30 Fun and Easy Demonstrative Speech Topics
Find the Perfect “How-To” Topic for Your Presentation.
This list offers simple and engaging ideas for a college-level demonstrative speech.
Get Speech Writing HelpShow, Don’t Just Tell
I once saw a student explain origami by just talking. It was abstract and confusing. The next student took a piece of paper and silently folded a perfect crane. The difference was stunning. One student told; the other showed.
That is the essence of a demonstrative speech. Its goal is to teach a process through live demonstration. This list helps you find a “how-to” subject that is easy, fun, and useful for your audience. A great demonstrative speech is one of the most engaging forms of an informative speech because it involves action.
What Makes a Good Demonstrative Topic?
The best “how-to” speech topics share four key characteristics.
1. It Has Clear, Observable Steps
The process must be broken down into a simple, linear sequence. If the steps are too complex, the audience won’t be able to follow. The goal is clarity, not complexity.
2. It’s Manageable in the Time Limit
A five-minute speech is not enough time to demonstrate “how to build a website.” It’s perfect, however, for “how to register a domain name.” Choose a process you can complete comfortably in your allotted time.
3. It Requires Simple, Visible Props
Your props must be large enough for everyone to see. They should also be simple enough to handle without fumbling. If props are too small or complicated, they become a distraction. Our guide on using props effectively can help.
4. It Offers a Useful or Entertaining Skill
The best demonstrative speeches leave the audience with a tangible skill. Whether it’s a practical life hack or a fun party trick, the audience should feel they’ve gained something. Research shows that active demonstrations promote higher-order thinking, as noted in the Journal of Teaching in Physical Education.
Structuring Your Demonstrative Speech
A “how-to” speech follows a chronological pattern. Your outline should be a clear, step-by-step blueprint.
Introduction
Start with a hook that relates to the skill you’re teaching. State your thesis clearly (e.g., “Today, I’m going to show you how to tie a bow tie in three simple steps.”). Briefly mention why the skill is useful and preview the main steps.
Body: The Step-by-Step Process
Each main point in your speech’s body is one step in the process. Use clear transition words like “First,” “Next,” and “Finally” to guide the audience. As you perform each step, explain what you’re doing and why it’s important. Keep your explanations concise and focused on the action.
Conclusion
Signal your conclusion, briefly recap the main steps, and then proudly display the finished product. This provides a satisfying visual payoff and reinforces the audience’s understanding of the completed process.
30 Fun & Easy Demonstrative Speech Topics
Everyday Life Skills
- How to tie a necktie or a bow tie.
- How to fold a fitted sheet.
- How to change a car tire.
- How to jump-start a car battery.
- How to perform the Heimlich maneuver.
- How to iron a dress shirt.
- How to create a simple weekly budget.
- How to pack a suitcase efficiently.
Food & Drink
- How to make pour-over coffee.
- How to taste and describe wine.
- How to make a simple vinaigrette.
- How to decorate a cupcake.
- How to make fresh guacamole.
- How to arrange a charcuterie board.
- How to muddle ingredients for a mocktail.
Creative & Crafty
- How to fold a simple origami animal.
- How to do a basic card trick.
- How to arrange a bouquet of flowers.
- How to write a simple calligraphy letter.
- How to create a balloon animal.
- How to gift-wrap a present professionally.
Tech & Digital Skills
- How to use keyboard shortcuts.
- How to create a strong password.
- How to use a photo editing app.
- How to organize your computer desktop.
- How to set up two-factor authentication.
- How to spot a phishing email.
- How to use basic functions in Excel.
- How to create a simple animated GIF.
- How to clean a laptop safely.
Tips for a Great Demonstration
Speak While You Demonstrate
Narrate what you are doing and why. Your words provide context for your actions.
Consider Your Audience’s Viewpoint
Practice from the audience’s perspective. Ensure your hands aren’t blocking the view and the object is large enough. Arrange your space for clear visibility.
Prepare for the Unexpected
If your prop fails, have a backup plan, like a picture on a slide. Handle problems calmly. A confident recovery is impressive.
Our Presentation Experts
Our writers can help structure your speech and script your narration for a smooth delivery.
Zacchaeus Kiragu
Research & Academic Writing
Zacchaeus can break down any process into a logical, step-by-step sequence for a clear demonstrative speech outline.
Julia Muthoni
Public Health & Communication
Julia excels at writing simple instructions. She can help you craft a narration that is easy for any audience to follow.
Student Feedback
“This topic list was a lifesaver! I chose ‘how to make pour-over coffee’ and it was a huge hit. The topic was simple, fun, and everyone learned something.”
– Maria G., Business Student
“I was worried about handling props, but the ‘Delivery Tips’ section was so helpful. Practicing with my objects made a huge difference in my confidence.”
– Alex P., Communications Major
“The writer helped me break down a complicated process into four simple steps for my speech. It made my demonstration so much clearer and easier to follow.”
– Kevin T., Engineering Student
Demonstrative Speech FAQs
Do I need PowerPoint if I’m using a prop?
Often, you don’t. For a simple demonstration, a prop can be your only visual aid. However, you can use slides to show a list of ingredients before a cooking demo, or a “finished product” picture at the end.
What if my topic has no physical object?
Then it might not be a demonstrative speech. A demonstrative speech requires showing a process. If you want to explain a concept without an object, your speech is likely explanatory. You can, however, use your own body as a prop (e.g., demonstrating a dance move).
How do I end a demonstrative speech?
After your demonstration, you still need a formal conclusion. Signal the end, briefly summarize the key steps, and close with a final statement reinforcing the skill’s value. Showing the finished product is an effective clincher.
Show, Don’t Just Tell
A demonstrative speech is an engaging and memorable presentation format. Choose a topic you enjoy, practice with your props, and have fun teaching your audience a new skill.
Get Help with Your Demonstrative Speech