Translate a Complicated Trivia Scoring System Into a One-Line Explanation for Players

The scoring rules make sense on paper but read aloud verbatim they lose half the room before the first question. This turns the scoring system into one clear paragraph covering what players actually need to play strategically, without drowning them in every clause.

Explain the scoring system described below for a trivia competition in one clear paragraph that could be read aloud to players before the round starts. Avoid restating every rule, focus on what players actually need to understand to play strategically: how points are earned, how ties are broken, and any wager or risk mechanic involved.