I have a fear of public speaking: glossophobia. (cross post from the lounge)

[Tobin S.]

It's something I'm going to have to overcome.

I thought I would tackle it head on last night in my math class at school. We were asked to try a difficult practice problem. The professor said that whoever got up in front of the class and solved the problem correctly would get some bonus points. Fewer bonus points would also be rewarded simply for trying even if the solution was wrong.

I was confident of my solution, but much less so of getting up in front of the class and explaining it to everyone. I've had a fear of public speaking for as long as I can remember. It's much more intense when I'm actually standing in front of a group of people. I have less trouble speaking up when I'm seated with the class.

I'm going into a field where I will probably be required to speak in front of groups, so I'm going to have to find a way to get over this. I do have to take a public speaking class at school. I suppose that might help, but I really need some tips to help me get over this fear.

I made it through my solution in front of the class alright and got the correct answer for maximum bonus points, but I was probably obviously nervous and I stammered a bit. Is this one of those things that you feel more comfortable with the more you do it? Is the key just to speak publicly more often?