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.
Debate events
Public Forum is partner debate for current events. Lincoln-Douglas is one-on-one values debate. Policy is two-on-two evidence-heavy debate. Congressional Debate simulates the U.S. Congress. Big Questions is a simplified debate about science and philosophy.
Limited preparation events
Extemporaneous Speaking gives you 30 minutes to prepare a current-events speech. Impromptu gives you 2-7 minutes total to speak on a surprise topic.
Prepared speech events
Original Oratory is a 10-minute persuasive speech written by the student. Informative Speaking teaches the audience something new. Declamation is the performance of a published speech.
Interpretation events
Dramatic Interp, Humorous Interp, and Duo Interp are 10-minute performances of published material. They combine acting, cutting, and storytelling skills.
How to choose
If you like research and teamwork, try PF or Policy. If you like philosophy, try LD or Big Questions. If you like performing, try DI, HI, or Duo. If you like current events, try Extemp or Congress.
Key takeaway
There is an NSDA event for every personality. Try one that matches what you already enjoy, then branch out once you learn the basics.
NSDA Event Picker
Research + partner → PF/Policy. Philosophy alone → LD/Big Questions. Current events → Extemp/Congress. Performing → DI/HI/Duo. Persuasive writing → OO/Info. Quick thinking → Impromptu.