Your chest feels tight and you feel like you're on fire. Your chest feels tight and you burn. The flash cards in your hands are crumpled from your obsessive pressure. You look up and see dozens of eyes staring at you, waiting impatiently. Taking a deep breath, you stumble through the speech. When it's finally over, you practically return to your seat, cheeks bright red. You collapse, already dreading the next time you'll have to face your biggest fear: public speaking. For as long as I can remember, public speaking has always been one of my biggest weaknesses. Whether it's a simple classroom presentation or a speech in front of an auditorium full of people, I can barely get my words out due to anxiety and stress. I have always admired those who seem able to deliver their speeches without the slightest trace of nervousness. The reason I decided to write my article on this specific topic was to find out the different tips people have for public speaking. Before I began my research, I took inventory of what I already knew about public speaking, which honestly wasn't much. I had some idea of ​​the basics; Stand straight, maintain eye contact with the people in your audience, speak clearly. That's all well and good, but just because I know what I need to do doesn't mean I'm able to apply that information successfully. I need more information on different techniques and how to speak successfully in front of people without panicking, since my major is elementary education; it requires endless amounts of public speaking. I felt like after writing this article and doing the research, I would not only be prepared for any public speaking opportunities that might arise during the course o......in the middle of the article ......e to speak in front of people. I may still be nervous from time to time, but that's normal. As long as I can keep these nerves in check and under control, I don't think I'll have any more problems with public speaking. Works Cited Hall-Flavin, Daniel K. “Fear of Public Speaking: How Can I Overcome It?” » Mayo Clinic. Today. Sussex Publishers, LLC, November 6, 2013. Web January 17, 2014. Shuman, Jessi. Personal interview January 19. 2014.