National Speech and Debate Tournament
2025
—
Des Moines,
IA/US
Nidhi Duggal Paradigm
Lincoln-Douglas
Lincoln Douglas Debate Judge Philosophy
Your experience with LD Debate (check all that apply)
Experienced LD judge
How many years have you judged LD debate?
1
How many LD rounds have you judged this year?
0-10
What is your preferred rate of delivery?
4/91 = Slow conversational style
9 = Rapid conversation speed
Does the rate of delivery weigh heavily in your decision?
Y
Will you vote against a student solely for exceeding your preferred speed?
Y
How important is the criterion in making your decision?
It is a major factor in my evaluation
Do you feel that a value and criterion are required elements of a case?
Y
Rebuttals and Crystallization
Voting issues should be given:
Either is acceptable
The use of jargon or technical language ("extend", "cross-apply", "turn", etc.) during rebuttals:
Is unacceptable
Final rebuttals should include:
Both
Voting issues are:
Absolutely necessary
How do you decide the winner of the round?
I decide who is the winner of the key argument in the round
How necessary do you feel the use of evidence (both analytical and empirical) is in the round?
6/91 = Not necessary
9 = Always necessary
Please describe your personal note-taking during the round
I write down the key arguments throughout the round
Additional remarks:
As a judge, I prioritize clarity, logical reasoning, and the ability to engage with your opponent’s arguments effectively. I am looking for debaters who can build a strong, cohesive case, respond to challenges, and clearly explain why their position is superior. In this round, I expect both the Affirmative and Negative sides to present well-supported arguments, engage in meaningful rebuttal, and demonstrate strategic thinking throughout the debate.
What I Value:
Clarity: Present your arguments clearly and organize them. Make sure I understand your values, criteria, and contentions.
Reasoning: Explain how your arguments support your value and why they matter. Logical connections are important.
Engagement: Address your opponent’s points directly. Don’t just restate your case—engage with theirs.
Impact: Show why your arguments matter in the real world. Make it clear why your case is more important than your opponent’s.
Time Management: Use your time wisely. Ensure you present all your points and provide a clear summary at the end.
How I Decide:
Value & Criterion: The side that better defines and supports their value and criterion will likely win.
Clash: The side that effectively responds to and engages with their opponent’s arguments will be favored.
Issue Framing: The side focusing on the most important issues and showing their relevance will have the advantage.
Respect: Respecting each other is important to me.
What I Don’t Value:
Personal Attacks: Focus on the arguments, not personal attacks.
Speed Over Clarity: Speak clearly enough that I can follow your points. Speed isn’t as important as clarity.
Final Notes:
This is a values debate. I’m looking for you to show why your view of the issue is the best and most important. Make sure your arguments are clear, relevant, and well-supported.
Note: if you wish for your pronouns to appear the debaters you judge on text/email blasts, log into Tabroom, click Profile at top, and add them in the Pronouns field.
