How to Debate an Argument
- 1). Do your research. In order to debate an argument, you need to have a well-rounded understanding of the issue. Know everything there is to know about the topic you're debating. Memorize as much as possible.
- 2). Pick a side. Once you know everything you can about the issue, you'll need to pick one side of the argument. There may be several different sides, but choose one argument to assert. Commit to this side.
- 3). Listen to the opposing side's argument, or know what your opposition might say. Try to understand as best you can what the opposing argument is about. Know the opposing argument as well as you know your side.
- 4). Have rebuttals ready. Come up with ways to handle the opposing arguments. If you know that your opponent will bring up a certain point, have a rebuttal already in mind to attack this point.
- 5). Cite facts. One of the best ways to debate an argument is to defeat your opponent with facts and statistics. Research some important facts you can quote in your argument, especially when you feel you may be losing.
Source...