Quiz Master Tips: How to Run a Great Quiz

Whether it’s your first time hosting a quiz or you’re seasoned quiz host looking to mix things up a bit, we’ve put together this guide on how to run a great quiz.

1. Prepare in Advance

• Print or have quizzes ready: Make sure you have enough copies of the quiz for everyone (or if you’re reading questions aloud bring plenty of copies of the picture or Dingbats round, for example). Extra copies are always handy in case of split drinks or more participants than expected!

• Go Digital: You could prepare a digital version as back up or to show on a screen during the quiz.

• Bring pens and paper: If participants need to write down their answers, extra paper and pens are always handy.

• Check your timing: Decide how long each round will last and stick to it. Timed rounds keep the quiz moving and add excitement.

• Have a tie break question ready: Tie breaks happen far more often than you might think – make sure you’ve prepped with some extra questions.

2. Set the Rules Clearly

• Explain scoring: Tell players how points will be awarded before starting.

  – Are there bonus points for speed or half points for partial answers?

  – How many points are awarded in each round?

  – What is the total number of points players can score?

• Dispute handling: Let everyone know what to do if there’s a disagreement about an answer. Usually, the quiz master (and a quick Google) has the final word.

• Encourage fair play: Remind participants to avoid looking up answers unless it’s part of the game. If participants are marking each others answers, encourage generosity around things like spelling – kindness makes quizzing fun.

3. Round Ideas & Structure

• Mix it up: Use different types of rounds like multiple choice, true/false, or themed rounds.

• Timed rounds: Set a timer for each round to keep energy up and prevent stalling while still allowing enough time for participants to answer each question.

• Bonus rounds: Add fun extras like picture quizzes, audio rounds, or lightning rounds for extra points.

4. Keep the Atmosphere Fun

• Engage the audience: Read questions clearly, maybe add a little humor, and keep participants excited.

• Handle disputes gracefully: If someone challenges an answer, listen politely, check your sources if needed, and make a fair decision.

• Celebrate participation: Remind everyone it’s about fun and learning, not just winning.

5. After the Quiz

• Check scores carefully: Double-check before announcing winners.

• Give feedback: If appropriate, go over tricky questions or give explanations, it’s educational and encourages learning.

• Thank participants: A little appreciation goes a long way.

6. Bonus Tips

• Have a backup quiz ready in case you run out of questions.

• Play music between rounds to keep the mood lively.

• Ask participants what type of quiz rounds they would like to see in the future.