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Featured J!Buzz

08.16.2018

What Makes a Great Jeopardy! Contestant?

What makes a great Jeopardy! contestant? It’s pretty simple. They’re curious about everything and they love to learn. They’re avid readers and prolific travelers. They dive into research like it is a classic detective story. They ask questions and question answers. Also, they’re pretty competitive. Sound like you? Well, there’s one more thing that all Jeopardy! contestants have in common: They’ve all taken and passed the Jeopardy! test.

Producer Maggie Speak and the Jeopardy! contestant team are willing to share some sage advice with die-hard fans and would-be Jeopardy! contestants. But before we get into what they have to say, make sure you register for our newsletter to find out when the next online test dates will be.

1. BE IN THE KNOW AND WATCH THE SHOW.

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“Be well rounded,” Maggie says. “The best way to become familiar with the categories is to watch the show as often as possible. It's the ultimate study guide.” And there's another reason to watch the show: “Some of our categories are easier to understand than others,” says Maggie. “Watching regularly will keep you up to date with how our writers' minds work.”

2. BE YOURSELF.

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"Come in with your own attitude and skills,” says senior contestant coordinator Corina Nusu. “We want to get to know YOU. Be yourself and believe in yourself. That’s an essential part of the game.”

3. HAVE A BLAST!

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"It's a game!” says Maggie. “And the more fun you have when you're playing, the better you play."

4. JUST GO FOR IT!

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"Don’t be afraid to go for it!” says senior contestant coordinator Glenn Kagan. “Just take the online test and see how you do. You’ve got nothing to lose.”

So what are you waiting for? You can register now for the online test, and then hone your skills at the Prep Center.  Good luck!