Speaker notes are supplementary text that helps a speaker deliver a presentation. They may contain key points beyond the slides or a complete script, depending on what makes the speaker comfortable. section 16.4.4
Use speaker notes deliberately:
- Write a full transcript when it helps you find the right wording, plan timing, or rehearse aloud. section 16.1.1 section 16.4.4
- Add bold text or annotations to mark emphasis, pauses, and similar delivery cues. section 16.4.4
- Rehearse scripted notes until they sound natural; avoid letting reading produce a monotone delivery. section 16.4.4
- Keep notes usable during delivery: a dense stack of printed pages can be harder to consult than discreetly displayed notes. section 16.1.1
A practical script
A speaker writes the talk as a transcript, reads it aloud to measure its length, and places the same text in the notes. A useful conference-talk pacing rule is 100–160 words per minute. section 16.1.1 section 16.4.4
