presentation skills rule of 3

Want Your Presentation to Be Memorable? Follow the Rule of Three

• by Brad Holst

What makes a presentation memorable?

If you’re listening to a dynamic speaker, you might quickly point to their ease of manner, to their tone of voice, or even to their warmth and authenticity. You’d be right, all of these things are essential to a successful presentation.

But what about the content? If you take away all of the behavioral elements, how can a presenter make you remember the core of what they have to say?

The best leaders and presenters understand how to overtly use the rule of three to deliver information efficiently and with focus, while projecting a credible executive presence. Let’s take a look at how you can use this powerful organizational tool in your own presentation content.

Listening Is Hard Work

Even under the best of circumstances, listening is a more complex activity than we think. In his studies, Ralph Nichols , an early pioneer in communications at the University of Minnesota, determined that immediately after the average person has listened to someone talk, they remember only about half of what they have heard—no matter how carefully they felt they were listening. More modern studies have shown that most of us listen at or below a 25% efficiency rate. What’s more is that we may only remember about half of what’s said during a 10-minute conversation, and still forget half of that within 48 hours.

Now imagine our ultra-modern meeting spaces with the distractions of laptops, smartphones, and virtual conference rooms. Look at what your content has to compete with!

Everyone’s Working Memory Is Limited

Often, one of the biggest challenges in business presentations is the fact that multiple stakeholders want to keep adding to the content. Before you know it, your small list of “must know” items has become a long list of items that includes the “nice to knows” and some additional tedious details that no one in the room will actually need to know.

This kind of presentation can quickly become an unorganized, unintuitive mess. There’s a good reason why no one will remember all that information at once.

You’re overloading your listener’s working memory.

The classic psychology study on memory by Harvard Professor George Miller and subsequent work by researchers  Simon and Chase  have demonstrated that people can repeat back a list of no more than about seven randomly ordered, meaningful items or “chunks” (which could be letters, digits, or words). This work became the basis for best practices like chunking digits like telephone numbers into three parts, making it much easier to remember and act on than a single block of 10 random numbers.

More modern memory studies have refined Miller’s determinations and have redefined working memory capacities. Nelson Cowan describes his findings that, on average, our central memory stores are limited to three to five meaningful items. Cognitive load theory also suggests that when you begin to overload these basic limitations, learning and retention just doesn’t happen.

Understanding the Rule of Three

The rule of three is ubiquitous.

Humans are both neurologically and culturally adapted to the number three and its combination of brevity and rhythm. We know from studies in neuroscience that our brains seek out patterns and finds the structure of three to be a complete set; it feels whole.

Three is the least number of items in a series that make a pattern, and once you start looking for this pattern, you’ll see that it’s everywhere.

In mathematics it’s a rule that allows you to solve problems based on proportions. In science there are three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas. The Latin maxim omne trium perfectu m (everything that comes in threes is perfection) echoes Aristotle and his Ars Rhetorica . There Aristotle posits that the most persuasive rhetorical appeals must rely on ethos, pathos, and logos.

Extrapolate from that, and even simple storytelling and narratives have a simple structure of a beginning, a middle and an end.

Using the Rule of Three to Your Advantage

The good news is that you can easily incorporate the rule of three into your presentation planning right away and see a remarkable difference in your content’s clarity and impact. For example, the rule of three can be used to great advantage when opening a presentation:

• First raise a problem or opportunity to grab the audience’s attention
• Then suggest how that problem can be resolved with a motivating call to action
• Follow that by a sharing a tightly focused agenda

If you’ve used The Mandel Blueprint® content planning tool, you’ve already experienced the rule of three in action to structure these three steps. It contains Mandel’s thinking and messaging framework, SCI-PAB® (Situation/Complication/Implication – Position/Action/Benefit®), a two-step intuitive problem/resolution framework, with each of step divided into three parts:

• SCI will ensure you raise a problem or opportunity that the audience understands and cares about.
• PAB motivates the audience to action by creating clarity on the path forward and the value of the outcomes.
• And when you share an agenda with something as simple as “Today I’d like to focus on these three things…” you project an efficient, powerful, and engaging executive presence.

Never forget that there are dozens of other things competing for your listener’s mindshare. You need to quickly inspire confidence in others regarding your leadership ability and set them up for active listening and participation.

Structuring an Agenda

With or without a SCI-PAB to guide your content, as a general rule, you should create a tightly focused agenda of three main points that support your primary idea.

Ask yourself, if the audience is only going to remember three things, what should they be?

Focus on delivering the “must know” information for the audience, but prepare your answers to any questions regarding what would be “nice to know.” If they’re interested, rest assured that the audience will ask you about it.

Resist the temptation to add additional agenda points unless absolutely necessary. Any more than three items dilutes the focus of your presentation and can creep into that realm of high cognitive load for your audience. Overloading their working memory during your presentation means people simply won’t remember what you have to say.

The Power of Three

Our modern meeting spaces and technology distractions can tax even the most conscientious listener. Your goal is to cut through this competition for mindshare and deliver your content in a focused, easy-to-process, and intuitive manner.

Using the rule of three taps into something deeply human in all of us. Its roots in storytelling, critical thinking, and neuroscience make it a powerful tool that anyone can use with great success.

Try using it the next couple of times you need to present. Don’t be discouraged if you need to practice more than once or twice.

Third time’s a charm.

Works Cited (alphabetical order)

Chase, W.G. and Simon, H.A. (1973). Perception in chess. Cognitive Psychology 4(1): 55–81. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0010028573900042

Cowan, Nelson. (2010). The magical mystery four: How is working memory capacity limited, and why? Current Directions in Psychological Science, 19 (1): 51-57. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2864034/

Grabmeier, Jeff. (2018). This is your brain detecting patterns. Sciencedaily.com. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/05/180531114642.htm

Miller, George. A. (1955) The magical number seven, plus or minus two. Psychological Review, Vol. 101, No. 2, 343-352. Retrieved from http://www.psych.utoronto.ca/users/peterson/psy430s2001/Miller%20GA%20Magical%20Seven%20Psych%20Review%201955.pdf

Nichols, Ralph G. and Stevens, L. (1957). Listening to people. Harvard Business Review. Retrieved from https://hbr.org/1957/09/listening-to-people

Soloman, Howard. (n.d.). Cognitive Load Theory (John Sweller). Instructionaldesgin.org. Retrieved from https://www.instructionaldesign.org/theories/cognitive-load/

Thill, John and Bovee, C.L. (2004). Excellence in Business Communication. Prentice Hall

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Transform your presentations with the rule of three.

Recently, I wrote about how to use the rule of thirds in composing and framing your video image and how that impacts your credibility. Three is a powerful number that guides how our brains process information. It holds a special place in the way great speeches and presentations have been written and delivered.

The rule of three is a widespread organizing principle for just about everything in our world. In physics, we have Newton’s three laws of motion. In music, we have the concept of triads and three-part harmony. Most stories, whether in theater, folk tales, or movies, follow the three-act structure of a beginning, a middle and an end.

The knack for pattern recognition is hard-wired into our brains, which seem to work best when thinking in trios. If you want something to stay in people’s heads, put it into a tri-part sequence. The possibilities run from the banal to the sublime:

🌼Snap crackle pop. 🌼Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. 🌼Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Once you’re aware of the rule you’ll start to see and hear it everywhere: Blood sweat and tears. Lights, camera, action. The Three Stooges. Three Little Pigs. Just Do It  (Nike ). Turn to Cold (Tide). Taste the Feeling (Coke). The list is endless.

Take the tricolon , a rhetorical device using a series of three words, phrases or sentences in a parallel structure, length, or rhythm that produces sticky phrases. For example, “We cannot desecrate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground,” from Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.

In pop culture, one iconic film scene has been memorialized in memes as The Phone Speech. Liam Neeson as Bryan Mills in Taken 1 speaks a warning to his daughter’s captor: “ I will look for you, I will find you, and I will kill you.”

Simplicity is that makes the rule of three so powerful, satisfying, and persuasive.

“One won’t do, two isn’t quite enough,” as James Bond author Ian Fleming noted in Goldfinger. He wrote: “Once is happenstance. Twice is a coincidence. Three times is enemy action.”

Here are three ways to use the rule of three in your next speech or presentation:

1. Structure the core of your presentation into three parts.

🌼Beginning, middle, end. 🌼Opportunity, solution, benefit. 🌼Problem, solution, action.

2. Use three bullets to support a main idea.

According to Roy Peter Clark , senior scholar at The Poynter Institute: “The mojo of three offers a greater sense of completeness than four or more.”  

🌼One bullet is a power statement. 🌼Two bullets are for comparison and contrast. 🌼Three bullets offer completeness, wholeness, and roundness

3. Feature three agenda items or supporting ideas for your speech.

Organize your content into three units to help your audience follow along, understand your idea, and buy into your point of view. Announcing that you have “three solutions to share with you today,” sparks attention.  Meetings you lead will be more gratifying. People will want to attend your presentations knowing that they will leave with a trio of valuable ideas worthy of their time.

Legendary author and lecturer Dale Carnegie said about presentation structure: “Tell them what you’re going to tell them, tell them, then tell them what you just told them.”

Now that you know a bit more about the rule of three and how it can help you be a better speaker and presenter, you can begin to put it into practice to bring structure and clarity to your business communication.

Implementing the rule of three is as easy as ABC. It requires a shift in your mindset to identify what is truly essential. Yet, it can have a huge impact on the way you are perceived and whether people want to listen to what you have to say.

Rosemary Ravinal

Business leaders and entrepreneurs who want to elevate their public speaking impact, executive presence, and media interview skills come to me for personalized attention and measurable results. I am recognized as America’s Premier Bilingual Public Speaking Coach after decades as a corporate spokesperson and media personality in the U.S. mainstream, Hispanic and Latin American markets. My company’s services are available for individuals, teams, in-person and online, and in English and Spanish in South Florida and elsewhere.

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How to Use the ‘Rule of Three’ for Engaging Speeches

The ‘rule of three’ is a powerful technique for creating engaging speeches. By organizing your content into three main points or ideas, you can capture and hold your audience’s attention more effectively.

This article will explore how to use the ‘rule of three’ to create speeches that are memorable, impactful, and engaging. Whether you are giving a presentation at work, delivering a toast at a wedding, or speaking at a public event, mastering this technique will help you become a more confident and persuasive speaker.

So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets of using the ‘rule of three’ to captivate your audience.

Credit: virtualspeech.com

Table of Contents

Using Rhetorical Devices

Learn how to create engaging speeches using the ‘rule of three’, a rhetorical device that involves grouping ideas into sets of three. This technique adds emphasis, rhythm, and memorability to your speech, making it more impactful and memorable for your audience.

Whether you’re presenting to a large crowd or in a one-on-one setting, mastering the ‘rule of three’ can elevate your speaking skills to the next level.

The art of delivering an engaging speech lies in the effective use of rhetorical devices. By incorporating the ‘rule of three’ into your speech, you can captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression. This rule suggests that things that come in threes are inherently more satisfying, effective, and memorable.

One way to implement this rule is by using triads for emphasis.

