Search everything. Jump right in when you start the room. Search over, under and in all the furniture, wall hangings and objects. Look for hidden compartments. Keen observation skills are useful. Don’t stop at the first find. For example, if there are files folders in the drawer - search all of them and not stop after the first treasure.

Teamwork beats out smarts. I have seen a room full of engineers and accountants stall out and fail miserably when they didn’t work together and communicate. Don’t be a selfish player. This is a team game and no one escapes alone. If you know something, share it with others.

Communication will increase your team’s success. Talk openly with your teammates. What may not register to you, may for one of your teammates. Listen to other’s ideas. Don’t keep secrets.

The best team is an assorted group. Good rooms have a variety of puzzles and each person sees the room and objects differently.

Write down clues & codes so you can refer to them later and remember the codes you have tried already. Most rooms provide paper & pen or a whiteboard. If not, ask for one.

Do not overthink or underthink the room puzzles. The puzzles are designed to be logical. If you find yourself counting table legs or reading the books in the room, look for another pattern or clue. Looks for items/patterns that are the same and ask what is different. Muster all your logic, problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking skills all at once.

Not everything in the room will result in a code or clue. Most rooms include Red Herrings or rabbit holes. One of the challenges is discerning what items reveal a clue and which objects are simply furnishing or distractions.

Ask for a hints or help. Usually game masters give a few free clues before penalties. Don’t be afraid to use them. If your group stalls for more than 10 minutes, ask for a clue and work toward the ultimate goal - to escape!

Pick an easy room for your first time. Don’t go full out and choose the hardest room. It takes a room or two before you get into escape mode and switch on the logical puzzle switch.

Escape rooms are difficult! You will likely fail more than you escape. The easiest rooms run at 40 to 50% success rate. If the rooms were easy, the thrill and challenge would be diminished.

Don’t accidentally place an item in your pocket. You will quickly forget it is there and fall short.

Don’t trash the room. You may have to look under the rug or move the furniture for clues, but no room escape involves breaking down walls or tearing up furniture. Be respectful to the room designer and those who play after you. It is disappointing to hear stories about how destructive teams can be. Stay home in your own basement if you want to destroy something with your mousy mind.

Enjoy the room! Have fun with the puzzles and the game master. Escape or fail, it is a fulfilling and entertaining experience! Don't be afraid, reserved or stressed out! Engage in a playful interaction with the room monitor. Celebrate the venture - win or lose - it is an experience to enjoy with others.