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Debate is a method of interactive and representational argument. Debate is a broader form of argument

thandeductive reasoning,which only examines whether a conclusion is a consequence of premises, and

factual argument, which only examines what is or isn't the case, orrhetoric,which is a technique of

persuasion. Though logical consistency, factual accuracy and some degree of emotional appeal to the

audience are important elements of the art of persuasion, in debating, one side often prevails over the

other side by presenting a superior "context" and/or framework of the issue, which is far more subtle and

strategic. The outcome of a debate depends upon consensus or some formal way of reaching a

resolution, rather than the objective facts as such. In a formal debating contest, there are rules for

participants to discuss and decide on differences, within a framework defining how they will interact.

Debating is commonly carried out in many assemblies of various types to discuss matters and to make

resolutions about action to be taken, often by a vote. Deliberative bodies such as parliaments, legislative

assemblies, and meetings of all sorts engage in debates. In particular, in parliamentary democracies a

legislature debates and decides on new laws. Formal debates between candidates for elected office,

such as the leaders debates and the U.S. presidential election debates, are sometimes held in

democracies. Debating is also carried out for educational and recreational purposes, usually associated

with educational establishments. The major goal of the study of debate as a method or art is to develop

the ability to debate rationally from either position with equal ease.

Step 1: Start practicing open-debate scenarios, where you have no script or prompts

to direct what you say. Ensure you leave out all colloquial language, and speak with

presence. A loud, clear, confident voice can empower your statements and truly

sway an audience or judge in your favour.Step 2: Listening to your opponents arguments is just as important as saying your

own. Even if you have prepared rebuttals, if you do not listen to what your opponent

says, you may refute something that they may not have even said. Listening alsoenables you to pick out any flaws or errors in their argument. If an opponent states

an absurd fact, you can then counter it and tarnish their credibility. Active listening

also helps your intimidation factor, as your opponent will see you staring at them in

the eye and listening to every word they say, which could choke them up.Step 3: Stand up strong and tall when you speak. A stage presence also adds to your

intimidation factor as body language speaks volumes. Have feeling in your

presentation, as your passionwill flow into other people in the audience as well.Step 4: Professionalism is key. Direct personal targets, rude comments, physical

intimidation and other behaviour will dilute the strength of your argument. The

audience and judge watch everything, and if you act like a four year old, you wont

be taken seriously. By being professional throughout the debate, people will respect

you and what you have to say. Shake hands before the debate and after, dont get

too caught up in your emotions, and speak with class.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deductive_reasoninghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deductive_reasoninghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deductive_reasoninghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhetorichttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhetorichttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhetorichttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhetorichttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deductive_reasoning

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Step 5:Put the silver bow on your entire argument: dress well. A debate without

proper attire is like having a sandwich with stale bread, it can have huge negative

impacts on your overall performance. If you dress well and professional, people will

see the seriousness in your arguments and will not dismiss your credibility veryeasily. Impressions are lasting, and if the first impression you make is negative

because of your baseball cap or sneakers, then the rest of your debate is sure to

follow the same trend.

Questions or challenges should be professional. Insulting,condescending, or comments involving personal language or attacksare unacceptable.Critical analysis, synthesis, rhetorical skill, and wit are keys todebate success.Focus on the opposing sides position or argument. Knowing theother side is critical for preparing strategies to refute youropponents arguments.Limit your arguments to three or less.

Use logic to make your arguments. Present these arguments clearlyand concisely.Know the common errors in thinking likelogical fallaciesand usethem effectively in your refutation.Present the content accurately. Only use content that is pertinent toyour point of view and draw on support from authoritative sources. Be certain of the validity of all external evidence presented for yourarguments. Also, challenges to the validity of evidence should bemade only on substantive grounds.Your rebuttal (or conclusion) in a debate is your final summaryposition. Use it as an opportunity to highlight important issues thatindicate proof of your points or refute your opponents argument.

http://onlinelearn.edschool.virginia.edu/debate/thenine.htmlhttp://onlinelearn.edschool.virginia.edu/debate/thenine.htmlhttp://onlinelearn.edschool.virginia.edu/debate/thenine.htmlhttp://onlinelearn.edschool.virginia.edu/debate/thenine.html