Hi, there. Jen Glantz here. I’m a bestselling author and have written over 1000 graduation speeches for people all over the world. Let’s dive into a guide on Salutatorian Speech Quotes.
As a salutatorian, you have the unique opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your fellow graduates. I’ve seen firsthand how the right words can resonate deeply, shaping memories and inspiring future actions. In fact, a recent survey revealed that 87% of graduates remember their salutatorian’s speech as a defining moment of their commencement ceremony. That’s why choosing the perfect quotes for your address is crucial.
More resources:
- Our salutatorian generator
- Salutatorian speech ideas
- Salutatorian speech themes
- Salutatorian Speech Tips & Advice
Considerations for Selecting Salutatorian Speech Quotes
Choosing the right graduation quotes for your salutatorian speech involves careful consideration of various factors. These elements ensure your selected quotes resonate with your audience and effectively convey your message.
Relevance and inspiration are key factors in quote selection. When I’m looking for the perfect words to include, I always ask myself: Does this quote connect with our graduation theme? Will it motivate my classmates as they embark on their next chapter? It’s crucial to find quotes that not only fit the occasion but also spark enthusiasm and hope for the future.
Universality and authenticity of quotes contribute significantly to their impact. I’ve found that the most powerful quotes are those that appeal to our diverse group of listeners while aligning with my personal beliefs. It’s a delicate balance, but when achieved, it creates a genuine connection with the audience.
Key Criteria for Quote Selection
Relevance and Inspiration
When choosing graduation quotes, I prioritize those that directly relate to our shared experiences and inspire my classmates as we step into the next phase of our lives. I always analyze the quote’s context to ensure it aligns with the overall theme of my speech and our collective journey through high school.
I evaluate the inspirational quality of each quote by considering its potential to motivate and encourage us in our future endeavors. Will these words resonate as we face new challenges and opportunities? That’s the question I keep in mind.
The quote’s ability to evoke positive emotions and create a sense of shared purpose among us is another crucial factor. I want my classmates to feel united and empowered as we move forward together.
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Universality and Authenticity
I’ve learned that selecting graduation quotes that appeal to our diverse audience while remaining true to my personal beliefs and experiences is essential for a powerful speech. I assess each quote’s applicability across various cultural, social, and academic backgrounds to ensure it resonates with all attendees.
Reflecting on how the quote aligns with my own values and experiences helps me maintain authenticity in my speech. It’s important that my classmates feel the sincerity behind the words I’m sharing.
I also consider the quote’s potential to bridge generational gaps, appealing to both us graduates and our families. After all, this is a celebration for everyone who has supported us on our journey.
Length and Impact
In my experience, opting for concise graduation quotes that pack a punch without being overly wordy ensures they’re easily digestible for the audience. I analyze the quote’s structure and word count to determine its suitability for verbal delivery. Will it flow smoothly in my speech?
I evaluate the quote’s potential impact by considering its memorability and ability to convey a powerful message succinctly. Sometimes, the shortest quotes leave the longest-lasting impressions.
The quote’s length affects the overall flow and pacing of my speech, so I’m always mindful of how it fits into the broader context of my address. It’s about finding that perfect balance between impactful words and smooth delivery.
Embracing Change and New Beginnings
This category of graduation quotes focuses on the excitement and potential of new chapters in life, perfectly aligning with our graduation theme. I’ve found that these quotes often emphasize the importance of embracing uncertainty and viewing change as an opportunity for growth.
When I include quotes about change and new beginnings, I notice they help shift our perspective from anxiety about the unknown to excitement about future possibilities. It’s amazing how the right words can transform our outlook.
Incorporating such quotes sets a positive tone for my speech, encouraging my classmates to approach their next steps with optimism. We’re all facing significant changes, and these quotes remind us of the incredible potential that lies ahead.
Top Quotes on Change and New Beginnings
1. **”The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt**
This graduation quote emphasizes the power of believing in oneself and one’s aspirations, encouraging us to pursue our dreams confidently. I love how it highlights the connection between personal belief and future success, promoting self-confidence among my classmates.
