Debate timer
Choose a format and press Start for the first speech. The timer runs each speech in order, warns at 30 seconds left, and shows what comes next. Press Skip step if a speaker finishes early. Speech times follow common US high-school formats; check your league's rules.
Speech times by format
| Format | Speeches | Prep (each side) |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln-Douglas | AC 6 · CX 3 · NC 7 · CX 3 · 1AR 4 · NR 6 · 2AR 3 | Often 4 or 5 minutes |
| Public Forum | Constructives 4 · crossfires 3 · rebuttals 4 · summaries 3 · grand crossfire 3 · final focus 2 | Often 3 minutes |
| Policy | Constructives 8 · CX 3 · rebuttals 5 | Often 8 or 10 minutes |
Times vary between leagues, tournaments and countries, so confirm them for your event. Running prep separately? Use the multi-timer with one prep clock per side. For speeches in class, also see the stage timer.
Questions people ask
How long are Lincoln-Douglas speeches?
In the common US format: affirmative constructive 6 minutes, cross-examination 3, negative constructive 7, cross-examination 3, first affirmative rebuttal 4, negative rebuttal 6 and second affirmative rebuttal 3.
How long are Public Forum speeches?
Constructives and rebuttals are 4 minutes, crossfires 3, summaries 3 and final focus speeches 2 minutes in the common US format.
Can I skip ahead if a speaker finishes early?
Yes. Press Skip step to move to the next speech.