Pencil Speech Exercise

A technique for improving speech and presentation skills, originally from Connor McGregor, involving a simple pencil exercise for better enunciation.

Core Exercise Steps

• Place pencil/pen horizontally in mouth
• Hold it sideways between teeth
• Position so it extends past cheeks
• Talk for 1 minute with pencil in place

How It Works

• Creates awkward mouth position
• Forces tongue to work harder
• Makes you flick tongue over/under pencil
• Results in better enunciation

Validation Method

• Record before/after samples
• Have others listen to compare
• Noticeable improvement in speech clarity
• Works regardless of placebo effect

Additional Pre-Performance Tips

• Physical changes help mental state

  • Quick exercises (pushups, sprints, jumping jacks)
  • Screaming
  • Music
  • Any rapid body movement

• Social warmup

  • Talk to receptionist
  • Chat with Uber driver
  • Gets words flowing
  • Improves mood

• Mental preparation

  • Don't memorize content
  • Stay present in the moment
  • Believe audience needs your message
  • Focus on serving listeners