Plan your career: Debating as a way of speaking your mind

I am studying in Class 12. I participate in school and inter-school debates. I love debating. I still would like to improve my debating skills. Can you kindly guide me?  (Prarthana Anjali) 

The skill of debating has waned, while arguing has become the order of the day. Though Barack Obama is considered to be one of the greatest debaters, I would like to quote Donald Trump’s words on debating. “We must speak our minds openly, debate our disagreements honestly, but always pursue solidarity.” Debating is the most elegant method to improve critical thinking and creativity. 

A debate is a critical advocacy where the debater advocates, proposes and defends ideas. He has to have critical thinking to evaluate the ideas of others. Debating helps one to learn beyond texts, think beyond first thoughts and forces to research about the subject. Debating is listening with understanding, not dismissing with disagreement. 

Only then we can answer logically. Debating enables us to judge our ideas and arguments in the light of objectivity. It leads to debating in life, to vote for the best argument, the best idea with less emotions and ignorance. We should not be easily carried away by popular ideas and populism. Learn to debate within yourself, to attain enlightenment. It is in self-debating that one learns to separate the good from the bad, the relevant from the irrelevant and truth from falsehood. It is in this way that we become informed and participative. Remember and remind yourself of the following: 

Have a good grasp of your arguments: If you stay focused with your arguments, it is easy to respond to new ideas that come your way. Listen carefully and demonstrate the ability to link anything to your original statement. It will enable you not to panic even when judges or anyone from audience asks a question. 

Familiarise with debating lingo: The audience does not understand the topic the way you do. You have to use the language that the audience and the judges understand, both verbal and non-verbal. Use professional language, rather than one that would offend people. 

Act as if you are winning: It is definitely not arrogance in this case. It is exhibiting your confidence in the arguments that you and your team produce. Maintain your composure and poise. Being bold brings out the best. 

Think of alternatives: Constantly weigh the importance of claims of each other and think of other options. A new perspective to your claim will help you to take everyone by surprise. 

Talk with evidence: Never underestimate reference to evidence. They help to nail the opponents in many cases. A good spraying of statistics strengthens your position. Let your source be authoritative. 

Get feedback during practice and after the debates: Get it from anyone who is generous enough to help you earnestly. 

Keep the language simple: The audience should not be left wondering about the words used. Focus on using simple words, to get your message across. 

Take rest before taking to the stage: Silence and sufficient rest will rejuvenate you mentally and physically. 

Pay special attention to audience questions: Never underestimate them. They are more learned people than you, but at the same time, be prepared for silly questions. You will have to tackle diligently but also pick up questions that support your claim. 

Current affairs is crucial: Be up to date. It gears you to face critical moments of your debate. 

There is no substitute for practice. It is the first rule for a debate. In an age of information as power, debating turns information into power. Go on. Debate with openness, extensive knowledge, and presence of mind. Enjoy yourself. Become a great debater.