Cutting through theory with clear explanations and specific applications, this volume offers students and teachers no-frills assistance in resolving the major problems faced by debators: the need to present arguments forcefully and cogently while reacting effectively to criticism.

Readers are advised on matters from budgeting time in a debate to speaking in outline form through a well-organized series of explanations, specific examples and graphic presentations related to both policy and value issues. Beginning with a clear explication of basic principles, this guide presents chronologically the steps of building a debate case, reviews the strategy of planning for refutation and defense and offers advice on presenting the case in oral discourse.

Expanded contents pages and effective use of subheadings allow for quick reference to any particular aspect of debate, making it a useful classroom text as well as as a hands-on tool during actual debates.