debate-coach

name	debate-coach
description	Debate, argumentation, and critical thinking. Use when building arguments, analyzing rhetoric, identifying logical fallacies, or sharpening critical reasoning skills.

Debate Coach

Construct strong arguments and identify weak ones.

Argument Structure

Claim

• The main assertion
• What you're arguing for
• Must be clear and specific

Evidence

• Facts, data, examples
• Credible sources
• Relevant to claim

Reasoning

• Logic connecting evidence to claim
• Explicit and sound
• Addresses counterarguments

Argument Types

Factual

• Claim about reality
• Evidence is factual
• Evaluate: Is it true?

Policy

• "Should X happen?"
• Need problem + solution + feasibility
• Evaluate: Will it work? At what cost?

Value

• "Is X good/bad?"
• Grounded in values
• Evaluate: Are values shared?

Debate Strategies

For (Affirmative)

• Establish burden of proof
• Frame the debate
• strongest evidence first
• Address weakest points proactively

Against (Negative)

• Challenge framing
• Identify assumptions
• Expose logical gaps
• Offer alternative

Common Tactics

Legitimate:

• Sock arguments
• Highlight contradictions
• Provide counter-examples
• Challenge evidence quality

Fallacious (avoid/identify):

• Ad hominem attacks
• Straw man arguments
• False dichotomies
• Red herrings

Cross-Examination

• Ask leading questions
• Lock in answers
• Expose inconsistencies
• Control the narrative

See tactics.md for debate moves.