Topicsmaster Planner
Plan and run Table Topics as the Topicsmaster (Table Topics Master)
Session Theme
Prepared Questions
Question starters (click to copy):
Live Session Timer
How to Be a Topicsmaster in Toastmasters
The Topicsmaster (also called Table Topics Master) runs the impromptu speaking segment of the Toastmasters meeting. This is often the most fun and unpredictable part of the meeting.
Preparation: Choose a theme that's broad enough to engage everyone — "Life Lessons," "Imagine If..." or "Around the World." Prepare 10–15 questions (you typically only use 6–10).
Who can speak: Table Topics speakers are typically members who are NOT speaking in the prepared segment and guests. Check with your Toastmaster of the Day beforehand.
Running the session: Introduce yourself and the theme. Call on speakers by name (or use a creative method like random selection). Don't reveal the question before calling on someone — the spontaneity is part of the exercise.
Timing: Each speaker has 1–2 minutes. Use a timer (or the meeting's Timer role) and display timing signals. Keep the overall session to 15–20 minutes.
Pro tip: Have a question ready for yourself in case you have extra time and the General Evaluator or Toastmaster haven't spoken yet. The best Topicsmasters keep energy high and the audience engaged throughout.