Which should be the initial step in preparing a lecture?

Establishing the objective and desired outcome is the foundational step in preparing a lecture because it provides direction and clarity for what the lecture aims to achieve. Without a clear objective, it's challenging to determine the appropriate content, structure, and teaching methods that will be employed.

When you define the objectives, you can tailor your gathering of teaching materials, visual aids, and lecture format to align with what you want students to learn or accomplish by the end of the session. This approach ensures that all subsequent steps in the preparation process are focused and relevant, ultimately leading to a more effective and engaging lecture for the audience.

Understanding the goals also helps you to set appropriate time limits and determine the level of detail required in your teaching materials, ensuring that you cover the necessary content within the time constraints. Therefore, starting with a solid objective is essential for a successful lecture delivery.