Setting up your computer
Judges enter ballots using an online application called Tabroom at all tournaments. You will need an internet-capable device to use this software. We find that a laptop works best.
- Creating an account on Tabroom: Judges need an account on Tabroom.com. Instructions are here.
Instructional videos - How to judge
- (Video 1) Introduction to judging Public Forum Debate (17 minutes) - Here. All new judges should watch this video.
- (Video 2) Introduction to judging Lincoln Douglas Debate (14 minutes) - Here. Watch only if you are assigned to judging Lincoln Douglas. If you are new to judging, please watch Introduction to Public Forum Debate first (above).
- (Video 3) Entering your ballot in Tabroom (7 minutes) - Here. You will use Tabroom to enter your ballot whether you are judging at an in-person tournament or an online tournament.
- (Video 4) How to "flow" (take notes) in a debate round (9 minutes) - Here. Taking notes in a debate round will help you better follow the arguments and determine the winner.
- (Video 5) Demonstration Public Forum debate round (40 minutes) - Here. Note - At the time this video was made, the Summary speech was 2 minutes in duration. It is now 3 minutes long.
Quick guide for experienced judges
- The debate judge cheat sheet is here.