Cross-Examination
Cross-Ex
Overview
Explanation
Cross-examination/crossfire is the only opportunity for you to directly interact with your opponent and challenge their arguments in real-time, making it a crucial part of debate.
What does it do?
Whether you do Lincoln-Douglas, Public Forum, or Policy debate, cross-examination (CX) or crossfire (CF) allows debaters to clarify points, expose contradictions, and control the narrative of the round.
Why should I care?
Many flow judges tell you they don’t listen to cross. By that, they don’t mean they tune out entirely, they’re just not flowing it unless someone brings it up in a speech. cross is important in flow rounds to expose faulty link chains and to point out bad evidence. Lay/traditional judges also love cross. fFr them, that’s where the real debate happens - thinking on the spot, being able to defend ur case, and being able to poke holes in their logic.
What to do
Asking specific, targeted questions to find weaknesses in your opponent’s case.
What not to do
Fooling around, making random jokes that waste time, asking unnecessary questions (“did you read this one card?”), or just being mean in general.
Preparing for Cross
Identify Key Weaknesses Beforehand
Look for contradictions between their contentions, framework, and evidence and pinpoint vague or poorly warranted arguments.
Use Leading Questions to Box Them In
Structure questions so they only require a “yes” or “no” answer. Example: Instead of “Can you explain your evidence?” ask, “Your evidence assumes X, correct?” “If so, what does it mean by [poor warrant]?”
Force Concessions
If their response contradicts an earlier argument, call it out. Example: “You said X in your first speech, but now you’re saying Y. Which is it?” If they hedge, ask, “So are you conceding that X is false?”
Set Up Your Own Case for Later
Ask questions that let you reference their responses in later speeches. Example: “Would you agree that rights violations should be minimized?” (If they say yes, use it to support your framework later.)
