Impromptu speaking is a speech that a person delivers without predetermination or preparation. The speaker is most commonly provided with their topic in the form of a quotation, but the topic may also be presented as an object, proverb, or one-word prompt. Impromptu speeches can be given in various settings, such as in class, business meetings, or small informal meetings. The speaker may be asked to give a short impromptu speech about a topic that was in the assigned readings or to talk briefly about what they have done recently on the project. Impromptu speeches are hard to practice for, but the more one practices, the better they will be when the impromptu situation arises. In impromptu speaking competitions, speakers might be given a topic or quotation to react to, and they have a short time to prepare a speech. The key to giving an effective impromptu speech is to speak directly from the heart and make eye contact with portions of the audience. It is also important to speak clearly, avoid fidgeting, and hold a small object like a pen to help with nervousness.