How to Debate Under Roberts Rules

Debate with clarity and fairness under Robert's Rules.

Robert's Rules are used in amateur and professional deliberative processes. Engineering Army Officer Henry Martyn Robert developed the rules following a disastrous community meeting he oversaw. The meeting, filled with argument and mayhem, inspired Robert to craft a set of rules for deliberation and debate that could maintain order and appropriate conduct. Debates under Robert's Rules are overseen by a moderator and everyone involved in the debate must adhere to a clear protocol.

Instructions

1. Stand up from wherever you are sitting if you wish to be heard. Refer to the moderator as "mister" and/or "madam." Avoid raising your hand, as hand raising is considered inconsequential under debate rules. Do not remain seated and/or talk over or interrupt someone while another person is speaking.

2. Begin the debate process only after the moderator asks, "Are you ready for the question?" Wait for the moderator to clearly state the purpose of the debate and/or finish the question before rising to speak.

3. Speak directly to the moderator and avoid being directly combative with other members or participants in the debate. No member or participant can speak more than once during the debate. He must state his or her point of view only once, and must do so with clarity, conviction and respect.

4. Cease debating after the moderator asks the final question and that question has been sufficiently debated. Understand that when the moderator refers to the "immediately pending question" he is making this the final question of the debate.

References

• Robert's Rules: History
• Robert's Rules: List of Rules