Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is an online debate?
  2. An online debate is where one member challenges another to discuss a topic, pointing out facts and arguing points to support their side of the argument. Each debate is made up of 1-5 rounds in which each member can post their arguments and rebut the arguments made by their opponent.

  3. How do I start a debate?
  4. You can start a new debate by clicking on the "Begin a Debate" link at the top of the page.

    There are several steps you must complete prior to launching the debate.

    1. You must select the category in which your debate will reside.
    2. Choose the number of rounds the debate will consist of.
    3. Select your opponent which can either be a current member or you may invite a non-member to join.
    4. Define the topic of the debate and write your opening argument.
  5. How do I vote on an existing debate?
  6. You can only vote on a debate once all of the rounds have been completed by the debaters and the debate has officially entered the voting period. A debate in the voting period will display voting boxes at the top of the page. When you are ready to vote, click the large "X" above the debater you think won the debate.

  7. How do I post a comment on a Debate?
  8. You can post a comment on a Debate during any stage of the debate. Once on the debate page, click on the "Comments" button on the top-right. Next, click on the "[+] Post a New Comment" link. This will expand the comment form.

  9. How do I invite my friends to join Debate.com?
  10. We encourage you to invite your friends to join the site by challenging them to a debate, or forwarding them debates and profiles that might interest them. The more activity on the site, the more fun it will be. You can also post a customize widget (located on the "My Profile" page) on MySpace and other social networking, blog, and forum websites. Page and clicking on "Spread The Word."

  11. How do I close my account?
  12. You can manually "Close Your Account" at any time.

  13. How do I change my email preferences?
  14. You can manage your email preferences on the "Account Preferences" page.

  15. Can I change my email address and or password?
  16. You can change your email address on the "Change My Email Address" page.

  17. Why should I complete my profile?
  18. Your public profile is where you can let members learn a little bit about yourself and where you stand on various political and non-political issues. This helps members determine who they may want to challenge to a debate. You can complete your profile on the "Edit My Profile" page.

  19. What is a disagreement ratio?
  20. The disagreement ratio % quickly compares your beliefs with other member's beliefs. In order to see the disagreement ratio you must first complete your public profile. You can complete your profile on the "Edit My Profile" page.

  21. How do I add a photo?
  22. You can add a photo on the "Change My Photo" page.

    Adding a photo helps to personalize your profile and makes each debate a little bit more fun. The picture can really be of anything that you would like it to be as long as it is not nudity, profanity, hate, etc. Please keep your profile and photos clean.

  23. How can I contact the staff at Debate.com?
  24. You can send a message, support request, feedback, and site related comments using the "Comment Box".