Articles tagged: rule of three

The Rule of Three is a speechwriting technique which suggests the use of three related elements — three words, three phrases, three sentences — for maximum impact.

For a complete primer, see How to Use the Rule of Three in Your Speeches.

Examples and more information can be found in the following Six Minutes articles:


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Speech Critiques
Dec 6th, 2007

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Video Critique: J.A. Gamache (Toastmasters, 2007)

J.A. Gamache demonstrates how to complement strong writing with powerful body language in a speech titled “Being a Mr. G.” that took first place in the 2007 Region VI Toastmasters speech contest.

This video critique analyzes many noteworthy elements of the presentation, including:

  • a memorable speech opening and closing which feature the same prop;
  • the callback technique for repetitive humor;
  • emotionally charged writing; and
  • a series of wonderfully choreographed gestures.

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Reader Response
Comments: 26
Blog links: 9
Speech Critiques
Nov 27th, 2007

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Speech Critique: Steve Jobs (Stanford, 2005)

Steve Jobs wrote and delivered the commencement speech “Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.” to the graduates of Stanford University on June 12, 2005.

The style and content are very different from his Apple product launch presentations, but no less worthy of study.

Noteworthy elements of this wonderful speech include:

  • strong opening;
  • simple classical structure;
  • the Rule of Three;
  • rich figures of speech; and
  • a recurring theme of birth/death/rebirth.

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