Organizing a Quiz 2: Deciding on the Format

There are several types of quizzes. The table quiz seems to be the most popular among schools. Each one of the formats have their advantages and drawbacks.

Table Quizzes comprise of many teams sitting together with each team occupying 'a table'. They will answer a common set of questions. Since all will answer the same questions, there is no disparity between easy and difficult questions. Everyone will get an equal opportunity. It is easy on the organizers of the quiz, since less
questions are needed. It is not easy making questions for a quiz. So this can be a great relief. But this type of a quiz is not very interesting to watch. Doesn't have the trill and suspense usually associated with a quiz.

Stage Quizzes are more appealing to the audiences with two or three quiz teams answering questions asked by the presenter. But this type of quizzes take more resources on the part of the organizers. Questions need to be balanced according to difficulty. Microphones and other ancillary equipment should be checked for defects. Malfunctioning microphones can be a nightmare in a quiz like this.  Additional questions should be at your disposal in case the teams end up in a tie, to have more rounds.

Mixed format Quizzes have the best of both worlds. So you can have the first stage as a table quiz and select few teams to enter the stage quiz rounds.

Whichever format you choose, decide on it early and make the necessary arrangements. Organizing a quiz is quite cumbersome and you often do not get praise for your hard work.