Using Triads For Emphasis:

• Triads involve grouping similar ideas or concepts into sets of three.
• By following this pattern, you can create a sense of completeness and balance in your speech.
• Triads can be used to enhance your message, emphasize key points, or provide supporting evidence.
• Here are some examples of triads in action:
• “i came, i saw, i conquered” – julius caesar
• “government of the people, by the people, for the people” – abraham lincoln
• “friends, romans, countrymen” – mark antony in shakespeare’s julius caesar

Utilizing repetition for emphasis:

• Repetition is a powerful rhetorical device that can help drive home your message.
• By repeating key words or phrases, you can create emphasis and reinforce your ideas.
• Repetition can also help in building a rhythm and creating a memorable speech.
• Here are some ways to use repetition effectively:
• Repeat a word or phrase at the beginning or end of consecutive sentences or paragraphs.
• Use anaphora, repeating a word or phrase at the beginning of multiple clauses or sentences.
• Employ epistrophe, repeating a word or phrase at the end of multiple clauses or sentences.
• Example: “i have a dream” – martin luther king jr. In his famous speech

Employing parallelism for clarity:

• Parallelism involves using similar grammatical structures or patterns to create clarity and balance in your speech.
• It helps in guiding your audience’s understanding and makes your speech more cohesive.
• Here are some ways to employ parallelism:
• Use parallel sentence structures by starting each sentence with the same grammatical form.
• Create parallel clauses by using the same structure in multiple parts of a sentence.
• Example: “ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country” – john f. kennedy

By using triads for emphasis, repetition for emphasis, and employing parallelism for clarity, you can elevate the impact of your speeches and ensure your message remains captivating and memorable. So, the next time you craft your speech, remember the power of the ‘rule of three’ and make your words resonate with your audience.

Incorporating Stories And Examples

Learn how to use the powerful ‘rule of three’ to create captivating speeches by incorporating stories and examples. Discover how this technique can engage your audience and make your message memorable.

Telling Three Related Stories:

• Story 1: The power of personal anecdotes
• Start with an intriguing personal story or experience that connects with the topic.
• Share how incorporating personal anecdotes can captivate an audience and make your speech more relatable.
• Explain the impact of using storytelling to convey messages effectively.
• Story 2: The art of historical narratives
• Introduce a historical event or figure that aligns with your speech’s key point.
• Describe how historical narratives can engage listeners by providing context and relevance.
• Illustrate how weaving historical stories into your speech can make complex ideas more accessible.
• Story 3: Unveiling inspiring success stories
• Highlight a remarkable success story or achievement that supports your speech’s main theme.
• Emphasize how sharing success stories can inspire and motivate your audience.
• Discuss the significance of using real-life examples to strengthen your key message.

Sharing Three Relevant Examples:

• Example 1: Sports and overcoming challenges
• Outline a sports-related example that demonstrates perseverance and resilience.
• Show how using this type of example can connect with audiences who appreciate sports references.
• Explain how relating the example to your topic can aid in reinforcing your speech’s central idea.
• Example 2: Technological innovations and impact
• Discuss a trending technological development that showcases the power of innovation.
• Describe how incorporating relevant examples can establish credibility and relevance.
• Demonstrate how these examples can assist in clarifying complex concepts or ideas.
• Example 3: Social issues and creating change
• Present an example of a social issue where individuals or groups have enacted positive change.
• Emphasize how using this type of example can elicit emotions and engage listeners.
• Discuss the importance of inspiring action through relatable and impactful examples.

Explaining Three Case Studies:

• Case study 1: The power of storytelling in advertising
• Examine a case study where a company effectively used storytelling techniques in their advertising campaigns.
• Highlight the benefits of storytelling and its impact on the brand’s message and customer engagement.
• Analyze the success factors and outcomes of the case study, providing insightful takeaways.
• Case study 2: Public speaking and personal growth
• Explore a case study of an individual who overcame their fear of public speaking and experienced personal growth.
• Discuss the transformative effects public speaking can have on one’s confidence and communication skills.
• Evaluate the key steps, techniques, and mindset shifts that led to the positive outcomes in the case study.
• Case study 3: Using examples in educational settings
• Investigate a case study where incorporating relevant examples enhanced the effectiveness of an educational program.
• Highlight how using examples created a deeper understanding and improved knowledge retention among students.
• Evaluate the strategies employed in the case study and their implications for educational practices.

Creating Memorable Soundbites

Learn how to create engaging speeches using the ‘rule of three’ to craft memorable soundbites. By structuring your speech with three key points, you can capture your audience’s attention and deliver impactful messages.

Crafting Three Impactful Soundbites

• The rule of three is a powerful tool for creating memorable soundbites in your speeches. By following this principle, you can engage your audience, make your key points stand out, and leave a lasting impression. Here are some tips for crafting three impactful soundbites:
• Keep it concise: Soundbites are supposed to be short and snappy. Aim for a maximum of 10-15 words to ensure they are easy to remember and repeat.
• Focus on key messages: Identify the three most important messages you want to convey in your speech. Each soundbite should encapsulate one of these messages in a compelling and concise manner.
• Use strong imagery or metaphors: Incorporate vivid imagery or metaphors into your soundbites to make them more memorable and engaging. This helps to convey your ideas in a way that sticks with your audience.

Injecting Humor Into The Three Soundbites

• Adding humor to your soundbites can make them even more impactful and catchy. Humor not only entertains your audience but also helps to build rapport and make your message more relatable. Here’s how you can inject humor into your three soundbites:
• Puns and wordplay: Play with words to create clever and witty soundbites. Use puns, double entendres, or unexpected word combinations to add a touch of humor and make your soundbites more memorable.
• Anecdotes and funny stories: Incorporate humorous anecdotes or funny stories into your soundbites. These real-life examples can not only entertain your audience but also serve to illustrate your points in a lighthearted way.
• Surprise and irony: Injecting surprise or irony into your soundbites can evoke laughter from your audience. Use unexpected twists or ironic statements to catch their attention and make your soundbites more memorable.

Using The Rule Of Three For Catchy Slogans

• The rule of three is not limited to speeches; it can also be applied to create catchy slogans that resonate with your audience. Whether you’re promoting a product, service, or idea, using this principle can help your slogan stick in people’s minds. Here’s how to use the rule of three for catchy slogans:
• Simplicity is key: Craft your slogan using three concise and impactful words or phrases. Make sure it’s easy to understand and remember, avoiding unnecessary complexity.
• Rhythm and repetition: Consider the rhythm and flow of your slogan. Using parallel structure or repeated sounds can make it more catchy and appealing to the ear.
• Emphasize benefits: Highlight the key benefits or unique selling points of your product or service in your slogan. By focusing on what your audience wants or needs, you can create a slogan that captures their attention and resonates with them.

Remember, the rule of three is a versatile technique that can be applied not only in speeches but also in various other forms of communication. By crafting impactful soundbites and catchy slogans, you can effectively engage your audience and leave a lasting impression.

Frequently Asked Questions Of How To Use The ‘Rule Of Three’ To Create Engaging Speeches

What is the ‘rule of three’ in speeches.

The ‘rule of three’ is a rhetorical technique where ideas or concepts are presented in groups of three. This helps to make the speech more engaging and memorable to the audience. By using the power of three, you can create a pattern that is easy to follow and understand.

How Does The ‘Rule Of Three’ Improve Speech Delivery?

The ‘rule of three’ improves speech delivery by providing structure and rhythm to your message. It allows you to create a concise and impactful argument or story. By grouping ideas in threes, you make them more memorable and easier to comprehend, which ultimately engages and captivates your audience.

Can The ‘Rule Of Three’ Be Used In Different Types Of Speeches?

Absolutely! The ‘rule of three’ can be used in various types of speeches such as persuasive speeches, informative speeches, and even entertaining speeches. It is a versatile technique that helps you capture and hold the attention of your audience, regardless of the nature of your speech.

How Can I Incorporate The ‘Rule Of Three’ In My Speech?

To incorporate the ‘rule of three’ in your speech, start by identifying the main points or key ideas you want to convey. Then, structure your speech by grouping these points into three distinct categories. Make sure to craft each category with a clear and concise message.

This will make your speech more organized and impactful.

Utilizing the ‘rule of three’ in speech creation is a powerful method for engaging your audience and making your message more memorable. By organizing your ideas into three distinct points, you provide structure and clarity to your speech. This technique has been used by the world’s greatest speakers throughout history, proving its effectiveness.

Firstly, the ‘rule of three’ facilitates comprehension by breaking down complex ideas into manageable chunks. Secondly, it creates a rhythm that captures the attention of your listeners and maintains their engagement. Lastly, it enables you to emphasize your key points and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Remember to include a mix of verbal and visual elements to enhance your speeches. Practice frequently and seek feedback to improve your delivery. By incorporating the ‘rule of three’ into your speechwriting, you will be well on your way to captivating your audience and delivering effective and impactful presentations.

So, start implementing this rule today and watch your speeches come to life.

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• Presentations
• Presentation Techniques

Rules of PowerPoint (Rule of 3 and More)

Do you want to give the best presentation? Have you ever created a presentation and thought it could be better but don’t know how to make it better? You can follow PowerPoint rules to make your presentation look better.

One of these rules is the rule of three. In this article, we’ll cover the rule of three and other PowerPoint rules to help you create better presentations.

Jump to content in this section:

What Is the Rule of Three?

How to use the rule of three in your presentation, more powerpoint rules.

Before we cover how to use the rule of three in your PowerPoint presentation, we need to answer the questions: what is the rule of three?  

This writing principle says people understand concepts, situations, and ideas in three groups. This rule can work for sentences, situations, or stories.

We are used to things coming in threes. Many phrases come in threes such as:

• blood, sweat, and tears
• stop, drop, and roll

Since it’s so common, our brain remembers things that come in three more easily because it's expected.

Now we’ve answered the question, what is the rule of 3? Let’s look at how to use it in PowerPoint presentations.

The presentation that will be used throughout this article is the Minimal Presentation PowerPoint Template from Envato Elements.

This premium template comes with over 300 total slides. It also comes with ten color scheme options that you can choose from.

If you want to add some visual interest to your presentation, this template makes it easy through its picture placeholders and 4000 vector icons that come with it.

The rule of three can be used to make your presentation more memorable and stand out. This is how you use the rule of three in your presentation, along with some rule of three examples.

1. Divide Your Presentation

When making a presentation that uses the rule of three, you need to divide your presentation into three parts. The parts are usually the beginning, middle, and end.

Two other ways you can divide your presentation are:

• opportunity, solution, benefit
• problem, solution, action

Your whole presentation should be structured around the number three. This means that you should have three main points in your presentation.

For example, three main points of a presentation could be:

• dogs, cats, and hamsters

Another example would be if your presentation were about the environment. You could divide it into three parts:

• identification
• conservation.

2. Use Bullet Points

According to the rule of three, you should only use three bullet points to support your points.

Three points are easier to remember. When you have three bullet points, your presentation looks full without looking overwhelmingly full.

3. Use Catchy Phrases

If you use catchy phrases, you should follow the rule of three to make those phrases more memorable.

You can use the rule of three in two ways.

• You can have a catchy phrase with three words, such as “lights, camera, action.” 
• You can also use a phrase with three words like this quote from Plato: “There are three classes of men: lovers of wisdom, lovers of honor, and lovers of gain.”

4. Use Visual Images

Every good presentation has visuals, but how do you use the rule of three with your visuals?

