Caleb S.
Caleb S.

Explore this in-depth Debate Writing Guide!

7 min read

Published on: Feb 7, 2022

Last updated on: Jan 3, 2023

debate writing

On This Page On This Page

Writing a debate is an incredibly challenging task that requires extensive research and critical thinking. It can be difficult to come up with compelling arguments for both sides of the debate, as well as evidence to back up any claims made. Not only do you need to consider both sides of the debate, but you also have to make sure your argument is persuasive enough for it to be convincing. This means being able to identify which side has more validity and presenting this in a clear and concise manner. Collegeessay.org ultimate guide on debate writing will provide you with all the information needed in order to write a successful debate paper. Let’s begin by understanding what debate writing truly is.

What is debate writing?

Debate writing is a debate between two opposing sides where each side attempts to persuade the other with their arguments. The goal of debate writing is to come up with a conclusion as to which side has stronger evidence and reasoning.  

This debate has to be based on facts, data and logic in order for the debate to be considered successful. It is also important to consider both sides of the debate when writing a debate paper as this will allow you to present an unbiased opinion. 

Features of debate writing

Debate writing has several key features that should be taken into consideration when crafting your debate paper. 

One of the most important aspects is structure, as this will help you organize your thoughts and arguments in a clear and concise manner. 

You should also include convincing evidence to back up any claims made during the debate such as statistics, quotes or  examples. 

Finally, debate writing should be engaging and witty as this will help to capture the reader’s attention and make them more likely to agree with your argument. 

Types of Debate

Now that you are familiar with debate writing, let’s take a look at the different types of debate writing. 

Formal Debate

 One of the most common types of debate writing is a formal debate. This type of debate requires both sides to present their argument in an organized and structured manner, making use of persuasive language and evidence. 

Informal Debate

Another type of debate writing is an informal debate. Here, both sides are encouraged to be creative with their arguments by using personal stories and anecdotes. 

Public Debate

Finally, debate writing can also involve public debate where each side has to debate in front of an audience. This type of debate requires a high level of confidence and eloquence as the audience will be judging your performance on the debate. 

Debate Writing Format

When writing a debate paper, it is important to follow a specific format in order to ensure that your debate is well-structured and clear. 

The debate writing format should include an introduction, where you introduce the debate topic and provide some background information. 

This should then be followed by a body section where both sides of the debate are presented, followed by a conclusion where you summarize your debate. 

Finally, it is important to include a bibliography as this will show that you have conducted research for the debate. 

7 Steps to Writing a Winning Debate 

Blog Introduction: Are you looking to improve your public speaking skills and learn how to prepare for a debate? Then you’ve come to the right place! Debating is an important skill that can help you become more confident in voicing your opinion. Here’s an overview of the steps involved in writing a successful debate. 

Choose a Topic

This is the first and most important step of the process. A good debate topic should be one that evokes strong opinions from both sides. It should also be something that people have varying points of view about, so make sure you select something with two clear-cut sides. 

Research Your Topic

Once you have chosen your topic, it's time to do some research. Try to get as much information as possible on both sides of the argument. This will help you better understand both perspectives and come up with solid arguments for each side. 

Create an Outline

After doing sufficient research, create an outline of what your debate should look like. You could start by having a few points for each side and use this as the foundation for building out your argument structure. Make sure each point has supporting evidence or facts that can back it up. 

Structure Your Argument

Now it's time to actually structure your argument. Start by introducing the topic and then provide your main points along with supporting evidence or facts for each one. After that, move on to the other side's argument and explain why their points may not hold up as well as yours do. 

Practice & Rehearse

Rehearsing will help ensure that everything flows smoothly when delivering your argument during the actual debate itself. Some people like to practice in front of a mirror while others prefer rehearsing with friends or family members who can give them constructive feedback on their delivery and content structure.         

Prepare Counterarguments

Preparing counterarguments is essential if you want to win debates! Think about potential rebuttals that could potentially be used against your arguments and practice responding in such scenarios beforehand so you are better prepared during the actual debate itself.  

Deliver & Conclude

Finally, it's time for the big day! During this stage, remember to stay calm and deliver your argument confidently while also being respectful towards other debaters' opinions even if they differ from yours.

At the end of the session, make sure you conclude by summarizing all of your main points clearly once again before finishing off with any final remarks or questions for discussion purposes if necessary . 

The Most Effective Debating Strategies for Students 

Debating is a great way for students to learn how to express their opinions, do research, and develop public speaking skills. It can also be a lot of fun! But to succeed in debate, it’s important to know the most effective strategies. Read on to find out which five debating techniques are must-haves for student debaters. 

Research and Prepare Thoroughly

Before you even step foot in the debate room, it’s important that you have done your research and are fully prepared with facts and arguments that support your position. This includes researching the opposing viewpoint so you’re aware of all potential counterarguments you may face during the debate. 

Make an Outline

Once you have done your research, create an outline of your argument before the debate begins. This will help keep you organized and focused throughout the exchange, as well as ensure that all of your points get addressed in a logical order. 

Speak Clearly and Confidently

Having strong public speaking skills is essential for successful debates. Make sure you speak clearly and confidently so that everyone in the room can hear what you're saying without having to strain or guess at your words. When making statements or responding to questions, maintain eye contact with both your opponents and audience members throughout your speech. 

Listen Carefully

Listening carefully is just as important as speaking clearly when it comes to debating effectively. Pay close attention when others are making their points or asking questions so that you don't miss any key details or misunderstand anything they’re saying—this will help make sure that your responses are accurate and on point with their arguments! 

Anticipate Counterarguments

It's always a good idea to anticipate counterarguments from opponents before they even begin presenting them during the debate round. If possible, come up with creative ways to refute those arguments before they come up so that you're ready with a response if needed during the exchange! 

Debate Writing Topics

Debate writing topics can range from serious topics such as international politics and climate change to more light-hearted topics such as pop culture and celebrity gossip. Before choosing a debate topic, it’s important to consider the audience and pick an issue that is relevant to them. Here are some debate writing topic ideas:

  • Should school uniforms be mandatory?
  • Is the use of technology in education beneficial?
  • Should social media platforms be regulated for accuracy and safety?
  • Should animal testing be allowed in medical research?
  • Is the death penalty an effective deterrent to crime?
  • Are video games a form of art or entertainment?
  • Should online gambling be illegal?
  • Is online shopping worth the environmental cost?
  • Should fast food restaurants be allowed to advertise to children?
  • there a need for greater regulation of the media industry?

Get Professional Writers to Craft Your Debate Writing For You!

Debating is an important skill for students to learn and master.

It can help them build confidence, develop public speaking skills, do research, and express their opinions in a meaningful way. 

With the debate writing topics we've provided along with five effective debating strategies, you're now ready to take on any debate that comes your way!

But if all of this sounds intimidating or overwhelming and you need some extra help crafting arguments for debate writing assignments - don't worry! 

CollegeEssay.org has professional writers available who specialize in debate writing projects. They'll be more than happy to craft a powerful argument customized just for you so that you can ace every debate assignment thrown at you!

Caleb S.

WRITTEN BY

Caleb S. (Law, Marketing)

Caleb S. has extensive experience in writing and holds a Masters from Oxford University. He takes great satisfaction in helping students exceed their academic goals. Caleb always puts the needs of his clients first and is dedicated to providing quality service.

Caleb S. has extensive experience in writing and holds a Masters from Oxford University. He takes great satisfaction in helping students exceed their academic goals. Caleb always puts the needs of his clients first and is dedicated to providing quality service.

Keep reading