Everyone wants to convince their fellow human beings as well as possible – especially trainers, speakers, and coaches. The well-known 5-sentence method works particularly well for this. Discover now how to convince not only live but also in the instructional video with this method.

This is how the 5-sentence method works

With the 5-sentence method, you try to present your arguments as well and concisely as possible. The structure is impressively simple: Three arguments are framed by the introduction and conclusion. Here is what the complete method looks like:

1. Introduction

2. Argument 1

3. Argument 2

4. Argument 3

5. Conclusion

The introduction serves to name the topic or your own thesis: “Why am I speaking here?”. You can name the arguments in the form of examples or evidence. The conclusion briefly summarizes the arguments again, then you repeat your thesis – and urge the audience to act!

A typical example of the 5-sentence method

Introduction

Anyone who wants to communicate non-violently formulates I-messages.

Argument 1

This helps you avoid directly attacking the other person.

Argument 2

The I-formulation always expresses that these are subjective feelings and opinions.

Argument 3

A very simple example: “I often feel alone” – instead of “You often leave me alone”

Conclusion

Try it out for yourself and formulate only I-messages in your next argument!

Applications of the method

The principle is certainly clear – but when do you best use this technique? Especially trainers, coaches, and speakers benefit from the 5-sentence method when they want to convey their knowledge clearly and simply.

Two applications for trainers and speakers:

1. In presentations of any kind: Whether PowerPoint (in writing) or in a lecture (orally).

Classic application of the 5-sentence method: Speaking in front of an audience.

2. In self-shot videos, with which you convey your messages, even when you can't speak "live" – for example, for social media or online courses.

Alternative use of the 5-sentence method: Educational videos, such as for online courses.

The 5-sentence method in the instructional video

With an instructional video, you fundamentally want to achieve the same things as with a presentation: Your message should reach the other person. So why not rely on classic methods in digital training?

• Practice makes perfect: In the instructional video, not every sentence needs to sit perfectly on the first try – speak your message until you are satisfied!

• Once recorded, distribute as often as you like: Easily spread your most important message online.

• Convince without presence: If you integrate e-learning into your training, you can convey your message without having to be present at all times.

• Brevity is the soul of wit: With the 5-sentence method, you limit yourself to the essential aspects of your argumentation. This keeps your video short and ensures that your viewer watches it until the end.

Simply test for yourself: The 5-sentence method in the online course

Try out the 5-sentence method easily at home, in your own four walls. Find a place where the light falls on you from the front and place your smartphone at an appropriate height. This setting is already sufficient for initial rehearsals!

If you have questions about video shooting, this clear guide will also help you, which you can download for free. Start directly with your first instructional video and use the 5-sentence method to convey your message briefly and concisely to the world!