Why is it important to use supporting materials in a speech?

Using supporting materials in a speech plays a crucial role in enhancing credibility and providing evidence for claims. When a speaker presents information, arguments, or assertions, it's essential to back them up with relevant facts, statistics, examples, and expert testimonials. This evidence helps to establish the speaker’s authority on the topic and builds trust with the audience.

When supporting materials are incorporated effectively, they not only strengthen the argument being made but also engage the audience by offering concrete examples or relatable anecdotes. This combination of credibility and relatability contributes to a more compelling and persuasive presentation. In contrast, while entertainment and length might be factors in a speech, they do not fundamentally address the necessity of substantiating claims, which is a critical component of effective public speaking. Similarly, speaker confidence is important, but it is inherently linked to the reassurance that comes from being well-prepared with solid supporting materials.