Things to keep in mind about flowing:

What is flowing?
It is basically a specialized way to take notes during a debate round. It helps the judge keep track of who said what throughout the debate. The notes which are written down are taken on what is called a flowsheet. It is oftentimes simply referred to as the flow.

Why flow?
To keep a record of who said what and when. Remember, you will asked to give the debaters feedback on their performance at the end of the debate and having a flowsheet to refer back to makes it much easier to judge debate rounds.

How do I flow?
Judges “flow” the arguments by writing each claim in the debate down in the column in which the speaker makes the argument. Abbreviations, shorthand, and small handwriting are suggested.

Any suggestions for flowing?
There will be numerous arguments are made in a debate, and flows can become unorganized and messy...

You should remember the following:

1.) Flow each argument on a separate piece of paper
2.) Use abbreviations (ex. use U.S. instead of United States, or
3.) Ask debaters for a roadmap (a listing of what arguments they will make before they speak).
4.) Use different color ink for affirmative and negative (it help you better chart the argument progression throughout the debate).
5.) Don’t Give Up – missing an argument does not mean that your flowsheet is no good. Your flowsheet is just that…yours, so the more you flow the more likely you will be able to discuss the debate in detail with the debaters afterwards. Remember, the more you flow the better you will get.

How do I write the information down?
Lay your paper vertically or horizontally depending on your preference. Write the names of the speeches at the top. Draw lines running vertically down your paper separating the speeches.