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How to Play Jeopardy on Zoom: Adding Fun to Zoom Gatherings

Playing Jeopardy on Zoom is a fun way to add interaction and friendly competition to video calls. With some preparation and creativity, you can host a customized Jeopardy game for family, friends, colleagues, or students over Zoom. This guide will walk you through the steps for setting up and playing Jeopardy on Zoom.

Finding or Creating a Jeopardy Template

The first step is to find or make a Jeopardy template that you can screenshare with participants during the game. Here are some options:

  • Search online for free printable or digital Jeopardy templates that you can download. Many templates already have categories, point values, and answer sheets ready to go.
  • Use a site like JeopardyLabs.com to easily create a customized Jeopardy board with your own topics, questions, and answers.
  • Make your own Jeopardy board from scratch using PowerPoint, Google Slides, or a document.
  • Find an existing Jeopardy slide deck online related to trivia, pop culture, history, literature, or other topics of interest.

Make sure the Jeopardy board is clearly formatted and easy to read when shared on a Zoom screen. Bold colors, large font sizes, and section dividers between categories will make the game run more smoothly.

Preparing to Host on Zoom

Before game day, test sharing your screen on Zoom to display the Jeopardy board. Make sure you can toggle between your video feed and the shared screen without difficulties.

Appoint 1-2 co-hosts to help keep score, monitor the Zoom chat, and assist with any issues during the game. Share the board with them early so they can familiarize themselves with the topics and answers.

Consider setting up Zoom breakout rooms ahead of time for teams to privately discuss during certain rounds. Pre-assign participants to specific rooms so you can quickly split people out for team play.

Explaining the Jeopardy Rules

Once participants have joined the Zoom meeting, take a minute to explain the Jeopardy rules and format. For example:

  • Explain the point value for each question and how players can win those points.
  • Specify if participants will play individually or in teams.
  • Share how players should indicate when they ring in ??? through microphone, chat, or nonverbal cues.
  • Consider demonstrating a sample question so new players understand the Jeopardy flow before starting the full game.

Managing Gameplay

As the Jeopardy host, you’ll be responsible for managing the game board and verifying responses. Here are some best practices:

  • Share your screen to display the Jeopardy board. Toggle between board view and video feed.
  • Read each question slowly and clearly before allowing participants to ring in.
  • Call on the first player to ring in for their response. Mute all other players.
  • Verify if the response is correct or incorrect. Award or deduct points accordingly.
  • Keep a scorecard through a shared document or spreadsheet. Appoint your co-host as the scorekeeper.
  • Use private chat or breakout rooms for any discussions between rounds.
  • Monitor the pace by skipping or adding questions as needed to fit within your allotted time.

Adding Fun with Customizations

Zoom Jeopardy is already entertaining, but you can amplify the fun with customizations like:

  • Themes: Pick fun themes for your board like 90s music, favorite books, tech trivia, etc. Ask players to dress up to match the theme.
  • Team Collaboration: Have participants play in teams for collaboration and discussion during questions.
  • Wagering Rounds: Incorporate a Final Jeopardy wagering round where teams bet a portion of their points.
  • Prizes: Offer small prizes or bragging rights to the winning player or team. Gift cards, e-books, and digital subscriptions make good remote prizes.

Helpful Tools and Tips

Here are some additional pointers for your Zoom Jeopardy success:

  • Use the Zoom whiteboard or annotations to keep visual score. Tally points as you go.
  • Take advantage of breakout rooms and private chat for team discussions or side conversations.
  • Ask a co-host to monitor the waiting room and chat for any incoming questions.
  • Make sure all participants have fully updated Zoom clients for screen sharing capabilities.
  • Test your audio and do an internet speed check before the game to prevent lagging.
  • Have fun with it! Don’t worry about perfection.

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