Debating is one of the most exciting parts of school life. It gives you a chance to speak your mind, sharpen your thinking, and even win over a crowd.
But here’s the challenge: many students know what they want to say, yet they struggle with how to start a debate.
The beginning matters. It’s like the opening scene of a movie, if it’s boring, people won’t stay tuned.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about starting a debate the right way.
From greetings to introductions, body language, and closing strategies, you’ll learn how to impress judges and connect with your audience.
What Is a Debate?
A debate is a structured discussion between two sides: one supporting a motion (affirmative) and one opposing it (negative).
Each side takes turns presenting points, giving evidence, and responding to each other.
For example, a school debate might ask: “Should homework be banned?” One side argues yes, while the other argues no.
The goal isn’t just to “win,” but to clearly share your ideas, defend your points, and respect the other side.
Why the Start of a Debate Matters
First impressions stick. The way you greet the judges, audience, and opponents sets the tone for everything that follows.
Think of it like a first handshake, firm, respectful, and confident. If you stumble, mumble, or sound unprepared, your audience might tune out before you even begin.
That’s why knowing how to start a debate properly can make a huge difference.
Check out: Best Debate Greetings: How to Greet Judges and Audience with Confidence
How to Prepare Before Starting a Debate
Before stepping up to speak, here are three things you should do:
- Know your topic – Research both sides so you can defend your points and respond to challenges.
- Practice your greeting and intro – Don’t memorize word-for-word, but rehearse so you feel natural.
- Check your body language – Stand tall, smile, and project confidence even if you’re nervous.
Debate Greetings: How to Greet the Audience
The first words out of your mouth should always be a greeting. This shows respect to your judges, audience, and fellow debaters.
A standard format is:
“Good day, honorable judges, accurate timekeeper, my fellow debaters, and the audience. I am here to support/oppose the motion that says… [state your topic].”
This greeting is polite, formal, and sets the stage for your arguments.
Simple Examples of Debate Greetings
Here are some ready-to-use greetings:
“Good day everyone, honorable judges, timekeepers, fellow students, and my opponents. I stand before you to support the motion that says health is better than wealth.”
“Respected judges, accurate timekeeper, my worthy opponents, and fellow debaters. Today, I rise to oppose the motion that social media does more harm than good.”
“Hello everyone, I am pleased to speak on this topic. We are here to debate why physical education is better than online learning, and I support the motion.”
Notice that each greeting is respectful, clear, and leads into the main topic.
See now: Scholarships to Study in the United States: Everything you need to know to get one
How to Introduce Yourself in a Debate
After your greeting, introduce yourself and your stance. Keep it short. For example:
“My name is [Name], and I will be speaking in favor of the motion that says… [topic].”
This is not the time for your life story. Stay focused on the debate motion.
Best Debate Introduction Examples
Here are a few simple introductions you can adapt:
“Good day honorable judges, my name is Sarah, and I am here to support the motion that says health is better than wealth. Health is priceless, while wealth can come and go.”
“Respected audience, my name is David. I oppose the motion that school uniforms should be mandatory. I believe uniforms limit freedom of expression.”
How to Deliver Your First Point with Confidence
Your first argument should be strong and simple. Don’t rush, pause after your introduction before jumping into your points.
For example:
“My first point is that health is the foundation of happiness. Without good health, wealth loses its meaning.”
Clear, short, and impactful.
How to Use Voice and Body Language
Your words matter, but your body language and voice make them powerful.
- Voice: Speak loudly enough for everyone to hear, but don’t shout. Use pauses to emphasize key points.
- Body language: Stand straight, avoid slouching, and use hand gestures naturally.
- Eye contact: Look at the audience, not just the judges. This makes you seem confident and connected.
How to Stay Calm and Control Fear
Almost everyone feels nervous before speaking. The trick is to manage it.
- Take a deep breath before you start.
- Focus on the audience, not the judges.
- Remind yourself: everyone is here to listen, not to laugh at you.
Confidence grows with practice.
Tips for Engaging with the Audience
- Your audience wants to feel included. Here’s how:
- Ask rhetorical questions: “Can money really buy happiness?”
- Use examples they can relate to: school, family, or popular culture.
- Keep your language simple and direct.
See also: Debate: Oppose the Motion That Says a Female Child Is Better Than a Male Child
How to Respond to Opponents Respectfully
Debating is not fighting. Always show respect.
Say: “My opponent argued that wealth brings happiness. However, I disagree because…”
Avoid: “That’s wrong” or “You don’t know anything.”
Respect wins points. Rudeness loses them.
Debate Conclusion: How to End Strong
A strong conclusion repeats your main point and leaves a lasting impression.
Example:
“In conclusion, health is better than wealth because good health is the foundation of happiness, cannot be bought, and is irreplaceable. Thank you.”
Simple, clear, and powerful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Debate Openings
- Speaking too fast or too slow
- Forgetting to greet the audience
- Using slang or rude language
- Avoiding eye contact
- Reading directly from notes without looking up
Final Thoughts on How to Start a Debate
Starting a debate isn’t about memorizing fancy words. It’s about showing respect, speaking clearly, and delivering your points with confidence.
When you master greetings, introductions, body language, and conclusions, you set yourself up for success.
Remember: the goal of debating is not only to win but also to express ideas clearly and respectfully.
With practice, you’ll not only know how to start a debate but also how to finish one with impact.
Read now: How to Start a Debate: A Complete Guide for Students and Beginners
FAQs on How to start a Debate
1. What is the best way to greet in a debate?
Start with “Good day honorable judges, accurate timekeeper, fellow debaters, and audience…” followed by your stance.
2. How long should a debate introduction be?
Your greeting and introduction should take less than one minute, keep it short and clear.
3. Should I memorize my debate introduction?
Yes, practice it until it feels natural, but don’t sound robotic. Speak like you’re having a conversation.
4. What if I forget my lines in a debate?
Stay calm, pause, and rephrase your point. Judges look at confidence, not perfection.
5. How can I overcome nervousness in a debate?
Practice often, take deep breaths, and focus on the audience instead of the judges.
