In debating, each speech has a different structure. The first affirmative speech proposes a solution to a problem, defines the terms of the proposal and develops three constructive points. The first negative speech either refutes the idea that there is a need for a solution to the stated problem, or proposes an alternative solution. The third affirmative and fourth negative speeches refute the points made in the preceding speeches. The final affirmative speech distills the entire debate down to the simplest issues. Speech structure, as a mechanism, is enforced by the moderator, who informs the speaker of their duties before their speech starts.
Points of information are interjections into a speech by the opposing side if granted by the person who is speaking. A debater may raise a point of information by standing and saying "point of information." A POI is usually a question regarding a point of fact the speaker has raised; for example, "Can you tell me your source on that?" The person who is speaking may grant the POI by saying "yes," or refuse it by saying "not at this time." Since the judges may dock a speaker points for consistently refusing POIs, it is in a speaker's interest to accept at least some of them. POIs are self moderated by the speaker.
Each speaker in a debate has a set amount of time. The first three speeches (first affirmative, first negative, and second affirmative) are usually five to eight minutes in duration, the fourth speech is usually eight to 10 minutes in duration, and the final speech is usually three to five minutes in duration. Speaking time is put in place as a mechanism to ensure that debaters remain succinct and to the point. Speaking time is enforced by the moderator, who uses hand signals to indicate to the debater how much time he has left.
In some styles of debating, cross-examination takes place between two debaters. In styles where cross-examination occurs (such as policy debate), the previous speaker will have to accepted three to five minutes of questioning from the next speaker. After the cross-examination session, the questioning speaker delivers their speech. The rules of cross-examination are enforced by the respondent, who is responsible for refusing questions that are out of bounds (i.e. irrelevant questions), while the time allotment for the cross-examination session is enforced by the moderator.