Lesson 1: Make a Lasting Impression – The Science of First and Final Words

“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”
– Will Rogers

Why Do People Remember Some Messages but Forget Others?

Have you ever left a meeting, a speech, or a presentation remembering only the beginning and the very end?
That’s not a coincidence—it’s how our brains work.

The Science Behind First and Lasting Impressions

Cognitive psychology research shows that our memory gives priority to the first and last things we hear:

• The Primacy Effect: What we hear first shapes our perception and expectations.
• The Recency Effect: What we hear last is freshest in our minds and most likely to be remembered.

Everything in the middle? That’s where attention drops.
But there’s good news: with the right techniques, you can structure your speech to make every part impactful.

How to Use This in Public Speaking

Use an Unforgettable Opening

A strong start grabs attention and sets the tone. Here’s how:

• Ask a thought-provoking question – “What if I told you public speaking could be more terrifying than jumping out of a plane?”
• Make a bold statement – “Most speeches fail in the first 10 seconds.”
• Use a surprising fact: “75% of people fear public speaking more than death.”
• Tell a quick personal story – “Five years ago, I stood on a stage, frozen. Today, I speak to thousands.”

Quick Reflection: Think about a speech, TED Talk, or presentation you found memorable. What was the opening line?

Keep Attention Through the Middle

Attention naturally drops during the middle of a speech. Combat this by:

• Using the Rule of Three – People remember information grouped into three points.
• Telling stories instead of listing facts – Our brains process narratives 22x better than raw data.
• Changing your tone, pace, or movement – A sudden pause makes people refocus.

Quick Reflection: Think about the last time you zoned out during a speech. What would have kept you engaged?

End with a Lasting Impression

Your closing message determines what your audience remembers. Make it count!

• Summarize your key point in one sentence – “If you remember nothing else today, remember this…”
• Use an emotional call to action – “Your voice has power. Use it.”
• Leave your audience with a thought-provoking question: “How will you make your next speech unforgettable?”