2022.04.30 – 0485 – 10 - Ad-libs


10 - Ad-libs

Ad-lib around, swapping out words as you come across them


It’s acting, isn’t it? And OK, it’s a bit odd to script sentences and then ignore the structure. And so too is creating a logical argument and then creating the impression that it’s ad-libbed!


When I write a script, I’m certainly doing so with an ear for it to be read aloud. But sometimes on air, the rhythm or a word seems wrong and I adlib something different, with, I hope, greater effect.


We look more at ad-libbing later, but here are a few more points:

·        Highlight the key points of a script and practice logically moving from one of the ideas to another without looking at each individual word.

·        Ad-libbing will help you find a natural rhythm and alternative natural phrases that you hadn’t considered when sitting at your keyboard: “Y’know”, “Let’s face it”, “As you know”, “Which kinda makes sense” and so on which you can have to hand or build in to the presentation (but beware of verbal crutches – phrases that you use too much and come to rely on instead of clear, compelling content).

·        Include additional oral ejaculations – so if talking with a co-host this may include “well…” or “that’s right…”, “now” or “so” at the start of answers, or “uh-huh” to agree with them as they are talking.


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