Structure formulas (Part 1)

Classic Structure: Introduction, Knot, Denouement

The most basic and universal way to organize a presentation is the tripartite system: beginning, development and closing. Although it seems simple, it is the basis of human storytelling.

The beginning serves to establish the premise and capture attention; the development is the body where arguments and dense information are presented; and the closing serves to synthesize and leave a lasting impression.

This outline, sometimes referred to as the "1-2-3 System," does not require additional complications such as complex academic theses.

It simply guides the speaker to "say what you are going to say, say it, and then say what you have said."

It is a safe and functional structure, ideal for direct corporate communications or short presentations where clarity is the absolute priority.

Monroe's Motivational Sequence (Ideal for persuasion and sales)

Attention: Capture the audience's interest from the first second (with a story, a shocking fact or a question).

Need: Describe the existing problem to create discomfort or urgency in the audience. Make them feel that something needs to change.

Satisfaction: Present your solution. Explain how your proposal solves the problem stated above.

Visualization: Help the audience imagine what their future will be like if they adopt your solution (positive) or what it will be like if they don't (negative).

Action: Tell them exactly what they should do right now (subscribe, buy, vote, change a habit).

Summary

The tripartite system of introduction, crux and denouement is universal. It guides the speaker to say what he/she will say, say it and finally summarize what was said.

The Monroe Motivational Sequence is ideal for business persuasion. It requires capturing attention, describing an urgent need and presenting the solution as always satisfying.

Helping the audience visualize the future motivates immediate action. Tell them exactly what they must do now to close the sales cycle successfully.