For Judges
Every great debate needs someone who can tell the difference between a real argument and noise
Understanding the Debate Structure
Before scoring, it helps to understand what you're watching. SuperDebate uses a modular format with constructive speeches, cross-examination, and rebuttals. A typical debate runs about 28 minutes, though formats vary from 15-60 minutes.
Standard Phases:
- • Constructive speeches (present your case)
- • Cross-examination (questions only)
- • Rebuttals (respond to opponents)
- • Closing statements (summarize)
Format Varies By Event:
- • Team sizes: 1v1 to large teams
- • Duration: 15-60+ minutes
- • Some events skip cross-examination
- • Check event details before judging
Why Become a Judge?
Learn & Grow
You'll learn more about argument by judging ten debates than by reading a hundred books
Give Back
Your scorecard is the thing debaters remember — the feedback that helped them get better, the score that felt fair
Build Reputation
Earn recognition as a trusted judge in the community
Make a Difference
Your feedback shapes how debaters grow. Good judges are remembered.
Explore More
Learn about other roles in the SuperDebate community
Start Judging
Every debate you score makes the next round sharper. Sign up and get your first assignment.