Good advice. I enjoy a good debate because I tend to be curious about the view points of others, and how they come to those view points. It also allows me some creativity, especially if I get to manipulate numerical data. The greatest benefits I tend to receive from debating are: A better understanding of a topic, a better understanding of the various views on a topic, and expanding my own knowledge and skill of argumentation.

I think other good points to remember are:
If your opponent doesn't respond, it doesn't make your argument/conclusion right nor does it support your argument/conclusion.
A logically sound argument can still come to a false conclusion while a logically flawed argument can come to a true conclusion.
You cannot support your conclusion by arguing that your opponent's conclusion is false (unless there is a strict dichotomy).

I think a good book to read is A Rulebook for Arguments by Anthony Weston.