These tips are based on Mark Rober's popular video: "I Bet There's Cash". With the help of Professor Scott Nicholson, the designer of the Red Bull Escape Room World Championships, Mark compiled a list of 10 tips that helped his team break records.

1. Think Simple: Don't overanalyze puzzles. Solutions are usually straightforward. If you're stuck, move on and return later.
2. Search Thoroughly: Split up and search common hiding spots (under rugs, inside books, behind furniture). Don’t tamper with things that aren’t meant to be opened.
3. Organize Clues: Gather all items in one spot. Used items go into a discard pile so no one wastes time trying to reuse them.
4. Laser Focus: Identify what’s blocking your progress and work backward. Red herrings waste time, so ignore what doesn’t fit the room’s theme or goal.
5. Assign Roles: Appoint a Project Manager to oversee communication and track puzzles. Good team structure = better time!
6. Know Common Locks: Understand basic lock types—numbers, letters, directional, and combination boxes—so you know what input format to look for.
7. Decode Written Clues: Watch for bold letters, missing characters, odd capitalization, and acronyms. Morse code, pigpen ciphers, and braille are also common.
8. Spot Patterns: Look for patterns in shapes, colors, or number sequences. Puzzles often rely on logical connections.
9. Listen to the Game Master: The intro speech often has subtle hints. You can also ask for nudges if needed.
10. Less is More: Fewer players = better communication and more hands-on fun for everyone. Think tent rules: half the suggested capacity is best.

Watch the full video here.