The success of a speech is often attributed to the skill of the speaker, wit

The success of a speech is often attributed to the skill of the speaker, with merit being given to speakers who are confident, articulate, knowledgeable and able to(21)deliver a speech with conviction.
    Often, however, it is not the speakers who write(22)moving speeches, but a speechwriter. The field in which this practice is most common is that of politics. So, what does it take to be a political speechwriter?
    According to a recent job advertisement put out by the US Embassy in Britain, a political speechwriter needs to have(23)exceptional interpersonal skills, be detail oriented and be able to demonstrate a profound knowledge of the subject. They must also be able to work closely with the speakers they write for and be able to relate to an individual’s style.
    Some people believe that the best speechwriters have an inherent talent, a(24)natural creative instinct, and that speech writing is an art form.
    So what about those of us who do not possess such genius? Can we still produce successful speeches?
    In an interview with the BBC, Dr Max Atkinson, a(25)communications specialist, outlined a number of speech-writing techniques. He also illustrated how these techniques have been used in historic speeches.
    One such technique is(26)introducing contrast. This is especially useful in trying to put a positive spin on a negative issue. One of the most famous examples of this was presented in a speech given by former American President John F Kennedy: "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country. "
    Another technique is the use of a(27)three-part list. Dr Atkinson explains that this can be an excellent way of adding finality and confirming a statement. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair was a fan of this technique. One of his most famous(28)campaign slogans was "education, education, education".
    These techniques can be used like toolsthey can be chosen from a toolbox and applied as necessary. A few other techniques you might find in a speechwriter’s toolbox are the use of imagery, anecdotes and(29)alliteration. So next time you have to prepare a speech or(30)presentation , try applying one or more of these techniques and see if you have what it takes to be a winning speechwriter.