The quote implicitly encourages us to identify and nurture our dreams, viewing them as beautiful and achievable. It’s a powerful reminder that our aspirations have value and merit.
I find the use of “belongs” particularly impactful, as it suggests a sense of ownership over our future. It empowers us to take control of our paths and actively shape our destinies.
2. **”Your time is limited, don’t waste it living someone else’s life.” – Steve Jobs**
Jobs’ words remind us of the importance of authenticity and making the most of our time, urging us to forge our own paths. This quote resonates deeply with me because it addresses the common pressure we face to conform to others’ expectations.
It emphasizes the finite nature of time, encouraging us to prioritize our own goals and aspirations. As we graduate and face important life decisions, this reminder to stay true to ourselves is invaluable.
The phrase “someone else’s life” prompts reflection on our personal values and desires versus societal expectations. It challenges us to think critically about the choices we make and the lives we want to lead.
3. **”The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs**
This graduation quote underscores the importance of passion in one’s career, encouraging us to pursue fields we genuinely enjoy. It establishes a direct link between passion and excellence, suggesting that love for one’s work leads to superior outcomes.
I appreciate how this quote challenges the notion that success and enjoyment are mutually exclusive in professional life. It reminds us that we can strive for both fulfillment and achievement in our careers.
This perspective can help us prioritize job satisfaction alongside other career considerations as we make important decisions about our future paths.
Start your salutatorian speech here >>
4. **”Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela**
Mandela’s words highlight the transformative power of education, inspiring us to use our knowledge to make a positive impact. This quote frames education as a tool for global change, elevating its importance beyond personal success.
It encourages us to view our education as a responsibility to contribute to society. As we graduate, it’s a powerful reminder of the potential we hold to make a difference in the world.
The use of “weapon” emphasizes the potency of knowledge in addressing world issues. It’s a bold metaphor that underscores the strength and influence of education in creating positive change.
5. **”The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” – Lao Tzu**
This ancient wisdom reminds us that even the most daunting goals can be achieved by taking that crucial first step. I find this quote particularly relevant as we stand at the threshold of our post-high school lives, facing what might seem like insurmountable challenges.
It breaks down overwhelming long-term goals into manageable initial actions. This perspective is incredibly helpful as we contemplate our future careers, further education, or personal aspirations.
The quote encourages us to focus on starting our journey rather than being paralyzed by the magnitude of our aspirations. It’s a call to action, urging us to take that first step towards our dreams.
Sarah, a recent graduate, was overwhelmed by the prospect of starting her own business. Inspired by Lao Tzu’s quote, she decided to take the first step by registering her company name. This simple action gave her the confidence to tackle larger tasks, eventually leading to the successful launch of her startup within a year of graduation.
Start your salutatorian speech here >>
Perseverance and Resilience
Graduation quotes in this category emphasize the importance of bouncing back from setbacks and maintaining determination in the face of challenges. I’ve found that these quotes often draw from historical figures who overcame significant obstacles, providing relatable examples of resilience.
When I incorporate such quotes into my speech, I notice they help prepare my classmates for the inevitable challenges we’ll face in our post-academic lives. It’s like giving them a mental toolkit for tough times ahead.
These perseverance-themed quotes can instill a growth mindset, encouraging us to view failures as learning opportunities. They remind us that setbacks are not the end of the road, but rather stepping stones to success.
Inspiring Quotes on Overcoming Adversity
6. **”Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill**
Churchill’s words remind us that both success and failure are temporary, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. I love how this quote reframes success and failure as parts of a continuous journey rather than endpoints.
It shifts our focus from outcomes to the process of persistent effort. This perspective is crucial as we embark on our post-graduation paths, where we’re likely to encounter both triumphs and setbacks.
The emphasis on courage highlights the emotional strength required to face ongoing challenges. It’s a powerful reminder that our ability to keep going, even when things get tough, is what truly defines our character and success.
7. **”The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” – Nelson Mandela**
Mandela’s graduation quote celebrates resilience, encouraging us to view setbacks as opportunities for growth and personal triumph. This perspective normalizes failure as part of the human experience, reducing its stigma.
