Flowing is the note-taking method used in debate. Each speech gets its own column, and you write arguments vertically down the page. When a debater responds to an argument, you write the response in the next column across from the original argument — so you can see the back-and-forth.
World Schools Speech Structure:
| Speech |
Time |
Who Speaks |
| 1st Proposition | 8 min | Proposition — Speaker 1 |
| 1st Opposition | 8 min | Opposition — Speaker 1 |
| 2nd Proposition | 8 min | Proposition — Speaker 2 |
| 2nd Opposition | 8 min | Opposition — Speaker 2 |
| 3rd Proposition | 8 min | Proposition — Speaker 3 |
| 3rd Opposition | 8 min | Opposition — Speaker 3 |
| Opposition Reply | 4 min | Opposition — Speaker 1 or 2 |
| Proposition Reply | 4 min | Proposition — Speaker 1 or 2 |
Tips for this tool:
• World Schools uses Points of Information (POIs) instead of cross-examination. Debaters may rise to offer a POI during the other side's speeches. POIs are protected in the first and last minute of each substantive speech.
• There is no prep time — for prepared motions, teams receive the topic in advance. For impromptu motions, teams get 1 hour before the round.
• The 8 columns below correspond to the 8 speeches. Type notes in the active (highlighted) column as that speech happens.
• Each side has 3 substantive speakers (columns 1–6) who build and clash with arguments, plus a reply speaker (columns 7–8) who summarizes and crystallizes.
• The 1st speakers (columns 1–2) define the debate and lay out each side's core case.
• The 2nd speakers (columns 3–4) are often the "rebuttal" speakers — they clash directly with the other side's arguments while extending their own.
• The 3rd speakers (columns 5–6) are the "whip" speakers — they identify the key issues in the round and explain why their side is winning on each.
• The reply speeches (columns 7–8) are given by the 1st or 2nd speaker (not the 3rd). They provide a biased adjudication — a summary of the round from their side's perspective. No new arguments allowed.
• Note: the Opposition replies first, then Proposition — the reverse of the main speeches. This gives Proposition the last word.
• Note any POIs in the flow column of the speech during which they occur.
• Use abbreviations freely — "P" for Proposition, "O" for Opposition, "→" for "leads to", etc. Only you need to read these.
• If one side doesn't answer an argument, leave a gap — that's called a "drop" and it usually counts against them.
• Use Ctrl+→ to advance to the next speech, or tap the speech pills above.
• Spacebar starts/stops the timer (when you're not typing in a flow area).