Introduction
If you’ve ever watched a great debater, you’ll notice one thing — they start strong and finish even stronger. The way you greet and conclude in a debate can make or break your performance. A weak opening can lose your audience before you even begin, while a powerful ending makes your points unforgettable.
Many students struggle with how to greet in a debate or how to wrap up confidently. Some forget that their debate introduction and debate conclusion are just as important as their main arguments. This guide will show you exactly how to do both like a pro.
Whether you’re preparing for an inter-school debate or a class competition, learning the best debate starting techniques and mastering your conclusion in debate will set you apart.
If you haven’t learned how to open your speech effectively yet, check our full guide on how to start a debate. It teaches you how to grab attention before your greetings even begin.
Let’s get started.
Why Greetings and Conclusions Matter in a Debate
Your greeting is your first impression. It sets the tone, shows respect, and builds connection. Your conclusion is your last chance to convince. It reinforces your side and helps you win the judges’ hearts.
A good greeting shows confidence. A good conclusion shows clarity. Together, they frame your message like a headline and signature — both impossible to ignore.
When you greet well, you show that you understand formality. When you conclude well, you show that you understand persuasion. Both skills make a great debater.
How to Greet in a Debate
Let’s go step by step so you understand how to greet perfectly in any school debate.
1. Start with Respectful Greetings
Every formal debate begins with respectful acknowledgment of those present. This step is not just tradition — it’s etiquette.
Example greeting:
“Good morning, Mr. Chairman, respected judges, accurate timekeeper, co-debaters, and my attentive audience. I am (Your Name), and I’m here to speak for the motion which states that ‘Technology improves learning.’”
That’s the standard format for greetings in debate — polite, clear, and confident.
Tips:
- Always mention your position (“for” or “against”).
- Maintain eye contact while greeting.
- Smile slightly — it helps you look confident.
2. Mention the Topic or Motion Clearly
After greeting everyone, the next step is to mention your topic. This tells the audience what you are debating about.
Example:
“The topic before the house today is, ‘Day schools are better than boarding schools.’ I strongly support this motion because…”
Mentioning the motion clearly makes your opening neat and professional. It also sets up your debate introduction smoothly.
3. State Your Position and Purpose
Once you’ve mentioned the topic, make your stance known. The judges must know your side from your very first sentence.
Example:
“I stand to support the motion that says ‘Female education is better than male education,’ because education for girls shapes a stronger society.”
This sentence should sound firm and passionate — not aggressive or dull. Remember, debates are about confidence, not arrogance.
4. Give a Short Preview of Your Points
Your debate introduction should briefly show what your arguments will be. Think of it like giving the audience a map before the journey.
Example:
“In supporting this motion, I will focus on three key points: equality, productivity, and national growth.”
This keeps your introduction short, structured, and effective. It also signals to the timekeeper that you’re organized.
5. Sound Natural and Confident
The best debate greetings sound human — not memorized or robotic. Use your own tone. Speak slowly, and emphasize important words. Don’t rush to impress; clarity always beats speed.
A confident tone helps your arguments land stronger later in the speech.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Greeting in a Debate
- Skipping the greeting altogether – always show respect.
- Speaking too fast – nervous speed ruins clarity.
- Using slang or jokes too early – stay formal first.
- Forgetting your position – judges need to know your side.
- Using long or confusing sentences – keep it short and clear.
A clean start is half the win.
Examples of Greetings in Debate
Here are some example lines you can use as inspiration for your next debate introduction:
- “Good day, Mr. Chairman, honorable judges, and my fellow students. My name is (Name), and I stand before you to support the motion that says ‘Education is the key to success.’”
- “Respected panel, I’m pleased to speak against the motion that states ‘Technology does more harm than good.’ I will show why this is false.”
- “Good morning to everyone present. As the first speaker for the motion, I’ll be proving that ‘Private schools are better than public schools.’”
Each example shows respect, position, and purpose — the perfect trio for a strong start.
How to Conclude in a Debate
Finishing well is as important as starting well. A weak ending can make your argument forgettable, even if your points were strong. Let’s see how to master the debate conclusion.
