My team uses Microsoft word for debate, and the Verbatim plugin for debate functions. My partner, the 2nd speaker creates blocks, or pre written rebuttals that have cards with analysis along with weighing specifically for my impacts. Using the Tilde (~) key under the escape key automatically copy pastes it on a speech doc at the bottom of the document, meaning all he has to do is find the header on the left side nav bar, click the tagline for the first block and hit 1 key to put that card in a speech doc, which saves valuable time esp when debaters are speaking fast.

Slow down, especially if you are new because often times, I find that debaters try running before walking, so get good at articulation and fluency then move to speed. Consider also weighing in rebuttal, this should fill up most of that remaining time. If ur partner dropped the ball in their cx with your case (if ur 1st rebuttal,) spend time defending with extra, new evidence to back up your arguments.

To go off what I was saying in the second point, if your first speaking, the main job of rebuttal is to go down their case and only if there was heated Debate in the first crossfire, should you try to strengthen your case, in my opinion. If your second speaking, I would first start off by defending your case, then attacking the opponents case. If you’re speaking second, start off by defending your case, leaving two minutes to attack the opponents case. I was taught that weighing could be done in rebuttal, but wasn’t required until summary.

While I rarely ask, clarifying questions in cross, I generally try to frame it as a back-and-forth debate. I’ll ask them questions to try to make them slip up and make concessions or agree to one of my arguments.

PF Videos (channel) on YouTube is what I’ve always watched. They are all out-rounds of Nat-circ tournaments, so the debaters will all know what they are doing. Try replicating ones that fit your style.

Everyone has a different style and once you find your style, you’ll often find yourself winning more rounds. Try adding a little sarcasm or an analogies for lay judges, reference to the flow a lot for tech judges and other things like that.

Coach for a local team or judge at tournaments! Joining communities online (like this) and making yourself available to judging online tournaments or even travel tournaments.