It's simple. If you use icons, you should only use three. If you use images, follow the rule of three.

You can also use a single image containing three aspects—the ground, mountains, and the horizon.

5. Use the Rule of Three in Flow Charts

Using the rule of three for this part is more complicated, but it is necessary to follow the rule. If you use graphs or flowcharts, you should have three main sections of that chart.

Flowcharts are great to show the process. If you want to follow the rule of three, make sure that It has three main sections.

If you use a graph to represent data, try to have three sections in your graph. For example, if you use a bar graph try having three bars in that graph if possible.

6. Use Three Main Colors

When deciding your color scheme, you should consider the rule of three. This can mean having three main colors that you use throughout your presentation. It can also mean having three colors on your slide.

Here are more PowerPoint rules that you can follow to make your presentation look better:

1. Rule of Thirds

You may be asking what’s the difference between the rule of three and the rule of thirds.

Let’s answer What's the rule of thirds?

The design rule of thirds is where you break up an image or design into different sections using columns and rows to form a grid. The grid is placed over the image and has nine equal boxes with three evenly spaced rows and columns.

The goal of the rule of thirds is that you don’t place the main elements in the center of images. You place the main elements on either the left or right. In the example above, you’ll see that the main focus (the girl with her dog) is on the left of the image, following the rule of thirds.

2. 5/5/5 Rule

The 5/5/5 rule says:

• You shouldn’t have more than five words per text in a line.
• Each slide should have no more than five lines.
• You shouldn’t have more than five text-heavy slides in a row.

When you have too many text-heavy slides in a row, it can tire your audience.

3. Font Rule

The font rule states that you should choose a font that is easy to read, and the color stands out against your slide background. Also, your text should be large enough for people in the back of the room to read it.

4. Seven by Seven

The seven-by-seven rule is where you use no more than seven words per line and no more than seven lines per visual.

If you need more words, make bullet points as sub-points below the main point. The maximum is one key point with six subpoints on a single slide.

Your slides are used to emphasize a single point. The example slide above follows the seven-by-seven rule because it has one key point and six sub-points.

5. Image Rule

The image rule is that you should use an image that is relevant to your presentation.

For example, if you’re doing a presentation on food, having an image of a basketball can confuse the audience. Your audience may forget the text but are more likely to remember your image. You also shouldn’t have too many images or graphics because they lose their effect if you do.

6. The One Principle

The one principle is similar to the image rule. It states that you should limit each visual to one idea, concept, or main point.

It can be overwhelming for the audience if you have more than one main point on a slide and use visuals for multiple points.

7. One-Minute Test

The one-minute test is where you put yourself in the audience's shoes. If your audience needs more than one minute to figure out what your slide says, then it’s too complex. If your slide is too complex, it can cause your audience to lose focus on what you’re saying.

8. 10/20/30 Rule

The 10/20/30 rule says a presentation should be no more than ten slides longer than twenty minutes and use fonts no smaller than thirty.

Some believe it's hard for audiences to comprehend more than ten concepts during a presentation. This means that your presentation shouldn’t have more than ten slides.

Knowing you have twenty minutes to give your presentation allows you to structure your presentation well.

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The Rule of Three for Presentations

• By: Scott Schwertly

The Rule of Three is a classic writing principle that may also be slightly imbued with magic. It states that ideas or stories presented in threes are more memorable to the listener. Think of things in our culture that utilize this: “stop, drop, and roll,” “9-1-1,” and even “beginning, middle, and end” in storytelling. So, where can you use the Rule of Three in your presentation?

1. Takeaway

Divide your message into three chunks. What are the benefits of your service? What are the main things you want the audience to walk away remembering? Most people don’t have the memory (or attention) to remember five or six main points; however, three is a number we are uniquely attuned to recall.

Steve Jobs was famous for using the Rule of Three in his presentations. In 2011, he described the iPad 2 as “thinner, lighter, and faster” than the first. These three adjectives were massively effective; they said everything the audience needed to know. It was much more successful than if he had announced “20 ways the iPad 2 is different from its predecessor.”

2. Instruction

If you aim to instruct, divide your teaching into three main steps. The TSA, for example, has a three-step process for security: “show ID and boarding pass, take out liquids, and take off shoes and jackets.” This sequential set is extremely easy to remember, and the technique can (and should) be used in an instructional presentation.

Another instructional technique that uses the Rule of Three is as follows: tell your audience what you are going to say. Say it. Then, tell them what you just said.

3. Narrative

Many great stories and even some not-so-great jokes have been structured in the classic Rule of Three. Think of “Goldilocks and the Three Bears,” “The Three Little Pigs,” and “Three Blind Mice.” This also includes the sequential order of a beginning, middle, and end. You can use this structure in a presentation to introduce your subject, describe an obstacle, and then reveal what is required to overcome it.

But why use a narrative? “ Neurologists say that our brains are programmed much more for stories than for abstract ideas. Tales with a little drama are remembered far longer than any slide crammed with analytics .” –  John Kotter, author of “A Sense of Urgency.”

Consider the Latin phrase “ Omne trium perfectum , ” which means “everything that comes in threes is perfect, or, every set of three is complete .” No matter the content, the Rule of Three should be used in your presentation. It will boost the memory of your audience, and can even help you remember your main points while you speak.

Question: How can you use the Rule of Three in your next presentation?

Scott Schwertly

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How To Present A Clear Message To Any Audience: The Rule of Three

by Andrea Pacini — Tuesday 9 August 2022

Have you ever had this experience: it becomes increasingly obvious to you during a presentation that the structure isn’t clear enough? You’re losing the audience (which might be clients, colleagues, the board, partners or investors).

If so, you are not alone. Most business leaders and professionals struggle with this.

Fortunately, there is one simple yet powerful communication technique that will help you: the Rule of Three.

The Rule of Three

Three is the most powerful number in communication. An audience is far more likely to remember information if it’s presented in groups of threes.

If you give your audience one piece of information, they will feel it’s not enough. If you offer more than three they may find that overwhelming.

Harvard Professor George Miller published a paper in 1956 called The Magical Number Seven, Plus or Minus Two . He argued at the time that we struggle to retain more than seven or nine digits.

More recent scientific research brings that figure down to three or four pieces of information.

The advert which launched the original BBC Three channel featured a song by Bob Durough in which he sings: “Three is a magic number”. There is something so right about things that come in threes. They are effective and satisfying.

Three in Everyday Life

Threes are deeply embedded in our culture as easy ways to remember things. Once you realise it you’ll notice threes everywhere.

Good stories have a beginning, middle and end

Most plays have three acts

Films and books come in trilogies

Some of the best marketing slogans use just three words

Just Do It (Nike)

I’m loving it (McDonald’s)

Every little helps (Tesco)

Taste the difference (Sainsbury’s)

The UK government used the power of three for their Covid slogans

Stay at Home, Protect the NHS, Save Lives

Hands, Face, Space

Some of the most powerful political statements use three

Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité (the national motto of France)

Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness (the well-known phrase from the United States’ Declaration of Independence)

Government of the people, by the people, for the people (Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address)

Our priorities are Education, Education, Education (Tony Blair)

Fairy tales often use three for maximum impact

The Three Musketeers

The Three Little Pigs

Many businesses use a three-tier pricing structure. You often come across bronze, silver and gold price points or service levels. It’s no coincidence that we use the same system for first, second and third in sporting events. No one cares who came fourth.

The rule of three is often used to great effect in comedy. Comedies often have three characters (like the old Englishman, Irishman and Scotsman routines). The first two examples are sensible and the third is ridiculous.

Using three words or three phrases for maximum impact appears in all sorts of other areas of life. Here are some other famous examples:

Ready, steady, go

The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth

Sex, drugs & rock n’ roll

See it, say it, sorted (British Transport Police)

Applying the Rule of Three to Presentations

Next time you prepare a presentation, try applying the Rule of Three. Break down your structure into three parts.

At Ideas on Stage we’ve worked with thousands of clients since 2010 and I’ve never seen a presentation that can’t be divided into three parts.

If you aren’t doing this, and paying attention to the way you structure your presentations, you’re making it unnecessarily difficult for your audience to follow you, remember what you say, and take action.

To help you understand how you can apply the magic number three to your presentations, here are some examples I’ve come across in a business context. Feel free to adapt these for your own use.

• The three priorities we’ll use to achieve the sales target for the next quarter
• Three reasons to buy your product or service
• Problem, Solution, Call to action
• Three benefits to your solution
• Three reasons why the board should approve the budget for your project
• Three reasons to hire you
• Context, Actions, Results
• Three reasons to invest in your startup

Sticking to Three

People often push back about the Rule of Three and tell me they have more than three points to share during a presentation. How can they possibly stick to three points?

If you’re thinking the same, ask yourself the following:

• Do you really need to include everything? Are those nine points of equal importance? Of course not. Often, it’s better to explain three things that someone will comprehend rather than overwhelming them with too much information. Remember, if everything is important, nothing is important .
• If there really are nine important points, can they be grouped into three sections? Perhaps there are patterns and points of connection? Try combining certain elements so you can still stick to the Rule of Three.

Putting it into Practice

Alan Furley is the Co-Founder and CEO of ISL Talent, an award-winning UK Recruitment Consultancy. They work as a talent partner to startups and scaleups to help them build strong teams.

We worked with Alan to help him create a presentation for prospects on the following topic: How To Get Your First 10 Hires Right.

Alan broke the one-hour presentation down into three key messages which had some supporting points (also broken down into threes).

Key message 1: If you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail

• Spend time planning before jumping into hiring
• A clear process for your next hire
• The power of an Org Chart

Key message 2: Treat your employees like you treat customers

• Stand out to people who aren’t looking for a job
• Think about them not you
• Purpose, team and values in hiring

Key message 3: Think retention first, recruitment second

• Hire potential vs credentials
• Capturing your values
• Have a retention plan

The beauty of this technique is that it works all the time. Regardless of how long your presentation is — 5 minutes, 30 minutes or an hour — you can always structure your content into three parts.

I use the Rule of Three myself when I’m running group workshops for our clients. The course comprises five online sessions of three hours each. I like to structure the whole workshop into three parts across those 15 hours like this:

• How to craft a captivating message
• How to reinforce your message with powerful visuals
• How to deliver your message with confidence

The Rule of Three in Real Life

In 2007 an academic paper titled The rule of three: How the third event signals the emergence of a streak examined people’s perception of ‘streaks’ in stock market movement and sports victories.

When something repeats three times we are most likely to see that as a ‘streak’. If it happens more often we don’t place any more importance on it.

The study asked students how much (theoretical) inheritance money they would invest in a stock. The students were prepared to put the most money into shares when they had risen in value over the three previous days. If the stock continued to rise it didn’t make them any more likely to invest.

Similarly, bookies and gamblers place greater weight on teams that have won three games in a row.

The study concluded that punters would be well advised to bet against teams that have won three games in a row and back teams that have lost three games in a row (in order to beat the market).

If you try to deliver too many points to your audience you will lose them along the way.

Our brains are wired to find the Rule of Three particularly satisfying and we retain three pieces of information more easily than any other quantity.

The Rule of Three is widely deployed in literature, comedy and politics. It finds its way into all sorts of catchphrases and slogans.

