Hi everyone!
Walking into your first MUN can be really overwhelming. It can feel like stepping onto a whole new planet. New rules, new people, and the fear of saying the wrong thing, all together can make you feel
the worst kind of butterflies in your stomach. But don’t worry; every seasoned delegate started where
you are now.
This guide is here to make sure your first MUN isn’t just less scary, but actually fun.
Here are some do’s and don’ts to make your first MUN experience smooth, fun, successful and
cherishable.
What to do:
1. Thorough research on your country & agenda
● Think of your allotted country as your own and just step into its shoes. Understand the core
meaning of the agenda presented to you, and how it af ects your nation.
● Know the basics inside out: your country’s official stance, its allies, and its key policies.
Also, make sure to read through recent news headlines about your country. Being updated
with current affairs will not only help strengthen your speeches but also help you tackle Points
of Information (POIs) with a lot of confidence.
2. Prepare and Practice Your Speeches
● The committee starts off with the General Speakers’ List (GSL). Your first speech sets the
whole tone in the committee.
● Draft a clear, attention catching 60–90 second speech that reflects your stance and solutions.
Practice it a few times beforehand,not to memorize, but to sound natural and not stutter in the
committee. This helps build confidence and ensures you don’t freeze when you finally face
the committee.
3. Keep Good Written Content Ready
● Have bullet notes containing facts about other portfolios, which you can use to raise point of
orders and cross question well, possible moderated caucus topics to raise, and even a few
draft clauses ready. This makes you look prepared, makes you confident, helps during
resolution writing, and keeps you from scrambling under pressure.
4. Be Active & engage with others in Unmoderated Caucuses
● Unmods are where the REAL diplomacy starts. This is when blocs are built, resolutions are
written, mod topics are unofficially voted on, and alliances are made.
● Don’t isolate yourself or stay quiet. Walk up to others, introduce yourself and start good
conversations. Even a simple question like “What’s your country’s take on this?” can start a
very productive discussion.
● Unmods help you identify who could be your strongest partners and who might be your
opponents. Remember, diplomacy works best when you’re approachable and proactive.
5. Show Confidence Even If You’re Nervous
● Being confident does not mean being the loudest voice in the room. It’s all about speaking
clearly, maintaining a strong eye contact, and sounding completely sure of what you’re
saying.
● Always remember: no one knows everything, but if you sound confident, people will listen
attentively.
6. Stay Calm Under Stress
● MUNs can feel really overwhelming, especially when debates suddenly heat up or you’re put
on the spot with a very targeted question.
● What you need to do is take a breath, focus on the content you do know and put those points
out very strongly, and don’t let stress show on your face. Composure under pressure is a skill
that chairs notice immediately.
What not to do:
1.Don’t Stay Silent
● Even if you’re shy, speak at least once. MUNs can really help you gain confidence in yourself
and it is an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and speak. Silence can make it seem
like you’re unprepared or disinterested, and you’ll miss valuable chances to grow.
2. Don’t Hog the Mic or Interrupt
● But, at the same time, do not speak excessively. It may be tempting to jump in often, but speaking too much can irritate both the chair and delegates.
● Strike a balance: contribute meaningfully without overshadowing others.
3. Don’t Isolate Yourself in Unmods
● If you sit quietly while others are networking, you’ll lose out on alliances and influence. You
won’t be able to identify your strongest partners or have productive discussions. And
remember, the chair does mark you on your collaboration efforts during unmods.
Collaboration is as important as speeches.
4. Don’t Break Character
● Always keep in mind that you’re not representing yourself, you’re representing your
designated portfolio. Avoid saying phrases like – “I think” instead, say “My delegation
believes.” Staying in character makes your speeches stronger and more authentic.
5. Don’t Shy Away From Questions
● Cross-questioning is an integral part of MUNs. If another delegate challenges you by asking
you a tricky question, don’t dodge it with “I’ll answer via chit.” Try your best to answer the
question there itself.
● Even if your response isn’t flawless, attempting an answer shows confidence, presence of
mind, and courage.
● Chairs notice delegates who handle questions head-on rather than avoiding them.
6. Don’t Hide From Cameras
● Looking uncomfortable every time a photographer appears makes you seem less confident.
Don’t let them affect you or your speeches. Own the spotlight. Treat it as part of the learning
process.
7. Don’t Let Stress Take Over
● Stuttering a word in your speech, or being challenged with a POI for which you don’t know
the answer, happens to everyone. Don’t panic. Stay calm, smile, and move forward. The
reality is that most people won’t even notice small mistakes unless you make them obvious.
Your first MUN is about growth and learning, not perfection. It is okay if you don’t know every rule
or deliver flawless speeches; you just need to participate actively, stay curious, and enjoy the
experience. Speak up and speak confidently even if it’s just once, ask questions, make friends, and
soak in the atmosphere. Trust me, when you leave the conference you’ll be more confident in yourself,
and have a better understanding of diplomacy. Remember: every Best Delegate was once a first-timer
too.
Thank you!
