Cross-Examination Strategies
Cross-examination (CX) is your chance to take control of the debate. It’s not just a formality - it’s a weapon. If used correctly, it can expose weaknesses in your opponent’s case, force them into contradictions, and set up your own arguments for success. If used poorly, it’s a wasted opportunity.
Most novice debaters treat CX like a conversation. It’s not. It’s strategic. Every question you ask should serve a purpose. Every answer you give should protect your case.
The Purpose of CX
There are three main goals in cross-examination:
Clarify - If something in your opponent’s case is vague or confusing, ask about it. Judges can’t evaluate what they don’t understand. (“Can you clarify how your criterion actually measures justice?”)
Expose Weaknesses - Force your opponent to admit contradictions, lack of evidence, or logical flaws. (“You claim that AGI will lead to mass unemployment, but what about the new jobs created by AI? Do you have data that proves overall job loss?”)
Set Up Your Case - Ask questions that will make your arguments stronger later. If you can get your opponent to agree with a premise that supports your case, you’ve already won half the battle. (“Would you agree that justice requires treating all individuals equally under the law?”)
How to Ask Effective Questions
Not all questions are equal. Some put pressure on your opponent. Others let them escape. Here’s how to ask questions that work:
Ask Yes-or-No Questions - The best questions force your opponent into a corner. Avoid open-ended questions that let them ramble.
Be Direct - Keep your questions short and to the point. If your opponent doesn’t answer, repeat the question.
Control the Flow - Don’t let them take over. If they dodge, interrupt and say, “That’s not what I asked. Please answer the question.”
Weak Question: “How do you define justice?”(This gives your opponent too much room to control the discussion.)
Strong Question: “So based on your definition, if an innocent person is punished unfairly, that would be unjust, correct?”(This locks them into a logical position that you can use later.)
How to Answer CX Without Losing Ground
When you’re on the receiving end of CX, your job is simple: don’t get trapped. Here’s how:
Be Confident - Even if your opponent asks a tough question, stay calm. Hesitation looks like weakness.
Don’t Overshare - Answer exactly what they ask, and nothing more. If they ask, “Does your case rely on utilitarianism?” say “Yes” or “No” – don’t give them extra ammunition.
Reframe Loaded Questions - If your opponent tries to trap you, flip the script. If they ask, “So you admit that your plan would harm the economy?” respond with, “I don’t agree with that framing. My case argues that long-term benefits outweigh short-term disruptions.”
Common CX Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Arguing During CX - CX is for asking questions, not debating. If your opponent starts making long statements, interrupt and say, “This is my question time.”
Filler Questions - Every question should serve a purpose. If you’re just filling time, you’re wasting an opportunity.
Letting the Opponent Control CX - If they’re talking more than you, you’re doing it wrong. Keep your questions sharp and force them to respond.
The Bottom Line
Cross-examination is where you gain control of the round. Ask sharp, direct questions that expose weaknesses and set up your arguments. Answer confidently and refuse to be trapped. If you master CX, you’ll force your opponent onto the defensive before their next speech even begins.