Using the Rule of Three in your presentations is highly effective. Any presentation can be restructured to conform to three sections.

Even if you have more points to make, still try to structure your presentation in three parts.

If you enjoyed this article, I would love to hear from you. Please get in touch or share the article with any colleagues or friends who might benefit from the ideas.

If you want to become a more confident presenter, take the Confident Presenter Scorecard . Answer simple Yes/No questions, get an instant score plus suggestions for improvement. It takes less than 3 minutes. Once you complete the scorecard, you’ll receive a free pdf copy of my best-selling book Confident Presenter .

Examples of the Rule of Three

A good presentation technique is the rule of three.

The rule of three is based on the technique that people tend to remember three things.  In oratoration it comes up all the time. So by repeating something three times or using the alliteration with three words, a quite ordinary speech becomes quite emotive.

Good speeches are peppered with lists with three items

1. “Friends, Romans, Countrymen” – William Shakespeare in Julius Caesar 2. “Blood, sweat and tears” – General Patton 3. Our priorities are “Education, Education, Education” – Prime Minister, Tony Blair

They are used in religion…

1. “Father, Son and Holy Spirit” 2. “Faith, Hope and Charity”

… in Public Safety

1. “Stop, Look and Listen”

… and in the film industry

1. “The good, the bad and the ugly” 2. “Sex, lies and videotape”

Putting it simply if you want your message to be remembered put it into a list of three.

Think about – if there are only three points that I would like to leave my audience with, what would they be? And then use no more than three themes per slide. Here are more examples of the rule of three.

“Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” – the American Declaration of Independence

“Government of the people, by the people, for the people” – the Gettysburg Address

“There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics” – Benjamin Disraeli

“This is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning” – Sir Winston Churchill

“Never before in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many, to so few” – – Sir Winston Churchill

“There are three principal ways to lose money: wine, women, and engineers. While the first two are more pleasant, the third is by far the more certain. Baron Rothschild”

“Veni, vidi, vici” (I came, I saw, I conquered) – Julius Caesar:

“Unwept, unhonored, unsung” – Sir Walter Scott

“Duty – Honor – Country. Those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, and what you will be” – Gen. Douglas MacArthur

“The rule is: jam tomorrow, and jam yesterday, but never jam today” – Lewis Carroll. Through the Looking Glass

Here are some other classic combinations:

Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato

Education, Education, Education

Liberty, Equality, Fraternity

Bigger, Better, Stronger

Engage, Aspire, Excel

Love, Life, Lust

Do you have any other examples? Please add them into the comments box below.

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Hi How about:

Positive, negative, neutral

Liberte, fraternite, egalite (sorry about the acutes)

Australia had a sunscreen cream campaign to prevent skin cancer:

Slip (on a shirt) Slop (on some cream) Slap (on a hat)

There are three types of people: the ones who know how to count, and the ones who do not.

the common one is: me, myself and I.

The one bank has changed their logo from simpler,better, faster to inspired,motivated,involved

Citius. altius, fortius

SORTED TRIPLETS   3 bases in Baseball 3 bears 3 Musketeers 3 Stooges Able, Baker, Charlie animal, vegetable, mineral Appetizer, Main Course, Desert Bach, Beethoven, Brahms Blood, Sweat, Tears Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Democrat, Republican, Independent Duty, Honor, Country English, Irish, Scotch Ethos, Logos, Pathos       Aristotle’s three types of speeches) Faster, Higher, Stronger Father, Son, Holy Ghost Friends, Romans, Countrymen Go Fight, Win Good, Bad, Ugly Government of the people, by the people, for the people Hear no evil, See no evil, Speak no Evil Homes have been lost, jobs shed, Businesses shuttered I came, I saw, I conquered Inky, Blinky, Clyde Legislative, Judicial, and Executive, Liberty Equality, Fraternity Life, Liberty, Pursuit of Happiness Location Location, Location Long, Long, Ago Mayo 3 Shields ,, Morning, Afternoon, Evening Old, New, Benefits, Open, Body, Close,, Past, Present Future, Sex, Lies, Videotape Stop, Drop, and Run Stop, Look, Listen Superman: Truth, Justice, American Way Three Wise Men–three gifts gold, frankinsense and myrth Three-color flags Trilogies of fiction Tobacco, Alchol, and Guns Tom, Dick, Harry Verbal, Vocal, Visual             (parts of a talk) We can not dedicate, we can not consecrate, we can not hallow this ground We must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the Wine, Women, and Song Work of remaking America Work, Rest, Play You’re the ones who feed us, who wipe our tears, who hold our hands or hug us when we need it.

shake, rattle and roll

stand up, speak up, shut up

yesterday, today & tomorrow

ding ding dong

Time, Effort, Money

one, two, three

A – B – C

Do – re – mi

stop, drop, roll

en – to – tre

rock, paper, scissors time, money and environment

yes, no, maybe

DOn’t like “English, Irish, Scotch” in Joe Sharp’s lonmg list – “English, Irish, and Scots” would be OK, as would be “American, Irish and Scotch”, but English whiskey?

The Few, the Proud, the Marines.

College, job, family.

“Honor, Courage, Commitment” – a motto in the US Navy

“Heat, Fuel, Oxygen” – to stop a fire, remove one of the three.

Safety – Think it, talk it, work it!

Would “Lights, Camara, Action” work?

“Love, Hate, Loneliness”

“Adherence, Lament, Comply!”

Shandrach, Meshach & Abednego

hi lilly, hi lilly, hi lo

Glory Honour and Power

There are three kinds of people: those who make it happen; those who watch it happen; and those who wonder what happened

– Brian Tracey (I think)

Cut Copy Paste [Computers] Amar Akbar Anthony [Film] Pati Patni or Woh [Husband Wife & HER: The Love Triangle]

Past Present Future Good Better Best … and so on

Sola, perduta, abbandonata…

(Alone, lost, abandoned…) Manon Lescaut, lost in the Louisiana desert in Puccini’s opera of the same name.

3 little pigs 3,2,1 3 billy goats gruff goldilocks and the tree bears 3 blind mice england flag-has three lions

up, up and away

have we had “hook, line & sinker”

the past is history, the future is a mystery and the present is a gift

up down left

candle, book and bell

sit up,shut up and belt up

Hung, drawn & quartered

Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha Brahma Vishnu, Eshwara Vision Mission Action The impossible trinity in economics Left, Right and the Middle Solid, Liquid and Air Sun, Moon and the Stars Past, present and Future Positive, Zero and Negative Electron, Proton and Nutron Average, above average and below average Yes, No, and Undecided For, against and nutral Like, dislike and indifferent Length, breadth and depth X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis

In the stock market: Hope, greed and fear control all.

It wasn’t Patton who talked about “blood, sweat and tears;” it was Churchill: “I would say to the House, as I said to those who have joined the government: ‘I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat.'” 1940

Beanz Meanz Heinz

Hip! Hip!! Hurrah!! Going, Going, Gone!

Ready, Steady, Go. Hop, Step and Jump

Arise , Awake and Stop not till goal is achieved _ Swami Vivekanand

See it, Say it, Do it

Yes, No, Maybe so

Money,power,respect

tom dick and harry

ave attque vale (hail and fairwell) …i think

this, that and the other

going, going, gone!

Shades on, scarf on, attitude on….

what was the middle one, again?

sex, drugs, rock n roll see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil

skin,fruit,core

Seen it, done it, got the T shirt!!

In the Big Bang Theory (tv show) Sheldon knocks on Penny’s door three times and each time says “Penny!”

the people now a days want three things: entertainment, entertainment and entertainment

Time to kill Money to burn Life to waste

bacon lettuce and tomato

red white and blue

etcetera, etcetera,etcetera. The King and I.

One for the money, two for the show, three to get ready now go cat go!

Flip, Flop, Fly.

Three withches of Macbeth.

Three wishes

Knock three times on the window if you want me.

Three steps to heaven

Three’s a crowd

Three times a lady

You, me and baby makes three

Del, Rodney and Grandad

What now, what next, where to?

3 a.m. The witching hr

Scrooge’s visitation by three ghosts.

Three Corn Patches

Three strikes and you’re out!

One is fluke, two is coincidence, three is proof.

Three musical chords, A,D,E C,F,G etc

The first odd prime number is 3

The rule of three

Money, Money, Money

Sex, drugs and Rock’n’Roll

Mary, Mungo and Midge

Father, Son and Holy Ghost

Peter, Paul and Mary

Martin Luther King’s speech

Lead, Follow or get the hell out of the way

red yellow green

Turn on, Tune in, Drop out.

Get in, Get out, Get Paid.

Good, fast, cheap – pick any two (a project management rule)

“Drown me! Roast me! Hang me! Do whatever you please,” said Brer Rabbit. “Only please, Brer Fox, please don’t throw me into the briar patch.”

It’s delightful, it’s delicious, it’s de-lovely.

Wynken, Blynken, and Nod

Then close your eyes and tap your heels together three times. And think to yourself, There’s no place like home.

Faster, stronger, higher. (It’s the Olympics motto)

Alif, Baa, Thaa arabic letters

Sugar Spice and Everything nice these were the ingredient to make the perfect girls.

Blossoms Bubbles Buttercup

Ready, Set, Go.

The good, the bad and the ugly….

One, two, buckle my shoe Three, four, knock on the door Five, six, pick up sticks Seven, eight, close the gate Nine, ten, a big fat hen…….

Here, there, everywhere. Beatles

Ready, Steady, Bake

Lead, Follow, or get the hell out of the way!

Bigger better brighter

Liberté, égalité, fraternité

Destruction, death and doom 🙁

ein reich, ein volk, ein fuhrer. [Not one I believe in but one I remember from doing history at school!]

In Gremlins there are three rules. No bright light, Don’t get them wet, and don’t feed them after midnight.

You and me and a dog named Boo Mother, maiden, crone Sun, moon and stars Get up, dress up, show up Bad things come in threes Bacon, bacon, bacon! Lol

Run, hide, fight. From terrorist training. ☹️

Location, Location, Location.. (a key to business success)

Live,love,BFF

And my three favorite: Me, myself and I

Business Family Friends

diligence dexterity determination

Good afternoon good evening and goodnight

iPad iPod iPhone

Lights, camera, action!

Fidelity, bravery, integrity. Chemistry, biology, physics. Heat, fuel, oxygen= fire Protons, neutrons, electrons. For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Good, better, best, never let it rest ’till the good is better and the better is the best.

Peace, Land and Bread – Lenin

As a dentist, I can see the rule of three so often. For example when I present to the patient a condition in their mouth, when I explain the consequences and then the resolution. Thanks for the thoughtful article.

Aspire, believe , act and succeed

Remember TIM when buying a house…Taxes, Insurance, Maintenance

Aim, shoot, reload.

Love, Peace, and Soul Earth, Wind, Fire Up, Down, Sideways Month, date, year Mind, body, soul Planes, trains, automobiles Bing, bang, bong

Birth, death, resurrection

vision, eloquence, and consistency.

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The magic power of the Rule of 3

You won’t have to look too far to see an example of the power of the ‘rule of 3’.  From fairy tales such as Goldilocks and the 3 Bears; advertising and communication techniques – “Snap, Crackle and Pop”, “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”; through to medals and accolades – Gold, Silver, Bronze; 1 st , 2 nd , 3 rd , the power of the rule of 3 is all around us.  And if you look carefully you can see that I’ve used 3 examples to make my point!

