Before getting to the note card stage of a presentation or speech, all the preparation and planning should be done. Write a good topic sentence that relates to the audience, research the topic using valid sources, and write an outline that organizes the information under main topics. Add a catchy introduction and conclusion.
Include on your note cards only key words and transitions in the speech. A speaker should be familiar enough with the material that a brief reminder is all that is necessary to move the speech forward. Note cards should contain only those key words, or reminders. This will keep the speaker on track, and she will not have to read the entire speech. Simply reading from notes can negatively affect audience interest.
The first card should contain only the introduction, with a key word reminding the speaker of each of the three main parts of her introduction. The next card should have one main point. If a main point uses two cards, start the next point on a fresh card for better organization. Use the outline format so it's easy to find your place during the speech.