Maximizing NITOC Success

Use these tips to maximize your NITOC success:

• Avoid Being Adjudicated: These simple steps will help you stay above reproach.

1. Know the rules.

2. Have another set of eyes double-check your evidence.

3. Consider printing the original source for evidence cited in the round for context, if practical.

• Network: Reaching out to other students to trade material and gain intel about other regions’ strategies is vital to success!

• Hone your Theory: Theory arguments allow you to tilt the playing field in your favor. Prepare in advance and drill theory blocks so they come off smoothly in a round.

• Prioritize Sleep: You’re only as good as your brain, so make sure you’re well-rested at NITOC.

• Polish Your Speeches: Start and end each speech on a high note by drafting introductions and conclusions.

• Use Impact Calculus: Tell your judges why your arguments are more important than your opponent’s arguments.

• Adjudicate Only When Necessary: If you encounter a minor violation in a round, make it an argument and voting issue, impacting it for the judge. Only issues like evidence fraud and manipulation justify an adjudication.

Happy debating! Your Debate Committee