Quick answer
A short speech needs four things: who you are, one revealing memory, one sincere line about the couple and a toast. Everything else is optional.
Write to a three-minute limit
Three spoken minutes is roughly 350–420 words for most speakers. Draft freely, then remove repeated setup, extra characters and any joke that requires a long explanation.
Use one story, not five
A single specific memory creates a clearer picture than a rapid list. Choose something guests can follow without knowing your entire friendship history.
Make the ending unmistakable
Slow down for the final lines. Name the couple, invite the room to stand or raise a glass if appropriate, and finish without adding another joke afterwards.
Common questions
Is a two-minute speech too short?
Not if it feels complete. Warmth and clarity matter more than duration.
Can a nervous best man read the whole speech?
Yes. Use large text and look up at the end of each short paragraph.