Understanding the benefit of ‘3’ takes us back to when our brains were evolving. To give ourselves the best chance of survival, we liked – and needed to have – choices.  Stuck in front of a spear wielding tribesman, or a rampaging bear, we needed to know that we had a choice that avoided a sticky end.  But, not having enough choices might have meant that we didn’t have the ‘out’ that we desperately needed, and too many choices could have led to us feeling overwhelmed and confused, resulting in us making the wrong decision and ending up with a fate worse than the spear or bear!  3 seems to be that ‘magic number’ which gives us the right number of options to make a good decision but not so many choices that we end up doing the wrong thing.

The rule of three also exists in writing with the belief that things are funnier, more satisfying or more effective when written as a three rather than another number.   This is based on the notion that we process information through recognising patterns.  3 is the smallest number which can create a pattern – and be short and rhythmic enough to stick in our minds – and is often used to create memorable phrases; “blood, sweat and tears”, “location, location, location”, “stop, look, listen”.   Stories have a 3-part structure – beginning, middle and end – and next time you listen to a comedian or hear a joke, look out for the set-up, story build and punchline (and there’s a reason why there’s always 3 people who walk into a bar!)

Using the rule of 3 can be really helpful when crafting your speech or presentation.  Not only does it provide a solid structure and framework, but it will also help focus your mind on the most critical points that you want to make, whilst enabling you to use powerful and impactful language.  Ways to optimise your presentation using the rule of 3 include:

• Making sure you have a defined beginning, middle and end. Introduce your topic clearly at the beginning, focus on the key takeaways during the body of your speech and then summarise neatly at the end.  As Dale Carnegie pointed out “Tell the audience what you’re going to say, say it, then tell them what you’ve said.”  (That’s a ‘three-er’ just there!)
• A recognised presentation structure is to open with a hook, introduce the topic you’re going to talk about, highlight your key message and then use 3 supporting points to explain and define your key message before summarising with a call to action. These 3 supporting points provide the right amount of evidence and information to back up your key message – 1 or 2 points might seem flimsy and not enough.  5 or 6 points becomes overwhelming and hard for the listener to take on board.  3 is the right number.   This is also a useful tool to use when you are asked an off the cuff question, asked to speak spontaneously or composing a response in a job interview.   Listing 3 points that you are going to cover, and then ticking them off as you speak gives you an instant structure and provides prompts along the way.
• Following on from the above, ensuring you stick to 3 supporting points means your speech or presentation stays focussed. As you start writing your presentation you might think that you have 5, 6, 7 points that you want to get across, but really this is just too many.  By being focussed and single minded you can say less and what you do say will have more impact.
• When writing your speech and preparing what you are going to say, try to shape your language with the rule of 3, perhaps by using 3 adjectives to describe a product, 3 words to create a memorable phrase or slogan, or using 3 elements to tell your story. Goldilocks had to work out whether the porridge was too hot, too cold or just right, the big bad wolf had to try to blow down 3 little pigs’ houses before he got his comeuppance and it’s no accident that Scrooge encountered 3 Christmas ghosts in Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol.

As you can see, there really is power in the rule of 3, and 3 is a magic number!  Have a go at using it next time you craft a presentation or write a speech and see how helpful it can be.

You might also have noticed that I used 4 examples to make my last point – I’ll leave that with you as to whether it’s one too many…

If you’d like to find out more about building and developing your ability to create and deliver high impact presentations, our Presentation Skills Bootcamp is designed to give you the confidence and expertise you need to see a really positive leap in your presentation skills.

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Articles tagged: rule of three

The Rule of Three is a speechwriting technique which suggests the use of three related elements — three words, three phrases, three sentences — for maximum impact.

For a complete primer, see How to Use the Rule of Three in Your Speeches .

Examples and more information can be found in the following Six Minutes articles:

Speech Analysis: Winston Churchill’s “Iron Curtain”

[…] an iron curtain has descended across the continent.

On March 5, 1946, at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, Winston Churchill delivered  one of his most famous speeches . Though he was not the first to use the phrase “iron curtain”, this speech brought the phrase into common usage and is thought by some to mark the beginning of the Cold War .

In Lend Me Your Ears: Great Speeches in History , William Safire writes:

This is a Beethoven symphony of a speech. […] this is the most Churchillian of Churchill’s speeches.

This speech analysis article examines how to use charisma tactics in speech writing . It is the latest in a series of  speech critiques  here on  Six Minutes .

Continue Reading »

What is Charisma? Can it be Learned?

When you think about charisma , who do you think about? Bill Clinton? Martin Luther King Jr.? Steve Jobs?

What about you? Do you have charisma?

Many speakers and non-speakers hold the belief that charisma is an innate gift — either you are born with it, or you aren’t.

But can you learn charisma? Recent research suggests that you can!

Speech Critique: Dan Pink (TED 2009)

This article reviews a thought-provoking speech by Dan Pink about the surprising science of motivation, which was  delivered at TED  in 2009.

Pink delivers a masterful speech which demonstrates many strong speech techniques, including:

• A powerful opening, which establishes a framework utilized throughout;
• Building of ethos and logos;
• Well-timed use of humor;
• Employing contrast and the rule of three;
• Powerful conclusion; and
• Superb delivery.

The strength of this speech isn’t surprising at all, given Pink’s former role as chief speechwriter for Al Gore .

This is the latest in a series of  speech critiques  here on  Six Minutes .

8 Speechwriting Lessons You Can Learn from Songwriters

Thomas Carlyle once observed:

Music is well said to be the speech of angels.

You can make your speechwriting sing by learning lessons from songwriters. By applying these eight songwriting techniques, you will get your audiences to virtually tap their feet, nod their heads, and even hum along to your message.

• Sound Effects

How to Add Power or Humor with the Rule of Three

In the first two articles of this series, we learned how using the rule of three can improve your speeches by [1] writing triads of words, phrases, and sentences and [2] by applying three-part speech outlines .

In this article, you will learn how adding an unexpected twist to the third element can add power or humor to your speech .

Why Successful Speech Outlines follow the Rule of Three

Previously, we learned how the rule of three improves speeches when used at the micro -speech level, to craft memorable triads of words, phrases, and sentences.

In this article, we will learn how the rule of three improves speeches at the macro -speech level when applied to speech stories or to entire speech outlines.

How to Use the Rule of Three in Your Speeches

The rule of three is powerful speechwriting technique that you should learn, practice, and master.

Using the Rule of Three allows you to express concepts more completely, emphasize your points, and increase the memorability of your message.

That’s the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.

What is the rule of three? What are some famous examples? How do you use it in speeches? Read on!

5 Speechwriting Lessons from Obama’s Inaugural Speech

Some will argue that Barack Obama’s Inauguration speech was not his most electric speech , or that it failed to deliver on unreasonably high expectations .

Nonetheless, studying the speech provides five key speechwriting lessons that can help us all be better communicators.

This article is the latest in a series of video speech critiques which help you analyze and learn from excellent speeches.

How can you inspire your audience? Ask 10-year-old Dalton Sherman.

Is fifth grader Dalton Sherman the next Barack Obama ?

Of course, it’s far too early to tell, but that’s how he refers to himself in an interview on the Ellen show, where my wife first saw this extraordinary young man who can teach us all something about inspirational speaking.

This article reviews the keynote address at the Dallas Independent School District (D.I.S.D.) Teachers’ Conference delivered by a 5th grade student: 10-year-old Dalton Sherman from Charles Rice Learning Center.

How to Speak: 7 Speaking Tips from Patrick Henry Winston

Each year, MIT professor Patrick Henry Winston delivers an open lecture entitled How to Speak .

Positive word of mouth spread over the years, and the event now draws a beyond capacity crowd with people sitting uncomfortably on steps and the floor to listen to Winston. You can learn from the master teacher from the comfort of your web browser by viewing the lecture videos .

In the 45-minute lecture, Winston delivers dozens of practical tips for speaking effectively, particularly when teaching . This article highlights seven of the best. Continue Reading »

Electrify Your Audience with a Shocking Speech Opening

A strong speech opening is critical to grab the attention of your audience.

Suppose you were delivering a speech to raise awareness in your community about school security. How would you open your speech?

• “ I’m going to talk to you today about security in our schools… “
• “ School security is an important issue that we must deal with… “

Both openings are direct, to-the-point, and boring! What if there was a better way ?

Next »

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How to Communicate Better with the Rule of Three: Secrets Revealed!

Disclaimer : We sometimes use affiliate links in our content. For more information, visit our Disclaimer Page . 

Whether it’s the “Three Little Pigs,” the “Three Blind Mice,” or the “Three Wise Men,” we see the magic of three all around us. Why? Our short-term memory finds comfort in this number, making it the perfect tool for effective communication . This is where the rule of three in communication comes into play – a method that can revolutionize your presentations, business communications, and even coaching sessions.

The Rule of Three Unraveled

In essence, the rule of three is a writing principle that suggests that a trio of events or characters is more humorous, satisfying, or effective than other numbers. It is all about structuring your content in such a way that it resonates with your audience. The key is to divide your message into three main points or ideas, making your communication more engaging, memorable, and impactful.

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This simple rule has profound implications. A presentation divided into three parts or a speech echoing three messages tends to be more impactful. Why? Because people tend to remember things in threes, making your three things or points easier to recall quickly.

For example, Steve Jobs, a master of this rule, used it to deliver communication that left an indelible mark on his audience. In his 2007 iPhone launch speech, he declared that Apple was introducing “three revolutionary products”— a new device that was an iPod, a phone, and an internet communication device. Guess what? It was all the same device, the iPhone! This memorable presentation clearly showcased how to communicate better with the rule of three .

How to Apply the Rule of Three in Communication

Learning about the rule of three is the first step. The real game-changer comes when you start applying these three rules to your communication. Whether you’re giving a speech, writing an email, or having a conversation, you can implement this rule to improve the effectiveness of your communication. Here’s how:

First and foremost, you must plan. Divide your presentation or speech into three parts: a compelling introduction, a substantial middle, and a persuasive end. Keep in mind that each part should highlight one commonality – a central theme or purpose.

Emphasize Your Main Points

Identify your main points – these are the crux of your message. As per the rule of three, limit these points to three to ensure your audience can easily remember them. Each point should hold its own, while also complementing the others to create a coherent narrative.

Strike a Balance

Don’t rush through your points. Instead, give each one enough attention and detail to make it stand on its own. Whether it’s verbal or visual communication, balance is key. The audience should not feel that one point was given undue prominence at the cost of the others.

Use the Power of Repetition

Repetition can be a powerful tool to ensure your points are remembered. However, use it judiciously. The third time you repeat a point, it should be the culmination, the climax – powerful enough to leave a lasting impression.

Related : Principles of Effective Communication

Real-World Examples of The Rule of Three

The rule of three is not a new concept. In fact, it’s deeply rooted in our culture and life, making it an effective tool in our communication skills arsenal.

Take, for example, the US Declaration of Independence. The famous phrase, “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness,” is a perfect example of the rule of three. These inalienable rights voiced are much more memorable and impactful because they are grouped in threes.

The French motto, “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity,” is another example of the rule of three in communication. It beautifully encapsulates the ideals of the French Revolution, making it a memorable phrase in French history.

