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Guides.

Short, format-accurate write-ups on the moves that win specific debate speeches. 13 published.

Asian Parliamentary format reference

How to open as PM in Asian Parliamentary
The PMC is the blueprint Gov runs on for the next 35 minutes. Define the motion, build 2-3 contentions, weigh in the constructive, pre-empt the obvious Opp move.
6 min read
Asian Parli whip speech tips
The whip is not a 3rd constructive. Pick 2-3 issues that the round actually clashed on, walk each one, weigh, close. No new arguments, new weighing only.
5 min read

World Schools format reference

WSDC reply speech structure
The reply isn't a 4th constructive. It's a closing argument. Two issues, no new matter, weighing-first, biased toward your side.
5 min read
WSDC first proposition speech: how to open the round
The 1st Proposition speech in WSDC sets the entire round. Definition, burden, two substantive arguments, and a clean handoff to your partner.
6 min read

Public Forum format reference

PF crossfire questions to ask
Crossfire isn't cross-ex. You're fighting for control of three minutes and the judge's attention. Ask questions that set up your next speech, not questions you actually want answered.
5 min read
PF summary speech structure: how to collapse the round in 3 minutes
The PF summary is not a 3rd rebuttal. It is the round's first collapse. Pick 2-3 voting issues, walk each, and start weighing.
5 min read

British Parliamentary format reference

How to take a POI in BP
POIs are scored on both sides: how you ask matters, and how you handle one matters more. Take 1-2 per speech, refuse the rest cleanly, and have a one-line response ready before they finish the question.
5 min read
BP closing extension how-to
Your extension has to be substantively new, not louder. New mechanism, new actor, new impact axis, or new stakeholder. If Opening could have said it, you didn't extend.
6 min read

Viva / Oral Exam

Viva exam questions to expect
Examiners ask three kinds of questions: did you understand it, can you defend the choices you made, and can you connect this to something outside your paper. Prepare answers to all three and you handle 90% of vivas.
6 min read

APDA Parliamentary format reference

APDA opp case structure
The LOC is the round-defining speech for Opp. Concede one minor thing for credibility, attack the two strongest Gov contentions, build offense, set up your partner.
6 min read
APDA Prime Minister Rebuttal: how to write the last speech
The PMR is 5 minutes, no new arguments, and the last word. Collapse to one voter, respond to the LOR cleanly, and write the judge's ballot for them.
6 min read

Policy / CX format reference

Policy debate speed reading for beginners
Speed only helps if judges can flow you. Clean at 175 WPM beats unflowable at 350. Drill articulation first, breath second, speed third.
6 min read

Lincoln-Douglas format reference

LD value and criterion examples
Value names what matters; criterion gives you the test. Pick a value that fits the resolution and a criterion you can actually warrant. Don't reach for Kant if your case is consequentialist.
5 min read