Unit 3 · Lesson 2• 3 min
Short Yes/No Questions
Long questions = long answers = opponent gets free speech time. Keep questions tight.
The 7-word rule
If your question is more than 7 words, cut it. 'Do you have evidence for that claim?' (7 words) beats 'Can you point me to the specific study you're referencing in your second contention regarding emissions?' (18 words).
Lead them somewhere
Each question should narrow the road. Three short questions in a row that force a single admission.
Worked example
Opponent claimed: 'EV mandates will reduce emissions by 40%.'
Q1: 'That 40% — by what year?' Q2: 'And what's your source?' Q3: 'Does that source factor in grid emissions?' Now you have either a year, a source, or an admission that the number is shaky.
Quick Check
1. Best CX question shape:
Answer all 1 to check.
Takeaway
Short questions trap. Long questions free your opponent.