The Holy Spirit, in Christian theology, is one entity with three states: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. This is another powerful instance of the rule of three and its prominence in our lives.

Benefits of the Rule of Three in Communication

Now that we have established how to use the rule of three in communication and have observed its impact, let’s delve deeper into why this rule is such a strong place for structuring our communications.

Enhances Memory Recall

The rule of three capitalizes on a basic human tendency – our short-term memory. When information is grouped into three, people tend to remember it better. This remembered exercise can drastically improve the effectiveness of your communication, whether in business communication or daily life.

Simplifies Complex Information

The rule of three can help in distilling complex information into digestible chunks. By breaking down your content into three main points, you are facilitating the delivery method of your information, making it more comprehensible for your audience.

Boosts Engagement

Another vital advantage of the rule of three is that it aids in audience engagement . With the rule of three, your audience knows what to expect. They are prepared to hear three points or look at three sections. This anticipation keeps them engaged and attentive.

Techniques for Implementing the Rule of Three in Speeches and Presentations

The rule of three can be used in countless ways to improve your communication skills . Here are some techniques to help you incorporate this rule into your speeches and presentations:

Start with an Outline

Begin by outlining your three main points. This will act as your roadmap, helping you stay on track throughout your presentation or speech.

Structure Your Speech

Adopt the three-act structure, akin to a play or a story, where you have a beginning, middle, and end. Your introduction should set the scene, the body should deliver your three main points, and the conclusion should reinforce these points and provide closure.

Repeat Key Points

Your audience might not catch everything the first time. Repeat your key points to emphasize them. However, do not overdo it; repetition is powerful when used sparingly.

Triads are groups of three words, phrases, or sentences that add a rhythmic quality to your speech. They make your points more memorable.

For instance, consider the phrase, “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” These three words have been immortalized in the U.S. Declaration of Independence and for a good reason. The power of three makes it a phrase for the ages.

The Rule of Three in Different Aspects of Life

The application of the rule of three isn’t confined to speeches and presentations. It’s deeply woven into various aspects of our lives, making our experiences more memorable and impactful.

In Storytelling

Stories are one of the most powerful tools for human connection. They are even more compelling when they follow the rule of three. This structure gives stories a satisfying rhythm and pace. From “The Three Little Pigs” to “The Three Musketeers,” we can see this rule at play in numerous narratives.

Humor often relies on timing and surprise. Comedy scripts frequently use the rule of three to deliver jokes. The first two points set up the joke, and the third delivers the punchline, often with a surprising twist.

In Marketing and Advertising

“Snap, Crackle, Pop!” If this rings a bell, you have experienced the rule of three in advertising. The Kellogg’s Rice Krispies slogan is not just catchy but also easy to remember thanks to the magic number three.

In Public Speaking

Public speakers, like Steve Jobs, have long used the rule of three to deliver impactful and memorable speeches. By presenting three key messages, they ensure that their audience can easily recall their points long after the speech is over.

Overcoming Challenges in Implementing the Rule of Three

While the rule of three is a powerful tool in communication, implementing it isn’t always a walk in the park. Here are a few challenges you might face and how to overcome them:

Struggling to Limit Points

You might find it difficult to distill your content into three points, especially when there’s a lot of information to deliver. In such cases, try to group similar ideas under broader points. Remember, clarity and conciseness are crucial for effective communication.

Maintaining Audience Interest

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your audience may lose interest. To prevent this, make your content engaging. Use anecdotes, statistics, or visual aids to drive home your points.

Time Constraints

Time can sometimes be your enemy, especially during presentations. You might have lots to share, but little time. The rule of three can help you prioritize your points. Focus on the three most important points you want your audience to remember.

Fear of Repetition

You might worry that using the rule of three could make your content repetitive and boring. This is where creativity comes in. Find new ways to express your points, use different examples, or mix different media types to keep things fresh.

Mastering the Rule of Three: Practice Makes Perfect

Just like any other communication skill, mastering the rule of three requires practice. Begin by incorporating it into your day-to-day conversations. Notice how it influences your listeners’ responses. Use it in your emails, reports, and proposals.

Over time, observe the change in how your communication is received. You might find your ideas are better understood, your conversations are more engaging, and your instructions are followed more accurately. The rule of three can truly transform your communication, whether it’s in your personal life, business communications, or coaching sessions.

Leveraging the Rule of Three in Business Communications

In the business world, effective communication is critical. Whether it’s persuading investors, motivating employees, or selling to customers, the way you deliver your message can make all the difference. By incorporating the rule of three in your business communication, you can create powerful, memorable messages that drive action.

Consider using this rule in your meetings, pitches, and presentations. Start by stating the three things you’ll discuss. Then, delve into each point, giving enough detail to convey your message without overwhelming your audience. Finally, summarize the three points, reinforcing the key takeaways.

In written communication, structure your content into three parts. Use headings and subheadings to guide your reader through your points. This will make your emails, reports, and proposals more digestible and memorable.

Furthermore, in business coaching sessions, the rule of three can be an excellent tool. By focusing on three action steps, coaches can provide clear and concise guidance, making the session more productive.

Related : Effective Verbal Communication in the Workplace

Summing It Up

The rule of three, despite its simplicity, has a profound effect on our communication. It helps our message resonate, making it more engaging and memorable. Whether it’s a business presentation, a marketing campaign, or a casual conversation, the rule of three can elevate our communication.

However, like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how well it’s used. Practice, creativity, and a clear understanding of your audience are crucial to leveraging the full potential of the rule of three. So, the next time you’re about to communicate something, remember the magic of three!

What is the rule of 3 effective communication?

What is the magic of 3 communication, what is the rule of 3 examples, why is the rule of three so effective, related posts:.

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• Master the Art of Elevating Your Persuasive Presentation Skills
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How To Communicate Better With The Rule Of Three

They say if you want something stuck in someone’s head, put it in a sequence of three. You must have…

They say if you want something stuck in someone’s head, put it in a sequence of three.

You must have heard of the story or novel titles, Three Blind Mice , The Three Musketeers , Three Wise Men and Three Men in a Boat ? Have you ever thought why the number three is so predominant in fairy tales, myths and stories?

Scientifically speaking, three is the smallest number of elements required to create a pattern. Also, research shows that we can recall just three to four items from our short-term memory. This power of three has culminated in the Rule of Three.

What Is The Rule Of Three?

Plays, typically, have a three-act structure. Every film or story is divided into three parts—the beginning, middle, and end. Three bullet points drive home the message more effectively than two or four.

The Rule of Three is a powerful technique or principle required for writing or speaking. It states that any ideas, thoughts, events, characters or sentences that are presented in threes are more effective and memorable. Hence, it is called the Rule of Three.

A Latin saying, ‘ Omne trium perfectum ’ literally means ‘everything that comes in threes is perfect’. The ancient Romans valued the Rule of Three. You, too, can enhance the quality and memorability of your communication, written or verbal, with the Rule of Three. Whether it is an essay, a public speech, a group discussion, or a presentation, leave an impact with the Rule of Three.

How To Use The Rule Of Three In Communication?

Divide your content or speech into three parts—the beginning, middle, and end. Shape it up with a proper introduction, body content, and summary.

Break the body content into the three most important points or three core ideas.

Use three powerful words successively to express your central idea. For example, liberty, equality, and fraternity, the national motto of France.

Repeat small sentences, phrases, or words which convey your central message. This will make your speech more impactful and strong.

Examples Of The Rule Of Three

In Western as well as Indian culture, the Rule of Three is often used. Politics, movies, vision statements, mottos, and stories, you name it and they are full of examples of Rule of Three.

Superman’s motto, ‘Truth, Justice and the American Way’, is much loved through various generations. The US Declaration of Independence proudly proclaims: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.

The torch of the Olympics blazes in glory with its timeless motto, ‘Citius, Altius, Fortius’ (faster, higher, stronger).

It is believed that the Rule of Three is successful in getting things done. Historical speeches are full of such trios. Roman Emperor Julius Caesar said, ‘Veni, Vidi, Vici’ (I came, I saw, I conquered).

Who can forget the words of then US President Abraham Lincoln during the Gettysburg Address, a speech delivered during the American civil war? He said, “We cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground… government of the people, by the people, for the people.” It is one of the best examples of Rule of Three.

When three parallel elements such as words or phrases come one after the other to communicate a message, they are called a tricolon. This type of Rule of Three is expressed in former US president Franklin D. Roosevelt’s advice, “Be sincere, be brief, be seated.”

When previous US president Barack Obama said in his keynote speech to the Democratic National Convention, “Tonight, we gather to affirm the greatness of our nation—not because of the height of our skyscrapers, or the power of our military, or the size of our economy,” the Rule of Three is proven effective.

Final Thoughts

The Rule of Three is a highly powerful and impressive technique of communication. You should learn, practice, and master it to apply it in your next speech. Use the Rule of Three by splitting your presentation into three parts or by highlighting three unique features of a product.

Harappa’s  Speaking Effectively  course introduces you to the tried-and-tested formula of the Rule of Three, which is a strategy to make messages effective and memorable. In addition, you learn to form powerful frameworks that can help you build a lasting first impression.

This high-impact course guarantees strong communication skills and success. It helps you deliver ideas with precision, use empathy and logic to connect with people, and stand out as an effective speaker. So, go ahead and get a grip on the Rule of Three.

Explore topics such as Public Speaking , Audience Analysis , Tone of Voice , 7 C’s of communication , and the Elements of Communication from our Harappa Diaries blog section to ace your soft skills.

Using The “Rule Of Three” To Craft World-Class Presentations

Sep 25, 2019 by Benjamin J Harvey

What we know is that  human psychology can handle three things at once before it feels a need to protect itself .

So, if I get up and start to present more than three key ideas, no matter what the duration we have together, you activate what's called a  sympathetic nervous system .

You go from  parasympathetic  (where your blood is flowing to your organs correctly) to  a sympathetic  (where you send blood out into your limbs for imminent attack or for running).

As you send blood out to your limbs, you withdraw blood from the top of your head down to the base of your head. This will make you start to listen with the most basic part of your brain - a very animalistic-natured idea.

If you start listening with this part of your brain, it means you're no longer listening with the most advanced part of your mind, which in turn means the content is no longer resonating . To remedy this, I would have to simplify the content to pick you back up again and bring you up again.

So when you're presenting, you’ve got to present up the brain stem. You've got to  present very basic ideas in the first two to three minutes . Then you’ve got to present very logical ideas when you get up to the neocortex.

Therefore as you’re presenting, you present up the brain stem in the way that the blood flows in, where the glucose flows into the mind. Now if you know how to present that way, your talks would be natural in nature and people will feel comfortable inside them.

However, if you tried presenting from the top of the head down, people will feel really uncomfortable.

Therefore, we need to appreciate that if I stick to the Rule Of Three, what happens is you'll always feel comfortable. You won't have to defend yourself. Because once you defend yourself, you’ll stop listening, and at the first break, you’ll leave as soon as possible because you're not comfortable.

So professional speakers will always speak using the rule of 3s.

If you want to learn how to craft a world-class presentation , learn to communicate using the Rule Of Three. Speaking in 3’s will always make sense to the listener.

Remember, speak the way they listen, not the way you talk.

