Some Would You Rather questions get a quick shrug. Others start a ten-minute debate. The difference is almost always in how the question is written. Here is the simple formula we use for every question on this site.
1. Make both options tempting (or both terrible)
A great question is balanced. If ninety percent of people pick the same answer, there is nothing to talk about. “Would you rather have a million dollars or a paper clip?” is not a dilemma. “Would you rather have a million dollars or the ability to fly?” is.
Our online game shows the real split for every question, and the best ones sit close to 50/50. Try a few hard questions to see what a balanced dilemma feels like.
2. Add a vivid detail
Specific beats general. “Would you rather be fast or strong?” is fine. “Would you rather be as fast as a cheetah or as strong as a gorilla?” is a picture in everyone’s head, and pictures make people laugh and argue.
3. Keep it short
If a question needs a paragraph to explain, it loses the room. Aim for one breath: under twenty words for both options together.
4. Match the crowd
A question that is perfect for a sleepover might fall flat at a work meeting. Think about who is playing. Kids love animals and superpowers, teens love gaming and school life, couples love date ideas.
5. Keep it kind and clean
The best questions make everyone laugh, not one person uncomfortable. Avoid real people, gross-out humor and anything that targets a group. A clean question can be played anywhere, with anyone.
The formula
Would you rather [vivid option A] or [equally vivid option B]? Check it with three questions: Would people really be split? Can you picture both options? Could you read it to a grandparent and a seven-year-old?
Mistakes to avoid
- One obviously better option.
- Options that are not really different (“pizza or pepperoni pizza”).
- Long setups with lots of rules.
- Questions that only make sense to one friend group.
Need inspiration?
Browse all our questions by topic, or tap New question on the Would You Rather generator until something sparks an idea. Have a great one? Send it to us and it might end up in the game.