Judges award points based on each competitor's ability to follow the specific rules of the debate rules. There are different rules for debates based on where it takes place and what the purpose is. Some rules might relate to each side getting a certain amount of argument time, or to the language used during the debate. Other rules might specify what topics can be debated, who can bring up which points, and what type of demeanor should be expressed.
Judges determine which side of the debate has done the best and most appropriate research for its particular case. Teams must take the time to research the history of the issue they are debating. They must also have research to show potential outcomes of the side they have taken, as well as research to show what might happen if the other side was to win the debate.
Judges must make a final decision based on which side has made the best argument for the case it is trying to prove. Some factors judges need to use to make this decision include who has provided answers to the questions the other side has posted, who has conclusions that are strong and make sense according to their argument, and who has presented their arguments in the most concise manner. They should not choose the side they personally agree with.
Judges should not speak during a debate, other than to give instructions before the debate begins, or to call time at the end of the debate. After the debate is finished, judges will make decisions and give the results to the competitors in writing.