What does vocalics study in the context of public speaking?

Vocalics is a crucial aspect of public speaking that focuses specifically on how voice contributes to communication. This includes elements such as pitch, tone, volume, rate, and even pauses. The way a speaker utilizes their voice can significantly enhance or detract from the message they are delivering, making it an essential area of study for effective public speaking.

By understanding vocalics, speakers can learn how to convey emotions and emphasize important points, making their presentations more engaging and impactful. The ability to manipulate voice characteristics allows speakers to connect with their audience on a deeper level, fostering a more effective exchange of ideas. In contrast, the other options pertain to different aspects of non-verbal communication and topic selection, which, while important, do not encapsulate the study of vocalics itself.