1. Signal That You’re Concluding
Always give a clear signal before ending your speech. Phrases like “In conclusion,” “Finally,” or “As I round up” prepare your listeners to focus on your final point.
Example:
“Finally, I believe the benefits of day schools far outweigh those of boarding schools, and that is why I strongly support the motion.”
This signals closure and emphasizes your stance one last time.
2. Summarize Your Key Points
Don’t end abruptly. Quickly restate your strongest arguments in one or two sentences. That’s how to make your conclusion in debate persuasive.
Example:
“I’ve shown that day schools promote family connection, reduce cost, and improve discipline. For these reasons, the motion stands firm.”
A short, sharp summary helps judges remember your line of reasoning.
3. End with a Strong, Memorable Line
Your debate conclusion should have impact. Think of it as your final punch.
Example endings:
- “With all these points, I strongly maintain that education for girls builds a better nation.”
- “Therefore, I confidently stand by the motion that says teachers are better than doctors.”
- “Ladies and gentlemen, the facts speak for themselves — day schools remain the better option.”
Make sure your voice rises slightly at the end for emphasis.
4. Thank the Audience Politely
Respect should end your speech just as it started it. A simple line like “Thank you for listening” or “I appreciate your attention” is perfect.
That small courtesy leaves a positive final impression.
Sample Debate Conclusion (Full Example)
“In conclusion, I have explained that day schools improve family relationships, reduce expenses, and allow students to grow in a balanced environment. For these reasons, I stand firm with the motion that day schools are better than boarding schools. Thank you.”
This example shows structure, confidence, and clarity — all traits of an excellent speaker.
How to Make Your Debate Conclusion More Convincing
- Use facts or quotes. End with a quote that supports your side.
- Reinforce emotion. Appeal to reason and feeling at once.
- Avoid new points. The conclusion is for wrapping up, not adding new ideas.
- Sound confident. Even if nervous, act like you believe every word.
Good debaters always finish with authority. That’s what wins debates.
Key Differences Between Debate Greeting and Conclusion
| Greeting (Introduction) | Conclusion (Ending) |
|---|---|
| Introduces your side and topic | Summarizes your main points |
| Shows respect and confidence | Reinforces your opinion |
| Begins the argument | Closes the argument |
| Uses titles and motion | Uses summary and emphasis |
| Invites attention | Leaves a lasting impression |
Both must sound formal, short, and powerful.
Why Many Students Lose Marks in Their Debate Conclusion
Judges often reduce marks when a debater:
- Ends abruptly without summarizing.
- Says “That’s all I have” instead of a formal closing.
- Fails to restate the motion.
- Speaks too fast or forgets to thank the audience.
Avoid these, and you’ll end on a professional note every time.
FAQs
1. What is the best debate starting greeting?
The best debate starting greeting includes respect for the chairman, judges, and audience, followed by your position and topic. Example: “Good morning, Mr. Chairman, respected judges, co-debaters, and audience. I stand for the motion that…”
2. How do I write a strong debate introduction?
Start with greetings, mention the topic, state your side, and preview your points. Read our guide on how to start a debate for full examples.
3. What makes a good debate conclusion?
A good debate conclusion restates your strongest points and reaffirms your stand with confidence.
4. What words should I use to end my debate?
Use “In conclusion,” “Finally,” or “As I round up.” Follow with your summary and end with “Thank you.”
5. How long should my greeting and conclusion be?
Keep them short — 3 to 5 sentences each. Judges prefer concise speeches that respect time.
Conclusion
A great debate isn’t only about facts — it’s about how you open and close. Knowing how to greet in a debate and how to conclude a debate gives you an edge over others. Your greeting shows confidence. Your conclusion shows strength.
So the next time you prepare a speech, spend time perfecting your debate introduction and debate conclusion. They can turn an ordinary presentation into a winning one.
If you’re also learning how to open your debate confidently, check out our full guide here: How to Start a Debate.
Remember — strong greetings win attention, and strong conclusions win debates.