What is one major disadvantage of using a manuscript for speech delivery?

Using a manuscript for speech delivery presents the significant disadvantage of making it challenging to maintain eye contact with the audience. When a speaker is reading from a script, their focus is often directed toward the manuscript rather than engaging visually with the audience. This can create a disconnect, as eye contact is an essential element for establishing a connection and fostering a sense of engagement and credibility with listeners. The ability to interact with the audience through eye contact is crucial for effective communication, as it helps to build rapport and keeps the audience attentive.

While using a manuscript can provide structure and reduce the chance of forgetting points, it inherently limits the speaker's ability to be present with the audience, diminishing the overall impact of the speech. This aspect is particularly important in public speaking, where audience interaction and engagement significantly influence the success of the delivery.