No one except competing team members may dispute a question or answer with the reader and judge. Teams consist of up to five members. Up to four members compete during oral rounds. Team members may be substituted between rounds. Alternates must stay in for the entire round.
Competition starts with the written round.
Starting with the written round allows the readers and judges time to go over the oral questions. Team coaches often serve as readers and judges during local, subregional, regional, and state events.