If you will distribute a handout, decide whether you will distribute the handout before or after the speech. If handouts are distributed prior to the speech, the audience will be able to write notes...

If you will distribute a handout, decide whether you will distribute the handout before or after the speech. If handouts are distributed prior to the speech, the audience will be able to write notes on them. However, if they are distributed before the speech, people may read them during your speech and not listen to you, or they may leave before the speech is completed.