Researching a Speech: A Guide to Credible Sources
Build a Factual Foundation for a Powerful Presentation.
This guide shows how to find and evaluate high-quality sources to support your speech.
Get Research HelpBeyond a Simple Google Search
My first college speech relied on a quick Google search. My professor saw the lack of depth, and my grade reflected it. I learned that research isn’t just finding information; it’s finding the *right* information.
This guide helps students build speeches on credible evidence. Strong research separates a superficial talk from an authoritative presentation. It’s a critical skill for an informative speech, where your role is to educate accurately.
Finding Credible Sources
1. University Library Databases
University library databases like JSTOR, ProQuest, and EBSCOhost are your best source for peer-reviewed journal articles.
2. Google Scholar
Google Scholar filters results to show only academic articles, theses, and books. It’s an excellent tool for finding scholarly work.
3. Government and NGO Websites
Government (.gov) and NGO (.org) websites provide reliable data and statistics to add factual weight to your claims.
4. Reputable News Organizations
For current events, use established news sources (e.g., Associated Press, Reuters). Be aware of bias and cross-reference information.
After gathering sources, write an annotated bibliography. This helps you summarize and evaluate each source’s relevance before writing.
Evaluating Sources: The CRAAP Test
The CRAAP test is a framework for evaluating information. Ask these questions for every source.
- Currency: When was it published? Is it recent enough for your topic?
- Relevance: Does the information directly relate to your speech topic?
- Authority: Who is the author? What are their credentials? Are they an expert?
- Accuracy: Is the information supported by evidence? Can you verify it? A 2024 study in the Journal of Information Processing & Management highlights the challenge of identifying misinformation.
- Purpose: Why was this created? Is it to inform, persuade, or sell? Is there evidence of bias?
Integrating and Citing Sources
Using Different Types of Evidence
Vary your evidence with statistics, expert testimony, and examples to keep the audience engaged and make information relatable.
The Importance of Oral Citations
Unlike a research paper, you must cite sources verbally. This builds trust. State the source before the information, e.g., “According to a 2024 article in the Journal of the American Medical Association…”
Creating a Works Cited Page
Your instructor will likely require a references page (APA, MLA). Use citation managers or resources like the Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) for correct formatting.
Our Research & Writing Experts
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Zacchaeus Kiragu
Research & Academic Writing
Zacchaeus is skilled with academic databases and can guide students in finding peer-reviewed articles for any speech topic.
Julia Muthoni
Public Health & Data Synthesis
Julia specializes in interpreting scientific data, helping students translate complex information into clear speech points.
Student Feedback
“I didn’t even know how to use the library databases. The writer walked me through it and helped me find five amazing sources for my speech. A total lifesaver.”
– Maria G., Business Student
“The CRAAP test was so helpful. I thought I had a good source, but it failed the ‘Purpose’ test. The guide helped me choose much stronger evidence.”
– Alex P., Communications Major
“Learning how to do oral citations made my speech sound so much more professional. My professor commented on how well-researched my presentation was.”
– Kevin T., Engineering Student
Research FAQs
Can I use Wikipedia as a source?
Do not cite Wikipedia directly. Use it as a starting point. Follow the references and external links at the bottom of an article to find the original, credible sources.
How many sources do I need?
Check your assignment requirements. For a 5-7 minute speech, 3-5 high-quality sources are a good rule of thumb. Quality is more important than quantity.
What is a primary vs. a secondary source?
