AN OVERVIEW OF POLICY DEBATE

Purpose: Advocate for or against a change in U.S. federal policy.

Example Performance

WHAT IS

POLICY

DEBATE?

A 2-on-2, fast-paced, research-heavy event focused on a year-long resolution.

One team proposes a specific policy plan; the other team argues against it.

Rounds emphasize depth, technical arguments, and rapid delivery ("spreading").

WHAT SKILLS

WILL I BUILD?

Research

Logic & Teamwork Cross-examination

Critical Thinking

Organization

WHO IS THIS EVENT

BUILT FOR?

Students who love digging into details, building systems of arguments, and working closely with a partner.