Why judging matters

For PDU

Tournaments require judging slots. When we cover them, more of our teams get to compete.

For Debaters

Clear, comparative feedback accelerates growth - especially for novices.

For You

Judging sharpens flow, weighing, and RFD craft - skills that also make you a stronger speaker.

What you’ll do

1) Before the round
  • Conflict check (school/partner/prior student), confirm names & pronouns.
  • Equity note & timing norms; flow sheet ready.
2) During the round
  • Listen neutrally and flow.
  • Time speeches to inclusive marks: 7:30, 8:30, 8:30, 8:30, 4:30, 5:30.
  • Track protected time: no POIs in the first 1:00 or last :30 of constructives.
  • Rule on Points of Order quickly when needed.
Open Timer → Open Flow Sheet → POO Assistant →
3) After the round
  • Decide on comparative weighing; give a concise RFD and assign speaker points.
Build an RFD → APDA Speaker Scale (PDF) →

How to sign up for judging

When a tournament opens for sign-ups, fill out the interest form as a Judge. The Board will confirm assignments and logistics.

Go to Tournaments page →

Judging Guide

A) How to evaluate a round

  • Win condition: Which side makes the stronger comparative case?
  • Argument quality: Claim → Warrant → Impact, then weigh (magnitude, probability, timeframe, reversibility).
  • Clash & drops: Reward direct engagement; mark unanswered arguments.
  • Keep theory minimal unless needed (tight/spec); prioritize clarity & fairness.
  • Inclusive timings: plan speeches to 7:30, 8:30, 8:30, 8:30, 4:30, 5:30.
  • Protected time: first 1:00 and last :30 of constructives - no POIs.
  • Signal time consistently (verbal cue or knock) and stay neutral.
  • Use the site Timer →
  • Allowed outside protected time; optional to offer and to accept.
  • Judge strategic use and courtesy, not raw quantity.
  • Purpose: flag procedure (e.g., new in rebuttal, serious timing issues).
  • Rulings: “Well-taken / Not well-taken / Under advisement.” Keep it brief.
  • POO Assistant →
  • 1–2 sentence round story (what mattered, why).
  • Voters tied to weighing; then concise feedback per team.
  • Use Ballot Builder →
  • Calibrate to the APDA Speaker Scale (PDF) →
  • Anchor descriptions: average = did the job; high = clear & comparative; low = inaccessible or unstructured.
  • Case round: Gov writes the case; Opp gets ~15 minutes after hearing the case statement to prep.
  • Motions round: Both teams see the motion at the same time; both get 15 minutes to prep.
  • POCs: Points of clarification asked during prep time to clarify text/scope.

First-time Judge Starter Kit

Judge Checklist

Before / During / After - quick sanity check you can print or save.

Open Timer →

Ballot Builder (RFD)

Fill and copy/download a clean RFD scaffold.

“Is this a valid POO?”

Tap a scenario to see the ruling and why.

POO Assistant →

FAQ

Do I need prior experience?

No. We’ll get you started - use the checklist, Ballot Builder, and tools above.

What if I’m unsure about a rule?

Make a fair, transparent call and explain it briefly in your RFD. For league policies, see APDA links.

How long is a round?

Typically 45–60 minutes including setup and RFD.

Can I judge if I’m competing?

Often yes between rounds - confirm with the Board and the tournament tab room.