Television Game Shows

How to Study for 'Em

Television game shows seem easy -- until you're the one in the hot seat, or trying to snag a contestant spot. So, how do you study for shows like Jeopardy or Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, where trivia is key? And where you have to pass a screening, or trivia test, before you ever meet with a casting director?

For some hopefuls, their solution is to migrate toward television game shows where no studying is needed, such as Deal or No Deal. And you know, that's not a bad approach.

But for me, I figured I'd rather set my sights on something where I could do something – anything — to improve my chances. Plus, I figured there might be less competition for a show that required some work. Yes, I'm talking about studying. But don't worry -- it can be fun, really.

Trivia Study Aids -- And Many Are Free

Trivia Books
By far, these were the most useful. Trivia books are portable, interesting, and chock-full of fascinating information. I purchased my own little library of trivia books during my Millionaire-preparation. Click here to see which books I'd recommend to prep for television game shows.

Cable Television
And no, I don't mean sitcoms or dramas. Drat! While preparing for Millionaire, I soaked up every educational program I could find on television, especially ones that were entertaining as well as interesting. One channel in particular closely mirrored the average Jeopardy Board, with subject areas such as U.S. Presidents, World History and More. Which channel you ask? Take a quick guess, and then click here to see if you were right.

On-line games and quizzes
Since I've always loved to play games, this was perfect. I spent hours playing Millionaire and Jeopardy on line for free, and found other free sources on the Web. Of course, it's highly doubtful that you'll run into the very same question on line as you'd get in real life -- but still, it gives you an idea of how the game is played. Click here for for a list of free on-line games, courtesy of today's hottest television game shows.

Books on Tape
Since I was determined to not let any time go to waste, including driving time, I loaded up my car CD player with all kinds of non-fiction books. For example, I found a terrific CD that profiled the English monarchy long before Henry VIII ate his first Turkey leg, and another that related the deepest, darkest secrets of Helen Keller and other historical figures. Apparently, Helen was a socialist. Now, some things, I wish I didn't know. And that's one of them. But of Millionaire had asked that question, I'd have been prepared, darn it all.

Goofing Off
An interesting side note… my determination to study, study, study, and study some more, had its benefits, but also its drawbacks. Click here for some insight on why you might want to take a break from studying, maybe to hit the movie theatre with some friends.