| 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.
