Hints:

Try to use lifelines in this order: Audience Poll, Phone a Friend, 50/50. People who use 50/50 on a question they have no clue about usually end up burning a second lifeline on the same question, which is worthless. Therefore, save the least useful for last.

The Phone a Friend and Audience Poll lifelines can be wrong, but usually aren't. Trust them when in doubt. Want to really simulate the experience? Here's an idea.

Actually phone a real friend when you want to use
that lifeline! Sure, they might think you're nuts, but it'll add some oomph to your game.