The Competent Communication manual (also called the "basic manual") helps you to develop the basic skills that you need to prepare and present an effective speech.

The manual is organized into ten separate projects, each with its own individual focus or objective. An extremely effective tool in developing your speaking skills, the Competent Communication manual never tells you exactly what to do or what to speak about, but rather it provides a set of guidelines for you to think about as you prepare your speech.

As an essential part of the Toastmasters program, another Toastmaster will evaluate each speech that you give, providing positive feedback and suggestions for improvement, as necessary.

After completing the Competent Communication manual, you earn Competent Communicator (CC) recognition and are able to focus your efforts on the projects in the advanced speech and leadership manuals of the Toastmasters program.

Your club's Vice President Education (or other Club officer if a VPE is the one earning the award) can submit an application for a CTM or other award online at the Toastmasters International website.

The chart below lists the ten projects in the Competent Communication manual.

	Project	Time	Objective
1	The Ice Breaker	4 - 6	Self-introduction to your club
2	Organize Your Speech	5 - 7	Organization/construction
3	Get to the Point prior to Oct 03, was "Speak with Sincerity"	5 - 7	Achievement of a purpose
4	How to Say It prior to Oct 03, was "Work with Words"	5 - 7	Precision in word choice
5	Your Body Speaks prior to Oct 03, was "Show What You Mean"	5 - 7	Gestures and body movements
Evaluate Your Progress - Part 1
6	Vocal Variety	5 - 7	Voice volume, pitch, rate, quality
7	Research Your Topic prior to Oct 03, was "Apply Your Skills"	5 - 7	Effective use of research
8	Get Comfortable with Visual Aids prior to Oct 03, was "Add Impact to Your Speech"	5 - 7	Effective use of visual aids
9	Persuade with Power	5 - 7	Persuasion
10	Inspire Your Audience	8 - 10	Inspiration
Evaluate Your Progress - Part 2