What Is Extemporaneous Debate?



Extemporaneous debate (often called extemp debate or XDB) is a limited‑preparation, one‑on‑one event promoted by the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) and other high‑school organizations.



Unlike traditional prepared formats such as Policy or Lincoln–Douglas, debaters learn their resolution just minutes before the round. It is “supplemental” event at the National Tournament; each round features a new topic, debaters have 30 minutes to prepare, and reasoning and analysis carry more weight than research. The topics vary widely, from foreign policy and domestic politics to social issues, so participants must be widely read and comfortable thinking on their feet.



If you're looking for topics to practice for your next extemp debate, we debate topics on education, ethics, technology and law!



Extemp debate differs from extemporaneous speaking (another NSDA event).



In extemp speaking, students draw a question and have 30 minutes to prepare a 7‑minute informative speech using research; the speech is delivered uninterrupted and judged on content and delivery. Extemp debate, by contrast, requires back‑and‑forth argumentation with cross‑examination, refutation and defense, and uses shorter speeches lasting 2–5 minutes.



Structure of an Extemporaneous Debate Round



According to the NSDA, extemp debate rounds follow a standard format:



Pre-Rounds :

Preparation time. Both debaters receive the resolution and have 30 minutes to craft cases. No outside coaching after prep begins.



1. First Segment: The 1st Affirmative Constructive is when the debater supporting the resolution (Affirmative) presents a clear statement of the topic and lays out key arguments. This segment lasts around 5 min.
2. Next is the cross‑examination. The negative side questions the affirmative’s case, probing weaknesses and clarifying points. This lasts around 2 minutes.
3. We then follow with the 1st Negative Constructive. This segment is for the Negative who refutes the affirmative case and outlines their own arguments against the resolution. ~5 min
4. The second cross‑examination is the fourth segment. The Affirmative side asks questions of the negative, seeking concessions. Usually around 2 minutes.
5. The affirmative Rebuttal follows. The Affirmative defends original arguments, responds to negative points, and crystallizes the round. ~3 min
6. Negative Rebuttal is the second to last segment where the Negative refutes affirmative points, defends their case, and weighs impacts for about 3 min.
7. Last Segment: Preparation between speeches Both debaters may use a few minutes collectively to prepare for rebuttals. 5 min shared



The structure encourages organization and strategic time management. Successful extemp debaters learn to craft arguments around a clear claim → warrant → impact structure: make a claim, support it with logical reasoning or evidence, and explain the impact on the resolution. They must also “flow” the debate (take notes on arguments), prioritize the most important issues in rebuttals, and adapt to new information.



Unique Features of Extemporaneous Debate



1. Limited preparation: Because debaters cannot conduct extensive research after the topic is released, extemp debate emphasizes general knowledge and analytical skills. The event appeals to students who enjoy thinking on their feet and crafting logical arguments without relying on endless evidence.
2. Variety of topics: Tournament directors select resolutions across international affairs, domestic politics, ethics, and occasionally humorous issues. Competitors therefore must be well read; an NSDA guide suggests reading newspapers like The New York Times and magazines such as The Economist to build background knowledge.
3. One‑on‑one competition: Unlike team formats, extemp debate pits individual students against each other. This fosters independence and forces debaters to take full ownership of their cases. Successful debaters are analytical, confident, persuasive, quick thinkers and logical.
4. No evidence binders: Many debate formats allow or even require binders of articles. In extemp debate, reliance on heavy evidence is discouraged. Competitors may bring pre‑printed evidence if allowed, but they rarely have time to organize and present extensive research; judges primarily evaluate logic, coherence and speaking skills.



How to Get Started



1. Develop general knowledge.

Because topics span world affairs, economics, science and social issues, success requires a well‑rounded knowledge base. Read a daily newspaper or trusted news website and weekly magazines. Keeping a journal of current events and summarizing major issues will help memory retention.



