You are here because you want to know how to write a debate, and this will be explained thoroughly. We all have gotten into an argument at one point or the other in our lives, just to justify a point we believe is true or right.
Remember the passion and how determined you are to get your point across? Just like a debate, this is you trying to convince others but certain rules and procedures are guiding how to write a debate that may be lacking in your arguments because we can at times get overly emotional when we are trying to prove a point.
In this article, you will get to know the meaning of debate, how to write a debate, and the tips for writing a debate.
What is a Debate?
A debate is an organized process of formal discussions where two opposing parties offer their different persuasive opinions on a particular topic. The participants aim to convince others by offering their arguments for or against the topic in a structured way. Speaking of the structured way, the specific format will be discussed in this article. The opposing parties involved are majorly two: one that supports the topic and the other that opposes it. Their arguments are guided by the agreed-upon rules
Steps on How to Write a Debate
To ensure that you have effective and well-structured communication, follow this step-by-step guide:
Research
This is done to gather facts and necessary information from different reliable sources which may be websites, articles, or even books among others. These sources will give you better insights into the topic and you will be able to gain fresh perspectives on the topic. Ensure you jot down everything you discover that is related to your topic. Do not copy these sources but let them be a guide on how best to present convincing arguments. Also, do not research for your side of the topic alone, consider making findings on the other side as well, so you can have effective counter-arguments.
Outline Sketch and Development
Can a writing process be complete without an outline? This is the skeletal framework upon which you will build your debate. It will help you structure all your points and let you know where each part goes. The format for your outline should follow this same pattern:
Introduction
This is the first part of a debate and it gives an overview of what your argument will entail. Your introduction should begin with a sentence that keeps the audience hooked. You may begin with a thought-provoking question, a shocking fact, or even a quote that aligns with your argument. Next, you introduce your topic and let the audience know if you are for or against the motion clearly. Then follow this by defining the key terms that may be difficult so the audience understands everything. Then provide more context on the side you are supporting through a thesis statement.
Body
After the introduction, you will go into a more detailed explanation of your points and why you are supporting or opposing the motion. Being that main section of the debate, your significant arguments will be discussed paragraph by paragraph. Ensure you only present your strong gest arguments and to further boost them, include the reliable facts you have gathered in the research stage. This can be data, examples, historical facts, expert opinions, statistics, poll results, scientific discoveries, or even real-life findings. This will help strengthen your points and convince the audience and judges that your points are valid. Do not just talk about your stance on the motion, anticipate the possible counter-arguments and refute them also with evidence. Get to know the weakness or loopholes of the counter-arguments and capitalize on them. Do not use condescending language but oppose respectfully.
Conclusion
Here you will summarize your main arguments to impress and convince your audience. To do this, your sentences should be strong such that it grabs people’s attention and they should efficiently sum up all your points. You can even use emotive words, in addition to a quote that buttresses your point.
Revise and Edit
It is important to ensure there is a smooth flow in your debate. Review what you have written to confirm this. Deduct any point that is weak or not addressing your points clearly and any repetition. Edit and proofread for grammatical mistakes, clarity, coherence, and syntax error. Do not include facts that are not credible or verifiable. Proofread several to catch any hidden errors.
Tips For Writing A Debate
The level of planning you put into your debate writing process will determine your outcome. Here are some tips to help you write a string debate:
Make quality research
Convincing an audience is best done with facts and statistics. It shows that your argument is valid. Therefore, spend quality time making research before you begin writing. These different viewpoints and evidence will make writing your points easy and convincing.
Employ persuasive language
he essence of a debate is to sell your opinion to others and this requires skills. Ensure you make use of persuasive language techniques to drive home your points. Be crafty with your words. For instance, you can use rhetorical questions, emotive words or phrases, analogy to create vivid imagination, and even metaphors to draw parallels between concepts that are not related.
Debate rules/format
Get familiar with the set rules guiding the debate. For instance, your arguments should be within the accepted time limits. Do not go overboard. Be aware of all other specific requirements.
Proper structuring
Always keep in mind that proper structuring is the foundation of your debate. Your introduction should get the audience hooked enough for them to pay attention till the end. For each argument use topic sentences that will introduce them easily. Write only your strongest arguments. Then your conclusion should be strong and reinforce your points.
Call to action
this should be included in your debate conclusion. Since the essence of your writing is to make the audience support your point, it’s best to engage them emotionally by motivating them to consider a particular solution and contribute to resolving the issue at hand.
Transition words
These are words or phrases that help to make your debate more organized and logical. It is important to use them appropriately to ensure that your audience follows your ideas easily. Some examples of transition words for each section are as follows:
- When introducing an argument use; firstly, one key point is, initially, etc.
- When providing additional points use; additionally, furthermore, in addition, etc.
- When giving examples, use; to illustrate this, for instance, for example, etc.
- When opposing an argument, use; on the other hand, in contrast, however, etc.
- When concluding an argument, use; overall, as a result, in conclusion, etc.
- When emphasizing a point, use; undoubtedly, it should be noted that importantly, etc.
- When concluding use; in summary, finally, to conclude, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the format of a debate?
A debate is structured to have an affirmative team who is in support of the motion, an opposing team who is against the motion, and the judges.
What are the steps in a debate?
The steps in a debate include; research, introduction, arguments backed by facts and counter-arguments, and the conclusion.
How do you start a debate greeting in Nigeria?
When starting a debate greeting in Nigeria you can say, “Good day the Moderator, accurate timekeeper, Panel of judges, co-debater, and the audience.”This is a popular format that has been known for decades.
How do you conclude a debate?
When concluding a debate, summarize your points with string sentences to convince your audience. Consider using emotive language to buttress your points and include a call to action.
What words should you not use in a debate?
Since you are trying to convince your audience, not all words are allowed. Words that exaggerate, sound insulting to your opponents, or even words that generalize are not allowed. Using these words means that you are no longer being factual and logical.
Conclusion
A well-written and structured debate requires thorough research, compelling arguments, and evidence to back it up. Once you can balance these, you will be able to write ant diem of debate that comes your way
