What is Paraphrasing in debate?

PF allows paraphrased evidence, but the practice is contested. It saves time and can be clearer, but it leaves room for the kind of exaggeration that direct quotation prevents. NSDA rules require a paraphrased claim to be supported by the underlying text, which can be checked in the exchange. In practice, many circuits and judges now expect direct quotation ("cut cards"), and a paraphrase your source doesn’t support is the fastest way to lose a judge’s trust, or the round. When in doubt, read the card.