"Homework should be replaced with project-based learning."
Free Resources to Build Debate Skills
No sign-up, no cost. Practical tools to think clearly and speak confidently, whether or not you're enrolled in a Verbattle program.
Resources
The Verbattle Debate-Ready Handbook
A short, printable PDF covering the 5-minute pre-event checklist, the PREP framework for structuring any answer, three questions worth asking before you agree to anything, handling tough follow-up questions, using humour safely, and an emergency reset for when your mind goes blank.
Download the Free Handbook (PDF)
Quick Read
The 5-Minute Pre-Event Checklist
The same checklist from the handbook — ready right here, right now, no download needed.
- Breathe for 30 seconds. Four counts in, four counts hold, four counts out.
- Name your one key message. If you only get to say one thing today, what is it? Write it in five words.
- Sketch your answer skeleton. Point, Reason, Example, Point — for your two or three most likely questions.
- Check your posture. Shoulders back, feet flat, hands visible and still.
- Pick one calming phrase. A short, true sentence you can return to if your mind goes blank.
Get Started
Beginner Debate Topics to Practice With
Pick one, take a side, and give yourself two minutes to make your case out loud — alone, with a friend, or in Club Verbattle.
"Social media does more good than harm for teenagers."
"Every school should make public speaking a compulsory subject."
"AI tools in the classroom help students learn more than they hurt."
"Competitive exams are a fair way to measure ability."
"Cities should ban single-use plastic outright, not phase it out."
Watch
Verbattle in Action
Real rounds, real winners, real speeches — straight from the Verbattle YouTube channel.
Deepak Thimaya on Verbattle Karnataka 2025
Verbattle Karnataka 2025 — Winners
Verbattle Junior Debate 2025
School Debate Championship 2025