For a while now, I have been passionate about learning how great speakers use storytelling techniques and story structure to build resonance for their ideas and captivate their audiences.

This is a topic that is quite well-studied.

From communications consulting experts to neuroscientists, to writers and journalists, there are plenty of empirically backed findings on how story structure improves the stickiness of ideas.

To uncover these learnings, I have watched dozens of YouTube videos, particularly TED Talks, on storytelling techniques and tips.

Here are my top 5 TED Talks that share important, must-know approaches:

Uncovering Common Storytelling Structure of Greatest Communicators | Nancy Duarte

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Nancy Duarte maps the trajectory of two iconic speeches, sharing her insights on how people can be more effective storytellers to share their ideas and galvanize support. Her analysis of speech patterns provides a practical guide for crafting compelling narratives.

The Science of Storytelling | Will Storr

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Will Storr makes the case, through extensive research, that storytelling structure is a result of evolution and repeated testing, which is why stories resonate so strongly with the brain. He shares six tips on how the most effective stories are structured to resonate deeply with humans.

The Magical Science of Storytelling | David JP Phillips

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David JP Phillips discusses the power that stories have in creating emotional investment. He explains how leveraging chemical responses can engage listeners on a deeper level, making your communication more impactful.

The Science and Secret of the Storytelling Superpower | Mike Brian

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Mike Brian dives into the science behind the empathy we feel when we hear stories. He emphasizes the importance of using stories to communicate ideas and discusses the cadence of effective storytelling to enhance message delivery.

Why Storytelling Matters | Garr Reynolds

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Garr Reynolds explores the importance of storytelling through a storyboarding exercise. He provides key tactics for building engaging stories, offering a practical approach to crafting narratives that captivate and inform.

The key concepts and storytelling techniques the speakers share in these videos have helped clarify my understanding of how to communicate ideas and build connections with audiences. I hope they help you enhance your communication skills and tell compelling stories that share the ideas that matter to you as well.