Stay Informed

As a high school student, it often seems that there is nothing more important than the daily events of your life. High school debate encourages students to break outside of their little bubble and stay up to date with the rest of the world. Staying well-informed will not only help in a debate but in all life decisions.

Engage Yourself and Others

If you don’t feel passionate about your topics, then the debate will probably be boring. Not every general issue is going to interest you, so you must find a way to connect with it. By establishing some attachment or link, you will be more empowered during the debate.

You are Equal

Despite your education, socio-economic status, gender, race, religion, or any other identity, debate allows you to have a voice that is equal to anyone else. The platform is an equalizer and allows you to take control and power based on your knowledge, drive, and skills of persuasion.

Be Open

Of course, you’re not going to agree with your opponents entirely, that’s why they’re on the opposing side. Despite your different views, you shouldn’t shut down or ignore their ideas. Apathy causes your mind to stop thinking, questioning or caring about opinions other than your own. When you refuse to listen to or understand others, it completely removes the possibility of compromise

Listening is Important

Talking is an important part of a debate, but as in life, it’s even more crucial to listen. You can give an effective speech or spew out facts, and still lose. To succeed, you must look to your opponent and interact with their argument.

Winning Isn’t Everything

Losing a debate can be a very humbling experience. No matter how much you prepare or how confident you feel, there is always going to be someone who knows something you don’t. Instead of getting frustrated or dwelling on the loss, learn from it. Be grateful for the experience to improve yourself and see how you can improve the next time. While debating is a game the ultimate goal isn’t always to win, it’s to be more informed, connected, and engaged.