Article: If you’re able to select the monologue yourself, choose one from a play or script that you know very well. If you are familiar with the storyline, background, and characters, it will be easier for you to memorize it. If you're not familiar with any plays, try looking for a script from a movie you love, or one that's based on a book you've read. If you personally connect with a specific play or script, choose that as your monologue to memorize. This could be a script that has a character of the same gender, or is close to your age. The character may be going through an experience you’ve been in. Or, it could be a character with similar opinions that you can relate to. Choose a monologue that is physically accurate and age-appropriate. You will be able to better connect with a character that is around the same age and has the same physical characteristics. Choose a monologue that is active and in the moment, instead of a character telling a story or sharing a memory. A monologue in which the character is speaking to another person provides a more natural feel. This will make it easier to be in the moment and memorize the piece. A monologue that is active will be more enjoyable for both you and the person watching you. If you’re having fun, you’ll be more apt to remember it. Why try to memorize a long monologue if you don’t have to? If you have the choice, select a monologue that will take approximately 1 minute to perform. This will take the pressure off of you and will be a lot quicker and easier to memorize. You may be unable to personally select the monologue, or you’ve chosen one you do not have a lot of experience with. If this is the case, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the script. Read over the entire thing, or find an in-depth summary. This will help to provide context and layers of meaning to your monologue.

What is a summary?
Pick a monologue that you are familiar with. Select a monologue that you are personally connected to. Find a monologue that is in active voice. Keep the monologue under 2 minutes long. Familiarize yourself with the play.