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

A specific purpose statement is best phrased as an infinitive phrase because it clearly articulates the intention of the speech in a concise manner. This format, which often begins with "to" followed by a verb, sets a focused direction for the speaker's goals. For example, a purpose statement might be "to inform the audience about the impact of climate change on wildlife." This structure not only clarifies the aim of the speech but also helps the speaker stay on topic while developing their content.

Using other forms, such as a question or an exclamatory statement, could lead to ambiguity. A question might leave the audience unsure of the primary objective, while an exclamatory statement could imply a level of excitement or urgency that does not clearly outline the goal of the speech. A declarative sentence might come close but still lacks the precision and direction that an infinitive phrase provides, making the latter the most effective choice for a specific purpose statement.