In revising a speech for a general audience, which adjustment is most effective?

• A. Delete data
• B. Increase jargon
• C. Include clear, general terms and explanations
• D. Extend the text with more footnotes

Answer: (C)

When revising a speech for a general audience, the key goal is clarity and accessibility. Using clear, general terms and explanations helps listeners understand the message without getting lost in specialized vocabulary. Explain any terms that might be unfamiliar, and back up ideas with simple definitions or concrete examples so the points land with a broad crowd. Removing data can weaken your credibility by removing supporting evidence, and adding more jargon creates barriers to understanding. Footnotes interrupt the flow of a spoken message and aren’t the most effective way to convey information to listeners.