Learning to Debate
Welcome to the NAUDL's primary resource page for first-year debaters! We realize that starting off as a debater can be challenging. We have assembled the following pages to provide you advice on several aspects of learning how to debate.
You might choose to work your way through this guide in order, or you might choose to read the specific pages where you have questions. The links below open the full document at the corresponding section. Good luck with your debate competitions!
1. Getting Started
So You're Thinking of Debating
The Basics: What is an Argument?
Winning Clash Battles
The Mechanics of Having a Debate: Flowing
2. Evidence and Research
The Life Blood of Debate: Evidence
How To Find Evidence: Research Strategies
3. Communication Strategies
Your Communication Style - Verbal
Your Communication Style – Non-Verbal
12 Minutes Up For Grabs: Cross Examination
Practice Makes Perfect
4. Affirmative Strategies
The Affirmative Case
Solvency and the Affirmative Plan
Sample Outline for the Affirmative Case and Plan
5. Affirmative Speeches
First Affirmative Constructive
Second Affirmative Constructive
First Affirmative Rebuttal
Second Affirmative Rebuttal
6. Negative Strategies
Designing the Negative Strategy
Topicality
Case Debate
Disadvantages
Counterplans
Critiques
7. Negative Speeches
First Negative Constructive
Second Negative Constructive
First Negative Rebuttal
Second Negative Rebuttal
To download the Learning to Debate Guide as a PDF file click here.
