How To Lose

Ken Jennings, who holds the record for the longest-ever winning streak, says that waiting for the buzzer lights is a good way to lose. Contestants must sync their buzzing with the lights, rather than waiting for the lights and then hitting the buzzer. According to him, this gives a home-court advantage to the returning champion in every episode.

A contestant who buzzes at the perfect moment will see a confirmation light on the podium. Players are told to keep hitting the button until they see that light. False starts could make all the difference.