How to Play Hangman

Step 1: Think of a word Pick one person to be the executioner. That person should think of a word or phrase for the other person to guess.
Step 2: Draw a scaffold Draw a “scaffold” on the paper. Below it, the executioner draws a short dash for each letter of the word or phrase; being sure to include a gap or slash between words.
Step 3: Guess the letters Have the other person guess which letters are in the word or phrase, one at a time.
Step 4: Show whether the guessed letters are in the answer If the letter is part of the answer, the executioner writes it in each space that corresponds with the answer. If the letter is not in the answer, a body part of a stick figure is drawn attached to the scaffold.
TIP: Depending on how long you want to game to last, include more or fewer body parts: arms, legs, head, torso, hands, feet, and so on.
Step 5: Declare a winner Keep guessing and adding body parts until the executioner wins by finishing the body or the guesser wins by completing the answer.
FACT: Since its premiere in 1983, the hangman-inspired game show Wheel of Fortune has broadcast more than 5,000 episodes and awarded over $200 million in cash and prizes.

Lessons in this Guide