The theory and practice of public speaking is simplified and made available to all in this introductory text designed for those with little or no experience in public speaking. It presents basic communication theory; delineates the importance of credibility in persuasive speech and outlines the role of nonverbal communication and paralanguage. A whole chapter is devoted to stage fright and suggestions are offered to reduce this anxiety. A wide assortment of exercises are provided to test critical skills. Originally published by Macmillan in 1982.