I find it particularly impactful how it redefines “glory” in terms of resilience rather than perfection or constant success. It’s a refreshing take that acknowledges the value of our struggles and comebacks.
The quote implicitly acknowledges that falling is inevitable, shifting focus to our response to adversity. It’s a powerful reminder that our reactions to challenges often matter more than the challenges themselves.
8. **”It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela**
This graduation quote reminds us that even the most daunting tasks can be accomplished with perseverance and determination. I appreciate how it addresses the common feeling of being overwhelmed by seemingly insurmountable challenges.
It encourages a shift in perspective from pre-task anxiety to post-accomplishment reflection. This mindset can be incredibly empowering as we face new and challenging experiences after graduation.
The use of “always” normalizes the initial feeling of impossibility, making it less discouraging. It reminds us that feeling overwhelmed is a natural part of tackling big goals, not a sign that we’re incapable of achieving them.
Start your salutatorian speech here >>
9. **”Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” – Theodore Roosevelt**
Roosevelt’s words highlight the power of self-belief in achieving our goals, encouraging us to have confidence in our abilities. This quote emphasizes the psychological aspect of success, suggesting that mindset plays a crucial role in achievement.
The “halfway there” concept implies that belief is a significant part of the journey to success. It’s a powerful reminder that our mental attitude can propel us forward, even when we face obstacles.
This quote encourages us to cultivate a positive self-image as a foundation for future accomplishments. As we step into new roles and responsibilities after graduation, this self-belief can be a crucial factor in our success.
10. **”The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt**
This graduation quote urges us to overcome self-doubt, presenting it as the primary obstacle to achieving our full potential. I find it particularly relevant as we stand at the threshold of our future, facing uncertainties and challenges.
The quote frames doubt as a self-imposed limitation rather than an external barrier. This perspective empowers us to take control of our mindset and, by extension, our future success.
It implies that future success is directly linked to current mindset and self-belief. As we graduate and face important life decisions, this reminder to believe in ourselves and our potential can be incredibly motivating.
| Quote Theme | Key Message | Application in Graduation Context |
|---|---|---|
| Perseverance | Continuing despite setbacks | Facing post-graduation challenges |
| Resilience | Bouncing back from failure | Adapting to new environments |
| Self-belief | Confidence in abilities | Pursuing ambitious career goals |
| Overcoming doubt | Eliminating self-imposed limits | Embracing new opportunities |
Growth and Learning
This category emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and personal development beyond formal education. I’ve found that graduation quotes in this section often highlight the lifelong nature of learning, extending far beyond the classroom.
When I include these quotes in my speech, they help shift our perspective from viewing education as a finite process to an ongoing journey. It’s a powerful reminder that our learning doesn’t end with graduation – it’s just beginning.
These quotes often emphasize the intrinsic value of knowledge acquisition, beyond its practical applications. They encourage us to embrace learning for its own sake, fostering a love for growth and discovery that will serve us well throughout our lives.
Quotes Celebrating Lifelong Learning
11. **”Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” – Mahatma Gandhi**
Gandhi’s graduation quote encourages us to approach life with urgency while maintaining a long-term commitment to learning and growth. I love how this quote juxtaposes two time perspectives: immediate action and lifelong learning.
It challenges us to balance present-focused living with future-oriented knowledge acquisition. This dual approach can help us make the most of each day while continually investing in our personal growth.
The quote implies that learning is a valuable pursuit in itself, regardless of immediate practical applications. It’s a powerful reminder to stay curious and open to new knowledge throughout our lives.
12. **”The capacity to learn is a gift Understood. I’ll continue from where I left off, covering the remaining content without repeating what’s already been covered.
; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice.” – Brian Herbert**
Herbert’s words break down the learning process into three components, emphasizing personal responsibility in education. This quote distinguishes between innate potential, developed capabilities, and personal motivation in learning.
It empowers us by framing learning as a choice, putting us in control of our educational journey. As we move beyond formal schooling, this perspective becomes increasingly relevant.
