How to Play Scattergories

Pass out pencils, answer pads and category lists to each player.

Decide on a category list number by randomly picking one (don't peek at the list items).

Roll the letter die to reveal the key letter that all answers must begin with in round one.

Start the timer.

Fill in the first column of answers on your answer pad, starting each one with the key letter and making sure all of the answers fit the categories from the selected category list.

Stop writing immediately when the timer expires (about 2 1/2 minutes).

Read your answers aloud. All players do this for each numbered item on the list.

Challenge the answers of other players if you think they might not apply to the category or if they do not fit under the rules of play (see Tips, below).

Circle all answers on your list that are not used by anyone else and are not successfully challenged as unacceptable.

Score the round by writing the number of circled answers at the top of your list.

Repeat steps 3 through 10 (using the same category list) for two more rounds of play. Use the remaining columns on your answer pad for these two rounds. Three rounds complete a game.

Total the scores for the three rounds of play. The highest score wins the game - but don't stop now.

Start a new game by selecting a new category list. Be sure everyone is using the same list number.