How to cut cards in debate

To cut a card, copy a passage from a credible source in its original words, write a tag that states what it proves, add a full citation, then underline and highlight the parts you will read.

Cut cards faster with Cut it →

Step by step

Choose a source. Pick a recent, qualified author or organization that directly supports your claim.
Copy the passage. Copy the full relevant paragraph or paragraphs. Never change the author’s words, and keep enough context that the meaning holds.
Write the tag. Write one sentence stating the claim the card proves. The card must actually support it.
Write the cite. Include author, qualifications, year, title, publication, date and URL, plus the date you accessed it.
Underline and highlight. Underline what supports the tag, and highlight the parts you will actually read so it stays grammatical.
File it. Paste the card under the right block in your file and label it so you can find it again.

What makes a good card

The warrant is in the text: it explains why the claim is true, not only what the claim is.
The author is qualified and the source is credible.
The date is recent enough for the argument.
The tag matches the evidence. Do not overstate it.

Speed it up

Cut it fills in author, title, publisher and date from a page while you cut. To skip cutting entirely, search existing cards with Card it. Read your league’s evidence rules for how cards must be cut, cited and shared.

Frequently asked questions

What does cutting a card mean?

Cutting a card means selecting a passage from a source and formatting it as debate evidence with a tag and citation.

What goes in a debate citation?

Author, qualifications, year, title, publication, date and URL, and the date you accessed it. Your league may specify the format.

Can I paraphrase instead of cutting?

That depends on your event and its evidence rules. Follow your league’s rules and never misrepresent a source.

Last updated September 26, 2026.