What is the purpose of a speech's introduction?

The purpose of a speech's introduction is primarily to establish credibility. This is crucial because it helps to build trust with the audience and gain their confidence in the speaker’s knowledge and authority on the subject matter. A strong introduction allows the speaker to connect with the audience, making them more likely to listen attentively and be receptive to the message being delivered.

While summarizing main points, providing detailed explanations, or presenting evidence are important elements of a speech, they typically occur in the body of the speech rather than the introduction. A well-crafted introduction sets the stage by highlighting the speaker’s qualifications, offering a relatable hook or anecdote, or outlining the importance of the topic, all of which contribute to establishing credibility and engaging the audience from the outset.