How to Plan & Organize a Debate Competition

Simple solutions for conducting your next debate

Co-authored by Pete Canalichio

Last Updated: January 23, 2024 Fact Checked

A debate is meant to be an open discussion about a topic, usually viewing the topic at hand either being negative or positive. Debate competitions are a fun and engaging way to practice your skills, but how do you plan one properly? Read on for our simple tips on how to organize a debate and keep it running smoothly.

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Knowing who is participating allows you to accurately plan and organize how a debate should run. You should be certain to not have too many participants, as this may lead to increased confusion and loudness.
Nothing is worse than having several people not know what they are talking about. In order for a debate to run smoothly, tell your participants to please write some key points they would like to discuss.^{[1]
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It is most common to have a spokesperson for each side of the debate, and to only allow them to speak on behalf of their respective side of the debate. To ensure that not only one person leads each side of the debate, allow for people on each side to switch out every five to ten minutes.
Do not allow a debate to go on and on. The worst thing is for the debate to completely veer off track. This defeats the purpose of the debate, and as an organizer you should strive for the best results a debate can have.^{[2]
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Find a pleasant solution to end the debate. A debate should reach an end when both sides reach a conclusion or present all of their opinions and facts. A solution will not always be found, but a compromise or general understanding should mark the end of a debate.^{[3]
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- To create an artificial ending: Simply ask for a vote from the general assembly of people on both inputs of the debate groups. If the debate is still split, consider reorganizing at a later date and finishing on a more defined ground.
Do not allow participants (or if applicable audiences) to interrupt your debate. Consider asking such persons to calm down, and if necessary, to leave. If things escalate to violence, consider contacting authorities.

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How do I debate as opposition?

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Think of points for the proposition, then flip the logic to work in your favor.

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How do I dress for a debate?

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Acceptable debate dress is generally somewhere between business casual and formal, depending on the venue and audience.

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How many people participate in a debate?

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Three or four from each side, depending on the format. Either the first or second speaker doubles as a reply speaker who summarizes the entire debate and states why his/her side should win. There can also be a separate speaker for the reply speech. Again, this depends on the format. Additionally, there are also two reserves in case any speaker cannot make it. So overall, there are ten to twelve people in each round.

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Tips

Be direct and confident. As debate organizer, you should maintain an orderly environment.

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Warnings

Always allow for speakers to have their fair share. Cutting off or interrupting speakers can lead to a foul atmosphere.

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As organizer, do not choose a side or show any bias in the debate.

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