How to address the American Physical Society

Although it was written over 30 years ago, the advice offered in this article is still valid today. Among the suggestions on how to speak before an audience are (1) speaking loudly enough to be heard anywhere in the room; (2) writing the speech in advance and then memorizing it; (3) rehearsing and timing the speech to ensure it can be delivered in the allotted time; (4) preparing the speech for the average person — not the foremost specialist. Specific problems to be wary of include depending too much on a blackboard or slides and using jargon inappropriately. The author suggests that all potential speakers broaden their reading base — novels, poetry, essays, and history — to enhance their speaking style.