Margins and Speaker Scales

The numerical scoring metrics for evaluating speeches.

• WSDC Speaker Scale: Substantive speeches are scored between 60 and 80 (theoretically out of 100). Reply speeches are scored between 30 and 40 (theoretically out of 50). Each judge's ballot compares the totals for three substantive speeches and one reply: the maximum awarded total is 280 (3 × 80 + 40), while the theoretical total is 350 (3 × 100 + 50). The round result follows the majority of judges' ballots, rather than a single sum across the panel.
• WSDC Margins: The difference in total points between the two teams. It indicates the decisiveness of the win. Ranges are generally: 0.5-2.5 (Very close), 3-5 (Close but clear), 5.5-10 (Clear win), 10.5-20 (Dominant win), and 20.5+ (Overwhelming win).
• BP Speaker Scale: Speeches are theoretically scored between 50 and 100 (use the full published scale). Teams do not win by cumulative points; instead, they are ordinally ranked 1st to 4th by the panel through comparative analysis.
• AP (UADC) Speaker Scale: Substantive speeches receive 67–83 in whole numbers and replies 33.5–41.5 in half-point increments. Each judge scores all eight speeches; the winning team's total must exceed the losing team's total on that ballot. A team's maximum awarded total is 290.5 (3 × 83 + 41.5). The decision assesses the team's aggregate contribution; scoring must reflect that decision.