We hope you found some value in this post, “Using The “Rule Of Three” To Craft World-Class Presentations”. If you would like to learn more effective methods on how to present and to present with confidence, check out the free online course, " How To Attract Clients With Online Events ".

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How to Make a “Good” Presentation “Great”

• Guy Kawasaki

Remember: Less is more.

A strong presentation is so much more than information pasted onto a series of slides with fancy backgrounds. Whether you’re pitching an idea, reporting market research, or sharing something else, a great presentation can give you a competitive advantage, and be a powerful tool when aiming to persuade, educate, or inspire others. Here are some unique elements that make a presentation stand out.

• Fonts: Sans Serif fonts such as Helvetica or Arial are preferred for their clean lines, which make them easy to digest at various sizes and distances. Limit the number of font styles to two: one for headings and another for body text, to avoid visual confusion or distractions.
• Colors: Colors can evoke emotions and highlight critical points, but their overuse can lead to a cluttered and confusing presentation. A limited palette of two to three main colors, complemented by a simple background, can help you draw attention to key elements without overwhelming the audience.
• Pictures: Pictures can communicate complex ideas quickly and memorably but choosing the right images is key. Images or pictures should be big (perhaps 20-25% of the page), bold, and have a clear purpose that complements the slide’s text.
• Layout: Don’t overcrowd your slides with too much information. When in doubt, adhere to the principle of simplicity, and aim for a clean and uncluttered layout with plenty of white space around text and images. Think phrases and bullets, not sentences.

As an intern or early career professional, chances are that you’ll be tasked with making or giving a presentation in the near future. Whether you’re pitching an idea, reporting market research, or sharing something else, a great presentation can give you a competitive advantage, and be a powerful tool when aiming to persuade, educate, or inspire others.

• Guy Kawasaki is the chief evangelist at Canva and was the former chief evangelist at Apple. Guy is the author of 16 books including Think Remarkable : 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference.

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How to use the ‘Rule of Three’ to create engaging speeches

May 17, 2021 - Gini Beqiri

One fundamental function of the human brain, and the brains of all animals, is to integrate information gathered from our surroundings to help us interact with each other. However, pattern recognition is a core functionality of the human brain and sets us apart from other species.

Language is a complex behaviour that uses patterns in the form of symbols, sounds, and words to encode meaning from speech. We have a superior ability to process patterns in our world and transfer our understanding to others.

An effective way to communicate ideas is to create patterns that are simple and easy to recognize. Three is the smallest number needed to form a pattern.

The Rule of Three

The Rule of Three is based on how our brains function – how we recognize and create patterns on a daily basis. The Rule of Three revolves around the observation that ideas given in threes are especially interesting and memorable to an audience.

People remember and are more engaged with concepts that are presented in groups of three. You can use the Rule of Three as a simple formula to make engaging speeches.

Many memorable lines and quotes are grouped into threes. It is no coincidence that ‘ good things happen in threes ‘! In Ancient Rome, the Latin phrase ‘ omne trium perfectum ‘ meant everything that comes in threes is perfect.

The Greeks also had a figure of speech for the magical power of three – hendiatris, meaning ‘ one through three ‘; three words are used to express a single idea. Other examples that embody the Rule of Three are:

• “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness” from the United States Declaration of Independence
• Veni, vidi, vici, meaning “I came, I saw, I conquered”
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Blood, sweat, and tears
• Lights, camera, action!

Hermann  Ebbinghaus’ forgetting curve  expresses how learned information is forgotten over time.  Research shows  that after an hour, people will typically forget 56% of what you have presented them. After 24 hours, 66% of the presented information is forgotten. And after six days, this number creeps up to 75%.

Forgetting curve, image from  What Is The Forgetting Curve (And How Do You Combat It)?

Echoic memory pertains directly to memory rooted in auditory information and retention. If you use visual cues in your speech, this will activate visual memory in your audience.

Modern technologies like  video conferencing , digital signage, and the internet allow for expanded use of visual cues. Additionally, these technologies increase the potential size of your audience by allowing you to deliver speeches even when you are not in the same room.

Using both visual and auditory signals combined can often help your audience better remember the information you present.

While some people have greater capacities for memory, if your speech is not developed in a way that makes remembering an easier task, most of the information will be forgotten soon after you finish presenting. Your audience’s brains will not have to work as hard to retain your material if it clearly follows a pattern. Make sure that the small amount that people will remember are the major points in your speech.

The Rule of Three is pervasive in other areas of study and in famous religions.

In classic liberal arts the trivium is threefold and consists of  grammar, logic, and rhetoric . Grammar is the art of creating and combining symbols to portray thoughts, while logic is the art of reason. Rhetoric is the art of persuasion; it uses both grammar and logic. Public speaking and delivering engaging speeches involves the  art of rhetoric .

A speech that is engaging to an audience might not seem that different in structure from other speeches. Often the difference between an impactful speech and a speech that falls flat lies in our subconscious and unconscious minds.

According to  Freudian psychology , your unconscious mind has primal feelings that cannot be brought to the surface at will, while your subconscious mind cannot be consciously processed in a moment, but can be recalled. Your subconscious and unconscious mind might not seem to influence conscious thought because their effects require analysis from your conscious mind. Gut feelings often arise from something your subconscious and unconscious mind has picked up.

Understanding how we process information can help you create engaging speeches that will captivate your audiences.

The Rule of Three for Speech Structure

Structure is important in classical modes of communication such as writing, and in speeches as well as in modern, derivative modes of communication such as video conferencing, social media, and  digital signage . The structure of your speech can influence how you hold your audience’s attention.

Greek philosopher Aristotle declared that a play should have a beginning, a middle, and an end. Famous plays by playwrights such as William Shakespeare and his contemporaries, were often structured into five acts by editors after being published. However, their works were fluid and meant to be continuous or even stray beyond this structure. Today, the five-act structure has been replaced by the three-act structure.

Likewise, speeches should have a  beginning, a middle and an end . Three segments, in accordance with the Rule of Three. The beginning is characterized by an introduction that grabs the listener’s attention.

The middle, or the body of your speech, contains the bulk of information. You can also use the Rule of Three in formulating the content for the body, and stick to having three main points. If you have less than three, your speech may seem incomplete to the audience. More than three points could cause your audience to lose interest and even fall asleep.

Finally, the end or conclusion is a summary that  repeats key points  mentioned throughout your speech. The conclusion will be the last thing your audience will hear, and through repetition, they will be able to remember what you discussed.

Using the Rule of Three in the structure of your speech can be powerful and engaging and can be applied creatively. There are a variety of proposed structures that are based on the Rule of Three and expand on the overarching structure of an introduction, body, and conclusion.

For instance, you can split your speech into past, present, and future. In this way, you have outlined your speech so each segment can function on its own.

In the  first segment , you can discuss the past and the problems that are faced.

The  second segment  can discuss the present and you can clearly outline the decision that needs to be made. In this part you will then share the options available to solve the problem and your analysis of them.

The  final segment  can bring your audience to the future, the result of the correct action being chosen.

Instead of using the body of your speech to lay out three main points with three sub-points for each, consider developing the content by listing pros of the solution you are proposing, then outlining all the cons. The final point in your body can be the recommendation. Ensure you use repetition in the conclusion and go over the major points of your speech.

The Rule of Three for Emphasis

In visual art, the rule of thirds is used to create focal points for the created image. Your eyes are drawn into the picture if key elements are placed along horizontal and vertical lines split into thirds.

In like manner, you can use the Rule of Three to bring emphasis to the key points in your speech. You can use three statements for each point in your speech to help each point pack a punch. More points can make it seem like you are belabouring the main idea, and fewer points might be less interesting.

For example, you can use three anecdotal references for key points. The first two can describe the problem with clarity and the final, the third story, can address the problem but also showcase the solution.

The  intonation of your voice  can be used to drive the three points forward. The first two points can be rushed and said quickly, and the last point can be said slowly and with a higher degree of emotion. Consider even flattening your voice during the first two points and build up excitement in your voice as you present the third point.

Pattern recognition is about creating anticipation in our minds; you can flow with the natural rise in anticipation and create emphasis by using the Rule of Three.

The Rule of Three for Humour

Emotion reinforces pattern recognition in our minds. People are inherently social by nature and emotions contribute to our survival. Adding elements in your speech that bring about emotional responses from your audience can help transform your speech into a memorable event that will stay with them.

Since the human brain is constantly evaluating its surroundings to try and create patterns, you can use the Rule of Three to create moments of surprise or humor in your speech.

Joke structure is often based on triple formats. The setup and preparation forms a pattern that leads to a memorable punchline. After two points, your audience will already see the similarities and expect the third point to complete the pattern in their mind.

However, you can take the speech in a different direction and completely surprise them, similar to how a magician reveals the final flourish much to everyone’s amazement after a slow buildup.

Eliciting an emotive response to your speech will help your audience remember your key points and the message you are hoping to convey.

The Rule of Three for Persuasion

In 1960, Paul Maclean, a famous American neuroscientist, described a  triune model for the human brain . This model divides the brain into three distinct areas:

• The primal brain
• The emotional brain
• The rational brain

The primal brain is responsible for fight-or-flight responses, the emotional brain generates feelings, and the rational brain forms logical thought and is capable of complex reasoning.

Modern advancements have allowed for detailed brain-imaging technologies and have discredited Paul Maclean’s model. Various regions of the brain show activity instead of three distinct regions during the three activities listed.

Even though the triune model is an oversimplification of how signals in the brain actually work, this model can help provide insight into how people process information from their surroundings. A persuasive speech can be created if each of the three minds of your audience becomes engaged.

You may hope to persuade your audience into action with your speech. Aristotle identified three tools that are fundamental to persuasion:

These form the rhetorical triangle. First you will need to establish ethos.

Ethos is a Greek word that translates to “character”, and your audience will need to trust your moral character and credibility so they can trust what you will say next. This contributes to your audience’s primal thought processes and their survival instincts.

Logos translates to “reason”. You will need to support your argument with logical reasoning and patterns. Sound arguments cater to your audience’s rational mind.

Pathos translates to “emotion” and establishes the importance of appealing to the emotional side of your audience. Emotions will resonate with your audience and persuade them. If your audience can feel your speech, their emotional brain is engaged.

With  ethos, logos, and pathos , you can involve the three main processes of the human brain. You will have the ability to captivate the entire mind of your listener.

The Rule of Three can even take the rhetorical triangle further. When you deliver your speech, talk about your audience three times as much as you discuss yourself. This pattern will reinforce the importance of how they can derive benefit by following your suggestions. They will be able to trust you because you have shown that your focus is on how you can benefit them.

Engaging Words

The power of the smallest number needed to create a pattern was realized by ancient civilizations. While society has changed, the fundamental way that our brains function has not changed; patterns still drive us. The Rule of Three is a simple principle that is rooted in the essence of our brains and how we create patterns.

Harnessing the Rule of Three in various aspects of a speech can help  engage your audience  and give them something to remember. Consider using the Rule of Three in speech structure, emphasis, humour, and for persuasion in your next speech.

Using the Rule of Three in Presentations

Last updated on June 7th, 2023

One of the most important aspects of making a presentation is to keep in mind the rule of three! This is perhaps one of the most underused techniques, as many presenters are simply unaware of the significance of the rule of three.

