Fear of being unprepared, fear of poor execution, and fear of looking silly are all contributors to anxiety when giving a speech.  Everyone in high school will have to give a speech at some time.  Students often suffer from anxiety – a real issue – when giving a speech.

Preparation is a common donor to anxiety.  Some students procrastinate, or just do not have enough time to prepare properly.  Because the student is ill-prepared, the anxiety levels are bound to increase.

Even if the speech is well written, the student will worry about the presentation.  Knowing they will be graded on performance makes students uneasy and is a plus when calculating their anxiety.  The main problem with presentation is often because they have little or no confidence.

Speakers are also scared that their appearance might be inadequate.  A common problem that makes a speaker feel silly-looking is low self-esteem.  The student might have also forgotten to take a shower that morning.

Scholars should try to eliminate these causes of anxiety by taking time to prepare, to practice, and to groom themselves properly before giving their speech.  Anxiety of high school students will remain until they gain experience in giving speeches.  However, some people will prepare, practice, and be well groomed, but will never get over the anxiety they feel when giving a speech.