Debate Cross-Examination: Questions and Tips
Cross-examination is the short question period where one debater questions the other. Use it to set up your next speech, not to argue. Ask short, closed questions that get a clear answer, and plan them in advance. Case Builder includes a place to write cross-ex questions with your case.
How to ask good cross-ex questions
Know what each question is for
Clarifying questions fix real confusion, so keep them few. Setup questions get an answer you will use in a speech. Gap questions show that something is missing, like a source or a step in the logic.
Keep them short and closed
A long question invites a long answer. “Did that study cover students in this state?” is easier to control than “Tell me about your evidence.”
Lock in the answer
Ask the question, take the answer, and move on. Save the argument for your speech, where you have the floor.
Plan them before the round
Most wasted cross-ex has no plan. Write three or four questions for each argument you expect, and a follow-up for each likely answer.
Do not argue, and do not ramble
If the other debater starts a speech, politely cut in with the next question. Judges notice who is in control.
How the app helps with cross-ex
- Case Builder has a section for cross-ex questions, written alongside the case they belong to.
- POIs & Heckles lets you practice catching mistakes in a live speech and score your calls.
- Practice Rounds put you against an opponent who answers back, so you get used to thinking on your feet.
- Flow sheets let you note each answer so you can use it in your next speech.
Write cross-ex questions in the Case Builder
Free to start. No credit card needed.
Frequently asked questions
What is cross-examination in debate?
It is a short period where one debater asks the other questions about their speech or case. Which formats have it, and how long it lasts, depends on the format. The formats page lists each one.
What are good cross-examination questions?
Short, closed questions that get a clear answer you can use: “Is that study from this year?”, “Does your plan cover rural schools?”, “So the harm happens only if all three steps occur?”
How do I answer cross-ex questions?
Answer directly and briefly. A short pause to think is fine. Do not guess at things you do not know; say so, and explain it in your next speech.
Do judges score cross-ex?
It depends on the format and judge, but many judges listen closely and use what is said in cross-ex when they decide. Treat it as part of your case, not a break.
Plan your questions before the round
Write cross-ex questions next to the case they belong to. Free to start.