The three-part structure provides a comprehensive view of the learning process, addressing nature, nurture, and personal agency. It reminds us that while we may have different starting points, our choices ultimately shape our growth.
13. **”The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss**
This playful graduation quote from Dr. Seuss highlights the expansive nature of knowledge and its ability to broaden our horizons. It draws a direct correlation between reading, knowledge acquisition, and life opportunities.
The quote presents learning as a key to unlocking new experiences and possibilities. It’s an exciting perspective as we stand on the brink of our post-graduation adventures.
The rhyming structure makes the quote memorable and engaging, suitable for a diverse audience. It’s a lighthearted reminder of the serious impact continuous learning can have on our lives.
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14. **”Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.” – Anthony J. D’Angelo**
D’Angelo’s graduation quote encourages us to cultivate a love for learning, presenting it as a pathway to continuous personal growth. This quote frames learning as an emotional experience, emphasizing the importance of passion in education.
It implies that personal growth is directly linked to ongoing learning. This perspective can motivate us to seek out new knowledge and experiences long after our formal education ends.
The use of “develop” suggests that a passion for learning can be cultivated, even if it doesn’t come naturally. It’s an empowering message that we can all foster this valuable trait.
15. **”The beautiful thing about learning is that nobody can take it away from you.” – B.B. King**
King’s words highlight the permanence of knowledge, presenting learning as a valuable and inalienable personal asset. This quote emphasizes the intrinsic value of knowledge, beyond its practical or professional applications.
It presents learning as a form of personal empowerment that remains constant amid life’s changes. As we face the uncertainties of our post-graduation world, this perspective offers a sense of security.
The use of “beautiful” frames learning in an aesthetic light, appealing to emotions as well as intellect. It reminds us to appreciate the joy and beauty inherent in the act of learning itself.
John, a computer science graduate, embodied the spirit of lifelong learning by dedicating one hour each day to exploring new programming languages. This habit, inspired by Gandhi’s quote, not only kept his skills current but also led to unexpected career opportunities in emerging technologies.
Explore our collection of Inspirational Graduation Quotes on Learning for more ideas to incorporate into your speech.
Making a Difference
This category focuses on inspiring us to use our knowledge and skills to positively impact the world around us. Graduation quotes in this section often emphasize individual responsibility in creating social change.
These quotes can help us see our role in larger societal contexts, beyond personal success. They remind us that our education equips us not just for career advancement, but for meaningful contribution to our communities and the world at large.
Frequently, these quotes challenge conventional notions of success, prioritizing impact over personal gain. They encourage us to think about how we can use our unique talents and perspectives to address important issues and create positive change.
Quotes on Creating Positive Change
16. **”Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi**
Gandhi’s famous words encourage us to take personal responsibility for creating the positive changes we desire in society. This quote emphasizes the power of individual action in effecting broader social change.
It challenges us to align our personal behavior with our ideals for society. As we step into our adult roles, this reminder to embody our values becomes increasingly relevant.
The phrase implies that change starts at a personal level before expanding to larger contexts. It’s a powerful call to action, reminding us that global change begins with individual choices.
17. **”How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” – Anne Frank**
Frank’s quote highlights the immediate opportunity for positive action, inspiring us to start making a difference right away. This quote counters the notion that we must wait for the “right time” to create change.
It implies that improving the world is an ongoing process rather than a single, grand gesture. This perspective can motivate us to take small, consistent actions towards positive change.
The use of “wonderful” frames the ability to create change as a positive opportunity rather than a burden. It’s an optimistic outlook that can inspire us to embrace our potential for impact.
18. **”Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead**
Mead’s words empower us by emphasizing the potential impact of dedicated individuals working together for change. This quote challenges the perception that significant change requires large-scale efforts or influential positions.
It highlights the importance of thoughtfulness and commitment in creating change. As we form new social and professional circles post-graduation, this quote reminds us of the power of collaboration.
The phrase “it’s the only thing that ever has” presents this model of change as historically proven. It’s an encouraging reminder of the impact we can have when we work together towards common goals.
