Pragmatic Public Speaking: A Workshop Approach to Real World Speeches explains why speaking well is a necessary tool for professional success, and how to speak well in a variety of situations and genres. Using a workbook format, each chapter of the book discusses why a particular type of speech is useful and gives tips on preparation.

The initial chapters deal with speech preparation strategies such outlining and organizing informative speeches, researching, and creating visual aids. Then, readers learn about the components of effective delivery— voice and body language. The final chapters address the art of persuasive speaking, which includes understanding claims, fallacies, and advocacy.

As they move through the book, readers learn how to analyze speeches, look for logical chains of progression, and identify flaws in logic.