How to Play Taboo: Rules, Scoring and Tips

Taboo is a game where you describe a word to your teammates without using the forbidden words. The rules are simple, but playing well takes some strategy. In this guide you will find the rules, the scoring and tips that work.

The goal of the game

In each round, one team member describes the word on the card. Below the word, the card lists a few forbidden words that the describer cannot say. Teammates try to guess the word before time runs out. After the rounds, the team that guessed the most words wins.

What you need

• At least 4 players (two teams)
• Cards with a word and forbidden words
• A timer
• A scoreboard

Instead of printed cards you can play on screen with QuizModeOn Taboo and keep the score automatically.

Rules

1. Teams play in turns.
2. The describer sees the card, their own team does not. Someone from the opposing team checks the card and calls out forbidden words.
3. While describing, you may not say the word itself, the forbidden words, the root of the word or its translation.
4. Gestures and sound effects are not allowed. With children you can relax this rule.
5. Each round has a fixed time, usually 60 seconds.

Scoring

• Correct guess: +1 point
• Saying a forbidden word: -1 point
• Skipping a card: 0 points (limited number)

After the agreed number of rounds, the team with the highest score wins. In case of a tie, play a one-card final.

Tips and strategies

• Start with the category: “It is a food, eaten in the morning.” It points your team to the right area immediately.
• Use skips wisely: Do not spend too long on a hard card, time is valuable.
• Know your teammate: Shared memories and shared examples work much faster.
• Let guessers call out guesses: It is the quickest way to reach the right word.

Adjusting the difficulty

If you move from easy to hard words, everyone gets to join. Look at our easy to hard Taboo words and 60 easy card examples. To prepare your own cards, use the card creation guide.

Playing remotely

Taboo also works well over video call. See the online Taboo guide for the steps.

Game variations

• Quick round: Reduce the time to 30 seconds for a faster, more playful game.
• Kids mode: Reduce the number of forbidden words and allow gestures and sounds.
• Team tournament: Form several teams and run the rounds as eliminations.
• Themed Taboo: Focus on a single category such as movies, sports or food.

First game plan for beginners

Play the first game with 3 rounds and 60 seconds. Let each team describe once. Once the rules sink in, increase the number of rounds. Starting with easy cards helps everyone learn the rules quickly.

Frequently asked questions

How many people play Taboo?

At least 4 players in two teams. In larger groups you can form more teams.

How long should a round last?

Usually 60 seconds. For beginners you can extend it to 90 seconds.

Where can I find Taboo cards?

Use ready lists or create your own cards in QuizModeOn.