1. I would rather hear the arguments than try to decipher a speed talker.

2. Just because you effectively shut down your opponent via interrupting rather than the strength of your arguments and logic, you will most likely lose the round.

3. Correlation is NOT causation. Just because there's a correlation does not mean you have "proved" anything!

3A. Additionally, you never "prove" anything. Your arguments are logically stronger or weaker.

4. Don't concede anything!!!!!! Ever!!!!! Always spar to win the point. Verbally spar, not physical sparring!

5. You can be considerate of your opponents and still engage in lively debate.

6. I may stop you after your speech to request clarification.

7. Please don't solicit verbal critiques. I will politely decline.

8. You may sit, stand, kneel, cross your legs, or whatever when you speak. Whatever makes you comfortable.

9. Please understand that I have nothing personal against you if you lose the round. I attempt to take notes and do my best every single time. However, I do not walk on water and I can't make the blind see.

Thanks!

I am a lay judge and parent of a debater, but I am knowledgeable in this area. I do take notes, but it doesn't resemble a proper flow.

My only preferences are that you DO NOT spread and stay respectful during crossfires (no interrupting, yelling, talking over one another, etc.). I do like you to be respectful in letting your opponets finish their thoughts. The clearer and calmer your communication is, the better I will be at making an educated and fair decision. My overall decision WILL be affected by this.

Please keep your own time and hold yourselves and your opponents accountable. I do not base any decision on going slightly over time (due to my previous statements) but I do not want you to abuse it.

I feel that cross is for you all to work out your own thoughts with each other and it has very little impact on my decision.

Finally, make sure that your arguments and impacts are clear throughout the round. Having VERY clear impact statements with strong evidence is VERY important to me. I can not stress this enough. Good Luck to you all!