Debate Timer: Speech and Prep Time for Any Format
A debate timer counts down each speech and the prep time for the format you are in, so you are not setting a stopwatch by hand. The timer on The Debate Prep knows the speech and prep limits for the format you pick, and works for students practicing and for judges timing a round.
What a debate timer needs to do
Know the format
Speech lengths and prep time differ between formats. A timer that makes you type the numbers every round is one more thing to get wrong.
Handle prep time
Prep time is split across speeches and runs separately from the speech clock. Both need to be easy to start and stop.
Be readable from a distance
A timer someone holds up or watches across a room has to be large and clear.
Work for the judge’s seat
Judges and timekeepers need the same limits, whichever format is on that day.
How the timer works
- Pick a format and the speech and prep limits are set for you.
- It is used in practice by students and in the judge’s toolkit alongside flow sheets and ballots.
- You can calibrate your speaking rate to know how many words fit in a speech.
Open the timer
Free to start. No credit card needed.
Frequently asked questions
How long are speeches in each format?
It depends on the format. The formats page lists the speech order, speech lengths and prep time for every supported format.
Can I use it to time practice speeches?
Yes. Pick your format, start the speech clock and give the speech. Practicing on the clock is the fastest way to learn how long your case actually takes.
Can judges use the timer?
Yes. It is part of the judge toolkit, alongside flow sheets and ballots.
Practice on the clock
Pick your format and run the real speech times. Free to start.