Three, The Magic Number

There is a lot that banks on three for success. If you’re a presenter, your audience is likely to remember three aspects of your presentation, i.e. the start, the middle and the end. This is not to say that they shall remember each and every aspect of the aforementioned but rather things that stand out. Hence, you must make sure that you apply the rule of three with some dexterity.

The Most Recognized Lines from Literature & Movies have Three Aspects

But three is not just limited to presentations. Art, literature and visuals, all make use of the rule of 3 . The catchiest phrases are the ones that use this very rule, for example; ‘the good, the bad and the ugly’. Even the most recognized pieces of literature, such as ‘ Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none’ – William Shakespeare .

Great Leaders Have used the Rule of Three

The rule of three has also been used by great leaders in their speeches and in defining attributes for their countrymen to follow. Here are a few examples:

• ‘Never, never, never give up’ – Winston Churchill
• ‘With faith, discipline and selfless devotion to duty, there is nothing worthwhile that you cannot achieve’. – Muhammad Ali Jinnah
• ‘Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth’. – Abraham Lincoln

The famous quote by Abraham Lincoln is often shortened to ‘ Government of the people, by the people, for the people’. Similarly, the quote by Muhammad Ali Jinnah has been shortened to Unity, Faith, & Discipline’, which after his famous speech became recognized as the three guiding principles of the people of Pakistan.

In all the aforementioned, the rule of three is used. This is not to say that these leaders deliberately used it; however, using the rule comes naturally in speech, especially when one tends to emphasize upon an important point. As a presenter you might want to bear that in mind to make good use of this rule to focus on the key aspects of your presentation. You can also get a few ideas from our posts on  Persuasive Speech Topics .

Rule of three in Composing Visual Images, Math & Computer Programming

The rule of three is also used in composing visual images. Photography, films and painting all use this rule. For example, the rule of thirds is used when making use of guide lines for aligning images. Moreover, the rule of three is also used in computer programming such as C++, mathematics, statistics, economics, business concepts, etc.

When making presentations, you need to remember how to incorporate the rule of three best. Below are a few ideas to help you do just that.

1. Divide Your Presentation in Three Parts

You might want to focus on the three key aspects of your presentation, i.e. the beginning, the middle and the end. To make each of them meaningful, make sure you are able to indulge your audience with meaningful information that would help them connect all three of the aforementioned. For example, you can start with a memorable phrase to set the tone. When discussing key findings, try to focus on only the essential bits, followed by a conclusion that can leave your audience with a memory of the concluding bits (e.g. a call to action).

2. Use Catchy Phrases using the Rule of Three

You can use the rule of three for the three parts of your presentation. Say, your presentation is about the environment, you can divide it in three parts as; ‘identification, mitigation and conservation’. In this case you can start with your presentation by highlighting problems, followed by the middle of your presentation where you give mitigation strategies, followed by the conclusion which may emphasize on conservation of the environment.

You can use the rule of three to make your presentation memorable by allowing your audience to focus on three key aspects, i.e. ‘identification, mitigation and conservation’.

3. Use Visual Images using the Rule of Three

There are a number of ways you can apply the rule of three to visual imagery. One method is to use isometric images and templates. In previous posts we have already explained the benefits of using Isometric PowerPoint Templates & Clipart . This type of images are three dimensional and give the illusion of more depth than 2D images, making them more memorable and visually appealing.

Similarly, you can use other types of 3D imagery which can be pivotally placed in slides to emphasize an important point. Another method of making good visual use of the rule of three in presentations can be to use three dimensional videos or images which have three essential aspects, such as the ground, the mountains and the horizon.

Here is a tutorial which shows you how to add a video frame in PowerPoint slides . This tutorial also uses the rule of three in visual imagery, as the there are three key aspects of the slide, i.e. the background, video frame and the video running inside it.

When applying the rule of three to your presentations, be it in your presentation speech, visuals or the general outline of your presentation, you will find it easier to get your message across and make your presentations more memorable. You may apply this rule with other relevant rules, like the 5/5/5 rule for presentations or the PowerPoint 7×7 rule .

About Farshad

IT professional, communications specialist and Blogger!

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Thomas jefferson, steve jobs, and the rule of 3.

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This week America celebrates the three inalienable rights voiced in the U.S. Declaration of Independence: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Life, liberty, and happiness might very well be the three most important words in American history. The words are so eloquent, so impactful, they warrant their own Wikipedia entry . According to Wikipedia the phrase is considered by some as the “the most well-crafted, influential sentences in the history of the English language.”  Those three words inspired other countries, most notably France, to seek its own freedoms from oppression and to delineate the rights of its citizens into groups of three. The French motto “liberty, equality, and fraternity” traces its origin to the French revolution.  The list of countries that were directly inspired by the U.S. Declaration of Independence is so large, I don’t think it’s a stretch to argue that those three words might very well be the most important three words in human history.

Why did Jefferson choose three rights instead of, say, twelve? Jefferson was a skilled writer and his famous phrase reflects a rhetorical technique that can be traced to ancient Greece—a figure of speech using three words to express one idea.  As a communications coach, I strongly recommend using the ‘Rule of 3’ in all areas of communications: marketing, pitches, and presentations.

The most persuasive number in communications.  It is well established that we can only hold a small amount of information in short term, or ‘active,’ memory. In 1956, Bell Labs reached out to Harvard professor George Miller who published a classic paper titled, “The Magical Number Seven, Plus or Minus Two.” Miller argued that we have a hard time retaining more than seven to nine digits in short-term memory. Now you know why a phone number is 7 digits. Contemporary scientists, however, have put the number of items we can easily recall in short-term memory closer to three or four “chunks” of information. Think about it. When someone leaves a phone number on a voice message, you’re more likely to recall the first 3 digits before having to listen to the message again for the remainder of the number.

Since three is easier to remember than four, or seven, I suggest sticking to the Rule of 3 whenever possible. If your listener will only remember about three things from your conversation, presentation, or email, why overwhelm them with twenty-two key messages? Longer lists are complex, confusing, and convoluted.

The Rule of 3 is everywhere. The next time you are standing in the security line at a U.S airport, pay attention to the TSA instructions. The “3 simple steps to security” are: Show ID and boarding pass, take out liquids, and take off shoes and jackets. A former Air Force pilot approached me after a presentation on improving communication skills and said it reminded him of the “3 rules of surviving captivity”: fellowship with other prisoners, survive , and return with honor.

The TSA and military branches know that listing tasks in groups of three is more easily processed and, therefore, easier to follow. Great speeches are often divided into three themes, plays are often divided into three acts, and the same technique applies to persuasive presentations—tell them what you’re going to tell them, tell them, and tell them what you told them.

Steve Jobs ’ love of threes. Two hundred years after Jefferson’s words sparked a revolution, two young men launched a computer revolution from the garage of a nondescript house in Northern California. In 1976 Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak created Apple Computer to build tools that would empower everyday people. Wozniak was the engineer; Jobs was the visionary and the marketing genius who understood the role communications would play in launching the revolution.

Steve Jobs applied the Rule of 3 in nearly every presentation and product launch. In 2007 Jobs introduced the first iPhone as the “third” of Apple’s revolutionary product categories (the first two were the Macintosh and the iPod). He even said that Apple would be introducing “three” revolutionary products—a new iPod, a phone, and an Internet communications device. Jobs repeated the three products slowly until the audience finally figured out he was talking about one device capable of handling all three tasks.

In 2010 Jobs introduced the first iPad with a slide showing the new tablet as a “third device” between a smartphone and a laptop. The iPad, he told the audience, would also come in “three models”: 16, 32, and 64 GB of flash storage.

In 2011, Jobs introduced the iPad 2 as “thinner, lighter, and faster” than the original. The three adjectives so accurately described the new device, thousands of blog and newspaper headlines included those three words.

Try to apply the Rule of 3. Divide a presentation into three parts. Introduce a product with three benefits. Give me three reasons to hire you! The rule of 3—It worked for Jefferson, it worked for Jobs, and it will work for you.

Carmine Gallo  is the communications coach for the world’s most admired brands. He is a popular  keynote speaker  and author of several books, including the international bestsellers  The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs  and  The Innovation Secrets of Steve Jobs . His new book,  The Apple Experience: Secrets to Building Insanely Great Customer Loyalty  is the first book to reveal the secrets behind the stunning success of the Apple  Retail  Store. Carmine recently launched an eLearning course titled, The New Rules Of Persuasive Presentations . Follow Carmine on  Facebook  or  Twitter .

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MSU Extension Wexford County

2024 4-h bullseye bash.

July 20, 2024 LINE TIMES: 1:00 PM (check in: Noon), 3:00 PM (check in: 2 PM) ​

Registration Deadline: July 17, 2024 - 11:45PM

Wexford Civic Center, 199 E 13th Street, Cadillac, MI 49601

4-H archers new to competition are encouraged to participate! This target archery competition is a learning event to test participant’s skills, make new friends, and provide competition experience in a friendly atmosphere. Entry is limited to current 4-H members who have participated in a 4-H archery program this year or in the past. All contestants should have prior shooting event experience, at the club or county level. No previous tournament experience is required.

DATE: Saturday, July 20, 2024 LINE TIMES: 1:00 PM (check in: Noon), 3:00 PM (check in: 2 PM) (Second line time only if needed) LOCATION: Wexford Civic Arena, 199 E 13th Street, Cadillac, MI 49601​ REGISTRATION: Please register via the event in 4-H Online (https://v2.4honline.com) COST: $10 per participant, paid by cash or check at event, includes t-shirt REGISTER BY: July 17, 2024

CLASSES: Determined by 4-H age (as of Jan.1, 2024) - A. Beginner (9-11) B. Junior (12-14) C. Senior (15-19)

General Information:​ (please see event registration for full rules)

• Mandatory equipment: Hip Quivers and an Arm Guard (must be worn on the contestant's bow arm (forearm) below the elbow.​
• Bows must have a 60-pound draw, or less. ​
• Archers should have at least 9 arrows with archer’s initials on them.​
• Bows shall be cased while on grounds. ​
• Before the event, all equipment shall be inspected by Range Officer(s) or line judge.​
• 10 ends of 6 arrows @ 3 minutes per end. ​
• One practice end before scoring begins. ​
• Awards for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place per age bracket and division will be presented following the completion of the tournament.​​
• All competitors must stay in the roped off area during archery competition.​​
• Always walk in the archery range. Horse play, abusive or foul language, and unsportsman-like conduct are not appropriate and will not be tolerated.​​
• Two Blasts – Archers to the shooting line. (Arrow must stay in quiver until next command.)​
• One Blast – Begin shooting.​
• Three Blasts – Walk forward and retrieve your arrows.​
• Four+ Blasts (series of blasts) – STOP SHOOTING immediately; put your arrows in quiver.​​
• Only those people shooting are allowed on the line. Spectators shall remain in the stands.​​
• After each end is shot, archers will take bows back to the bow rack until the next end is ready to shoot.​​
• Arrows or targets must not be touched until all arrows in target have been scored.​​
• Archers will not score their own target during the competition. If there is a discrepancy in score, a line judge will determine score. After all arrows are scored, archers may pull their arrow.​​
• After registration, participants will be assigned a start time and sent a confirmation email. ​

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