Speech and debate competitions are events where participants showcase their skills in public speaking and argumentation. Competitors prepare speeches or engage in debates on various topics, often following specific formats and rules. These competitions can take place at local, regional, or national levels and may involve individual or team participation. Participants are judged on criteria such as clarity, organization, and persuasiveness. Debate formats can include styles like Lincoln-Douglas or Policy Debate, while speech events may feature categories like Informative Speaking or Dramatic Interpretation. These competitions help develop critical thinking, communication, and research skills among students.