How to Watch a Political Debate

Every four years, just before we elect a new President, we are bombarded with political debates. Political debates are intended to give undecided voters an opportunity to see where candidates stand on positions and solidify the decision of candidate supporters. In the current world of political spin however, it's difficult to determine the truth from a perfectly timed sound bite. If you want to know how to watch a political debate to understand candidates views, keep reading.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Television
• Internet access
• Pen
• Notepad

1. Tune into the political debate approximately 30 minutes before it begins. The television network that is covering the debate will usually provide a preview of topics to be covered. Watching the pre-debate show will give you an idea of what to expect as well as a heads up to determine your position on certain issues.
2. Make a list of the top 10 issues that are most important to you before the political debate. The list doesn't have to be in any particular order, but you should be prepared to write down the names of candidates that have policies or viewpoints with which you agree.
3. Write down any promises or policy specifics that you find interesting or that may effect you if a particular candidate wins. During a political debate, it's common for candidates to switch positions or present their views in a way that isn't entirely truthful. Writing down these items will help you refer to them later, before you head to the polls.
4. Research the candidates' views further. Although a political debate is a great opportunity to get an idea of the candidates' views, it only allows them to answer questions in a limited time frame. For longer explanations of answers and policy issues, research their voting records and other speeches to find out how they really feel about issues that are most important to you.
5. Watch the analysis of the political debate that typically follows. Post-debate analysis is usually presented by political experts that have worked on campaigns or covered them for a news organization. During the analysis you will often get the opportunity to see and hear any contradictions made during the current political campaign as well as previous years.

Tips & Warnings

• Political debates typically allow 90 seconds or less for answers.
• Many candidates' answers have been prepared.