01 · Read the situation
The opening gives you part of a story. Its explanation remains hidden. Separate stated facts from details you have imagined; you can use facts in the opening without asking for them again.
02 · Offer a testable theory
“Did he stay inside because the lock was broken?” gives the host something specific to judge. “What happened?” does not narrow down a possibility in the same way.
03 · Follow the answer
Yes supports the theory, No rules it out, and Irrelevant suggests a different direction. If the host asks for clarification, name the person or object you mean.
04 · Connect your discoveries
Valid reasoning accumulates across turns. Keep people, objects and causes straight: knowing someone took a key does not by itself establish who took it or why it matters.
05 · Take a pause or use a hint
A game starts with 60 questions; extensions add 20 at a time. Hints have a separate entry point. Availability and conditions are shown in the game. A hint does not automatically complete a required fact.
06 · Explain the essential facts
You win when all required facts are supported by your accumulated conversation. You do not need irrelevant details or exact stock wording. Report a suspected misjudgment through the in-game feedback option.