Just for fun: Reveal your hidden debate strengths through your State Fair strategy

It’s that time of year again! The sweet scent of corn dogs and mini donuts is in the air, and the roar of the Midway beckons. You worked hard all summer at debate camp, prepping for the new debate season. Before you jump back into the world of research, cross-ex, and rebuttals, take a moment to discover your hidden debate strengths through your unique State Fair strategy. 

 

What 2025 Minnesota State Fair attraction caught your eye?

 

A) I want to learn about the evolution of the spacesuit at the new NASA exhibit! 

B) The Thunderbird. Sign me up for being launched 180 feet in the sky.

C) Nothing in particular. I have favorite attractions I return to year after year. 

D) All of the new foods. I like seeing people’s reactions as much as eating them.  

 

What’s your game plan for State Fair foods?

 

A) You read reviews and rankings of the new State Fair foods before committing to a line. 

B) You try the newest and most gimmicky deep-fried creation, just to see what it’s like.

C) You get a dependable standard like a Pronto Pup or Sweet Martha’s Cookies. 

D) You check out the lines and make your decisions based on what is generating buzz.

 

What do you look for in an animal exhibit? 

 

A) Something informative, like the DNR’s fish pond talks.

B) Something exciting, like the UMN Bee Beard or Stunt Dogs. 

C) Something classic, like the Miracle of Birth Center. 

D) Something crowd-pleasing, like the 4-H llama costume contest. 

 

You stop at a Midway game. What’s your goal?

 

A) You watch a few rounds to understand the rules and physics of the game before you try.

B) You try the hardest game for the biggest prize.

C) You stick to a game you’ve played before, like the ring toss, and focus on your technique.

D) You watch other people play and try to figure out the trick to winning.

 

What’s your secret weapon for making the most of your time at the fair?

 

A) A pre-shared Google Doc of your plan with friends so you can all stay on the same page.

B) The collective energy of a big group of friends and a shared sense of adventure.

C) Staying hydrated. It’s fundamental.

D) Stopping to talk to strangers in line to get their recommendations.

 

What Your State Fair Strategy Says About Your Debate Strengths 

Now, add up your answers!

 

If you got mostly A’s: You’re a Research Powerhouse

 

Your strength is in deep analysis and meticulous preparation. You win debates before they even start because you know the topic inside and out, able to find the critical piece of evidence others miss. You build your case on a foundation of unshakeable research, making your arguments incredibly difficult to refute.

 

If you got mostly B’s: You’re a Strategic Risk-Taker

 

You’re a master of the game. You thrive on high-stakes, high-reward strategies, and you’re not afraid to run a bold, non-traditional argument that others would shy away from. Your strength lies in recognizing a unique angle, whether it’s a surprising kritikal link or a devastating disad. 

 

If you got mostly C’s: You’re a Foundational Force

 

You’re a master of the basics, executing the fundamentals flawlessly. You never get tangled up in complicated arguments because you’ve already won on the core issues. Your speeches are concise and you can reduce any complex debate to its essential parts, making you a consistent and formidable opponent.

 

If you got mostly D’s: You’re a Master of Adaptation

 

You’re a perceptive and quick-thinking debater. Your strength is your ability to read the room, understand the way a judge thinks and adapt your strategy on the fly. You can tailor your final speech to hit the points that matter most to the judge, making you incredibly effective at turning a close round into a decisive win.