A specific purpose statement in a speech should be phrased as which of the following?

A specific purpose statement in a speech is most effectively phrased as an infinitive phrase because it clearly articulates the intended outcome of the speech in a concise and focused manner. By using an infinitive phrase, such as "to inform the audience about the benefits of recycling" or "to persuade the community to support local agriculture," the speaker establishes a precise goal that guides the development of the speech. This format ensures that the purpose is not only clear to the speaker but also to the audience, allowing for a more focused and engaging presentation.

In contrast, using a question may lead to ambiguity regarding the speech's intentions, as it does not explicitly indicate what the speaker aims to accomplish. A declarative sentence, while clearer than a question, might lack the directness and clarity that an infinitive phrase provides. An exclamatory statement tends to convey strong emotion or surprise but does not serve the purpose of outlining a specific intention for the speech, making it inappropriate for this context. Thus, framing the specific purpose statement as an infinitive phrase allows for clarity and focus in the speaker’s objective.