Start with cards that already work.

Expanding brackets

Single bracket: a(b + c) = ab + ac

Double brackets: (a + b)(c + d) = ac + ad + bc + bd. Multiply every term in the first bracket by every term in the second.

Example: (x + 3)(x − 5) = x^2 − 5x + 3x − 15 = x^2 − 2x − 15

Goals of cross-examination

• Clarify their arguments so you can attack them accurately
• Expose weak evidence or missing steps in their reasoning
• Get admissions you can quote in your next speech
• Build your image as calm and in control

Cross-ex is for setting up, not winning on the spot.

Topic overview

Topic: [topic name]

Course and paper: [course, unit or exam paper]

In two or three sentences, say what this topic is about and why it matters: [the big idea of the topic in your own words].

Links to other topics: [topics this one builds on or leads to]

Position paper in five lines

1. Topic background: [___]
2. Country's interest: [___]
3. Past actions: [___]
4. Position: [___]
5. Proposed solutions: [___]

If you can fill this card, you can speak on any sub-topic.

How to use these cards

• Choose three or four questions before the interview
• Tick off any that were already answered
• Write short notes from each answer
• Keep one question in reserve

Asking nothing can look like low interest.

Your two-minute summary

Examiners often start with "Tell us about your project". Prepare:

1. The problem: [what was not known or not working]
2. Your question: [one sentence]
3. Your approach: [method in plain words]
4. Main finding: [one or two results]
5. Why it matters: [who can use this]