By Rafli Izzuddin

Practice makes perfect, and this principle strongly applies to language learning. English proficiency improves when learners actively use the language, while lack of practice often leads to decreased fluency and confidence. English competitions provide learners with meaningful opportunities to practice English in authentic settings, pushing them to actively use the language.

One way English competitions improve proficiency is by enhancing speaking skills. Speaking is often considered the most challenging aspect of language learning because it requires spontaneous communication. A recent study examining the use of debate techniques in English learning found that students’ speaking competence improved significantly after participating in structured debate activities. The research reported improved fluency and stronger argument-building skills (Tarigan & Lubis, 2024).

Similarly, research conducted in 2025 found that implementing debate methods significantly improved students’ speaking performance, particularly in vocabulary use. The study highlighted that debate competitions encourage students to actively participate in oral communication, which strengthens their English speaking ability when expressing ideas (Astuti et al., 2025).

English competitions also strengthen critical thinking and analytical skills, which are essential components of language proficiency. A 2024 study reported that debate activities improved students’ ability to construct logical arguments, defend opinions, and organize ideas clearly. The research concluded that debate-based competition fosters an engaging learning environment where students develop both communication skills and critical thinking simultaneously (Safitri & Suntari, 2024).

Confidence is another important factor improved through English competitions. Many learners struggle with speaking English due to fear of making mistakes. A 2023 study investigating students’ perceptions of debate competitions found that according to participating students, frequent exposure to public speaking helped them overcome anxiety and become more comfortable using English (Najamuddin et al., 2023).

In addition to speaking, thinking, and confidence, English competitions promote vocabulary development and structured communication. A 2025 study on English public speaking through debate techniques showed significant improvement in students’ vocabulary, pronunciation, and fluency after participating in competitive debate activities. The results demonstrated that students’ competency increased dramatically after repeated practice sessions (Palupi et al., 2025). These improvements occur because competitions require learners to research topics and prepare arguments, exposing them to new vocabulary and expressions.

Furthermore, English competitions help learners develop multiple language skills simultaneously. Research on debate participation found that students improved their ability to organize ideas, communicate arguments, and think analytically, while also gaining new knowledge and improving teamwork skills (Limbong et al., 2025). This integrated learning experience strengthens overall proficiency because participants must read, listen, write, and speak during preparation and performance.

In conclusion, through participation in English competitions, learners refine their communication skills, expand vocabulary, and become more confident English users. Practice truly makes perfect, and English competitions are effective platforms for it.

References

Astuti, P., Mustainah, I. A., Firda, A., & Hamzah, A. (2025). Improving English speaking skills through the debate method for grade XI students. Jurnal PTK dan Pendidikan.

Limbong, L., Sallata, Y. N., & Arrang, J. R. T. (2025). The benefits of debate for English students in speaking skills at university. Indonesian TESOL Journal.

Najamuddin, A. A., Farahdiba, S., & Hasriani, G. (2023). Students’ perception on the effect of debate competition toward speaking skills. Journal of Excellence in English Language Education.

Palupi, M. E., Nurdini, R. A., Sulistyawati, M. E. S., & Andayani, E. S. (2025). Enhancing students’ English public speaking skills through debate technique. British: Jurnal Bahasa dan Sastra Inggris.

Safitri, H., & Suntari, L. (2024). The effectiveness of English debate in enhancing students’ speaking skills. Jurnal Onoma: Pendidikan, Bahasa, dan Sastra.

Tarigan, R. M., & Lubis, Y. (2024). Qualitative findings on the impact of debate techniques on English language speaking competence. Journal of Educational Development.