Rules Overview
The National Speech & Debate Association functions on two levels: first, as an organization to govern and promote speech and debate activities; and second, as an honor society to recognize and support speech and debate education. The Unified Manual outlines the Association’s governing rules, including:
High School Chapter Manual
Membership eligibility
Recording merit points
District and National Leadership
High School Event Rules Manual
Event Procedure and Order of Speeches
Use of Electronic Devices
Procedures for Resolving Evidence Violations
District Tournament Operations Manual
School Eligibility and Entry Limits
Auto-Qualification
National Qualification Levels
Pairing Rounds
National Tournament Operations Manual
Instructions for Registering
Tournament Procedures
Rules Infractions
National Tournament Awards