Delivery & Voice
Intonation Contour
Shape pitch movement to convey intent and keep interest.
What it is
Before & after
“Monotone: "We're excited to announce record profits this quarter" delivered with flat, unchanging pitch.”
“Varied contour: "We're EXCITED to announce RECORD profits this quarter!" with rising pitch on key words.”
When you’ll use it
Question vs. statements: Rising pitch for "Any questions?" vs. falling pitch for "Let me summarize our key points."
Emphasis patterns: Higher pitch on important words: "This QUARTER we exceeded ALL targets"
Emotional alignment: Serious topics use lower, steady pitch; exciting news uses varied, higher pitch patterns
List presentations: Rising pitch for series items, falling pitch for final item to signal completion
Pro tip
Mark arrows over words you want to rise or fall.
Questions & answers
3 questionsLearn more
Practice this concept
Detect uptalk in your speech
Watch how rising intonation patterns surface in real speeches, then practice flattening your own.