The Art of Public Speaking with Connect Lucas

The Art of Public Speaking (10th Edition) is a fresh departure from the more rigid and often intimidating style of academic publications in this genre. Written by multi-awarded professor Stephen Lucas, this exceptionally effective guide on how to inform, influence, and entertain listeners does not bore with theories, but rather dispenses practical tips and real-world examples. Perhaps the biggest appeal of The Art of Public Speaking (ISBN 9780077306298) is that it is easy to read. Looking more like a friendly how-to manual than a textbook, it is useful not only for public speakers, but also for people who want to improve the way they communicate on a daily basis. Professor Stephen Lucas teaches readers how to choose a topic and purpose, analyze the audience, gather materials, outline a speech, deliver a speech, use visual aids, and ultimately, use persuasion techniques to elicit the best possible audience response. The book even contains an entertaining chapter on how to overcome nervousness, beat stage fright, and steer clear of other public speaking pitfalls, citing real-life experiences of celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey and Conan O'Brien. While this 480-page manual is written specifically for college students, it is appreciated by anyone who seeks better conversation and persuasion skills. This edition of The Art of Public Speaking features digital links to McGraw-Hill's ConnectLucas.com – a great tool that enables students as well as teachers to access a comprehensive media library rich with assessment tools, study aids, and other helpful course materials from one website. Easy-to-spot icons in the text connect to interactive online features, aiding and speeding up learning.