoke, stimulate, or excite. Of course, as the speaker or presenter, you hope to encourage your audience, but using a provocative close snaps them to attention.
Check the table for some examples of how to end a speech provocatively.
| Talking before a skeptical crowd | You close your speech by admitting that you disagree with the listeners in some areas but agree earnestly about the one you discussed in your message. |
| Giving a wake-up call | You may also conclude with a forceful persuasion. This method can be remarkably convincing when you have power over the individuals you present. |
| Speaking to individuals who resist changes | Another way is by mentioning the consequences if they choose not to act regarding your topic. You may want to picture an “if we fail to act” perspective, but it is also necessary to take it easy. |
How to End a PowerPoint Presentation?
When you provide cluttered visual presentations, instead of an illustration that draws the people in, you can use PowerPoint to make a memorable close.
You can encourage and bring out their curiosity through powerful visualization. To help you with this matter, we have provided options for ending a speech with a PowerPoint slide.
Here are a couple of samples of what you can project:
- A humorous image but has a profound significance.
- A photo that is supposedly unrelated to your speech subject or topic needs your explanation.
- A line graph shows two possible outcomes in which the audience may get involved.
How Should You End a Presentation Slideshow?
Since you have learned what you can project in your PowerPoint presentation and how useful it is to end your talk, let us get into several essential tips on finishing a formal presentation slideshow.
Here are ways you can do to make it memorable and impactful to your audience:
- Have a clear and concise message
To close your formal presentation slideshow, bring your fundamental message to the forefront and align it with your objectives. You must give your final message down to a notable point so that your audience can walk away remembering what you have said.
- Utilize the best final PowerPoint slide.
Your final slide will differ according to the type of presentation you are delivering.
For example, if you are still having second thoughts regarding how to end a maid of honor speech uniquely, maybe you can opt to make a slideshow presentation for your sister’s wedding. There are creative ways to give your speech, especially when you are too nervous about public speaking.
You only have to ensure that you are using a powerful final PowerPoint graphic slide to showcase your concluding information. Of course, you should fit its theme at the event.
- Use animation to highlight something.
Adding a hint of animation in your presentation or slideshow is one of the best ways to bring the significant element onto your slide at the perfect period. A program like PowerPoint has features, such as built-in animations, that you can efficiently utilize.
How to End a Speech Dos and Don’ts
After discussing the key elements of ending a speech and ways to close your presentation, we should tackle how to end a speech’s dos and don’ts.
We have compiled a few things that you must consider. See them in this table:
| DOs | DON’Ts |
| Do give a signal. | Do not introduce extra or new material at the end of your speech. |
| Your conclusion should echo your speech. | Your conclusion must not be improvised or ad-libbed. |
| All your primary points must have already been well-explained in the body of your speech. | Avoid including unnecessary hand gestures. |
| Summarize the primary points of your speech. | Do not move backward. |
| Emphasize in one line the essence of your speech to the listeners. | Do not lose focus. |
| Do not rush to gather your materials or other stuff. | |
| Do not be inconsistent with your message to the audience. |
How to End Your Speech Examples (video examples)
We have made your work easier if you seek the best examples of closing a speech. Be worry-free about how to end a maid of honor speech, graduation address, and other presentations.
How to End a Graduation Speech
Here are four tips on how to end a graduation speech that would give you big applause from the crowd:
- Plan every word of your closing remarks.
- Close it with a story.
- Insert a little humor and make the audience laugh.
- Close your graduation speech with inspiration.
How to End a Maid of Honor Speech
Are you worried about how to end a maid of honor speech? The following are the typical phrases used for the maid of honor speech ending:
- Let us all toast for the happiness of the newly married couple!
- Best wishes to the happy and lovely couple!
- Please raise your glasses in honor of the bride and groom.
- Cheers to the newlyweds!
- Wishing years of bliss to the bride and groom!
- What a beautiful wedding day, so let us toast wherever their lives may lead.
How to Close a Sales Presentation
Another example of how to end a speech we have is closing a sales pitch. An outstanding presentation turns off if you do not try to create a great closing. To make your customers eager to purchase, try the tips we recommend.
- Go back to your opening idea.
- Close it with a challenge to your audience.
- Indulge your listeners into a metaphorical mission.
- Share a story.
- End your speech with a quote.
