Daily analysis, Thursday, May 22

One of tonight’s categories is “2 syllables, 1 syllable”. Both of our challengers’ names are “4 letters, 4 letters”.

Last night, Julia teased me on Twitter, wondering if I’d ever considered what she’d do out of second or third. Once again, tonight, it doesn’t matter.

Julia Collins: 20,300
Alex Tran: 4,400
Ryan Real: 7,200

The Final Jeopardy! category: TECHNOLOGY

Ryan wagered just 1,000 on a second-row Daily Double early in Double Jeopardy!. Especially when you’re facing a megachamp, you have to go big on what promises to be an easy clue. He’s now locked out.

Basic strategy

Julia can wager up to 5,900 to preserve her return.

Ryan should wager exactly 1,600 to lock out Alex.

Alex should wager everything, as she’ll need to get it right to beat Ryan.

Alex gets the black because Ryan’s best wager – 1,600 – will put them in a tie if he’s wrong. Whoever had the lead heading into Final takes second place.

The Final Jeopardy! clue for May 22, 2014 (TECHNOLOGY):

WHEN APPLE SUED FOR iPAD PATENT INFRINGEMENT, SAMSUNG CITED THIS 1968 MOVIE AS THE ORIGINATOR OF THE DESIGN

Correct response: What is 2001: A Space Odyssey?