“Substructure” is often seen by rising extempers as a daunting word associated with complex speeches. But the reality is that substructure makes extemp easier, not harder. Substructure is about dividing each of your main points into smaller points so that it’s easier to clarify and understand the arguments you’re making. Extempers use it to maximize the efficiency of their arguments in order to preserve time.

The key to all substructure is dividing each main point into subpoints A, B, and C. After that, there are two main forms of substructure that dictate what goes into these points: status quo-change-impact, and theory-application-impact.

Status quo-change-impact is the most common form of substructure in extemp. In subpoint A, the status quo is explained. Subpoint B outlines a change in the status quo that has happened. And sub point C has two jobs: to tie together why sub-points A and B answer the question, and why it matters to the world.

This is great for answering synthesis-based questions where you’re asked to come up with a solution. These questions usually start with “how,” “what can be done,” or “What steps can be taken.” The main disadvantage of status quo-change-impact is that it requires substantial and specific evidence, which can be hard to find in certain situations or given certain topics.

That’s where theory-application impact enters the picture. This allows an extemper to establish a theory and show how their position is an example of that theory. Specifically, subpoint A will outline what the theory is. This can be a political, economic, or social theory. Subpoint B needs to use the relevant evidence to demonstrate how that very theory is in effect. Subpoint C once again ties the first two points together, demonstrating why it matters while answering the question.

This form of substructure works best when the questions are informative, meaning that they require extempers to convince the judge that something is happening. An example of such a question would be, “Is ISIS becoming more powerful in Iraq again?” If my answer is yes, my three points should lay out the means through which ISIS previously used to gain power, how this can be applied today, and what it’s going to mean for the power of ISIS.

Don’t be afraid to have more fluency breaks when initially practicing substructure. A great drill to practice substructure is to give yourself 15 minutes of prep, prep an intro, and then just present one point of analysis (otherwise known as a “one and done”). If you’re short on time, another great drill is a “dry prep,” where you prepare an entire speech but don’t present it.

While substructure might seem like a steep learning curve, this article should hopefully have shown how simple it really is. Substructure is about breaking down your points into their simplest form, using the methods status quo-change-impact or theory-application-impact. It might take time and practice to implement, but substructure will ultimately enhance the quality and ease of your extemp experience.