Dumb question about public speaking...?

Question

how can i be better at it

and how do i get over my stupid fear of it

Answer 1

Never a dumb question.  I still get afraid of public speaking.  It is something to work on everyday.  Think positive, believe in yourself, know that you can do it without letting fear overcome you.  Better said than done but you can do it.  I know you can.

Answer 2

Let's start with the fear issue: if you're a presenter asked to address an audience, keep in mind that makes you the expert on whatever it is you're discussing.  Would you be afraid to talk to someone about your bicycle or your favorite movie?  Of course not....and you shouldn't be afraid to talk abou those things with a group, either.

So step #1 in improving your confidence and performance is to make sure you really know, and care about, your topic.  Knowledge will breed confidence, and passion will breed enthusiasm in how you present.

Step #2 is to memorize and rehearse your talking points, not your word-for-word speech.  If you were talking about your favorite movie, you'd mention the cast, the plot, the characters the director and what made it all work for you, and you'd do this casually.  Ditto for a formal speech.  Know your subject and the main points you want to address regarding it, then just...talk.  Be relaxed.  Don't be afraid to improvise or try some humor.  You'll be more comfortable and effective and your audience will enjoy the speech much more.