What is the structure of Public Forum debate, as used in US debate competitions?


Answer: A public forum debate takes place between two teams of two individuals each. For the assigned topic, one team argues for the affirmative, or pro side, and the other argues for the negative, or con side.

The debate is organized in a sequence of speeches according to the following outline:
•	Constructives (4 minutes): The first speaker of each team gives a pre-prepared case that makes arguments for their side.
•	1st Crossfire (3 minutes): The crossfire, or cross-examination, is a time for members of each team to take turns asking each other questions about their arguments. The first crossfire takes place between the first speakers of each team.
•	Rebuttals (4 minutes): The second speaker of each team presents a rebuttal, in which they respond to the points made in their opponents' constructive speech. The second speaking team's rebuttal will sometimes defend their own case along with attacking their opponents'.
•	2nd Crossfire (3 minutes): This crossfire is similar to the first crossfire, except it is between the second speakers of each team.
•	Summaries (3 minutes): The first speaker of each team gives a speech that aims to break down the main issues of the round.
•	Grand Crossfire (3 minutes): A crossfire where both members of both teams ask each other questions.
•	Final Focuses (2 minutes): The second speaker of each team gives a speech that aims to emphasize the reasons the judge should vote for them.

Additionally, each team is given 3 minutes of preparation time throughout the round, which they can choose to take before any of their speeches. It is important to note that the time duration of each stage may vary across different leagues.

After all speeches are given, the judges, or judge panel, will take some time to deliberate before casting their ballot for one of the two teams. There are no ties.