How to Watch American Idol and Still Like it

American Idol is a guilty pleasure for millions of people. I admit it, I do watch some of the shows. Who can resist Paula, Randy or Simon Cowell? Oh and that new judge...what's her name? But the season is so long! Here are a few tips on how to watch American Idol and not lose your mind watching the whole long drawn out season!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
   Hung's bank roll

   Tune in at the beginning. This is when the more "interesting" contestants come on. Some people think the producers exploit these electic singers, but I say they know what they are signing up for. And besides William Hung is doing pretty well as far as money goes these days.

2. 
   Hey Mr. Tambourine Man

   Skip a few weeks and watch when the finalists are announced. Then you can see who you really like and who is there for solely entertainment value such as the infamous Jason Castro from last year. Or his brother who's made it onto Idol this year!

3. 
   Hello Dolly

   Find out which celebrities will be the guest mentors. My favorite last year was Dolly Parton. How can anyone not love her? Watch the shows that feature the celebs you like most and skip the "themed" shows (Beatles, Show Tunes, watching ill preprared singers tackle these is just painful)

4. Watch the Idol Gives Back shows. This is when truly talented musicians make the shows pretty great. Annie Lennox, Josh Groban and George Michael were awesome. I heard there may not be an Idol Gives Back this year but if the producers change their mind it will be good.

5. Finally, watch the finale. More cool guest musicians show up like Mary J. Blige or Prince did! So "cheat" your way through a season of Idol and you won't be burned out on the show come May!

Tips & Warnings

• DVR the shows you want to see. It's a must so you can fast forward to who gets voted off a little quicker.