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What is DebatingWiki

DebatingWiki is a site set up to try to help debaters both better understand debating and to prepare for debates.

You can find information about debating, how to debate, different types of debating and the roles of different speakers here, for new debaters trying to learn the skills of debating and for more experienced speakers looking to refine their style. All debaters can learn from each other, and having a community of people trying to help each other to debate better is something that will help even the most experienced debaters.

Perhaps even more importantly, though, you can find and contribute to arguments, cases, contexts and facts for both sides of any debate, as well as general rules and strategies to think about when constructing cases on a wide range of different topics. Topic preps can be used when practicing debating, to help improve how to make arguments and even to revise for possible topics, as well as the more obvious use as preparation for a set topic. Currently, there are no popular websites that give debaters reliable case preps and speaking advice-something we hope to change.

You can help this site grow by registering to find and add pages, suggest pages, edit material or simply comment.

What is Debating?

Debating is a form of competitive argument in which two sides are pitted against each other on a topic; the two sides have to defend or attack a given proposition using logical argument and rebuttal. However, it would be wrong to think of debating as a strictly logical form of argument; debaters must also use their rhetoric to convince and audience.Here are some advice:

1. Research your topic thoroughly: Make sure you have a solid understanding of both sides of the argument and have evidence to support your points.
2. Be prepared to listen: It's important to be open-minded and willing to listen to the other side of the argument. This will help you strengthen your own arguments and potentially find common ground.
3. Use logic and reasoning: When making your points, be sure to use clear, logical and coherent arguments to support your position.
4. Stay calm and composed: It's natural to feel passionate about your viewpoint, but it's important to remain calm and composed during a debate. This will help you better communicate your points and avoid getting overly emotional.
5. Be respectful: Respect your opponent and their viewpoints, even if you strongly disagree. Being respectful will help foster a constructive debate and may even change the other person's perspective.
6. Practice active listening: Pay attention to what your opponent is saying and respond directly to their points. This will show that you are engaged in the debate and that you are taking the time to listen and respond thoughtfully.
7. Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice debating, the more comfortable and confident you will become in expressing your ideas and responding to opposing viewpoints.
8. Use examples and anecdotes: Using real-life examples and personal experiences can help make your arguments more relatable and persuasive.
9. Be aware of your body language: Nonverbal cues, such as eye contact, gestures, and posture, can also play a significant role in the effectiveness of your communication during a debate.
10. Have a strong closing argument: Summarize your main points and reiterate why your position is the strongest. A strong closing argument can leave a lasting impression on your audience and potentially sway them to your side.