How to Adapt to Different Judges

All Judges

  • How should you adapt to all judges?

    • At the end of the day, the judge is always right because they write the ballot.

    • If there is an online paradigm, read it before the round.

    • Do not spread! One way to know that you are speaking too fast is if the judge puts down their pen.

      • This often means that the debate is moving too quickly for them to keep up in their notes.

    • Appeal to their emotions by personalizing an impact.

    • Look for body language.

      • If your judge is nodding as you speak, that is a good sign!

    • If you are unsure about a preference, do not be afraid to ask for clarification.

Technical Debate Judge

  • What is a Technical Debate Judge?

    • These judges are ex-debaters, debate coaches, and students.

    • They will flow and listen carefully.

    • They are knowledgeable about the debate topic and familiar with stock arguments.

    • They still might have specific preferences about how a debate round should work.

  • How should you adapt to this judge type?

    • Can speak more quickly.

    • Can use debate jargon like “blocks.”

    • Focus on framework and weighing mechanisms.

    • Strategic concessions can be helpful if well-explained.

    • Emphasize the logic behind an argument.

Community Judge

  • What is a Community Judge?

    • It’s in the name! Public forum debate is open to lay people and parent judges.

    • These judges might not flow.

    • They could be inexperienced with debate and feel less confident about judging.

    • It is possible that English is not their first language, especially with parent judges.

  • How should you adapt to this judge type?

    • Use clear pronunciation and speak a bit slower.

    • Emphasize important points at the end of your speeches.

      • If they are not flowing, this is what they will remember.

    • Try not to make concessions.

      • The judge can get confused and think you are dropping an argument.

    • Emphasize statistics and the magnitude of an impact.

“Flay” Judge

  • What is a Flay Judge?

    • “Flay” is a combination of flow and lay.

    • They will flow or take some form of notes.

    • They will likely be inexperienced with debate but may have knowledge about the debate topic.

  • How should you adapt to this judge type?

    • Take a middle of the road approach.

    • Pay extra attention to body language and cues.