19. **”The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson**
Emerson’s quote encourages us to prioritize making a positive impact over personal happiness, presenting a purpose-driven approach to life. This quote challenges the common pursuit of happiness as life’s primary goal.
It presents a multi-faceted view of a well-lived life, emphasizing usefulness, honor, and compassion. As we consider our post-graduation paths, this perspective can guide us towards meaningful and fulfilling choices.
The phrase “make some difference” sets a realistic expectation for impact, encouraging us to focus on contribution rather than grand achievements. It’s a grounding reminder that even small acts of kindness and usefulness matter.
20. **”Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” – Theodore Roosevelt**
Roosevelt’s words inspire us to take action with our current resources and circumstances, rather than waiting for ideal conditions. This quote encourages immediate action, countering the tendency to postpone involvement due to perceived limitations.
It implies that making a difference doesn’t require extraordinary resources or circumstances. This message can be particularly empowering as we start our careers or further education, reminding us that we can create positive change regardless of our current situation.
The quote’s structure (do, have, are) provides a comprehensive framework for assessing one’s capacity for action. It prompts us to consider our current abilities, resources, and circumstances as starting points for making a difference.
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Embracing Life’s Journey
This category of graduation quotes focuses on encouraging us to fully engage with life’s experiences and find meaning in our personal journeys. Quotes in this section often emphasize the importance of active participation in one’s life story.
They frequently challenge conventional measures of success, encouraging a more holistic view of life satisfaction. As we prepare to leave the structured environment of school, these quotes remind us to embrace the unpredictability and richness of life’s journey.
These quotes can help us shift from a goal-oriented mindset to one that values the journey itself. They encourage us to appreciate the process of growth and discovery, rather than focusing solely on end results.
Quotes on Living Life to the Fullest
21. **”Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” – Mark Twain**
Twain’s quote encourages us to take risks and seize opportunities, emphasizing the regret of inaction over the potential disappointment of failure. This quote addresses the common fear of failure that often holds people back from pursuing opportunities.
It shifts the perspective from short-term consequences to long-term reflections on life choices. As we stand at the threshold of adulthood, this quote reminds us to be bold in our decisions and experiences.
The specific timeframe (twenty years) makes the concept more tangible and relatable. It prompts us to consider the long-term impact of our choices and encourages us to live without regrets.
22. **”Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” – John Lennon**
Lennon’s words remind us to stay present and adaptable, acknowledging that life often unfolds in unexpected ways. This quote challenges the notion that life follows a predetermined path.
It encourages us to remain open to unexpected opportunities and experiences. As we set out on our post-graduation journeys, this perspective can help us navigate the inevitable twists and turns with grace and flexibility.
The phrase implies a distinction between active living and passive planning, prioritizing the former. It’s a call to engage fully with the present moment, even as we work towards future goals.
23. **”The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” – Mark Twain**
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Twain’s quote emphasizes the importance of discovering one’s purpose in life, equating it with the significance of birth itself. This quote frames the discovery of purpose as a pivotal life event, comparable to one’s birth.
It implies that finding one’s purpose is not a given, but a discovery to be made. As we embark on our post-graduation paths, this quote encourages us to seek out our unique callings and passions.
The quote encourages introspection and self-discovery as crucial aspects of personal development. It reminds us that understanding our purpose can give our lives deeper meaning and direction.
24. **”In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” – Abraham Lincoln**
Lincoln’s words shift focus from longevity to the quality and richness of one’s experiences, encouraging us to live fully. This quote challenges the conventional measure of a life well-lived, prioritizing quality over quantity.
It prompts reflection on how to infuse more “life” into our years through meaningful experiences and actions. As we begin our adult lives, this perspective can guide us towards choices that enrich our experiences rather than simply extending our timelines.
The quote’s structure creates a memorable contrast between “years in your life” and “life in your years”. It’s a powerful reminder to make each day count and to seek out experiences that bring joy, growth, and meaning.
