Learn debate & speech
Practical, short guides to every NSDA format. Read one, grab the printable, then practice the matching course inside DB8 Academy.
Debate formats
What Is LD Debate? A Beginner's Guide to Lincoln-Douglas
LD debate is a one-on-one values debate. Learn the format, the value/criterion framework, speech order, and how to win your first round.
Public Forum Debate: Format, Rules, and How to Win
Public Forum (PF) is a partner debate about current events, judged by everyday people. Learn the full speech order with times, how to build a case, crossfire strategy, summary and final focus technique, and how to weigh impacts to win.
How to Write a Congressional Debate Speech
Congress speeches are short, structured, and persuasive. Learn the intro-body-conclusion format, how to refute, and how to close with impact.
Policy Debate: A Beginner's Guide to Cross-Examination Debate
Policy is the most evidence-heavy debate event. Learn stock issues, the affirmative plan, disadvantages, counterplans, and how to survive your first round.
Speech events
Extemporaneous Speaking: How to Prep a Speech in 30 Minutes
Extemp gives you 30 minutes to research and deliver a 7-minute speech. Learn a repeatable prep system that works under pressure.
Original Oratory: How to Write and Memorize a 10-Minute Speech
OO is a self-written persuasive speech performed from memory. Learn topic selection, structure, and a memorization schedule that works.
Impromptu Speaking: How to Build a Speech in Two Minutes
Impromptu gives you minutes, not hours. Learn three reusable structures, how to pick an interpretation fast, and how to fill time without rambling.
Strategy
How to Flow a Debate Round
Flowing is the skill of tracking every argument across every speech. Learn the column method, shorthand, and how to use your flow in rebuttals.
How to Write a Rebuttal Speech That Actually Answers
Most rebuttals are just a second constructive. Learn the four-step refutation pattern, how to group arguments, and what to do when you are behind.
Debate Judge Paradigms Explained (And How to Adapt)
Lay parent, flow judge, tab, or traditional — the judge decides how you should speak. Learn to read a paradigm and adapt in the first 30 seconds.
Cross-Examination: Questions That Actually Win Rounds
Crossfire and cross-ex are not interrogations. Learn how to build a question chain, control the clock, and turn answers into rebuttal material.
How to Practice Debate (Even When You're Alone)
A complete practice system for debaters: solo drills, partner practice, practice rounds, speaking exercises, and a weekly schedule that actually builds skill.
Getting started
Debate Time Limits Explained (PF, LD, Congress, Speech)
Every debate format has its own speech times and prep rules. Here is a quick reference for the most common high school events.
How to Start a Speech and Debate Club
Starting a debate club at your school is easier than it looks. Here is a step-by-step guide for students and coaches.
NSDA Events Explained: A Quick Guide to Every Format
The National Speech and Debate Association hosts more than a dozen events. Here is what each one is and who it is best for.
Club activities
Want everything in one place?
Get the free Debate Starter Kit with printable flow sheets, time-limit cheat sheets, and practice drills.