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?