Debate is an exercise in logic. In a debate, you use facts to support ideas. Hence, in most contexts, Debate is also about research. Debate is also an exercise in the art of speaking.

Debate is about advance preparation. Debate is also about active listening and note taking in the moment.

During and after your research phase you should: 1. Prepare your opening or Affirmative Statement (this part is about why YOU should get the land): What are you going to say? Who is going to say it and when? 2. Prepare your secondary arguments for the rebuttal (this part is about why the other teams should not get the land, but you will need to be ready to adapt in the moment). 3. Prepare your brief: Fill in the main points as outlined on the sheet. Be ready to turn it in and to use it during the debate.

4. Keep your notes organized: Each member's notes should be clearly identified and all will be turned in with the group brief. 5. Prepare your rebuttal: What do you think the other groups are going to say against you? What will you say in response? 6. Prepare your closing arguments (this is your last statement, the place where you wrap it all up and leave everyone with a strong sense of who you are and why you should win).