How Severe Is Your Public Speaking Anxiety?
Take the scientifically validated assessment used by researchers worldwide. Get your score instantly—no waiting, no manual calculations.
✅ 34 questions · ✅ 5 minutes · ✅ Instant results · ✅ 100% free
Why Knowing Your Score Matters
You probably already know you have public speaking anxiety. But do you know how severe it is compared to others? Understanding your starting point is the first step toward real progress.
This matters because different anxiety levels require different approaches. Someone with moderate anxiety might benefit from jumping into Toastmasters. But if you experience panic-level anxiety? That approach could make things worse—creating more trauma instead of building confidence.
Your score helps you find the right path forward—one that matches where you actually are, not where you think you “should” be.
The PRPSA: A Gold Standard Assessment
This isn’t some random quiz. The Personal Report of Public Speaking Anxiety (PRPSA) is the real deal.
🔬
Research-Based
Developed by Dr. James McCroskey in 1970 and used in thousands of academic studies on communication anxiety.
✓
Highly Reliable
Reliability scores above .90—meaning you can trust your results to accurately reflect your anxiety level.
⚡
Instant Results
The original test requires complex manual calculations. Our online version does the math instantly—no spreadsheets required.
What Your Score Means
Scores range from 34 to 170. Here’s how to interpret your results:
Below 98: Low Public Speaking Anxiety
You experience normal nerves that don’t significantly interfere with your ability to communicate. You’d likely benefit from general speaking practice—Toastmasters or similar groups are a great fit (search for groups on Reddit or Meetup or start your own).
98-131: Medium Public Speaking Anxiety
If you’re Low-Medium, Toastmasters or similar groups are a great fit. If your anxiety is significant enough to impact your performance and comfort, you’d benefit from learning specific anxiety management techniques before jumping into high-pressure practice. The MAP System Course combined with Practice Clubs is your ideal path.
Above 131: High Public Speaking Anxiety
You likely experience panic-level responses—racing heart, mind going blank, overwhelming dread. Traditional “just do it” approaches could make things worse. You need a systematic, gradual approach that addresses both mindset and nervous system regulation. The LAB: All Access with Private Coaching Track provides the hyper-personalized guidance you need. The Complete MAP System Course combined with Practice Clubs is also an option. Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Cheryl to discuss the best path for you.
Ready to Know Where You Stand?
The assessment takes about 5 minutes. Answer honestly—there are no “right” answers, just honest reflections about your experience.
No signup required. Get your score immediately after completing the 34 questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is this different from other online quizzes?
Most online quizzes are created for entertainment without any scientific validation. The PRPSA has been rigorously tested since 1970, with reliability scores consistently above .90. It’s the same assessment used by researchers studying public speaking anxiety in academic settings worldwide.
Do I need to create an account?
No. You can take the assessment and get your score without providing any personal information. If you’d like your results emailed to you for future reference, you can optionally add your email address.
Can I retake the assessment later to track my progress?
Absolutely. Many people take it before starting the MAP System and again every 3 months of practice to measure their improvement. It’s a great way to see objective evidence of your progress.
What’s the average score?
The research shows a mean score of 114.6 with a standard deviation of 17.2. This means most people score somewhere in the moderate range. However, if you’re seeking help for public speaking anxiety, your score is likely above average—and that’s okay. Knowing your starting point is the first step toward improvement.
What Happens After You Get Your Score?
Based on your results, here are your recommended next steps:
1. Learn the Science
Start with the free MAP System Quick Start Course to understand why you experience anxiety and what actually works to overcome it.
2. Master the Tools
The Complete MAP System Course gives you the full toolkit—Mindset Shifts, Activation Control (including the DAART protocol), and Practice Smart strategies.
3. Practice Safely
Join Practice Clubs ($17/month) to build your database of positive speaking memories in a safe, supportive environment—not a high-pressure sink-or-swim situation.
Take the First Step
Understanding your anxiety level is the foundation for building real confidence. You can’t navigate somewhere new without knowing where you’re starting from.
Source: McCroskey, J. C. (1970). Measures of communication-bound anxiety. Speech Monographs, 37, 269-277.
© SpeakCalmHQ MAP System for Public Speaking Anxiety. All Rights Reserved.