The problem
Speeches are nerve-racking to write. The blank page leads to either a rushed ramble or something stiff and borrowed.
Step by step
- Write down three real stories or details about the person or occasion.
- Decide the length: most good toasts are two to three minutes.
- Ask the AI for a structure and a draft using only your stories.
- Rewrite it in your own words and read it aloud.
- Cut anything that only one person in the room will understand.
The prompt
Help me write a {length}-minute {type of speech} for {occasion}.
About: {person or event}
My real stories and details: {stories}
Tone: {tone}
Give me a simple structure, then a draft that uses only my stories. Keep sentences short and easy to say out loud. End with a clear toast or closing line.
Replace the {highlighted} parts with your details, or fill them in with the prompt builder.
Check before you use it
- Every story is true and fine to share in public.
- It fits the time when read aloud.
Privacy
- Avoid sharing private stories the person would not want told.
Do’s and don’ts
Do
- Use real, specific stories.
- Practise out loud twice.
- Keep it short.
Don’t
- Use AI jokes that are not about the real person.
- Read it word for word without looking up.
- Embarrass the person for laughs.
When not to use AI for this
A eulogy or very personal speech is best written mostly by you. Use AI for structure, not the words.
Tools that can help
ChatGPTOpenAI’s general assistant for drafting, summarising, analysing files and brainstorming.
ClaudeAnthropic’s general assistant, good with long documents, writing and analysis.
We are not paid by any of these companies, and we list well-known options, not a ranking. Features and plans change; check the provider’s site and its data terms before you sign up. See all AI tools by category.
Tried this playbook? Rate it.
Tips from travellers
Used AI for Write a speech or toast? Share what worked. The first good one goes right here.
Share a tip
Questions from readers
Stuck on Write a speech or toast? Ask the geeks.