In my last newsletter, I described my process of applying for and being selected to do a TED Talk. This time, I’ll take you through my process so far on how to create a TED Talk. This is just my process. However, I did pick up a book that is excellent and that I highly recommend: TED Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking. Whatever type of presenting you’re planning to do, this is a great book to help you prepare.
Anyway, I worked on it during the 2 week holiday season and got a lot done, so I feel encouraged. I also feel challenged and anxious. Tick tock.
Click to see Part 1 of the series.…
My topic intrigues me, but it’s not within my realm of professional expertise. So I’ve had to do some serious research. This includes reading books, published research, and interviewing people who’ve been in the thick of it. I’ve also been watching other TED speakers who’ve done a 10-minute talk, which is how much time I’ll have.
As I’ve been researching, I’ve created a content journal. This is something I recommend to all my clients. It’s a document where I jot down everything that pops into my mind or that I come across that I think may have a place in the talk. It’s currently 14 pages long, but I think that’s about it. The talk itself will ultimately be a scant 3 pages.
I’ve composed a draft. The draft needs to have an engaging rhythm and be organized in a way that is consistent with TED Talks. There have been lots of revisions and there will be many more. I opened with a personal experience and an admission. I want to connect with the audience immediately.
When you think of how to create a TED Talk, you must explain the problem(s). This is what I’m trying to do without over-explaining. They’re separated into three distinct areas. The challenge here is to make the talk engaging with a variety of devices and techniques because otherwise it risks being too dry. This means inserting the right stories, examples, and humor. AND, I’m beginning to suspect I might have to eliminate one of the three problem areas because time is very tight.
After that, I discuss what this means for this audience, the “why.” Why it’s important… for me, but especially for them.
Finally, the close. I am having a lot of trouble with this. I’m trying to come up with a great call to action, or CTA. It’s probably because the logic and trajectory of my talk is far from settled. And it’s too long.
I haven’t kept track of my time expenditure, but I’d estimate it’s been at least 30 hours so far. By the time I’m done, I predict I will have spent more than 100 hours on writing, revising, and rehearsing it.
That’s my current experience with how to create a TED Talk . It’s what it takes. I hope. Stay tuned…