What Is Structured Argument Mode?
Structured Argument Mode is an optional writing feature on VersyTalks that helps you build clear, powerful arguments using a guided format.
Instead of writing in one big text box, you write your argument in five focused sections: Claim, Context, Reasoning, Evidence, and Conclusion. Each section has its own character range, and together they give you approximately 1200 characters to express a focused, well-structured argument.
This mode is ideal if you want your arguments to be easier to follow, more logical, and more persuasive. Structured arguments also tend to perform better in votes and when being evaluated by judges, making this feature especially useful for serious debaters, classrooms, teams, and learners who want to improve fast.
How Structured Argument Mode Works
Structured Argument Mode transforms argument writing into a simple guided process. Instead of staring at a blank box, you fill in five focused fields:
- Claim (150–200 characters): Your main point stated clearly and directly.
- Context (200–250 characters): Background information that helps readers follow your argument.
- Reasoning (400–450 characters): The core logic that connects your claim to your conclusion.
- Evidence (250–300 characters): Facts, examples, studies, or real-life scenarios supporting your reasoning.
- Conclusion: A short sentence reinforcing your claim and reminding readers of your main takeaway.
Availability and Usage Limits
On the public platform, debaters can use Structured Argument Mode up to three times per month. These limited slots make it perfect for debates that matter most to you, like tournaments, big community debates, or key practice sessions.
Classrooms and teams using VersyTalks for education can access this feature as much as they want, making it ideal for teaching structured argumentation and essay writing.
How to Use Structured Argument Mode: Step-by-Step
Follow these steps to activate and use Structured Argument Mode:
- Step 1: Navigate to any debate on VersyTalks and click the "+" or "Add Argument" button.
- Step 2: In the argument editor, look for a toggle or button labeled "Structured" and click it.
- Step 3: The editor will switch to show five separate fields: Claim, Context, Reasoning, Evidence, and Conclusion.
- Step 4: Fill in each field according to its character range. Character counters help you stay within limits.
- Step 5: Review your argument by reading each section in order to ensure clarity and flow.
- Step 6: Click "Submit" to post your structured argument to the debate.
Tips for Each Section
To get the most out of Structured Argument Mode, follow these best practices for each section:
- Claim: Keep it clear and direct. State exactly what you believe without unnecessary qualifiers. Example: "AI tools should be allowed in schools as thinking helpers because they support learning, not replace it."
- Context: Give just enough background so someone unfamiliar with the topic can follow. Briefly explain the situation, relevant rules, or why this topic matters now.
- Reasoning: This is the heart of your argument. Explain the logic connecting your claim to your conclusion. Show cause and effect, trade-offs, or step-by-step reasoning.
- Evidence: Add concrete facts, studies, statistics, or real-world examples that strengthen your reasoning. Mention research or specific cases.
- Conclusion: End with a short sentence that reinforces your claim and reminds readers what they should take away.
Learning from Examples
On some debates, you'll see live examples of Structured Argument Mode in action — past structured arguments from other users, sample arguments created by VersyTalks for learning purposes, or "View Example" links next to some fields.
You can use these examples to see how experienced debaters structure their claims and reasoning, understand how much depth fits inside 1200 characters, and learn how to connect Context, Reasoning, and Evidence smoothly.
Do not copy these examples, but use them as inspiration for your own style and voice.
Why Use Structured Argument Mode?
Structured Argument Mode offers several key advantages:
- It removes the fear of the blank page by providing clear prompts for each part of your argument.
- It trains you to think like a strong debater or essay writer by breaking down argumentation into logical components.
- It improves clarity for both you and your readers, making your arguments easier to understand and evaluate.
- It increases the chance that voters will understand and support your side, leading to better performance in competitions.
- It provides a repeatable method rather than guessing, perfect for students, teams, and anyone who wants consistent quality.
When to Use Your Three Monthly Slots
Since you have three uses per month, be strategic about when to activate Structured Argument Mode:
- Use it for Debater of the Month competitions where votes matter most.
- Use it for topics you want to master or arguments you're especially proud of.
- Use it when practicing with your debate team or in classroom assignments.
- Save at least one slot for unexpected high-stakes debates or sponsored competitions.
Getting Help
If you experience any issues with Structured Argument Mode or wish to use it more often, contact the VersyTalks team at contact@versytalks.com.
For educational institutions wanting unlimited access for their students, reach out to discuss custom plans designed for classrooms and debate teams.