2. Practice impromptu speaking.

The Connecticut Debate Association suggests practicing by reading aloud to improve vocal clarity and by delivering short speeches on random topics. Record yourself to evaluate pace, eye contact and confidence.



3. Learn to “flow.”

During a debate, take organized notes on each argument so you can respond effectively. Many extemp debate guides emphasize creating abbreviations and columns to track claims, evidence and impacts. Effective flowing helps you prioritize points in rebuttals.



4. Participate in practice debates.

Schools often run mock rounds where debaters have 30 minutes to prepare for a randomly assigned resolution. Practicing under time pressure builds mental agility and teaches you to manage prep effectively.



5. Join a speech and debate team.

Many high schools in the United States, Canada and abroad now include extemp debate in their programs. Joining a team provides coaching, peer feedback and access to tournaments.



6. Attend summer institutes or workshops.

Organizations like the Brooklyn Debate League run summer extemp debate camps (e.g., their “BDL Summer Extemporaneous Debate” session scheduled 14–25 July 2025). These programs offer intensive practice and expert instruction.



7. Play Online Debate Roulette

A spontaneous extemp challenge! Spin the virtual wheel to get a random debate topic, craft your argument in under 30 minutes, no research allowed, then engage in rapid five-minute rebuttals against other online debaters. Try now on VersyTalks' Home Page.





Where It Is Practiced



1. Extemporaneous debate is primarily practiced in high schools across the United States and Canada. Organizations include:
2. National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA). The NSDA offers extemp debate as a supplemental event at the National Tournament and publishes topics and guidelines.
3. State and regional leagues. The Pennsylvania High School Speech League defines extemp debate as a limited‑preparation event where contestants prepare one side of a topic and then debate an opponent. The Connecticut Debate Association hosts an extemporaneous cross‑examination variant where teams receive the resolution and a packet of material the morning of the tournament and have an hour to prepare.
4. School programs. Many high schools (e.g., The Bolles School in Florida, The Pembroke Hill School in Missouri) include extemp debate in their speech and debate teams. The NSDA’s 2025 national champion in extemp debate is Luke Ryan from The Pembroke Hill School.
5. Summer camps. In addition to the Brooklyn Debate League camp, numerous universities and nonprofits host summer institutes focusing on limited‑prep debates.



Sample Topics



Topics change regularly, but typical extemp debate resolutions might include:



1. Resolved: The United States should significantly increase funding for mental health services
2. Resolved: Economic growth should be prioritized over environmental protection.
3. Resolved: Autonomous weapons should be banned in international warfare.
4. Resolved: The benefits of social media outweigh the harms.



Tips for Winning



1. Define the key terms. Clarify the resolution early; a clear definition frames the debate. Use widely accepted definitions (e.g., from dictionaries or policy agencies). This prevents definitional arguments later.
2. Organize points logically. Use the claim‑warrant‑impact model. Number your arguments (“First…”, “Second…”) and signpost transitions so judges can follow.
3. Use impactful examples. Even without extensive research, reference current events or well‑known historical cases. Quoting widely known facts (e.g., “According to the UN, over 700 million people live in extreme poverty”) lends credibility.
4. Refute strategically. Identify the most important argument from your opponent and address it directly. Point out logical fallacies or missing impacts. Then rebuild your own case.
5. Weigh impacts. At the end, explain why your side’s benefits outweigh the harms of the other side. Judges often decide rounds based on which impacts are larger, more probable or more immediate.
6. Leverage online debate platforms. Use digital spaces to practice extemporaneous debates on diverse topics with real opponents. These platforms are the backbone of your practice strategy as they allow you to expand your knowledge and wits whenever you want. Platforms like VersyTalks let you explore global perspectives, sharpen rebuttal speed, and test arguments instantly.



Conclusion



Extemporaneous debate is a dynamic and engaging format that challenges students to synthesize knowledge and think critically under pressure. By combining a wide‑ranging education with quick argumentation, participants develop communication skills, learn to analyze complex issues, and gain confidence in public speaking.