Policy Debate/Stock Issues

The meat of a policy debate comes from the stock issues. To easily remember the stock issues, debaters often use the acronym "SHITS."


 * Significance : How significant is the problem that you are trying to remedy through your interpretation of the resolution?


 * Harms : What happens if your plan doesn't pass; why is your plan needed right now?


 * Inherency : What is inherent in the status quo that prevents your problem from already being solved?


 * Topicality : Does your case fall within the topic? Does your case meet the parameters of the resolution?


 * Solvency : Does your plan actually solve the problem?