Do you feel overwhelmed when you get into an argument and cannot get your point across? Do you think that you can’t articulate your thoughts properly even when you know you’re right? Skilled debate takes quick thinking and effective communication.

If you want to get better at debates and arguments, read on. We have gathered tips from experts that will help you get better at debating in no time.

1. Decide On a Position You Feel Capable Of Defending

Try to stick to a topic you feel passionately about. If you feel passionate about something, it is likely that you know a lot about it and can convincingly defend your stance while debating.

2. Become Well-Informed About Both Your and Your Opponent’s Positions

In some cases, you do not have the liberty of choosing your stance. For instance, you will be assigned random positions if you are in a debate group, and you will have to defend it regardless. In such cases, it is recommended that you think of the topic impartially and come up with reasons to support your position. 

Not only that, but you should also prepare for your opponent’s points, as that helps you think of the counterarguments. These tactics will help you come up with a convincing argument.

3. State a Thesis At the Beginning

A thesis statement is a brief statement in which you briefly explain what position you’re taking and some of the main reasons you support it. 

For instance, you can say that “I believe that parents should limit screen time of their children, as constant glaring at the screen has many harmful effects, such as weakening of eyesight, delayed cognitive growth, and others.”

4. Listen Carefully To Your Opponent’s Response

Debates and arguments do not happen in isolation. You cannot give a genuine response unless you listen to what your opponent says and build your points on that.

Often, you can pick apart your opponent’s faulty reasoning and question them. For instance, you can say, “That logic doesn’t check out” or “Is there any study to support your claim?”

5. Do Not Forego the Objections That Your Opponent Raises

Just like you will question your opponent’s claims, your opponent will do that to you, as well. Do not hesitate to answer these questions. If you are well-prepared and familiar with the topic, you will be able to back your claim satisfactorily. 

6. Remain Calm and Rational At All Times

This is a tricky one, as you can only master remaining calm and rational through practice. Of course, you will be a bundle of nerves the first few times you debate, even if these are informal debates. However, you are sure to get better with time and practice.

Remember that you are not here to attack your opponent’s stance but to convince them about yours. Even if they fail to understand your position, try to develop points that support your claim reasonably and rationally. The key is to keep your calm!

Concluding Thoughts

Debating is a skill, and it only becomes better with time and practice. Remember the tips discussed above, and you will become skilled at debating in no time!