There are some basic principles that you can use to prevail in disagreements, no matter what the topic. If you'd like to increase the odds of coming out on top, read through these tips on how to win arguments.

• Unless you've gone to law school or participated on a debate team, you probably don't have training in how to argue. If you keep your cool, base your argument on facts, listen to other points of view, and stay focused, you improve your chances of prevailing.

• You need to be able to stay calm for two reasons. It will allow you to think more clearly, and the person you're disagreeing with is more likely to listen to your point of view if it's presented calmly and rationally.

1. Stay calm
2. Don't be defensive.
3. Don't react to bad behavior.

• A fact based argument, logically presented, has a better likelihood of success than an appeal that's rooted in your emotions.

1. Use surveys, statistics, and quotes from authorities as evidence for your position.
2. Use logic to present your position in an organized fashion.
3. Although you should avoid coloring the debate with your emotions, if you can elicit an emotional response in your listener, that may help sway them to your side.

• Don't just rely on what you say to win an argument. Take time to listen to your opponent to understand their point of view and develop rapport.

1. Listen carefully.
2. Look for a win-win solution.
3. Study your opponent's strengths and weaknesses.
4. Concede minor points to foster good will.
5. Ask "yes" questions. If you can get them to say yes to a few basic points, you'll smooth the way to a yes on the big issues.

• Don't get distracted; stay focused on your goal. If the discussion wanders, bring it back to the topic at hand. Be persistent, while being pleasant.

• 
  

If you are arguing as part of a debate or while defending someone in court, you may not be as passionate about the topic at hand. However, outside the debate room or court room, it is important that you are passionate about what you are arguing. This does not mean you should bring your personal emotions or opinions into it, but rather you should tap into those personal feelings in order to better drive home the points you are trying to make.

You do not have to be a lawyer or member of the debate team to win an argument, especially if you are passionate about the topic you are arguing and have facts to back it up. Too often people fling around empty words without all the facts, but the less informed do not call them out. If you are armed with facts and passion, and are able to keep your emotions out of it, you can win an argument without being schooled in the art of winning arguments.