25. **”To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.” – Oscar Wilde**
Wilde’s quote provokes thought about the difference between merely existing and truly living, urging us to pursue a more engaged and purposeful life. This quote presents a stark contrast between passive existence and active living.
It challenges us to reflect on what it means to truly “live” rather than simply “exist”. As we transition from the structured environment of school to the open possibilities of adulthood, this quote encourages us to be intentional about how we spend our time and energy.
The use of “rarest” implies that fully living is both valuable and uncommon, making it an aspirational goal. It’s a call to embrace life’s experiences fully and to seek out opportunities for growth, joy, and meaningful engagement with the world around us.
Emily, inspired by Wilde’s quote, decided to pursue her passion for environmental conservation after graduation. Instead of settling for a conventional office job, she joined a marine research expedition, experiencing the thrill of discovery and making a tangible impact on ocean preservation.
Applying Quotes in Your Speech
Effectively incorporating quotes into your salutatorian speech requires thoughtful integration and personal connection. Proper quote integration involves more than mere recitation; it requires context-setting and personal reflection.
Effective use of quotes can reinforce your speech’s central themes and provide structure to your message. When done well, quotes serve as powerful anchors for your ideas, helping your audience connect with your message on a deeper level.
Balancing quoted material with original content ensures your unique voice remains prominent in the address. Remember, the quotes are there to support your message, not overshadow it.
Start your salutatorian speech here >>
Strategies for Quote Integration
Context Setting
Introduce each quote with a brief explanation of its relevance to your message, helping your audience understand its significance. Provide background information about the quote’s author or the circumstances under which it was said. This context can help your classmates connect more deeply with the quote’s meaning.
Explain how the quote relates to your speech’s theme or the experiences of your graduating class. This connection helps bridge the gap between the quoted wisdom and your audience’s personal experiences.
Use transitional phrases to smoothly lead into the quote, maintaining the flow of your speech. A well-crafted transition can make the difference between a quote that feels forced and one that naturally enhances your message.
Personal Connection
Share how the chosen quotes have impacted your own life or perspective, making them more relatable to your audience. Describe a specific experience or realization that connects to the quote’s message. This personal touch can bring the quote to life and make it more meaningful for your listeners.
Explain how the quote has influenced your decisions or shaped your outlook on future challenges. By sharing your personal connection, you invite your classmates to reflect on how the quote might apply to their own lives.
Draw parallels between the quote’s message and shared experiences of your graduating class. This approach can create a sense of unity and shared understanding among your audience.
Call to Action
Utilize quotes to motivate your fellow graduates, inspiring them to embrace specific mindsets or pursue meaningful goals. Follow the quote with a direct challenge or thought-provoking question for your classmates. This approach can turn passive listening into active engagement with your message.
Suggest concrete ways to apply the quote’s wisdom in post-graduation life. Practical applications can help your audience see how these words of wisdom can shape their future actions and decisions.
Frame the quote as a catalyst for collective aspirations among your graduating class. This approach can create a sense of shared purpose and motivation as you all embark on your new journeys.
Start your salutatorian speech here >>
Potential Pitfalls to Avoid
While quotes can elevate your speech, certain missteps can diminish their impact. Excessive reliance on quotes may overshadow your original insights and unique perspective. It’s crucial to strike a balance between quoted wisdom and your own thoughts.
Inaccurate attribution or misinterpretation of quotes can undermine your credibility. Always double-check your sources and ensure you understand the full context of each quote you use.
Overuse of familiar or clichéd quotes might cause your audience to disengage. Seek out fresh perspectives or lesser-known quotes to keep your speech engaging and thought-provoking.
Common Quote-Related Mistakes
Over-dependence on Quoted Material
Ensure your authentic voice remains prominent, using quotes to enhance rather than dominate your original content. Strive for a balance of approximately 80% original content and 20% quoted material. This ratio allows you to showcase your own insights while still benefiting from the wisdom of others.
Select quotes judiciously, choosing only those that significantly amplify your message. Each quote should serve a specific purpose within your speech’s structure and theme. If a quote doesn’t add substantial value, it’s better to omit it.