To get additional sales presentation tips, you can check this video:
How can you effectively call your audience to action?
To ignite action, be crystal clear with your desired action, use persuasive language to spark urgency, and highlight the benefits they’ll reap. Back it up with evidence, repeat it for impact, and remove any hurdles that stand in their way. Finally, it tugs at their heartstrings to connect and motivate them to follow through. This winning formula fuels effective calls to action!
What are some creative ways to end a presentation?
Spice up your presentation ending! Ditch the boring summary and opt for storytelling, metaphors, inspiring quotes, actionable steps, thought-provoking questions, surprising elements, laughter, or genuine gratitude. Choose what fits your style and leave your audience with a bang, not a whimper!
What should you not do when ending a presentation?
When concluding a presentation, it is important to avoid certain practices. One thing you should not do is end your presentation with a slide that simply asks “Questions?” This approach is commonplace and lacks originality, making it forgettable for your audience. Instead, it is crucial to consider alternative techniques for concluding your presentation on a strong and memorable note.
How can something from the opening be repeated to close a presentation?
Start strong, end strong! Bookend your presentation by repeating a thought-provoking question, concluding a captivating story, or tying back to your title. This creates a unified message, satisfying closure, and a lasting impression on your audience. They’ll leave remembering “the answer,” “the ending,” or “the meaning,” solidifying your impact.
What can be used instead of a “thank you” slide?
Ditch the “thank you” slide! Show gratitude verbally and utilize a summary slide with key points, a call to action, and your contact details. More text is okay here; use bullet points for clarity. It helps during Q&A; attendees might even snap a picture for a handy takeaway.
How can a running clock be used to emphasize the urgency of a message?
Tick-tock! Adding a running clock to your time-sensitive message visually screams urgency. It shows limited time, fuels action, grabs attention, and boosts your message’s credibility. Don’t let your audience miss out – let the clock do the talking!
How can a surprising fact re-engage the audience’s attention?
Attention fading? Drop a surprising fact with stats! It jolts your audience awake, adds credibility, and keeps them hooked. Find it online, but cite your source to be extra legitimate. Facts rock; use them to rule your presentation!
How can the rule of three be used in communication?
Group in threes! This communication rule makes your message stick. Break down ideas, stories, or anything you say into triplets. It’s easy to remember, catchy and keeps your audience engaged with your message long after you’re done. So go forth and conquer with the power of three!
How can the main points be linked to the key message in the conclusion?
Ditch the swim, find the gem! Your conclusion reflects your whole speech. Summarize key points, deliver a lasting impact, and tie it all together. Don’t leave it as an afterthought – make it resonate, leaving your audience nodding, satisfied, and remembering your message long after you’re done.
How can a visual image be used to end a presentation?
Don’t bore your audience with text! Ditch the cluttered slides and use a powerful image to end your presentation. Funny, thought-provoking, or a line graph with a choice – pick one to intrigue and make them think. Leave it on the screen for impact, let them ponder; your message will stick long after you’re done. Just remember, image and message go hand in hand!
How can a compelling story be used to conclude a presentation?
Forget jokes and platitudes. Close with a powerful story! Not just any story, one that makes them laugh, feel your message and remember it all. Your article mentions this, but their article goes deeper. They say to make it personal, relatable, and tied to your key points. This creates empathy, connection, and an unforgettable ending that leaves your audience wanting more. Go beyond the basics and tell a story they’ll remember long after the presentation.
What are the different ways to end a presentation or speech?
Ditch the panic. Pick your closing! Consider metaphors to leave a deep impression, challenge your audience with a “what if” scenario, or use visuals to stimulate their minds. Summarize key points, deliver a powerful message, and practice your ending for polish. Do avoid rambling, awkward gestures, or rushing out. Remember, a strong closing leaves a lasting mark. Now go captivate them!
Conclusion
In making your speech’s ending, do not make your conclusion only an afterthought. It should support everything you have said in your talk and remind the audience why your topic matters.
Leave the people nodding in agreement or satisfied by ending your speech remarkably. Yes, you can’t win everybody over your talk, but you can significantly make them pause and think.
We hope this article has imparted enough knowledge and answered your question about ending a speech. Download the Orai speech app for an AI-powered speech coach for interactive and fun lessons!
Good luck with your presentation!
