1. Cross Examination Strategies
Clarify
Could you repeat that contention?
What evidence do you have to support it?
Do you mean?
Commit to a Position
Get your opponent to take a stance
So then what you mean is…?
Expose Fallacies
Demonstrate faulty reasoning
Uncover illogical conclusions
Expose quotes taken out of context to fit “reasoning”
Expose Inadequate Evidence
If your opponent makes a statement/contention, challenge them to back it up with vetted statistics!

2. Cross-Ex General Strategies
Cross-ex is a time for questions, NOT for statements
Be polite, yet firm and direct
Questions should be closed-ended and factual
Cross-ex is not the time for arguments or ad hominem attacks
Questions should be clear
When you are being questioned, be honest…and succinct.
Don’t ramble, stay to the point of the question.
Do not give your questioner any more than is asked.