Persuasive debaters can win arguments using the force of their reason and by the skillful deployment of many handy techniques. Here are some general dos and don’ts to help you win arguments together with some sneaky tactics to be aware of.How to win an argument?
Do not lose your temper: stay calm, use facts as evidence, ask questions, appeal to higher values, and listen carefully
Study your opponent: know their strengths, weaknesses, beliefs and values
- Look for a win-win: be open-minded to a compromise position that accommodates your main points and some of your opponent’s
Bottom Line
An argument between two people is very different from a debate in front of an audience. In the first, you are trying to win over the other person, so look for ways to build consensus and do not be belligerent in making your points.
- In a debate, use humor to bolster your case and belittle your adversary
Don’t Get Personal
Attack the issue not the person
- Water down your strong arguments with weak ones
- Make your points convincingly and ask for agreement
- If you have three strong points and two weaker ones then it is probably best to just focus on the strong
Sneaky Ways to Consider
Use punchy one-liners
- Ridicule and humiliate your opponent
- Deliberately provoke your adversary
- Distract
- Exaggerate the opponent’s position
- Contradict confidently
- Only select one or two arguments to prove your point
