How to Audition for American Idol without Making a Fool of Yourself

If there's one thing we've learned from watching "American Idol," it's that some people will stop at nothing to be a star. The contestants with the least amount of talent and shame may be the most fun to watch during auditions, but they're not the most envied. If you want to audition for "American Idol," but don't want to make a fool of yourself, use a little common showbiz know how.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Pick a song that suits your style. Think of Civil Engineering student, William Hung, who chose to sing "She Bangs" by sexy Latin singer, Ricky Martin. Or another contestant, Keith Beukelaer, whose nasally rendition of Madonna's "Like a Virgin" made everyone wonder if he was really there to audition or just to pull a prank.

2. Ask people who are not close to you what they honestly think of your voice. Get an honest opinion from someone other than a friend or family member prior to your audition and spare yourself the potential embarrassment that comes with making a fool of yourself on national TV.

3. Avoid freaking out the judges. Contestants who get a little too close for comfort to Randy Jackson, Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul often find themselves whisked away by security. They always air these incidents as part of the show because they make for great TV.

4. Make sure your first focus is your voice. We've all seen the contestants who attempt to fool the judges with their dance moves, costumes and other gimmicks to make up for what they lack in the vocals department.

5. Accept the judges' comments. Contestants genuinely invested in an optimal performance typically accept the judges' comments gracefully and professionally. The ones who cry, scream and otherwise freak out seem to be there for the drama and their own ego.