Two Truths and a Lie

Get ideas, play as a group with scoring, or send a friend a challenge link to guess.

By the 36Truths team · Last updated

To play two truths and a lie, one person shares three statements about themselves: two true, one false. The others guess the lie, then it’s revealed. Use the idea generator for prompts, play party mode with scoring on one phone, or create a challenge link to send to friends.

Write two truths and a lie

Play as a group on one phone

Scoring: 1 point for each guesser who spots the lie, and 1 point to the storyteller for every player they fool.

How do you write a good lie?

The best lies sit right next to the truth. Make all three statements the same length and the same level of detail, and use a real place, year or number in the lie. A dull truth often fools more people than an exciting lie. “I have never seen a Star Wars film” is believable, and it’s hard to check.

When does this game work best?

Two truths and a lie works for first dates, new teams, family dinners and online classes. People share surprising stories without anyone having to ask a personal question. For work, keep statements about hobbies, travel and first jobs. For a deeper night in, follow it with the 36 questions.

Frequently asked questions

How do you play two truths and a lie?

One player says three statements about themselves: two are true and one is made up. Everyone else guesses which is the lie, then the player reveals it. Take turns until everyone has gone.

How do you score two truths and a lie?

In party mode, each guesser who spots the lie gets 1 point, and the storyteller gets 1 point for every player they fooled. The scoreboard updates after each reveal.

What are good two truths and a lie ideas?

Use specific, slightly surprising facts: a place you’ve been, an odd job, a strange talent, a near-miss with someone famous. Make the lie just as specific as the truths. Tap Give me ideas for random prompts.

Can I play two truths and a lie over text?

Yes. Write your three statements, mark the lie and tap Create challenge link. Friends who open the link guess and see straight away whether they were right. No sign-up or app needed.

Can someone see the answer in the link?

The answer is encoded in the link rather than written in plain text, so a casual glance won’t give it away. It isn’t encrypted, though, so it’s meant for fun rather than secrets.